Shloka 5.32.12

Sundarakāṇḍa Sarga 32 — Sītā’s Perplexity and Recognition of Hanumān

Devanagari script

अहं हि तस्याद्य मनोभवेन सम्पीडिता तद्गतसर्वभावा।विचिन्तयन्ती सततं तमेव तथैव पश्यामि तथा शृणोमि।।।।

Transliteration

sā dadarśa kapiṁ tatra praśritaṁ priyavādinam |

phullāśokotkarābhāsaṁ taptacāmīkarekṣaṇam ||

Translation

There she saw a monkey who approached with humility and spoke in pleasing words—radiant like a cluster of fully blossomed aśoka flowers, his eyes gleaming like molten gold.

Context

"I am tormented by intense love for Rama, with all my thoughts immersed in him. Since I am constantly thinking of him I see him and hear words about him. (She thinks it is all hallucination.)

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Kapi (Hanumān)
• Aśoka (tree/flowers)

FAQs

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

Dharma is suggested through vinaya (humility) and priyavacana (gentle speech): righteous intent is expressed through respectful conduct, especially when approaching someone in distress.

What is the narrative situation?

In Laṅkā’s aśoka grove, Sītā first notices Hanumān approaching and speaking softly, but she is still uncertain and fearful.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Hanumān’s humility and courteous speech—qualities that support trust and truthful communication.