Shloka 4.54.9

अङ्गद-उपदेशः — Hanuman’s Counsel to Angada on Succession and Strategy

Devanagari script

नित्यमस्थिरचित्ता हि कपयो हरिपुङ्गव।नाज्ञाप्यं विषहिष्यन्ति पुत्रदारान्विना त्वया।।।।

Transliteration

nityam asthiracittā hi kapayo haripuṅgava |

nājñāpyaṃ viṣahiṣyanti putradārān vinā tvayā ||

Translation

O best of monkey-leaders, the vānaras are by nature always unsteady in mind. Separated from their sons and wives, they will not long endure strict command, nor remain here under discipline without you.

Context

'O leader among monkeys! Vanaras are always fickle-minded. Being away from their sons and wives they will not always carry out your command and stay here forever.

Characters & Entities

• Angada
• Hanuman
• Vānaras (monkey-host)

FAQs

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

Dharma here is responsible leadership: a leader must account for the real limits of followers (their attachments and wavering resolve) and guide them with practical wisdom rather than unrealistic command.

What is the narrative situation?

In the Kishkindha episode, the monkey-host is under pressure to fulfill the search mission; the verse reflects counsel about sustaining obedience and morale when troops are separated from family.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Pragmatic discernment (viveka) in counsel—recognizing human nature and advising in a way that supports the mission without ignoring emotional realities.