Shloka 1.20.2

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

Devanagari script

ऊनषोडशवर्षो मे रामो राजीवलोचन:।न युद्धयोग्यतामस्य पश्यामि सह राक्षसै:।।।।

Transliteration

ūnaṣoḍaśavarṣo me rāmo rājīvalocanaḥ | na yuddhayogyatām asya paśyāmi saha rākṣasaiḥ |

Translation

My lotus-eyed Rāma is not yet sixteen years of age. I do not see him as yet fit for battle against the rākṣasas.

Context

"My lotus-eyed son Rama is less than sixteen. I do not think he has ability to fight with the rakshasas in a battle.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Rākṣasas

FAQs

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

A parent-king’s dharma includes protecting a minor child from disproportionate danger; responsibility requires weighing capability against risk.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha resists Viśvāmitra’s request to take Rāma, citing Rāma’s young age and the formidable nature of the rākṣasas.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Protective care and prudence—Daśaratha’s concern for Rāma’s readiness.