Shloka 1.66.15

शिवधनुर्न्यासकथा तथा सीतोत्पत्तिविवाहशुल्क-निश्चयः (The Bow of Śiva: Its Deposit, Sītā’s Origin, and the Prowess-Brideprice Vow)

Devanagari script

भूतलादुत्थितां तां तु वर्धमानां ममात्मजाम्।वरयामासुरागम्य राजानो मुनिपुंगव।।1.66.15।।

Transliteration

bhūtalād utthitā sā tu vyavardhata mamātmajā |

vīryaśulketi me kanyā sthāpiteyam ayोनिजā ||1.66.14||

Translation

Though she had arisen from the earth, she grew up as my own daughter. This maiden—unborn of any womb—I ordained to be won only by the bride-price of proven prowess.

Context

O Eminent ascetic! arisen from the earth and reared as my daughter, she has been sought after in marriage by many princes.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Janaka
• bhūtala (earth)
• vīryaśulka (prowess-condition)

FAQs

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

Parental and royal dharma: Janaka safeguards Sītā’s future by setting a principled standard—worthiness proven through capability and discipline, not mere status.

What is the narrative situation?

Janaka describes Sītā’s upbringing and the formal condition he set for her marriage: only one with proven strength can win her.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Janaka’s prudence and protective responsibility—balancing affection with duty and standards.