Shloka 2.52.23

गङ्गातरणम्, सुमन्त्र-प्रतिनिवर्तनम्, जटाधारणम् (Crossing the Gaṅgā; Sumantra’s Return; Adoption of Ascetic Signs)

Devanagari script

शोकोपहतचेताश्च वृद्धश्च जगतीपतिः।कामभावावसन्नश्च तस्मादेतद्ब्रवीमि ते।।2.52.23।।

Transliteration

śokopahatacetāś ca vṛddhaś ca jagatīpatiḥ |

kāmabhāvāvasannaś ca tasmād etad bravīmi te ||

Translation

For the lord of the earth is overwhelmed in mind by grief, and he is old; and he is also weighed down by the impulses of passion—therefore I say this to you.

Context

I tell you this because the lord of the earth (Dasaratha), is in deep distress. He is old. And he is under the control of his passion.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Sumantra
• Dasharatha

FAQs

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

Dharma includes realistic compassion: Rama acknowledges human frailty (age, grief, desire) and urges careful action to protect the vulnerable from further harm.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama explains to Sumantra why he must be cautious and supportive toward Daśaratha when returning—because the king is emotionally and physically fragile.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s discernment (viveka) and empathy: he diagnoses the king’s condition and responds with responsible, protective counsel.