Shloka 2.87.16

गुहसंवादः—रामस्य रात्रिवासवर्णनम् (Dialogue with Guha: Account of Rama’s Night Halt)

Devanagari script

न ह्यस्माभिः प्रतिग्राह्यं सखे देयं तु सर्वदा।इति तेन वयं राजन्ननुनीता महात्मना।।।।

Transliteration

na hy asmābhiḥ pratigrāhyaṃ sakhe deyaṃ tu sarvadā |

iti tena vayaṃ rājan anunītā mahātmanā ||

Translation

‘Friend, we should not receive gifts; rather, we should always give.’—With these words, O king, that great-souled one gently soothed and entreated us.

Context

O king! that great Rama entreated us in a friendly manner by saying 'O friend! we should always give to others but should never accept anything from others'.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Bharata

FAQs

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

The verse teaches an ethic of non-dependence and generosity: uphold dignity by giving rather than living on others’ gifts.

What is the narrative situation?

Guha reports Rāma’s rationale for refusing provisions, framed as friendly counsel.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s nobility and gentle persuasion—firm in principle yet courteous in speech.