Shloka 5.23.1

राक्षसी-भर्त्सना (The Demonesses’ Coercive Counsel to Sītā)

Devanagari script

इत्युक्त्वा मैथिलीं राजा रावणः शत्रुरावणः।सन्दिश्य च ततः सर्वा राक्षसीर्निर्जगाम ह।।।।

Transliteration

ity uktvā maithilīṃ rājā rāvaṇaḥ śatrurāvaṇaḥ | sandiśya ca tataḥ sarvā rākṣasīr nirjagāma ha ||

Translation

Having spoken thus to Maithilī, King Rāvaṇa, the subduer of foes, then issued orders to all the rākṣasī women and departed.

Context

King Ravana, tormentor of enemies, having thus spoken to Mythili commanded the demonesses and departed.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā (Maithilī)
• Rākṣasīs

FAQs

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

It shows how adharma becomes systemic: a ruler’s unrighteous intent is enforced through subordinates. Dharma in governance requires protection and justice, not delegated cruelty.

What is the narrative situation?

After threatening Sītā, Rāvaṇa leaves her under the watch and pressure of rākṣasī attendants.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s endurance (titikṣā) is emphasized, as her trial continues even after Rāvaṇa’s departure.