Shloka 5.24.23

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

Devanagari script

रावणं भज भर्तारं भर्तारं सर्वरक्षसाम्।।5.24.23।।

विक्रान्तं रूपवन्तं च सुरेशमिव वासवम्।

दक्षिणं त्यागशीलं च सर्वस्य प्रियदर्शनम्।।5.24.24।।

Transliteration

rāvaṇaṃ bhaja bhartāraṃ bhartāraṃ sarvarakṣasām || 5.24.23 ||

Translation

“Accept Rāvaṇa as your husband—Rāvaṇa, the lord of all the rākṣasas.”

Context

'Accept as your husband the demon king Ravana, courageous and handsome like Indra, king of the gods generous, sacrificing and pleasing.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sītā

FAQs

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

Dharma in the Ramayana upholds consent and fidelity; this verse illustrates adharma by urging Sītā to abandon her lawful husband and accept a relationship grounded in coercion.

What is the narrative situation?

The guards attempt to break Sītā’s resolve by presenting Rāvaṇa’s power and status as reasons to accept him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s virtue is tested: steadfastness (dṛḍhatā) in dharma against intimidation and temptation.