Shloka 5.11.41

रावणान्तःपुर-पानभूमि-विचयः (Hanumān’s Survey of Rāvaṇa’s Inner Palace and Banquet Hall)

Devanagari script

मनो हि हेतुः सर्वेषामिन्द्रियाणां प्रवर्तने।।5.11.41।।शुभाशुभास्ववस्थासु तच्च मे सुव्यवस्थितम्।

Transliteration

mano hi hetuḥ sarveṣām indriyāṇāṃ pravartane || 5.11.41 || śubhāśubhāsv avasthāsu tac ca me suvyavasthitam |

Translation

For the mind is the cause that sets all the senses into motion, in states both good and bad; and in this my mind is firmly established in right conduct.

Context

'Mind propels the sense organs to do good or bad deeds. (But) my mind is firmly esatablished in righteousness'.

Characters & Entities

• Hanuman
• mind (manas)
• senses (indriyāṇi)

FAQs

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

Dharma is rooted in mastery of the mind: since the mind directs the senses toward good or evil, righteous living requires inner governance as the foundation of moral action.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanuman concludes his moral reflection, asserting that his mind remains steady in righteousness even while operating in a compromising environment.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Self-control (dama) and steadfastness—alignment of inner intention with dharmic conduct.