Shloka 4.3.16

हनूमत्संवादः / Hanuman’s Diplomatic Approach to Rama and Lakshmana

Devanagari script

इमे च धनुषी चित्रे श्लष्णे चित्रानुलेपने।प्रकाशेते यथेन्द्रस्य वज्रे हेमविभूषिते।।

Transliteration

ime ca dhanuṣī citre ślakṣṇe citrānulepane |

prakāśete yathendrasya vajre hemavibhūṣite ||

Translation

And these two bows—wonderfully wrought, smooth to the touch, and anointed with exquisite unguents—shine forth like Indra’s thunderbolt adorned with gold.

Context

'Smeared with wonderful unguents, (your) bows look very attractive. And they glow very much like Indra's golden thunderbolt.

Characters & Entities

• Hanumān
• Rāma
• Lakṣmaṇa
• Indra
• vajra (thunderbolt)
• dhanuṣ (bows)

FAQs

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

Dharma is implied through recognizing noble signs: true worth is seen in disciplined strength and rightful bearing, not mere appearance. Hanumān’s respectful observation prepares a truthful, dharmic approach.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanumān, having approached the two princes near Ṛṣyamūka, assesses them by their weapons and demeanor, beginning a careful, courteous conversation.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Hanumān’s discernment and tact—he praises without flattery, using apt comparisons to identify greatness while maintaining respectful speech.