Shloka 5.24.17

सीताभर्त्सना — The Ogresses’ Threats to Sita and Her Vow of Fidelity

Devanagari script

सा भर्त्स्यमाना भीमाभी राक्षसीभिर्वरानना।।5.24.17।।सबाष्पमप सर्पन्ती शिंशुपां तामुपागमत्।

Transliteration

sā bhartsyamānā bhīmābhī rākṣasībhir varānanā ॥5.24.17॥

sabāṣpam apasarpantī śiṃśupāṃ tām upāgamat ।

Translation

Threatened by the terrifying rākṣasīs, the lovely-faced Sītā, tears welling up, drew back and moved toward that śiṃśupā tree.

Context

As the charming Sita was threatened by the fierce ogresses, she moved towards the simsupa tree with eyes full of tears.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• rākṣasī (ogresses)
• Śiṃśupā tree

FAQs

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

Dharma includes preserving one’s integrity under duress; Sītā’s tears show human pain without surrendering truth.

What is the narrative situation?

Under threats, Sītā retreats and goes toward the śiṃśupā tree, seeking a small refuge within captivity.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Perseverance (dhairya) and fidelity despite intimidation.