Shloka 5.20.7

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

Devanagari script

देवि नेह भयं कार्यं मयि विश्वसि हि प्रिये।प्रणयस्व च तत्त्वेन मैवं भूः शोकलालसा।।5.20.7।।

Transliteration

devi neha bhayaṃ kāryaṃ mayi viśvasi hi priye |

praṇayasva ca tattvena maivaṃ bhūḥ śokalālasā ||5.20.7||

Translation

O lady, there is no need for fear here; trust in me, dear one. Show affection truly, and do not remain one who clings to grief.

Context

"O reverend lady, fear not me on that account. Have confidence in me. Show your love. Do not be swayed by grief .

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā

FAQs

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

It illustrates how adharma can cloak itself in the language of reassurance and ‘truth’; dharma in the Ramayana requires that trust be earned through righteous conduct, not demanded through power.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa attempts to calm Sītā’s fear and grief, urging her to trust him and accept him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s discernment and fidelity are implied: she does not grant trust or affection where dharma has been violated.