Shloka 2.28.23

सीतानिवर्तनप्रयत्नः — Rama’s Attempt to Dissuade Sita from Forest Exile

Devanagari script

कायक्लेशाश्च बहवो भयानि विविधानि च।अरण्यवासे वसतो दुःखमेव ततो वनम्।।2.28.23।।

Transliteration

sīte mahākulīnā ’si dharme ca niratā sadā |

ihācara svadharmaṃ tvaṃ me yathā manasaḥ sukham || 2.28.3 ||

Translation

O Sītā, you are born of a noble lineage and are ever devoted to dharma. Therefore remain here and practice your own rightful duty, so that my mind may be at peace.

Context

There are various physical afflictions and fears for one who lives in the forest. Therefore, forest brings suffering.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rāma
• dharma
• svadharma

FAQs

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

The verse emphasizes svadharma—fulfilling one’s rightful duty according to one’s role and situation—as a stabilizing force that preserves righteousness and inner peace.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma addresses Sītā in Ayodhyā, urging her to remain behind rather than accompany him into forest exile, framing his counsel in terms of dharma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s prudence and protective responsibility (maryādā) are highlighted, as he appeals to Sītā’s devotion to dharma while seeking her welfare and his own peace of mind.