Shloka 2.37.15

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

Devanagari script

रामं प्रेक्ष्य तु सीताया बध्नन्तं चीरमुत्तमम्।अन्तःपुरगता नार्यो मुमुचुर्वारि नेत्रजम्।।2.37.15।।

Transliteration

tasyās tatkṣipram āgamya rāmo dharmabhṛtāṁ varaḥ | cīraṁ babandha sītāyāḥ kauśeyasyopari svayam || 2.37.14 ||

Translation

Rāma—foremost among uphold­ers of dharma—came quickly to her and himself fastened the bark garment upon Sītā, over her silk dress.

Context

Beholding Rama fastening the bark garment on Sita, the women of the inner apartment shed tears from their eyes.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Sita
• bark garment (cīra)
• silk garment (kauśeya)

FAQs

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

Dharma is expressed as protective care within righteousness: Rama helps Sita directly, ensuring her transition to forest-dharma is done with respect and responsibility.

What is the narrative situation?

Seeing Sita uncertain with the bark-cloth, Rama steps forward and ties it for her over her silk clothing.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Karunā (compassion) and maryādā (propriety): Rama’s attentive, dignified assistance to Sita.