Shloka 2.39.26

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

Devanagari script

विज्ञाय वचनं सीता तस्या धर्मार्थसंहितम्।कृताञ्जलिरुवाचेदं श्वश्रूमभिमुखे स्थिताम्।।2.39.26।।

Transliteration

vijñāya vacanaṁ sītā tasyā dharmārthasaṁhitam |

kṛtāñjalir uvācedaṁ śvaśrūm abhimukhe sthitām || 2.39.26 ||

Translation

Understanding those words to be in accord with dharma and prudent purpose, Sītā, with hands folded in añjali, spoke thus, standing before her mother-in-law.

Context

Sita who understood the import of these words which were in conformity with dharma and artha, repiled to her mother-in-law facing her with folded palms:

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• mother-in-law (śvaśrū, likely Kausalyā)
• dharma
• artha

FAQs

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

It models respectful reception of moral instruction: Sītā recognizes guidance rooted in dharma and practical wisdom (artha) and responds with humility.

What is the narrative situation?

After receiving counsel about duty and conduct in exile, Sītā prepares to reply formally and respectfully to her mother-in-law.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s humility and discernment—she understands the ethical intent and responds with reverence.