Shloka 4.1.21

पम्पा-तीर-वर्णनम् / Rama’s Lament at Pampa and the Approach to Rishyamuka

Devanagari script

सुपुष्पितांस्तु पश्येमान्कर्णिकारांत्समन्ततः।हाटकप्रतिसञ्छन्नान्नरान्पीताम्बरानिव।।।।

Transliteration

supuṣpitāṃs tu paśyēmān karṇikārān samantataḥ | hāṭakapratisañchannān narān pītāmbarān iva ||

Translation

Behold these karṇikāra trees, blooming everywhere—like people clad in yellow garments and adorned with golden ornaments.

Context

'See these Karnikaras in full bloom all over, looking like people clad in yellow silk adorned with golden ornaments.

Characters & Entities

• Saumitri (Lakshmana)
• karṇikāra (tree)
• hāṭaka (gold)
• pītāmbara (yellow garment)

FAQs

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

The verse encourages truthful seeing (satya-darśana): appreciating beauty without attachment. Dharma refines perception—one can admire splendor while remaining committed to righteous objectives.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama draws Lakshmana’s attention to karṇikāra trees in bloom, using a human simile to convey their color and brilliance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Teaching through observation: Rama shares perception with his companion, strengthening shared attentiveness and resolve.