Shloka 2.6.21

रामाभिषेकपूर्वसज्जा — Preparations for Rama’s Coronation

Devanagari script

अहो महात्मा राजाऽयमिक्ष्वाकुकुलनन्दनः।ज्ञात्वा यो वृद्धमात्मानं रामं राज्येऽभिषेक्ष्यति।।2.6.21।।

Transliteration

aho mahātmā rājā 'yam ikṣvākukulanandanaḥ |

jñātvā yo vṛddham ātmānaṃ rāmaṃ rājyebhiṣekṣyati || 2.6.21 ||

Translation

Ah! This great-souled king, the delight of the Ikṣvāku line, knowing himself to have grown old, will consecrate Rāma to rule the kingdom.

Context

Oh! having realised that he himself has grown old the high-souled king Dasaratha the veritable delight to the Ikshvaku race, is going to coronate Rama in the kingdom.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Rāma
• Ikṣvāku dynasty
• kingdom (rājya)

FAQs

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

Rajadharma of timely succession: a ruler must place the kingdom’s long-term welfare above personal attachment to power.

What is the narrative situation?

Citizens discuss Daśaratha’s decision to install Rāma as heir-apparent, interpreting it as wise and timely.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Daśaratha’s prudence and responsibility—recognizing age and ensuring continuity of righteous rule.