Shloka 1.21.3

बालकाण्डे एकविंशः सर्गः — Daśaratha’s Promise, Vasiṣṭha’s Counsel, and Viśvāmitra’s Weapon-Lore

Devanagari script

यदीदं ते क्षमं राजन् गमिष्यामि यथाऽगतम्।मिथ्याप्रतिज्ञ: काकुत्स्थ सुखीभव सबान्धव:।।।।

Transliteration

evaṃ vīryo mahātejā viśvāmitro mahāyaśāḥ |

na rāma-gamane rājan saṃśayaṃ kartum arhasi ||

Translation

Such is the prowess of the mighty and radiant Viśvāmitra, renowned far and wide. Therefore, O King, you should not entertain any doubt about Rāma’s going with him.

Context

O king, if this act of yours is appropriate to you, I will go back (to the places) where from I came. O scion of the race of kakutstha, you have proved false to your promise. Live happily with your relatives".

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Daśaratha
• Viśvāmitra
• Rāma

FAQs

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

Right action requires trust in the righteous and competent. Doubt that obstructs a pledged duty is treated as a deviation from dharma.

What is the narrative situation?

Vasiṣṭha assures Daśaratha that Viśvāmitra is powerful and trustworthy, and that sending Rāma is appropriate.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Practical wisdom in leadership: accepting sound counsel and acting without paralyzing doubt when dharma is clear.