Shloka 2.23.18

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

Devanagari script

द्रक्ष्यन्ति त्वद्य दैवस्य पौरुषं पुरुषस्य च।दैवमानुषयोरद्य व्यक्ता व्यक्तिर्भविष्यति।।।।

Transliteration

drakṣyanti tv adya daivasya pauruṣaṃ puruṣasya ca | daiva-mānuṣayor adya vyaktā vyaktir bhaviṣyati ||

Translation

Today they shall witness the power of destiny and the power of man; today the distinction between fate and human agency will stand plainly revealed.

Context

Today all will witness the power of destiny and the power of man. The difference between man and destiny will be manifested today.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• daiva (destiny)
• pauruṣa (human valor)

FAQs

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

Dharma is not passive resignation; it can demand visible, courageous action that clarifies what is fate and what is chosen responsibility.

What is the narrative situation?

Lakṣmaṇa climaxes his appeal by declaring that the present moment will reveal whether ‘destiny’ rules—or whether human effort can change outcomes.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Leadership through decisive courage—Lakṣmaṇa urges a demonstrable stand rather than quiet submission.