Shloka 1.30.2

सिद्धाश्रम-यज्ञरक्षणम् — Protection of Viśvāmitra’s Sacrifice at Siddhāśrama

Devanagari script

भगवन् श्रोतुमिच्छावो यस्मिन् काले निशाचरौ।संरक्षणीयौ तौ ब्रह्मन्नातिवर्तेत तत्क्षणम्।।।।

Transliteration

bhagavan śrotum icchāvo yasmin kāle niśācarau | saṃrakṣaṇīyau tau brahman nātivarteta tatkṣaṇam ||

Translation

Venerable one, we wish to hear at what time those two night-rangers will come, so that they may be guarded against; O Brahman, let that moment not pass us by.

Context

"O adorable Brahmarshi, we want to know around what time the rakshasas will make their appearance so that the sacrifice can be protected. Let not that moment pass".

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa (implied by dual: icchāvo)
• Viśvāmitra
• two niśācaras (Mārīca, Subāhu—by sarga context)
• yajña (implied: protection of sacrifice)

FAQs

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

Dharma requires foresight and disciplined preparation: protection of a righteous act (yajña) is best achieved through timely knowledge and readiness.

What is the narrative situation?

Before the attack, Rāma requests Viśvāmitra to specify when the two rākṣasas will appear so they can guard the sacrifice effectively.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and responsibility: Rāma seeks guidance from the sage and prioritizes effective protection over impulsive action.