Shloka 4.8.37

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

Devanagari script

एते हि कपयस्स्निग्धा मां रक्षन्ति समन्ततः।सह गच्छन्ति गन्तव्ये नित्यं तिष्ठन्ति च स्थिते।।

Transliteration

ete hi kapayaḥ snigdhā māṃ rakṣanti samantataḥ | saha gacchanti gantavye nityaṃ tiṣṭhanti ca sthite ||

Translation

For these monkeys, tender in affection, guard me on every side; they go with me when I must go, and when I halt they ever stand watch.

Context

'These monkeys out of love for me keep me protected from all sides. They go out with me when it is necessary and stay back whenever I stop (in order to guard me).

Characters & Entities

• Sugrīva
• Rāma
• vānaras (monkeys)

FAQs

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

Dharma appears as protective solidarity: the strong and faithful safeguard the vulnerable, maintaining order and enabling righteous aims.

What is the narrative situation?

Sugrīva describes the constant security provided by his devoted vānara companions during his perilous exile.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Steadfast loyalty and protective care shown by Sugrīva’s followers.