Shloka 2.52.78

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

Devanagari script

राघवोऽपि महातेजा नावमारुह्य तां ततः।ब्रह्मवत् क्षत्रवच्चैव जजाप हितमात्मनः।।2.52.78।।

Transliteration

rāghavo 'pi mahātejā nāvam āruhya tāṃ tataḥ | brahmavat kṣatravac caiva jajāpa hitam ātmanaḥ || 2.52.78 ||

Translation

Even Rāghava, of great splendor, having boarded that boat, softly recited for his own protection auspicious formulas—befitting both a brāhmaṇa and a kṣatriya.

Context

Resplendent Rama boarded the boat and muttered for his own safety mantras befitting brahmins and kshatriyas.

Characters & Entities

• Rama (Rāghava)
• boat
• mantras/recitation (japa)
• brāhmaṇa-dharma (brahmavat)
• kṣatriya-dharma (kṣatravat)

FAQs

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

Dharma is integrated conduct: Rāma unites spiritual discipline (brāhmaṇa-like recitation) with warrior responsibility (kṣatriya propriety), seeking rightful protection without abandoning duty.

What is the narrative situation?

During the river crossing, after boarding the boat, Rāma performs protective recitation suited to his dual ideals of sacred restraint and royal duty.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Reverent self-discipline—Rāma maintains inner steadiness and sacred practice even in transit and uncertainty.