Shloka 5.20.13
रावणस्य सीताप्रलोभनम् (Ravana’s Persuasion and Coercive Courtship of Sita)
त्वां कृत्वोपरतो मन्ये रूपकर्ता स विश्वसृक्।न हि रूपोपमा त्वन्या तवास्ति शुभदर्शने।।5.20.13।।
tvāṃ kṛtvoparato manye rūpakartā sa viśvasṛk |
na hi rūpopamā tv anyā tavāsti śubhadarśane || 5.20.13 ||
O woman of auspicious beauty, I deem that the Fashioner of forms, the Maker of the world, ceased his labor after creating you; for no other woman exists who can be likened to your loveliness.
"O lady with auspicious looks! Me thinks, the creator must have retired after creating your beautiful form. For there is no one comparable to you in beauty.
The verse demonstrates unethical persuasion through flattery. Dharma emphasizes truthfulness and restraint; praise used to entice someone into violating fidelity is a misuse of speech (vāc) and intention.
Rāvaṇa intensifies his courtship attempt by extravagant praise, portraying Sītā as unmatched in beauty.
Sītā’s discernment and commitment to satya (truth) and pativratā-dharma are highlighted by her refusal to be swayed by praise.