Shloka 5.22.46

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

Devanagari script

स मैथिलीं धर्मपरामवस्थितां प्रपेपमानां परिभर्त्स्य रावणः।विहाय सीतां मदनेन मोहितः स्वमेव वेश्म प्रविवेश भास्वरम्।।।।

Transliteration

sa maithilīṃ dharmaparām avasthitāṃ prapepamānāṃ paribhartsya rāvaṇaḥ |

vihāya sītāṃ madanena mohitaḥ svam eva veśma praviveśa bhāsvaram ||

Translation

Rāvaṇa, having reviled Maithilī—trembling, yet steadfast in righteousness—left Sītā behind; deluded by passion, he entered his own radiant mansion.

Context

Having derided Mythili trembling in fear yet steadfast in treading the righteous path, Ravana, overpowered with passion left her and entered his glittering mansion.ityārṣē śrīmadrāmāyaṇē vālmīkīya ādikāvyē sundarakāṇḍē dvāviṅśassargaḥ.Thus ends twentysecond sarga of Sundarakanda of the holy Ramayana, the first epic composed by sage Valmiki.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Maithilī (Sītā)
• Madana (personified passion, implied)
• veśma (mansion)

FAQs

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

Dharma can remain steadfast even under fear: Sītā’s righteousness is unwavering despite threats, while Rāvaṇa’s passion-driven conduct shows how desire can eclipse moral judgment.

What is the narrative situation?

After insulting Sītā in Aśoka-vana, Rāvaṇa withdraws and returns to his palace, still overcome by lust.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s dharma-niṣṭhā (steadfast commitment to righteousness and truth) is emphasized—trembling outwardly yet firm inwardly.