Shloka 1.76.17

बालकाण्डे षट्सप्ततितमः सर्गः — Rāma Subdues Paraśurāma; the Vaiṣṇava Arrow Is Discharged

Devanagari script

अक्षय्यं मधुहन्तारं जानामि त्वां सुरेश्वरम्।धनुषोऽस्य परामर्शात् स्वस्ति तेऽस्तु परंतप।।।।

Transliteration

akṣayyaṃ madhuhantāraṃ jānāmi tvāṃ sureśvaram | dhanuṣo ’sya parāmarśāt svasti te ’stu paraṃtapa ||

Translation

By your grasping of this bow, I know you as the imperishable slayer of Madhu—Viṣṇu, Lord of the gods. Fare well to you, O scorcher of foes.

Context

By the fact that you have stretched this bow, I have come to know that you are Visnu, Lord of the gods, slayer of Madhu, O Imperishable one! O Tormentor of enemies! Fare well.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Viṣṇu
• Madhu (as mythic reference)
• Paraśurāma
• the divine bow

FAQs

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

Satya as recognition of reality: Paraśurāma abandons rivalry when truth is evident, offering blessing rather than continuing conflict.

What is the narrative situation?

After Rāma’s display with the bow, Paraśurāma identifies him with Viṣṇu and formally withdraws, wishing him well.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Truthfulness and humility: the readiness to concede and honor a higher principle when confronted with unmistakable evidence.