Shloka 1.1.82

श्रीमद्रामायणकथासङ्क्षेपः / The Ramayana in Synopsis (Narada’s Summary to Valmiki)

Devanagari script

तामुवाच ततो राम: परुषं जनसंसदि ।अमृष्यमाणा सा सीता विवेश ज्वलनं सती ।।।।

Transliteration

tām uvāca tato rāmaḥ paruṣaṃ janasaṃsadi | amṛṣyamāṇā sā sītā viveśa jvalanaṃ satī ||

Translation

Then, in the assembly of men, Rāma spoke harshly concerning her; unable to endure those words, Sītā—steadfast in chastity—entered the blazing fire.

Context

Rama spoke harsh words about Sita in the assembly. Sita, incapable of enduring such words, entered fire.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Sītā
• Janasaṃsad (assembly)
• Jvalana (fire)

FAQs

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

The verse presents the ethical tension between private truth and public scrutiny: dharma is portrayed as contested in the arena of reputation, requiring proof and endurance when society doubts.

What is the narrative situation?

In a public assembly, Rāma’s harsh words precipitate Sītā’s decision to undergo the fire ordeal to affirm her purity.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s steadfastness (satītva) and moral courage—she chooses a severe test rather than live under suspicion.