Shloka 2.20.39

अयोध्याकाण्डे विंशः सर्गः — Rama Enters Kauśalyā’s Antaḥpura; Ritual Preparations and the Shock of Exile

Devanagari script

सा बहून्यमनोज्ञानि वाक्यानि हृदयच्छिदाम्।अहं श्रोष्ये सपत्नीनामवराणां वरा सती।।।।

Transliteration

sā bahūny amanojñāni vākyāni hṛdayacchidām | ahaṃ śroṣye sapatnīnām avarāṇāṃ varā satī ||

Translation

Though I am the senior queen, I will have to hear many unpleasant, heart-cutting words from my co-wives who are younger than I.

Context

I, being the eldest (of the queens) will have to listen to many heart-breaking and unpleasant words from my fellow-wives who are younger to me.

Characters & Entities

• Kausalyā
• Rāma
• co-wives (other queens)

FAQs

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

It underscores vāg-dharma (ethics of speech): cruel speech becomes an added injustice in times of misfortune, and Kausalyā anticipates the social harm caused by derisive words.

What is the narrative situation?

With Rāma’s prospects overturned, Kausalyā foresees humiliation and harsh remarks within the royal household from rival queens.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Kausalyā’s endurance (kṣānti) is implied—she anticipates insult but frames it as something she must bear rather than retaliate against.