Shloka 2.21.34

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

Devanagari script

न खल्वेतन्मयैकेन क्रियते पितृशासनम्।एतैरपि कृतं देवि ये मया तव कीर्तिताः।।2.21.34।।

Transliteration

na khalv etan mayaikena kriyate pitṛ-śāsanam |

etair api kṛtaṃ devi ye mayā tava kīrtitāḥ || 2.21.34 ||

Translation

Indeed, O Devi, it is not I alone who carry out a father’s command; those whom I have mentioned to you have done so as well.

Context

I am not O Devi! the only one obeying my father's command. All I have mentioned to you did.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Kausalya
• father’s command (pitṛ-śāsana)

FAQs

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

Rama appeals to precedent: dharma is also what is consistently practiced by the virtuous across generations, not merely a private moral invention.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama reassures his mother that his choice is not isolated or unprecedented; it aligns with remembered exemplars.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and adherence to tradition—Rama does not claim exceptionalism but continuity.