Shloka 2.46.16

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

Devanagari script

जाग्रतो ह्येव तां रात्रिं सौमित्रेरुदितो रविः।सूतस्य तमसातीरे रामस्य ब्रुवतो गुणान्।।2.46.16।।

Transliteration

jāgrato hy eva tāṁ rātriṁ saumitrer udito raviḥ | sūtasya tamasā-tīre rāmasya bruvato guṇān ||2.46.16||

Translation

As Saumitri kept vigil through that night on the bank of the Tamasa, speaking of Rama’s virtues in the charioteer’s presence, the sun rose.

Context

Lakshmana continued to describe Rama's virtues to the charioteer, keeping awake that entire night on the bank of Tamasa until the Sun rose.

Characters & Entities

• Lakshmana (Saumitri)
• Sumantra
• Rama
• Tamasa (river)
• Ravi (Sun)

FAQs

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

Dharma as guardianship and steadfastness: Lakshmana’s wakefulness and moral discourse reflect protective duty and unwavering commitment to righteous leadership.

What is the narrative situation?

The first night by the Tamasa passes with Lakshmana awake, speaking of Rama’s virtues to Sumantra until dawn.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Alert devotion: Lakshmana’s tireless vigilance and reverence for Rama’s dharmic qualities.