Shloka 5.49.14

रावणदर्शनम् — Hanuman Beholds Ravana in Court

Devanagari script

अपश्यद्राक्षसपतिं हनुमानतितेजसम्।विष्ठितं मेरुशिखरे सतोयमिव तोयदम्।।5.49.14।।

Transliteration

apaśyad rākṣasapatiṃ hanumān atitejasam | viṣṭhitaṃ meruśikhare satoyam iva toyadam ||5.49.14||

Translation

Hanuman beheld the exceedingly radiant lord of the Rakṣasas, seated as though upon Meru’s summit—like a rain-cloud heavy with water.

Context

Hanuman saw the highly resplendent giant king (seated on the throne) who appeared like a cloud laden with water appearing on the peak of mount Meru.

Characters & Entities

• Hanumān
• Rāvaṇa (Rākṣasapati)
• Meru
• Toyada (cloud)

FAQs

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

The verse sets up the moral tension between tejas (majestic power) and dharma (righteousness): brilliance alone is not moral legitimacy.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanuman finally beholds Ravana directly on the throne, described with elevated cosmic imagery.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Hanuman’s focused observation and courage—he can look upon overwhelming splendor without wavering in purpose.