Shloka 2.5.11

अभिषेकोपवास-आदेशः (Coronation Preparations and the Fast Enjoined)

Devanagari script

इत्युक्त्वा स तदा राममुपवासं यतव्रतम्।मन्त्रवत्कारयामास वैदेह्या सहितं मुनिः।।।।

Transliteration

ity uktvā sa tadā rāmam upavāsaṃ yatavratam |

mantravat kārayāmāsa vaidehyā sahitaṃ muniḥ ||

Translation

Having spoken thus, the sage then had Rāma—observant of vows—undertake a fast, together with Vaidehī (Sītā), accompanied by sacred mantras.

Context

The ascetic (Vasistha) having thus spoken to Rama made him undertake fast along with Sita in accompaniment with sacred hymns.

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Rāma
• Sītā (Vaidehī)
• upavāsa (fast)
• mantra

FAQs

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

Dharma includes inner preparation: fasting and vows cultivate self-control and purity before assuming public responsibility.

What is the narrative situation?

As part of coronation rites, Vasiṣṭha directs Rāma and Sītā to observe a ritual fast with mantra recitation.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s vrata-discipline (yatavrata) and readiness to follow dharmic procedure; Sītā’s partnership in observance.