Shloka 4.3.27

हनूमत्संवादः / Hanuman’s Diplomatic Approach to Rama and Lakshmana

Devanagari script

तमभ्यभाष सौमित्रे सुग्रीवसचिवं कपिम्।वाक्यज्ञं मधुरैर्वाक्यैस्स्नेहयुक्तमरिन्दम।।।।

Transliteration

tam abhyabhāṣa saumitre sugrīva-sacivaṃ kapim | vākyajñaṃ madhurair vākyaiḥ snehayuktam arindama ||

Translation

“O Saumitri, conqueror of foes—this vānara is Sugrīva’s minister, skilled in speech and speaking with friendliness. Answer him with words that are gentle and sweet.”

Context

'O Saumitri, conqueror of enemies! this monkey, Sugriva's minister, is skilled in friendly communication. Reply to him in words gentle and sweet.

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Lakshmana
• Sugriva
• Hanuman

FAQs

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

Dharma of vāg-dharma (righteous speech): even in uncertainty, one should respond with courtesy, restraint, and sweetness—speech that supports truth and harmony.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama instructs Lakshmana on how to respond to Hanuman, recognizing him as Sugriva’s capable minister.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rama’s diplomatic restraint and Lakshmana’s disciplined obedience—strength guided by etiquette.