Shloka 2.22.24

अभिषेक-निवृत्ति-उपदेशः (Withdrawal of the Coronation: Rama’s Counsel to Lakshmana)

Devanagari script

असङ्कल्पितमेवेह यदकस्मात्प्रवर्तते।निवर्त्यारम्भमारब्धं ननु दैवस्य कर्म तत्।।।।

Transliteration

asaṅkalpitam eveha yad akasmāt pravartate |

nivartyārambham ārabdhaṁ nanu daivasya karma tat ||

Translation

When an unimagined obstacle suddenly arises here and brings a work already begun to a halt, that too is surely the doing of destiny.

Context

Any unanticipated and sudden hindrance to the action undertaken shall be deemed to be the act of destiny.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Lakshmana
• Daiva (destiny)
• Abhisheka (implied undertaking)

FAQs

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

Dharma is to respond to reversals without adharma: when plans collapse unexpectedly, one should adjust conduct with restraint rather than commit wrongdoing out of frustration.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama interprets the abrupt stoppage of his coronation preparations as a destined reversal, preparing Lakshmana to accept the change.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Non-attachment to outcomes—Rama distinguishes duty from personal ambition and remains steady when success is blocked.