Shloka 5.22.18

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

Devanagari script

इमे ते नयने क्रूरे विरूपे कृष्णपिङ्गले।क्षितौ न पतिते कस्मान्मामनार्य निरीक्षितः।।।।

Transliteration

ime te nayane krūre virūpe kṛṣṇapiṅgale |kṣitau na patite kasmān mām anārya nirīkṣitaḥ ||

Translation

O ignoble one—why do your cruel, misshapen, dark-brown eyes not fall to the ground when you gaze upon me so?

Context

"O ignoble wretch! I wonder why your dark brown, distorted eyes do not fall off (the socket) when you look at me (lustfully).

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rāvaṇa

FAQs

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

Dharma protects dignity and condemns predatory desire; Sītā treats lustful looking as a moral violation, not a trivial act.

What is the narrative situation?

In the confrontation, Sītā rebukes Rāvaṇa’s gaze and intent, expressing moral disgust and outrage.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Self-respect and purity (śīla): Sītā’s chastity is paired with uncompromising denunciation of harassment.