Shloka 2.58.23

अष्टपञ्चाशः सर्गः (Sarga 58) — Daśaratha Questions Sumantra; Messages from the Forest Threshold

Devanagari script

अतिक्रान्तवया राजा मास्मैनं व्यवरोरुधः।कुमार राज्ये जीव त्वं तस्यैवाज्ञाप्रवर्तनात्।।।।

Transliteration

atikrāntavayā rājā mā smainaṃ vyavarorudhaḥ | kumāra rājye jīva tvaṃ tasyaivājñāpravartanāt ||

Translation

The king is advanced in years—do not obstruct him in any way. Live as prince-regent by carrying out his commands alone.

Context

'The king is advanced in age. Do not restrict him in any manner. Carry out his orders as prince regent, and live happily'.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Bharata
• Daśaratha

FAQs

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

Respecting elders and lawful authority: even as regent, one must not override or constrain the aging king’s will.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma anticipates Bharata’s role in administration and warns him to govern without curbing Daśaratha.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Obedience allied with restraint—power held in trust, not used to dominate.