Shloka 5.40.1

अभिज्ञानदानम् / The Gift of Recognition (Sita’s Token and Resolve)

Devanagari script

श्रुत्वा तु वचनं तस्य वायुसूनोर्महात्मनः।उवाचात्महितं वाक्यं सीता सुरसुतोपमा।।5.40.1।।

Transliteration

śrutvā tu vacanaṃ tasya vāyusūnor mahātmanaḥ | uvāca ātmahitaṃ vākyaṃ sītā surasutopamā ||

Translation

Having heard the words of that great-souled son of Vāyu, Sītā—like a daughter of the gods—spoke words intended for her own true welfare.

Context

Sita who was like the daughter of the gods heard the son of the Wind-god for her benefit and replied:

Characters & Entities

• Sītā
• Hanumān

FAQs

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

Dharma is practical discernment under crisis: Sītā responds with words aimed at true welfare (ātmahita), not merely emotion—showing steadiness and moral clarity.

What is the narrative situation?

In the Aśoka grove meeting, Sītā has heard Hanumān’s message and begins her reply.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Prudence and self-possession: Sītā speaks thoughtfully for the right end, even while distressed.