Shloka 2.23.14

लक्ष्मणक्रोधः—दैवपुरुषकारविवादः (Lakshmana’s Wrath and the Debate on Destiny vs Human Effort)

Devanagari script

मनसाऽपि कथं कामं कुर्यास्त्वं कामवृत्तयोः।तयोस्त्वहितयोर्नित्यं शत्र्वोः पित्रभिधानयोः।।।।

Transliteration

manasā ’pi kathaṃ kāmaṃ kuryās tvaṃ kāma-vṛttayoḥ | tayos tv ahitayor nityaṃ śatrvoḥ pitr-abhidhānayoḥ ||

Translation

How could you, even in your mind, fulfill the wish of those two driven by desire—ever hostile to your welfare—enemies merely bearing the name of ‘parents’?

Context

As both of them are steeped in passion, they never thought of your well-being. How will you fulfil the wishes of these enemies miscalled parents?

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Daśaratha
• Kaikeyī

FAQs

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

True dharma protects well-being and truth; relationships and titles do not automatically sanctify harmful demands driven by kāma (selfish desire).

What is the narrative situation?

Lakṣmaṇa, outraged, argues that Rāma should not comply with the wishes of those he sees as acting against Rāma’s interests.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Uncompromising loyalty—Lakṣmaṇa prioritizes Rāma’s rightful good over social labels and coerced obedience.