Shloka 2.4.18

अयोध्याकाण्डे चतुर्थः सर्गः — Rāma Summoned; Pushya Coronation Decision

Devanagari script

अवष्टब्धं च मे राम नक्षत्रं दारुणैर्ग्रहैः।आवेदयन्ति दैवज्ञाः सूर्याङ्गारकराहुभिः।।2.4.18।।

Transliteration

avaṣṭabdhaṁ ca me rāma nakṣatraṁ dāruṇair grahaiḥ | āvedayanti daivajñāḥ sūryāṅgārakarāhubhiḥ || 2.4.18 ||

Translation

And, O Rāma, the astrologers report that my birth-star has been afflicted by formidable planets—Sun, Mars, and Rāhu.

Context

O Rama! astrologers also tell me that formidable planets Sun, Mars and Rahu have afflicted my birth star.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Rāma
• daivajñāḥ (astrologers)
• Sūrya
• Aṅgāraka (Maṅgala/Mars)
• Rāhu
• nakṣatra (birth star)

FAQs

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

Accountability under uncertainty: even when fate seems adverse, one must act within dharma—seeking orderly, rightful decisions rather than panic or injustice.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha cites astrological warnings as part of the ominous atmosphere preceding the planned installation of Rāma.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Daśaratha’s conscientiousness—he consults learned advisors and weighs signs affecting the realm.