Shloka 2.46.1

तमसातीरवासः — Night on the Bank of the Tamasa and the Stratagem to Elude the Citizens

Devanagari script

ततस्तु तमसातीरं रम्यमाश्रित्य राघवः।सीतामुद्वीक्ष्य सौमित्रिमिदं वचनमब्रवीत्।।2.46.1।।

Transliteration

tatas tu tamasā-tīraṃ ramyam āśritya rāghavaḥ |

sītām udvīkṣya saumitrim idaṃ vacanam abravīt ||

Translation

Thereafter Rāma, taking shelter on the lovely bank of the Tamasā, glanced at Sītā and then spoke these words to Saumitri (Lakṣmaṇa).

Context

The scion of the Raghus (Rama), having taken shelter on the lovely bank of Tamasa, glanced at Sita and said to Lakshmana thus:

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Sītā
• Lakṣmaṇa (Saumitra)
• Tamasā (river)

FAQs

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

Dharma is lived through orderly conduct in hardship: Rāma establishes calm, deliberate communication and shared responsibility at the outset of exile.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma, Sītā, and Lakṣmaṇa reach the Tamasā riverbank and pause; Rāma prepares to instruct Lakṣmaṇa.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Composure and leadership: Rāma remains attentive to companions while making practical decisions.