Shloka 2.40.6

प्रयाणवर्णनम् (Departure from Ayodhya; Civic Lament and the Chariot’s Urgency)

Devanagari script

व्यसनी वा समृद्धो वा गतिरेष तवानघ।एष लोके सतां धर्मो यज्ज्येष्ठवशगो भवेत्।।।।

Transliteration

vyasanī vā samṛddho vā gatir eṣa tavānagha |

eṣa loke satāṁ dharmo yaj jyeṣṭhavaśago bhavet ||

Translation

Whether in hardship or in prosperity, he is your refuge, O blameless one. In this world, this is the dharma of the good: to remain obedient to the elder brother.

Context

Rama is your refuge in times of adversity or prosperity, O sinless one! To beobedient to the eldest (brother) is the duty of virtuous men in this world.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Rāma

FAQs

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

Dharma is defined as loyal obedience to the elder brother and taking refuge in righteousness (Rāma) in both suffering and success.

What is the narrative situation?

As preparations for departure are underway, Sumitrā instructs Lakṣmaṇa on how to orient his life around Rāma’s leadership.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Filial-brotherly devotion and humility: Lakṣmaṇa is urged to serve and follow the rightful elder.