Shloka 5.46.14

षट्चत्वारिंशः सर्गः — Ravana Deploys Five Generals; Hanuman Destroys the Commanders and the Remaining Host

Devanagari script

तथापि तु नयज्ञेन जयमाकाङ्क्षता रणे।।।।आत्मा रक्ष्यः प्रयत्नेन युद्धसिद्धिर्हि चञ्चला।

Transliteration

tathāpi tu nayajñena jayam ākāṅkṣatā raṇe |

ātmā rakṣyaḥ prayatnena yuddhasiddhir hi cañcalā ||

Translation

Even so, one who seeks victory in war through intelligent strategy must guard himself with effort—for success in battle is indeed uncertain and fickle.

Context

"Even then, you should safeguard yourself with great effort adopting war-strategies in an intelligent manner to be victorious, for success in war is uncertain.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa

FAQs

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

Prudence and self-protection: dharma values measured action and awareness that outcomes are uncertain; strategy must be joined with caution.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa, after praising his forces, counsels them to act strategically and safeguard themselves because war results are unstable.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Nīti (practical wisdom): disciplined strategy and risk-awareness rather than reckless confidence.