Shloka 4.30.72

शरत्प्रवेशे रामविलापः तथा सुग्रीवप्रमादे लक्ष्मणप्रेषणम् (Autumn’s Onset: Rama’s Lament and Lakshmana Sent to Sugriva)

Devanagari script

शुभं वा यदि वा पापं यो हि वाक्यमुदीरितम्।सत्येन प्रतिगृह्णाति स वीरः पुरुषोत्तमः।।

Transliteration

śubhaṃ vā yadi vā pāpaṃ yo hi vākyam udīritam |

satyena pratigṛhṇāti sa vīraḥ puruṣottamaḥ ||

Translation

But he who takes up the word he has spoken—whether it brings good or hardship—and upholds it in truth, is a hero, the best of men.

Context

'(On the other hand) he who honours his promise, whether good or bad, is truly heroic, the best of men.'

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Lakshmana
• Sugriva (implied contrast)

FAQs

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

Satya-dharma: one must stand by one’s spoken promise, even when it becomes difficult or unpleasant.

What is the narrative situation?

Lakshmana contrasts the disgrace of promise-breaking with the nobility of keeping one’s word, pressing the urgency of Sugriva’s pledged help.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Truthfulness and steadfastness—courage expressed as fidelity to one’s commitment.