Shloka 5.2.33

लङ्कादर्शनं तथा रात्रौ सूक्ष्मरूपेण प्रवेशोपायचिन्तनम् (Vision of Lanka and Strategy for Nocturnal Entry)

Devanagari script

अनेन रूपेण मया न शक्या रक्षसां पुरी।प्रवेष्टुं राक्षसैर्गुप्ता क्रूरैर्बलसमन्वितैः।।।।

Transliteration

anena rūpeṇa mayā na śakyā rakṣasāṃ purī | praveṣṭuṃ rākṣasair guptā krūrais bala-samanvitaiḥ ||

Translation

In this form, I cannot enter the city of the rākṣasas—guarded as it is by fierce and powerful demons.

Context

'I shall not be able in my present form to enter the city guarded by fierce and powerful demons.

Characters & Entities

• Lanka (implied as rākṣasa-purī)
• rākṣasāḥ (demons)

FAQs

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

Right action requires right method: dharma may demand concealment and restraint when open confrontation would endanger the mission and the innocent.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanuman recognizes that his current visible form would attract attention and prevent safe entry into guarded Lanka.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence and adaptability—he is willing to change approach to protect the higher dharmic aim.