Shloka 4.58.10

सम्पातिवाक्यम् (Sampāti’s Counsel and the Revelation of Laṅkā)

Devanagari script

अदीर्घदर्शिनं तं वै रावणं राक्षसाधिपम्।अन्तिके यदि वा दूरे यदि जानासि शंस नः।।4.58.10।।

Transliteration

adīrgha-darśinaṃ taṃ vai rāvaṇaṃ rākṣasādhipam | antike yadi vā dūre yadi jānāsi śaṃsa naḥ ||

Translation

If you know, tell us of Rāvaṇa, lord of the rākṣasas, who lacks foresight—whether he is near or far.

Context

'Tell us about Ravana, king of the demons who is unaware of the consequences. If you know his residence, tell us if it is near or far.'

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Rākṣasas
• Sampāti
• Vānaras

FAQs

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

Dharma requires clear knowledge before action; the vānaras seek truthful intelligence to oppose adharma effectively.

What is the narrative situation?

The vānaras question Sampāti about Rāvaṇa’s whereabouts—near or far—to continue their mission.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Practical wisdom: asking precise questions to obtain actionable truth.