Shloka 1.20.20

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

Devanagari script

इत्युक्तो मुनिना तेन राजोवाच मुनिं तदा।न हि शक्तोऽस्मि सङ्ग्रामे स्थातुं तस्य दुरात्मन:।।।।

Transliteration

ity ukto muninā tena rājovāca muniṁ tadā | na hi śakto 'smi saṅgrāme sthātuṁ tasya durātmanaḥ |

Translation

Thus addressed by that sage, the king replied: “I am not able to stand against that evil-minded one in battle.”

Context

Informed in this manner by sage Viswamitra, king Dasaratha addressed the sage, saying, "I am not competent enough to stand before those evil-minded rakshasas in the batlle".

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Viśvāmitra
• Rāvaṇa (implied by context as the 'evil-minded one')

FAQs

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

Dharma includes truthful self-assessment (satya about one’s capacity); reckless overconfidence in leadership can endanger subjects and sacred duties.

What is the narrative situation?

After hearing Viśvāmitra’s request, Daśaratha states his inability to confront the chief rākṣasa power on the battlefield.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Honesty and humility—Daśaratha admits limitations instead of posturing.