Shloka 2.21.43

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

Devanagari script

तदेतां विसृजानार्यां क्षत्रधर्माश्रितां मतिम्।धर्ममाश्रय मा तैक्ष्ण्यं मद्बुद्धिरनुगम्यताम्।।2.21.43।।

Transliteration

tad etāṃ visṛjānāryāṃ kṣatradharmāśritāṃ matim |

dharmam āśraya mā taikṣṇyaṃ madbuddhir anugamyatām ||2.21.43||

Translation

Therefore abandon this ignoble impulse—though it presents itself as kṣatriya-duty. Take refuge in dharma; do not turn to harsh violence. Let my judgment be followed.

Context

Therefore, leave this ignoble thought, resort to the duty of a kshatriya, take the righteous path. Do not adopt violence. Follow my decision.

Characters & Entities

• Dharma
• kṣatradharma

FAQs

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

True dharma is not mere aggression in the name of duty; it is disciplined righteousness. Rāma distinguishes moral duty from violent impulse and insists on restraint.

What is the narrative situation?

Lakṣmaṇa is inclined toward forceful action; Rāma instructs him to abandon violent thoughts and adhere to dharma by accepting the exile decision.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s moral leadership and calm discernment—guiding martial energy into ethical self-governance.