Shloka 2.64.62

शब्दवेध्य-अनर्थः, ऋषिशापः, दशरथस्य प्राणत्यागः (The Sound-Target Tragedy, the Sage’s Curse, and Dasaratha’s Death)

Devanagari script

चक्षुभ्यां त्वां न पश्यामि कौसल्ये साधु मां स्फृश।इत्युक्त्वा स रुदंस्त्रस्तो भार्यामाह च भूमिपः।।।।

Transliteration

cakṣubhyāṁ tvāṁ na paśyāmi kausalyē sādhu māṁ sphṛśa | ity uktvā sa rudan trasto bhāryām āha ca bhūmipaḥ ||

Translation

“I cannot see you with my eyes, O Kausalyā—touch me gently.” Saying this, the lord of the land, frightened and weeping, spoke to his wife.

Context

O Kausalya, I cannot see you with my eyes. Touch me gently, said the frightened Dasaratha, Lord of the earth, to his wife weeping.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Kausalyā

FAQs

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

In suffering, dharma is expressed through tenderness and mutual care within marriage—seeking support without harshness.

What is the narrative situation?

As Daśaratha nears death, his sight fails; he asks Kausalyā to touch him so he can sense her presence.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Compassionate dependence and humility: the king, powerless, turns to gentle human connection.