Shloka 5.38.17

अभिज्ञानप्रदानम् — The Token of Recognition (Chūḍāmaṇi) and the Crow Episode Recalled

Devanagari script

उत्कर्षन्त्यां च रशनां क्रुद्धायां मयि पक्षिणि।स्रस्यमाने च वसने ततो दृष्टा त्वया ह्यहम्।।5.38.17।।

Transliteration

tato māṃsasamāyukto vāyasaḥ paryatuṇḍayat |

tamahaṃ loṣṭam udyamya vārayāmisma vāyasam || 5.38.15 ||

Translation

Then a crow, craving flesh, began to peck at me; and I, lifting a clod of earth, tried to drive that crow away.

Context

'My upper cloth was slipping. I was trying to pull up my waist string angrily when you saw me.

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• crow (vāyasa/kāka)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes self-protection and seeking rightful protection when harmed; Sītā first uses minimal force (a clod) to prevent injury.

What is the narrative situation?

Sītā begins recounting the crow episode—an intrusion and harm that becomes a test of protection and justice.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Sītā’s restraint and practical courage—she responds without cruelty, aiming to stop harm.