Shloka 1.69.13

एकोनसप्ततितमः सर्गः — Daśaratha’s Departure to Videha and Marriage Arrangements

Devanagari script

तस्य तद्वचनं श्रुत्वा ऋषिमध्ये नराधिप:।।।।वाक्यं वाक्यविदां श्रेष्ठ: प्रत्युवाच महीपतिम्।

Transliteration

tasya tadvacanaṁ śrutvā ṛṣimadhye narādhipaḥ |

vākyaṁ vākyavidāṁ śreṣṭhaḥ pratyuvāca mahīpatim || 1.69.13 ||

Translation

Hearing those words, the lord of men—foremost among the eloquent—replied to the king in the midst of the sages.

Context

At these words, the most eloquent king (Dasaratha) made his reply in the midst of sages:

Characters & Entities

• Daśaratha
• Janaka (mahīpati)
• sages (ṛṣayaḥ)

FAQs

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

Dharma of sabhā (assembly conduct): important agreements are affirmed publicly before sages, ensuring accountability and truthfulness.

What is the narrative situation?

Daśaratha prepares to respond to Janaka’s proposal about conducting the marriage rites.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Daśaratha’s measured, respectful speech in a sacred and public setting.