Shloka 5.25.17

सीताविलापः (Sita’s Lament amid Rākṣasī Threats)

Devanagari script

सर्वथा तेन हीनाया रामेण विदितात्मना।तीक्ष्णं विषमिवास्वाद्य दुर्लभं मम जीवितम्।।5.25.17।।

Transliteration

sā rākṣasī-madhyagatā sītā surasutopamā | na śarma lebhe duḥkhārtā rāvaṇena ca tarjitā || 5.25.4 ||

Translation

Sītā—like a daughter of the gods—caught amid the rākṣasīs, distressed and threatened by Rāvaṇa, found no peace of mind.

Context

'Separated from Rama endowed with self-knowledge, it is impossible for me to live like one who has drunk venom.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Rākṣasīs
• Rāvaṇa

FAQs

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

The verse highlights how adharma (threat and coercion) torments the innocent; dharma may be tested externally, yet the righteous person’s worth remains undiminished.

What is the narrative situation?

Sītā remains surrounded by rākṣasīs and under Rāvaṇa’s intimidation, unable to find solace.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Purity and dignity (surusutopamā) contrasted against the violence of intimidation.