Shloka 4.18.54

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

Devanagari script

सुग्रीवे चाङ्गदे चैव विधत्स्व मतिमुत्तमाम्।त्वं हि शास्ता च गोप्ता च कार्याकार्यविधौ स्थितः।।

Transliteration

sugrīve cāṅgade caiva vidhatsva matim uttamām | tvaṃ hi śāstā ca goptā ca kāryākārya-vidhau sthitaḥ ||

Translation

Instill in Sugriva and in Angada alike a noble and steady resolve. For you are both guide and guardian, firm in discerning what ought to be done and what ought not.

Context

'Shower equal affection from your heart on Sugriva and Angada. You are their protector and punisher also. You know what should and should not be done.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Sugriva
• Angada

FAQs

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

Balanced rulership: dharma requires both protection (goptṛtva) and discipline (śāsana), guided by discrimination between proper and improper acts.

What is the narrative situation?

Vali requests Rama to guide both the incoming king Sugriva and the heir Angada, so the new order remains stable and righteous.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Judicious authority—Rama’s capacity to nurture and correct according to dharma.