Shloka 2.21.6

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

Devanagari script

देवकल्पमृजुं दान्तं रिपूणामपि वत्सलम्।अवेक्षमाणः को धर्मं त्यजेत्पुत्रमकारणात्।।2.21.6।।

Transliteration

yāvad eva na jānāti kaścid artham imaṁ naraḥ | tāvad eva mayā sārdham ātmasthaṁ kuru śāsanam || 2.21.8 ||

Translation

Before anyone comes to know of this matter, assume authority under your own control—with my support.

Context

With no cause nor concern for righteousness, will any one abandon his son who is nearly equal to god, upright, self-restrained and loved even by his enemies ?

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Rāma
• rule/authority (śāsana)

FAQs

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

It raises a dharmic tension: emergency political action to prevent injustice versus obedience to established authority; Lakṣmaṇa urges decisive control to avert harm.

What is the narrative situation?

Lakṣmaṇa proposes immediate action—taking control before public knowledge spreads—so that Rāma is not wronged by the unfolding palace decision.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Lakṣmaṇa’s readiness to act and his protective solidarity with Rāma, even in politically risky circumstances.