Shloka 2.25.3

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

Devanagari script

यं पालयसि धर्मं त्वं धृत्या च नियमेन च।स वै राघवशार्दूल धर्मस्त्वामभिरक्षतु।।2.25.3।।

Transliteration

upādhyāyaḥ savidhinā hutvā śāntim anāmayam |

hutahavyāvaśeṣeṇa bāhyaṃ balim akalpayat ||2.25.29||

Translation

The officiating priest, following the proper rite, offered pacificatory oblations for well-being; and with what remained of the offerings, he arranged the external bali-rites.

Context

The duty which you are carrying out with courage and self-discipline, O tiger among the descendants of Raghu! will alone protect you.

Characters & Entities

• Upādhyāya (officiating priest)
• Śānti (pacificatory rite)
• Bali (external offering)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes disciplined, rule-governed conduct in sacred duties: correct performance of rites is portrayed as a socially sanctioned way to seek protection and well-being without violating righteousness.

What is the narrative situation?

Protective and auspicious rites are being performed for Rāma before his departure, including śānti-offerings and the concluding external bali rites.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Ritual integrity and conscientiousness—doing prescribed acts ‘vidhinā’ (according to rule), reflecting respect for tradition and responsibility.