Shloka 4.8.19

मैत्रीप्रतिज्ञा-वैरकारणप्रश्नः (Friendship Vow and Inquiry into the Cause of Enmity)

Devanagari script

वालिनो मे भयार्तस्य सर्वलोकाभयङ्कर।ममापि त्वमनाथस्य प्रसादं कर्तुमर्हसि।।

Transliteration

vālinā me bhayārtasya sarva-lokābhayaṅkara | mamāpi tvam anāthasya prasādaṃ kartum arhasi ||

Translation

I am tormented by fear because of Vālin. O you who can strike terror into all worlds, you should grant your favor even to me—helpless and without refuge.

Context

'O great warrior who can frighten all the worlds! scared of Vali, I feel helpless like an orphan to whom you ought to extend your grace.'

Characters & Entities

• Sugrīva
• Vālin
• Rāma

FAQs

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

Śaraṇāgati (seeking refuge) and the protector’s duty: the helpless appeal to the righteous, and the righteous are called to extend protection and grace.

What is the narrative situation?

Sugrīva explicitly petitions Rāma for help against Vālin, presenting himself as without support.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Humility and trust: Sugrīva approaches Rāma as a refuge, acknowledging Rāma’s power and moral authority.