Shloka 2.48.11

अयोध्यायाः शोकवर्णनम् (Ayodhya’s Lament and Civic Desolation)

Devanagari script

काननं वापि शैलं वा यं रामोऽधिगमिष्यति।प्रियातिथिमिव प्राप्तं नैनं शक्ष्यन्त्यनर्चितुम्।।2.48.11।।

Transliteration

kānanaṃ vāpi śailaṃ vā yaṃ rāmo ’dhigamiṣyati |

priyātithim iva prāptaṃ nainaṃ śakṣyanty anarcitum || 2.48.11 ||

Translation

Whatever forest or mountain Rama approaches will receive him like a beloved guest; it will not be able to leave him without honour.

Context

Whichever hill or forest Rama visits, people will receive him there like a welcome guest and will not fail to render hospitality to him.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• forest (kānana)
• mountain (śaila)

FAQs

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

Atithi-dharma (honouring a guest) is universalized: Rama’s righteousness makes even the forest and mountains ‘owe’ him honour, suggesting that Dharma elicits reverence wherever it goes.

What is the narrative situation?

The speakers imagine Rama’s reception in the wilderness, expressing confidence that he will be welcomed and cared for.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s worthiness of honour—his moral stature naturally draws reverence and protection.