Shloka 2.25.29

कौशल्याया मङ्गलविधानम् — Kausalya’s Benedictions and Protective Rites for Rama

Devanagari script

उपाध्याय स्सविधिना हुत्वा शान्तिमनामयम्।हुतहव्यावशेषेण बाह्यं बलिमकल्पयत्।।2.25.29।।

Transliteration

yaṃ pālayasi dharmaṃ tvaṃ dhṛtyā ca niyamena ca |

sa vai rāghavaśārdūla dharmas tvām abhirakṣatu ||2.25.3||

Translation

The very dharma you uphold—with steadfast courage and disciplined restraint—O tiger among the Raghus, may that dharma itself protect you.

Context

The officiating priest performed the ritual of sacrificial offerings strictly in accordance with rules for peace and happiness of Rama. With the remainder of the offerings, he performed whatever ceremonies were to be done externally.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Rāghava (Raghu lineage)

FAQs

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

Dharma is presented as both a personal commitment and a protective force: if one steadfastly upholds righteous duty with courage and restraint, that very righteousness safeguards one’s path.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma is being counseled and blessed as he prepares for hardship; the verse functions as a moral assurance that his adherence to dharma will be his true protection.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Dhṛti (fortitude) and niyama (disciplined self-restraint) as the practical inner supports that enable dharma to be maintained under pressure.