Shloka 1.21.4

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

Devanagari script

तस्य रोषपरीतस्य विश्वामित्रस्य धीमत:।चचाल वसुधा कृत्स्ना विवेश च भयं सुरान्।।।।

Transliteration

teṣāṃ nigrahaṇe śaktaḥ svayaṃ ca kuśikātmajaḥ |

tava putra-hitārthāya tvām upetyābhiyācate ||

Translation

Though the son of Kuśika is himself capable of subduing them, he has come to you and requests this—for the welfare and greater good of your son.

Context

At the sight of the wise sage Viswamitra seized of wrath, the entire earth shook and devatas were gripped in fear.

Characters & Entities

• Vasiṣṭha
• Daśaratha
• Viśvāmitra
• Kuśika
• Rāma
• Rakṣasas

FAQs

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

Dharma includes forming the next protector of order. The request is framed not as Viśvāmitra’s need, but as Rāma’s welfare—training aligned with righteous purpose.

What is the narrative situation?

Vasiṣṭha explains that Viśvāmitra’s request for Rāma is intentional: it serves Rāma’s development while addressing the rakṣasa threat.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Viśvāmitra’s foresight and benevolence—guiding a prince into dharmic responsibility rather than merely solving a problem alone.