Shloka 4.12.32

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

Devanagari script

ततोऽहं रूपसादृश्यान्मोहितो वानरोत्तम।नोत्सृजामि महावेगं शरं शत्रुनिबर्हणम्4.12.32।।

Transliteration

tato ’haṁ rūpa-sādṛśyān mohito vānarottama |

not-sṛjāmi mahā-vegaṁ śaraṁ śatru-nibarhaṇam || 4.12.32 ||

Translation

Therefore, O best of monkeys, bewildered by your similarity in form, I did not let fly the swift arrow that would have destroyed the enemy.

Context

'O distinguished monkey! you both are so similar in form that I was puzzled and did not release my swift arrow that could have destroyed the enemy.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Sugrīva
• Vālī (as enemy in context)
• arrow (śara)

FAQs

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

Avoiding wrongful harm is dharma; even a justified goal cannot be pursued through uncertain, potentially unjust action.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma states plainly that the resemblance caused hesitation, so he withheld the decisive shot.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Restraint (saṁyama) and care for an ally’s safety.