Shloka 2.21.37

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

Devanagari script

तामेवमुक्त्वा जननीं लक्ष्मणं पुनरब्रवीत्।वाक्यं वाक्यविदां श्रेष्ठश्श्रेष्ठस्सर्वधनुष्मताम्।।2.21.37।।

Transliteration

tām evam uktvā jananīṃ lakṣmaṇaṃ punar abravīt |

vākyaṃ vākyavidāṃ śreṣṭhaḥ śreṣṭhaḥ sarva-dhanuṣmatām || 2.21.37 ||

Translation

Having spoken thus to his mother, Rāma—foremost among masters of speech and the best of all archers—again addressed Lakṣmaṇa.

Context

One who is the best among the knowers of speech and best of all archers, Rama spoke to his mother in this manner and then said to Lakshmana:

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Kausalya (mother)
• Lakshmana

FAQs

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

The verse frames dharmic leadership as inseparable from disciplined speech and capability: Rama’s moral stance is paired with eloquence and martial excellence.

What is the narrative situation?

A narrative pivot: after addressing Kausalya, the focus shifts to Rama’s next instruction/conversation with Lakshmana.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Excellence in speech (vāg-vaibhava) and mastery in arms—competence supporting righteousness.