Shloka 2.21.11

अयोध्याकाण्डे एकविंशः सर्गः — Lakṣmaṇa’s militant counsel and Rāma’s dharma-based persuasion of Kausalyā

Devanagari script

भरतस्याथ पक्ष्यो वा यो वाऽस्य हितमिच्छति।सर्वानेतान्वधिष्यामि मृदुर्हि परिभूयते।।2.21.11।।

Transliteration

bharatas yātha pakṣyo vā yo vā 'sya hitam icchati |

sarvān etān vadhiṣyāmi mṛdur hi paribhūyate || 2.21.11 ||

Translation

And whoever is on Bharata’s side—or whoever seeks his advantage—I will kill them all; for the gentle are indeed trampled upon with contempt.

Context

I shall slay all of them who support Bharata and those who seek his prosperity. A gentleman is treated with disgrace indeed.

Characters & Entities

• Lakshmana
• Rama
• Bharata

FAQs

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

It raises a dharmic problem: the claim that gentleness invites contempt can tempt one toward violence, but the Ramayana’s dharma ultimately refines strength through self-restraint, justice, and truth rather than indiscriminate killing.

What is the narrative situation?

Lakshmana, inflamed by the perceived threat to Rama’s rightful position, vows to eliminate Bharata’s supporters and anyone promoting Bharata’s interests.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Uncompromising loyalty and a fierce sense of honor—paired with a lack of restraint that the narrative later balances through Rama’s commitment to dharma and satya.