Ramayana — Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 97, Shloka 19
भरतागमनशङ्कानिवारणम् / Dispelling Suspicion about Bharata’s Arrival
Chitrakuta Encampment
तथोक्तो धर्मशीलेन भ्रात्रा तस्य हिते रतः।लक्ष्मणः प्रविवेशेव स्वानि गात्राणि लज्जया।।।।
tathokto dharmaśīlena bhrātrā tasya hite rataḥ | lakṣmaṇaḥ praviveśeva svāni gātrāṇi lajjayā ||
Thus addressed by his brother, steadfast in dharma and intent on his welfare, Lakshmana—overcome with shame—seemed to shrink back into his own limbs.
When sagacious Bharata of great strength has come here, where is the need for a bow or a sword or a shield.
FAQs
Dharma includes receptivity to correction: Lakshmana’s shame shows moral sensitivity and willingness to be guided by righteous counsel.
After Rama’s firm yet ethical reprimand, Lakshmana feels embarrassed and withdraws his aggressive stance.
Lakshmana’s humility and self-restraint—he can step back when corrected by dharma.