Shloka 2.99.34
चित्रकूटप्राप्तिः — Bharata Reaches Chitrakuta and Beholds Rama
यस्य यज्ञैर्यथादिष्टैर्युक्तो धर्मस्य सञ्चयः।शरीरक्लेशसम्भूतं स धर्मं परिमार्गते।।2.99.34।।
yasya yajñair yathādiṣṭair yukto dharmasya sañcayaḥ | śarīra-kleśa-sambhūtaṃ sa dharmaṃ parimārgate ||2.99.34||
For him, the store of dharma was rightly attainable through duly prescribed sacrifices; yet now he seeks dharma born of bodily hardship.
That Rama, who in accordance with tradition deserves accredition of religious merit through sacrifices now seeks it through mortification of body.
Dharma is not merely ritual prosperity; it also includes tapas-like endurance when circumstances demand. Rāma’s righteousness adapts in form but remains constant in intent.
Bharata marvels that Rāma—who could have gained merit through royal sacrifices—now pursues merit through bodily austerity in exile.
Rāma’s unwavering commitment to righteousness regardless of means or setting.