Shloka 2.46.21

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

Devanagari script

यावदेव तु संसुप्ता स्तावदेव वयं लघु।रथमारुह्य गच्छामः पन्थानमकुतोभयम्।।2.46.21।।

Transliteration

yāvad eva tu saṁsuptāḥ tāvad eva vayaṁ laghu |

ratham āruhya gacchāmaḥ panthānam akuto-bhayam ||2.46.21||

Translation

So long as they remain fast asleep, we shall swiftly mount the chariot and proceed along the road without fear or obstruction.

Context

While they are asleep, we shall quickly mount the chariot and fearlessly proceed on the way.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• chariot (ratha)
• road (panthā)

FAQs

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

Dharma here is expressed as disciplined, non-violent resolve: Rama chooses a quiet, unobtrusive departure to minimize disturbance and avoid causing further turmoil.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama is preparing to leave Ayodhya for the forest; the plan is to depart swiftly while the city’s people are asleep.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Self-restraint and compassion—acting quickly and quietly so others are not drawn into suffering.