Shloka 1.66.4

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

Devanagari script

एवमुक्तस्स धर्मात्मा जनकेन महात्मना।प्रत्युवाच मुनिर्वीरं वाक्यं वाक्यविशारद:।।1.66.4।।

Transliteration

tad etan muniśārdūla dhanuḥ paramabhāsvaram | rāmalakṣmaṇayoś cāpi darśayiṣyāmi suvrata || 1.66.25 ||

Translation

Therefore, O tiger among sages, O steadfast in vows, I shall show to Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa as well that supremely radiant bow.

Context

At the words of the magnanimous Janaka, the virtuous sage well-versed in speech replied to the heroic king:

Characters & Entities

• Janaka
• Viśvāmitra
• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Sacred bow (traditionally Śiva’s bow)

FAQs

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

Trust and proper custodianship: sacred objects are revealed appropriately—through respectful request and in the presence of qualified persons.

What is the narrative situation?

After explaining the bow’s history and conflict around it, Janaka agrees to present the bow to Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Janaka’s integrity and courtesy—he honors the sage’s request and maintains the sanctity of the royal trust.