Shloka 4.12.30

द्वादशः सर्गः — Rama’s Proof of Power, the First Duel, and the Identification Mark (Kishkindha Kanda, Sarga 12)

Devanagari script

अलङ्कारेण वेषेण प्रमाणेन गतेन च।त्वं च सुग्रीव वाली च सदृशौ स्थः परस्परम्4.12.30।।

Transliteration

alaṅkāreṇa veṣeṇa pramāṇena gatena ca |

tvaṁ ca sugrīva vālī ca sadṛśau sthaḥ parasparam || 4.12.30 ||

Translation

Sugrīva, in ornaments, attire, bodily build, and even in movement, you and Vālī resemble each other closely.

Context

'O Sugriva! in form, ornaments and movements there is perfect resemblance between you and Vali.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Sugrīva
• Vālī

FAQs

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

Right action requires discernment; when identification is uncertain, dharma cautions against rash violence that may harm the innocent.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma explains that he hesitated to shoot because Sugrīva and Vālī looked and moved alike in battle.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence and careful judgment—Rāma weighs consequences before acting.