Shloka 2.37.14

अयोध्याकाण्डे सर्गः ३७ — चीरधारणं, सीतासंकल्पः, वसिष्ठोपदेशः (Bark-Robe Episode and Vasistha’s Admonition)

Devanagari script

तस्यास्तत्क्षिप्रमागम्य रामो धर्मभृतां वरः।चीरं बबन्ध सीतायाः कौशेयस्योपरि स्वयम्।।2.37.14।।

Transliteration

kṛtvā kaṇṭhe ca sā cīram ekam ādāya pāṇinā | tasthau hy akuśalā tatra vrīḍitā janakātmajā || 2.37.13 ||

Translation

Janaka’s daughter Sītā placed one end of the bark-cloth at her neck and held the other in her hand; unaccustomed to such garb, she stood there, ashamed and uncertain what to do next.

Context

Rama, foremost among protectors of righteousness, came forward quickly and fastened the bark himself over her silk garment.

Characters & Entities

• Sita
• Janaka
• bark garment (cīra)

FAQs

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

Dharma here highlights dignified acceptance of hardship: Sita attempts to adopt ascetic signs despite being untrained, showing commitment to righteous companionship.

What is the narrative situation?

Sita is being given bark garments for forest life; she is unfamiliar with how to wear them and pauses in modest embarrassment.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Lajjā (modesty) and resolve—Sita’s modest demeanor alongside her readiness to share Rama’s dharmic path.