Shloka 2.40.7

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

Devanagari script

इदं हि वृत्तमुचितं कुलस्यास्य सनातनम्।दानं दीक्षा च यज्ञेषु तनुत्यागो मृधेषु च।।।।

Transliteration

idaṁ hi vṛttam ucitaṁ kulasyāsya sanātanam |

dānaṁ dīkṣā ca yajñeṣu tanutyāgo mṛdheṣu ca ||

Translation

For this is the ancient and fitting tradition of your lineage: generosity, sacred consecration for the sacrifices (yajñas), and the offering of one’s own body—one’s very life—in battle.

Context

Charity, initiation at sacrifices and yielding life in battles are the befitting ancient traditions prevailing in your race.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Rāma (contextually linked)
• kula (royal lineage)

FAQs

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

Dharma is continuity with righteous lineage-traditions: giving, ritual discipline, and courageous self-sacrifice when duty demands.

What is the narrative situation?

Sumitrā frames Lakṣmaṇa’s impending hardship as consistent with the long-standing ideals of their royal house.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Self-sacrifice and steadfastness: the verse elevates giving and readiness to endure suffering for duty.