Shloka 1.20.11

राज्ञः शङ्का–प्रत्याख्यानम् (Daśaratha’s Objections to Sending Rāma) — Bala Kanda, Sarga 20

Devanagari script

चतुर्णामात्मजानां हि प्रीति:परमिका मम।।।।ज्येष्ठं धर्मप्रधानं च न रामं नेतुमर्हसि।

Transliteration

caturṇām ātmajānāṃ hi prītiḥ paramikā mama |

jyeṣṭhaṃ dharma-pradhānaṃ ca na rāmaṃ netum arhasi ||1.20.11||

Translation

Indeed, among my four sons my love for Rāma is greatest; and since he is the eldest and foremost in dharma, it is not fitting for you to take Rāma away.

Context

My love for Rama among all my four sons is supreme.It is not proper for you to take Rama, the eldest son whose prime qualification is his virtue.

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Viśvāmitra
• Rāma

FAQs

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

Dharma is presented as a defining virtue of Rāma; simultaneously, Daśaratha appeals to maryādā—what is ‘proper’—in safeguarding the dharmic heir.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha strengthens his refusal by emphasizing Rāma’s status as eldest and foremost in virtue, and his own supreme affection for him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s dharma-centered character (dharma-pradhāna) is explicitly highlighted.