Shloka 1.1.99

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

Devanagari script

एतदाख्यानमायुष्यं पठन्रामायणं नर: ।सपुत्रपौत्रस्सगण: प्रेत्य स्वर्गे महीयते ।। ।।

Transliteration

etad ākhyānam āyuṣyaṃ paṭhan rāmāyaṇaṃ naraḥ |

saputra-pautraḥ sagaṇaḥ pretya svarge mahīyate ||

Translation

This sacred narrative—the Rāmāyaṇa—bestows long life upon the one who reads it. After death, he is honored in heaven, together with his sons, grandsons, and all his household and companions.

Context

This story of Ramayana enhances longevity of those who read it and recite it. They will be worshipped in heavens after their death along with their sons and grandsons, servants and relations.

Characters & Entities

• Rāmāyaṇa
• Svarga (heaven)

FAQs

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

Dharma is upheld through śravaṇa and pāṭha—reverent study of an itihāsa that teaches truth and righteous conduct; the verse frames such engagement as spiritually meritorious.

What is the narrative situation?

This is a phalaśruti-style statement in the opening section, declaring the spiritual and worldly fruits of reading/reciting the Rāmāyaṇa.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Devotion to truth-bearing literature (satya-itihāsa) and disciplined religious study—valuing learning that shapes conduct.