Shloka 4.29.20

हनूमता सुग्रीवस्य कालधर्मोपदेशः — Hanuman’s Counsel on Timely Ally-Duty

Devanagari script

न हि तावद्भवेत्कालो व्यतीतश्चोदनादृते।चोदितस्य हि कार्यस्य भवेत्कालव्यतिक्रमः।।

Transliteration

na hi tāvad bhavet kālo vyatītaś codanādṛte |

coditasya hi kāryasya bhavet kālavyatikramaḥ ||

Translation

Time is not truly counted as ‘missed’ so long as the work is taken up of one’s own accord; but when a task is done only after being prodded, it becomes a real transgression of time and duty.

Context

'Time will not be deemed lapsed in vain if the work is sincerely taken up without delay and without pressure from your ally, Rama. If it is undertaken under pressure, it will be considered transgression of time.

Characters & Entities

• Hanuman
• Sugriva

FAQs

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

Dharma includes acting at the right time without needing external pressure. Voluntary, timely action preserves integrity; delayed action done only after admonition signals negligence.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanuman begins a pointed reminder: Sugriva’s promised assistance to Rama is overdue, and acting only after being urged will mark Sugriva as failing in timely duty.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Responsibility with initiative—doing what is promised before being compelled—showing inner discipline and respect for one’s word.