Shloka 4.12.5

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

Devanagari script

तान्दृष्ट्वा सप्त निर्भिन्नान्सालान्वानरपुङ्गवः।रामस्य शरवेगेन विस्मयं परमं गतः4.12.5।।

Transliteration

tān dṛṣṭvā sapta nirbhinnān sālān vānarapuṅgavaḥ |

rāmasya śaravegena vismayaṃ paramaṃ gataḥ ||

Translation

Seeing those seven sāla trees pierced through by the speed of Rāma’s arrow, the foremost of monkeys was filled with the greatest astonishment.

Context

The chief of the monkeys was struck with wonder seeing Rama's arrow piercing through the seven sala trees so swiftly.

Characters & Entities

• Sugriva (implied as vānarapuṅgava)
• Rama
• sāla trees
• arrow

FAQs

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

Righteous alliances rest on trust grounded in truth and demonstrated capability; the proof dispels doubt so dharmic action can proceed.

What is the narrative situation?

Sugrīva witnesses Rāma’s demonstration of strength—his arrow piercing seven trees—confirming Rāma can defeat Vāli.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sugrīva’s openness to conviction—he moves from fear to confidence through witnessed truth.