Shloka 2.2.8

यौवराज्य-प्रस्तावः (Proposal for Rāma’s Installation as Heir-Apparent)

Devanagari script

प्राप्य वर्षसहस्राणि बहून्यायूंषि जीवतः।जीर्णस्यास्य शरीरस्य विश्रान्तिमभिरोचये।।2.2.8।।

Transliteration

prāpya varṣa-sahasrāṇi bahūny āyūṃṣi jīvataḥ | jīrṇasyāsya śarīrasya viśrāntim abhirocaye || 2.2.8 ||

Translation

Having lived through many thousands of years and many spans of life, I see this body as worn down; therefore I desire rest.

Context

Having lived for thousands of years this body is now worn out due to old age and therefore I want rest.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

The verse expresses responsible kingship: recognizing one’s declining capacity and seeking rest so that governance (rajadharma) may be carried on effectively by a fitter successor.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha reflects on his advanced age and bodily exhaustion while preparing to transfer royal responsibility—setting the stage for Rāma’s intended installation.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence and humility: Daśaratha acknowledges human limitation and prioritizes the kingdom’s welfare over personal attachment to power.