Shloka 4.3.36

हनूमत्संवादः / Hanuman’s Diplomatic Approach to Rama and Lakshmana

Devanagari script

एवमुक्तस्तु सौमित्रिस्सुग्रीवसचिवं कपिम्।अभ्यभाषत वाक्यज्ञो वाक्यज्ञं पवनात्मजम्।।

Transliteration

evam uktas tu saumitriḥ sugrīvasacivaṃ kapim |

abhyabhāṣata vākyajño vākyajñaṃ pavanātmajam ||

Translation

Thus addressed, Saumitri—skilled in speech—replied to Sugriva’s minister, the monkey Hanuman, the Wind-god’s son, who was himself adept with words.

Context

Thus instructed, Saumitri who was equally skilled in speach replied to Sugriva's minister, son of the Wind-god

Characters & Entities

• Lakshmana (Saumitri)
• Hanuman (Pavanatmaja)
• Sugriva

FAQs

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

Dharma in dialogue: a truthful meeting is sustained by disciplined speech—replying appropriately to an envoy and honoring the rules of approach.

What is the narrative situation?

After Hanuman’s initial address, Lakshmana responds, beginning the formal exchange that will lead to friendship with Sugriva.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vāk-jñāna (wisdom in speech): measured, purposeful words used to build trust and alliance.