Shloka 4.17.16

वालिवधः — Vālī’s Fall and Dharma-Accusation (Kiṣkindhā Sarga 17)

Devanagari script

रामः करुणवेदी च प्रजानां च हिते रतः।सानुक्रोशो जितोत्साहस्समयज्ञो दृढव्रतः।।4.17.16।।इति ते सर्वभूतानि कथयन्ति यशो भुवि।।4.17.17।।

Transliteration

rāmaḥ karuṇa-vedī ca prajānāṁ ca hite rataḥ |

sānukrośo jitotsāhaḥ samaya-jño dṛḍha-vrataḥ ||

Translation

“Rāma is known as one who understands compassion and is devoted to the welfare of the people—tender-hearted, steadfast in effort, discerning of proper occasion, and firm in his vows.”

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• subjects/people (prajā)

FAQs

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

The verse frames ideal kingship (rāja-dharma) as compassion joined with public welfare, disciplined courage, and fidelity to vows—virtues that should guide power.

What is the narrative situation?

In the midst of reproaching Rāma, Vāli paradoxically acknowledges Rāma’s widely proclaimed reputation for compassion and principled conduct.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Compassion (anukrośa/karuṇā) integrated with steadfastness and discernment (samaya-jñatā) is highlighted as Rāma’s defining excellence.