Shloka 2.23.16

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

Devanagari script

विक्लबो वीर्यहीनो यस्स दैवमनुवर्तते।वीरास्सम्भावितात्मानो न दैवं पर्युपासते।।।।

Transliteration

viklabo vīryahīno yas sa daivam anuvartate | vīrāḥ sambhāvitātmāno na daivaṃ paryupāsate ||

Translation

Only the timid and strengthless follow destiny; valiant men, steadfast in self-respect, do not bow before fate.

Context

Those who are timid and cowardly alone depend on destiny.The valiant with ofself-respect will not accept it.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• daiva (destiny)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes courageous initiative: one should not hide behind fate when action is required to uphold justice and truth.

What is the narrative situation?

Lakṣmaṇa argues against accepting events as predestined, pushing Rāma toward decisive action.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vīrya (valor) and self-respect—heroism is defined as refusing passive dependence on daiva.