Shloka 5.24.2
सीताभर्त्सना — The Ogresses’ Threats to Sita and Her Vow of Fidelity
किं त्वमन्तःपुरे सीते सर्वभूतमनोहरे।महार्हशयनोपेते न वासमनुमन्यसे।।5.24.2।।
kiṃ tvam antaḥpure sīte sarvabhūta-manohare |
mahārha-śayanopete na vāsam anumanyase ॥5.24.2॥
“Sītā, why do you not consent to dwell in the inner palace—delightful to all beings, furnished with most precious beds?”
'O Sita! why don't you agree to dwell in Ravana's inner apartment furnished with fine bedsteads, and which is delightful?
It frames the ethical test: comfort offered through unrighteous circumstances is not a dharmic choice; truth and fidelity outweigh luxury.
The rākṣasīs attempt persuasion—offering palace comfort—to induce Sītā to accept life under Rāvaṇa’s control.
Sītā’s incorruptibility—refusing to trade dharma for pleasure or safety.