Shloka 2.39.12

एकोनचत्वारिंशः सर्गः — Dasaratha’s Lament, Sumantra’s Commission, and Sita’s Vow of Marital Dharma

Devanagari script

राज्ञो वचनमाज्ञाय सुमन्त्रः शीघ्रविक्रमः।योजयित्वाऽययौ तत्र रथमश्वैरलङ्कृतम्।।2.39.12।।

Transliteration

rājño vacanam ājñāya sumantraḥ śīghravikramaḥ | yojayitvā yayau tatra ratham aśvair alaṅkṛtam || 2.39.12 ||

Translation

Understanding the king’s command, swift-moving Sumantra yoked the horses and went there with the chariot, splendidly equipped with its steeds.

Context

In obedience to the words of the king, Sumantra promptly harnessed the horses to a well-decorated chariot and brought it there.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Sumantra
• chariot
• horses

FAQs

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

Dharma as faithful service: an official acts promptly and competently once a lawful royal order is known.

What is the narrative situation?

Sumantra prepares and brings the chariot as ordered, enabling the next step in Rāma’s departure.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sumantra’s efficiency, obedience, and readiness to serve despite the sorrowful purpose.