Shloka 4.5.12

मैत्रीप्रतिष्ठा (Rama–Sugriva Alliance and Fire-Rite of Friendship)

Devanagari script

रोचते यदि वा सख्यं बाहुरेष प्रसारितः।गृह्यतां पाणिना पाणिर्मर्यादा बध्यतां ध्रुवा4.5.12।।

Transliteration

tan mamaivaiṣa satkāro lābhaś caivottamaḥ prabho |

yat tvam icchasi sauhārdaṁ vānarena mayā saha || 4.5.11 ||

Translation

O Lord, this is for me the highest honor and the greatest gain—that you desire friendship with me, a mere monkey.

Context

'If you are desirous of my friendship, here is my arm (palm) stretched out to you. With due regard, establish our bond firmly, holding my palm in yours.'

Characters & Entities

• Sugrīva
• Rāma

FAQs

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

Dharma is expressed as honoring worthy bonds: Sugrīva treats friendship with a righteous person as a moral fortune, not merely a political advantage.

What is the narrative situation?

After initial introductions, Sugrīva responds to Rāma’s willingness to befriend him, framing it as an extraordinary honor despite Sugrīva’s simian status.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and gratitude: Sugrīva acknowledges social difference yet receives friendship with reverence, showing readiness for a dharmic alliance.