Shloka 5.24.35

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

Devanagari script

जानासि हि यथा भीरु स्त्रीणां यौवनमध्रुवम्।यावन्न ते व्यतिक्रामेत्तावत्सुखमवाप्नुहि।।5.24.35।।

Transliteration

jānāsi hi yathā bhīru strīṇāṃ yauvanam adhruvam |

yāvan na te vyatikrāmet tāvat sukham avāpnuhi ||5.24.35||

Translation

O timid one, you know how a woman’s youth is unstable and fleeting; before it passes you by, enjoy pleasure while it lasts.

Context

'O timid Sita! know that youth of women is fleeting and transient. Before it is over, enjoy all kinds of pleasures.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā

FAQs

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

Impermanence is manipulated to justify wrongdoing. Dharma in the Ramayana teaches that fleeting youth or opportunity cannot legitimize betrayal of truth, consent, or marital righteousness.

What is the narrative situation?

The captors attempt a pragmatic argument: since youth is short, Sītā should submit and seek pleasure rather than remain resolute.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s commitment to satya (truth) over expediency—she does not trade principles for temporary comfort.