Shloka 4.35.2

तारोपदेशः — Tara’s Counsel to Lakshmana (Restraint, Time, and Mobilization)

Devanagari script

नैवं लक्ष्मण वक्तव्यो नायं परुषमर्हति।हरीणामीश्वरश्श्रोतुं तव वक्त्राद्विशेषतः।।।।

Transliteration

naivaṃ lakṣmaṇa vaktavyo nāyaṃ paruṣam arhati | harīṇām īśvaraḥ śrotuṃ tava vaktrād viśeṣataḥ ||

Translation

O Lakṣmaṇa, you should not speak in that manner. The lord of the monkeys does not deserve to hear harsh words—least of all from your mouth.

Context

'O Lakshmana! you, in particular, should not speak to the king of vanaras in that manner. He does not deserve to hear from your mouth words which are harsh.

Characters & Entities

• Lakṣmaṇa
• Harīṇām īśvara (Sugrīva)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes vāg-dharma (righteous speech): even when wronged or impatient, one should avoid harsh words, especially toward an ally and king.

What is the narrative situation?

Tārā restrains Lakṣmaṇa’s anger toward Sugrīva and advises him to speak respectfully.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Self-control (kṣamā/saṃyama) and civility in counsel.