Shloka 2.44.16

सुमित्रोपदेशः — Sumitra’s Consolation to Kausalya

Devanagari script

सूर्यस्यापि भवेत्सूर्यो ह्यग्नेरग्नि प्रभोः प्रभुः।श्रियः श्रीश्च भवेदग्र्या कीर्तिः कीर्त्याः क्षमाक्षमा।।2.44.15।।दैवतं दैवतानां च भूतानां भूतसत्तमः। तस्य के ह्यगुणा देवि वने वाप्यथवा पुरे।।2.44.16।।

Transliteration

daivataṃ daivatānāṃ ca bhūtānāṃ bhūtasattamaḥ | tasya ke hy aguṇā devi vane vāpy athavā pure || 2.44.16 ||

Translation

O Devi, he is the very deity of the gods and the highest among all beings. Where, indeed, could any fault be found in him—whether he lives in the forest or in the city?

Context

O Devi Rama is the Sun (light) of the Sun, fire (splendour) of the fire, master (command) of masters, prosperity of the prosperous, the fame of the famous, forbearance of the forbearing, god of the gods and supreme among all beings. Whether he dwells in the forest or in the city, he has no demerit whatsoever.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Kausalya

FAQs

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

True dharma is intrinsic character: Rama’s righteousness is not dependent on place or circumstance. Whether in forest hardship or royal comfort, virtue remains steady.

What is the narrative situation?

In Ayodhya, after Rama’s departure for exile, Kausalya is overwhelmed by grief; an elder consoles her by affirming Rama’s unsurpassed excellence and blamelessness.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Blamelessness and moral supremacy—Rama is portrayed as flawless in conduct, beyond ordinary standards, and unwavering in virtue.