Shloka 1.19.15

विश्वामित्रस्य यज्ञरक्षा-याचना (Visvamitra Requests Rama for Yajna-Protection)

Devanagari script

यदि ते धर्मलाभं च यशश्च परमं भुवि।।।।स्थितमिच्छसि राजेन्द्र रामं मे दातुमर्हसि।

Transliteration

ahaṃ vedmi mahātmānaṃ rāmaṃ satya-parākramam |

vasiṣṭho 'pi mahātejā ye ceme tapasi sthitāḥ ||

Translation

I know Rāma—the great-souled one whose valor is true and unwavering; and Vasiṣṭha of mighty radiance, along with these sages established in tapas, know him as well.

Context

O king of kings, if you are seeking the benefits of righteousness, great everlastingfame in this world, it is fit and proper to give Rama to me.

Characters & Entities

• Viśvāmitra
• Daśaratha
• Rāma
• Vasiṣṭha
• ṛṣis (ascetics/sages)

FAQs

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

Moral authority is grounded in truthful discernment: sages who are established in tapas testify to Rāma’s reliable virtue and capability, making trust in dharmic leadership reasonable.

What is the narrative situation?

Viśvāmitra strengthens his request by invoking shared knowledge and endorsement of Rāma’s character by Vasiṣṭha and other ascetics.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Satya-parākrama—valor that is dependable and aligned with truth and righteousness.