Shloka 5.20.24

रावणस्य सीताप्रलोभनम् (Ravana’s Persuasion and Coercive Courtship of Sita)

Devanagari script

यथेष्टं च प्रयच्छ त्वं पृथिवीं वा धनानि च।ललस्व मयि विस्रब्धा धृष्टमाज्ञापयस्व च।।5.20.24।।

Transliteration

yatheṣṭaṃ ca prayaccha tvaṃ pṛthivīṃ vā dhanāni ca | lalasva mayi visrabdhā dhṛṣṭam ājñāpayasva ca || 5.20.24 ||

Translation

Bestow land or wealth as you please; be at ease with me and enjoy—command me boldly as well.

Context

"Give away land and wealth as you wish. Enjoy with me freely and command me boldly. I will obey you by all means.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā
• pṛthivī (kingdom/land)

FAQs

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

The verse contrasts material power with moral right: dharma cannot be purchased with land or wealth, and authority offered through coercion remains unrighteous.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa promises Sītā freedom to give gifts and exercise command, trying to lure her with sovereignty and comfort.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s incorruptibility—she cannot be bribed away from truth (satya) and marital dharma.