Shloka 4.40.16

पूर्वदिशि सीतामार्गण-नियोगः (Deployment to the Eastern Quarter for the Search of Sita)

Devanagari script

एवमुक्तस्तु सुग्रीवो विनतं नाम यूथपम्।अब्रवीद्रामसान्निध्ये लक्ष्मणस्य च धीमतः।।4.40.16।।शैलाभं मेघनिर्घोषमूर्जितं प्लवगेश्वरः।

Transliteration

suhṛd-dvitīyo vikrāntaḥ prājñaḥ kāla-viśeṣa-vit | bhavān asmaddhite yuktaḥ sukṛtārtho ’rtha-vittamaḥ || 4.40.15 ||

Translation

You are my second friend—valiant, wise, and a knower of the nuances of proper timing. Devoted to our welfare, capable in execution, you are foremost in understanding the purpose at hand.

Context

'In response to Rama's desire, Sugriva beckoned a troop-leader called Vinata who was well-built and lofty like a mountain. And thundering like a cloud, said to him in the presence of Rama and wise Lakshmana:

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Sugrīva
• Lakṣmaṇa (implicitly, as “first friend” per traditional reading)

FAQs

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

Dharma of friendship is loyalty joined with wisdom: Rāma affirms Sugrīva’s virtue as a timely, welfare-oriented counselor, implying that righteous action depends on both courage and prudent judgment.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma commends Sugrīva’s qualities as they prepare to organize the search for Sītā and plan further action against Rāvaṇa.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sugrīva’s practical wisdom—especially knowledge of timing (kāla) and purpose (artha)—a key leadership trait in dharmic governance.