Shloka 4.16.10

वालिवधः — The Slaying of Vali

Devanagari script

शापिताऽपि मम प्राणैर्निवर्तस्व जयेन च।अहं जित्वा निवर्तिष्ये तमहं भ्रातरं रणे4.16.10।।

Transliteration

śāpitā ’pi mama prāṇair nivartasva jayena ca | ahaṃ jitvā nivartiṣye tam ahaṃ bhrātaraṃ raṇe ||

Translation

Even if I must stake my very life—and my victory as well—return. I will come back only after I have defeated that brother of mine in battle.

Context

'I make a vow even on my life and my victory. Pray return with the retinue. I will be back only after winning the encounter with my brother.

Characters & Entities

• Vāli
• Tārā
• Sugrīva

FAQs

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

A vow (satya) carries moral weight, but Dharma also requires that vows be guided by wisdom; reckless promises can become instruments of adharma.

What is the narrative situation?

Vāli insists on fighting Sugrīva and orders Tārā to return, promising he will come back only after victory.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Martial confidence and determination—yet shadowed by overconfidence that ignores prudent counsel.