Shloka 4.18.13

वाली–रामसंवादः (Rama’s Justification to Vali on Rājadharma)

Devanagari script

ज्येष्ठो भ्राता पिता चैव यश्च विद्यां प्रयच्छति।त्रयस्ते पितरो ज्ञेया धर्म्ये च पथि वर्तिनः4.18.13।।

Transliteration

jyeṣṭho bhrātā pitā caiva yaś ca vidyāṁ prayacchati | trayas te pitaro jñeyā dharmye ca pathi vartinaḥ ||

Translation

An elder brother, a father, and one who bestows learning—these three are to be regarded as fathers, and one should conduct oneself toward them on the righteous path.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Vali

FAQs

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

Dharma requires reverence and restraint toward those who function as ‘fathers’: father, elder brother, and teacher; they are owed protection and moral deference.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama lays out a dharma-based social rule to establish why Vali’s conduct toward Sugriva (the younger brother) and related relations is blameworthy.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Respect for authority and moral hierarchy—recognizing the ethical status of elder, parent, and teacher.