Shloka 4.12.4

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

Devanagari script

प्रविष्टश्च मुहूर्तेन धरां भित्त्वा महाजवः।निष्पत्य च पुनस्तूर्णं स्वतूणीं प्रविवेश ह4.12.4।।

Transliteration

praviṣṭaś ca muhūrtena dharāṃ bhittvā mahājavaḥ |

niṣpatya ca punas tūrṇaṃ svatūṇīṃ praviveśa ha ||

Translation

In a moment, that arrow—of tremendous speed—pierced the earth, sprang forth again, and swiftly returned into its own quiver.

Context

In a moment the arrow emerged from the earth which it pierced and re-entered the quiver with great speed.

Characters & Entities

• Rama (implied by context of the arrow demonstration)
• arrow
• earth
• quiver

FAQs

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

Dharma here supports righteous action through verified capability: Rāma’s power is shown as reliable, enabling him to uphold his promise to protect Sugrīva.

What is the narrative situation?

During the proof of strength episode, the arrow completes an extraordinary feat—piercing and re-emerging—signaling Rāma’s unmatched martial skill.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s competence and controlled power—strength governed by purpose rather than display.