Shloka 2.21.55

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

Devanagari script

अहं हि ते लक्ष्मण नित्यमेव जानामि भक्तिं च पराक्रमं च।मम त्वभिप्रायमसन्निरीक्ष्य मात्रा सहाभ्यर्दसि मां सुदुःखम्।।2.21.55।।

Transliteration

ahaṃ hi te lakṣmaṇa nityam eva

jānāmi bhaktiṃ ca parākramaṃ ca |

mama tv abhiprāyam asannirīkṣya

mātrā sahābhyardasi māṃ suduḥkham || 2.21.55 ||

Translation

Lakshmana, I have always known your devotion and your valor; yet, without truly examining my intent, you—together with my mother—are causing me intense pain.

Context

I know your devotion (to me) and your valour, O Lakshmana! But now, without understanding my intention you are causing me and mother severe pain and torment.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Lakshmana
• Kausalya

FAQs

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

Dharma requires understanding intention (abhiprāya) before reacting; even devotion can become harmful if it ignores the righteous purpose.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama addresses Lakshmana, acknowledging his loyalty but correcting his emotionally driven resistance to Rama’s decision.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Discernment (viveka)—Rama calls for thoughtful inquiry rather than impulsive opposition.