Shloka 2.67.37

अयोध्यायां शोक-रात्रिः तथा अराजक-राष्ट्रस्य नीतिविचारः (The Night of Lamentation in Ayodhya and the Political Ethics of a Kingless Realm)

Devanagari script

जीवत्यपि महाराजे तवैव वचनं वयम्।नातिक्रमामहे सर्वे वेलां प्राप्येव सागरः।।।।

Transliteration

jīvaty api mahārāje tavaiva vacanaṃ vayam |

na atikramāmahe sarve velāṃ prāpyeva sāgaraḥ || 2.67.37 ||

Translation

Even while the great king lived, we all never transgressed your command—just as the ocean, upon reaching the shore, does not overstep its boundary.

Context

Even while the great king was alive, we never defied your word like the ocean which does not overstep its shore.

Characters & Entities

• mahārāja (Daśaratha, implied)
• Vasiṣṭha (addressed as 'tava')
• sāgara (ocean)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes maryādā (boundaries) and disciplined obedience to rightful guidance; social order is maintained when leaders’ lawful words are not transgressed.

What is the narrative situation?

The assembly reassures Vasiṣṭha of their longstanding deference to his authority and counsel in royal matters.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Self-restraint and respect for established authority (maryādā).