Shloka 5.16.26

षोडशः सर्गः (Sarga 16): Hanumān’s Recognition of Sītā and Renewed Lament

Devanagari script

भर्ता नाम परं नार्या भूषणं भूषणादपि।एषा तु रहिता तेन भूषणार्हा न शोभते।।5.16.26।।

Transliteration

mānyā guruvinītasya lakṣmaṇasya gurupriyā |

yadi sītā'pi duḥkhārtā kālo hi duratikramaḥ ||5.16.3||

Translation

If even Sītā—honoured by the well-disciplined Lakṣmaṇa and beloved of the elders—is afflicted with such sorrow, then indeed Time is hard to overcome.

Context

"Indeed, the husband is the greatest ornament for a married woman. Hence though deserving adornment she does not like it, bereft of her husband who is her onlyornament.

Characters & Entities

• Sita
• Lakshmana
• Kala (Time)

FAQs

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

The verse underscores humility before Kāla (Time) and the dharmic insight that suffering can arise even for the virtuous; therefore one should not become arrogant, but remain steady and compassionate.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanuman, observing Sītā’s condition in Laṅkā, reflects that if such a revered and virtuous woman suffers, it shows how formidable the force of Time is.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Hanuman’s discernment and empathy—he interprets events through moral causality and feels concern rather than mere shock.