Shloka 4.59.22

सम्पातिवाक्यम् (Sampati’s Intelligence Report on Sita’s Abduction)

Devanagari script

तच्छृत्वाऽपि हि मे बुद्धिर्नासीत्काचित्पराक्रमे।।।।अपक्षो हि कथं पक्षी कर्म किञ्चिदुपक्रमे।

Transliteration

tac chrutvā 'pi hi me buddhir nāsīt kācit parākrame | apakṣo hi kathaṁ pakṣī karma kiṁcid upakrame ||

Translation

Even after hearing it, no resolve to advance arose in me; for how can a bird without wings begin even the slightest action?

Context

'Even after hearing this I could not advance (against Ravana). How could I, a vulturewithout wings, leap even a little?

Characters & Entities

• Sampāti

FAQs

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

Dharma includes honest assessment of capacity: one should not make rash vows beyond one’s ability, but seek the right means to serve the good.

What is the narrative situation?

Sampāti admits he could not pursue or oppose Rāvaṇa due to being wingless, explaining his limitation.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and truthfulness about one’s constraints, avoiding empty heroics.