Shloka 2.37.25

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

Devanagari script

अथ यास्यति वैदेही वनं रामेण सङ्गता।वयमप्यनुयास्यामः पुरं चेदं गमिष्यति।।2.37.25।।

Transliteration

atha yāsyati vaidehī vanaṃ rāmeṇa saṅgatā |

vayam apy anuyāsyāmaḥ puraṃ cedaṃ gamiṣyati ||

Translation

If Vaidehī (Sītā) goes to the forest accompanied by Rāma, we too shall follow—and this entire city will go as well.

Context

Otherwise, if Sita goes with Rama to the forest, all of us along with the entire city will follow.

Characters & Entities

• Vaidehi
• Rama
• Ayodhya

FAQs

Why does Vasistha declare that the city will follow Sita?

Vasistha uses this hyperbole to illustrate the collective devotion of Ayodhya's citizens. He argues that without Rama and Sita, the city loses its soul, and the people would prefer the hardships of the forest over a kingdom void of righteousness.

What is the ethical implication of Vasistha's statement regarding 'Vaidehi'?

By referring to Sita as 'Vaidehi' (Princess of Videha), Vasistha emphasizes her royal lineage and delicate nature, arguing that it is against Dharma to subject her to the harsh asceticism intended only for Rama, yet highlighting her unwavering commitment to Satya (truth) by following her husband.