Shloka 5.23.12

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

Devanagari script

वीर्योत्सिक्तस्य शूरस्य सङ्ग्रामेषु निवर्तिनः।।।।बलिनो वीर्ययुक्तस्य भार्यात्वं किं न लप्स्यसे।

Transliteration

vīryotsiktasya śūrasya saṅgrāmeṣu nivartinaḥ | balino vīryayuktasya bhāryātvaṃ kiṃ na lapsyase ||

Translation

Why will you not accept the station of wife to a mighty hero, swollen with valor—one who never turns back in battle, endowed with strength and prowess?

Context

'Why don't you wish to be the wife of such a mighty and powerful king, a valiant hero who has never beaten a retreat in war?

Characters & Entities

• Praghasā
• Sītā
• Rāvaṇa (implied as the praised hero)

FAQs

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

The verse illustrates a dharmic critique of confusing martial prowess with moral right. In the Ramayana, dharma is grounded in rightful relationships and truth, not in intimidation or battlefield reputation.

What is the narrative situation?

Praghasā pressures Sītā to yield by praising Rāvaṇa’s strength and fearlessness in war.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s integrity—refusing to redefine dharma based on power—remains central, even when faced with persuasive threats.