Shloka 5.22.14

रावणस्य तर्जनं सीताया धर्मोक्तिः (Ravana’s Threats and Sita’s Dharma-Centered Reply)

Devanagari script

मां हि धर्मात्मनः पत्नीं शचीमिव शचीपतेः।त्वदन्यस्त्रिषु लोकेषु प्रार्थयेन्मनसापि कः।।।।

Transliteration

māṃ hi dharmātmanaḥ patnīṃ śacīm iva śacīpateḥ |tvadanyaḥ triṣu lokeṣu prārthayen manasāpi kaḥ ||

Translation

For who, in the three worlds, other than you, would even in thought desire me—the wife of righteous Rāma—just as Śacī belongs only to her lord, Śacīpati (Indra)?

Context

"Who in all the three worlds other than you would, even in mind, seek this consort of the righteous self (Sri Rama) like Sachi to Indra? .

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rāma
• Śacī
• Indra (Śacīpati)
• Three worlds (trailokya)

FAQs

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

Dharma upholds marital exclusivity and respect for another’s spouse; desiring a faithful wife of a righteous man is condemned as adharma.

What is the narrative situation?

Sītā asserts her identity as Rāma’s wife and rebukes Rāvaṇa for entertaining even the thought of claiming her.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Unshakeable fidelity and self-definition through dharma—Sītā frames her honor as inseparable from Rāma and righteousness.