Shloka 5.24.25
सीताभर्त्सना — The Ogresses’ Threats to Sita and Her Vow of Fidelity
मानुषं कृपणं रामं त्यक्त्वा, रावणमाश्रय।दिव्याङ्गरागा वैदेहि दिव्याभरणभूषिता।।5.24.25।।अद्यप्रभृति सर्वेषां लोकानामीश्वरी भव।
mānuṣaṃ kṛpaṇaṃ rāmaṃ tyaktvā, rāvaṇam āśraya |
divyāṅgarāgā vaidehi divyābharaṇabhūṣitā || 5.24.25 ||
adyaprabhṛti sarveṣāṃ lokānām īśvarī bhava |
Abandon the pitiable human Rama and take refuge in Ravana. O Vaidehi, anointed with divine unguents and adorned with heavenly ornaments, from today become the sovereign lady of all these worlds.
'Leave the helpless human Rama and seek Ravana's refuge. O Vaidehi, using the heavenly unguents and adorned with imposing ornaments from now on, be the queen of all people.
It contrasts dharma with allure: abandoning one’s rightful commitment for wealth and status is presented as desirable, but the epic’s ethical stance treats such inducement—especially under captivity—as adharma.
Sītā is offered luxury and sovereignty as a bribe to accept Rāvaṇa and renounce Rāma.
Fidelity (pativratā-dharma) and integrity: Sītā’s refusal defines her commitment to truth and righteousness over comfort.