Shloka 5.50.10

रावण-प्रहस्त-हनूमद्वार्ता (Ravana and Prahasta Question Hanuman)

Devanagari script

न हि ते वानरं तेजो रूपमात्रं तु वानरम्।।।।तत्त्वत: कथयस्वाद्य ततो वानर मोक्ष्यसे।

Transliteration

na hi te vānaraṃ tejo rūpa-mātraṃ tu vānaram || tattvataḥ kathaya sva adya tato vānara mokṣyase |

Translation

Your form is only that of a vanara, yet your splendour is not that of a vanara. Speak the truth today, exactly as it is—then, O vanara, you shall be released.

Context

"Your appearance is only of that of a vanara. But your glow is not of a vanara indeed. Tell the truth today. You will be set free.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Hanumān (addressed as vānara)

FAQs

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

Satya (truthful speech) is demanded explicitly. The verse frames truth as the proper foundation for resolution and justice—speech aligned with reality (tattvataḥ) is presented as the condition for freedom.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa interrogates Hanumān, recognizing that Hanumān’s inner power does not match his outward form, and offers release if Hanumān speaks the truth.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Truthfulness under threat: Hanumān is placed in a setting where satya must be maintained despite coercion, highlighting moral courage.