Shloka 5.50.19

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

Devanagari script

दूतोऽहमिति विज्ञेयो राघवस्यामितौजसः।श्रूयतां चापि वचनं मम पथ्यमिदं प्रभो।।।।

Transliteration

rājānaṃ draṣṭukāmena mayā astram anuvartitam |

vimukto hy aham astreṇa rākṣasais tv abhipīḍitaḥ |

kenacid rājakāryeṇa samprāpto ’smi tavāntikam ||

Translation

“Wishing to see the king, I submitted to that weapon’s power. Though harassed by the rākṣasas, I was released by the astra; and on some royal business I have come into your presence.”

Context

Know that I am a messenger of the highly powerful Rama. O lord! please listen to these beneficial words of mine meant for your welfare.ityārṣē śrīmadrāmāyaṇē vālmīkīya ādikāvyē sundarakāṇḍē pañcāśassargaḥ৷৷Thus ends the fiftieth sarga of Sundarakanda of the holy Ramayana, the first epic composed by sage Valmiki.

Characters & Entities

• Hanumān
• Rāvaṇa
• Rākṣasas
• Astra (weapon power)

FAQs

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

Purposeful restraint: Hanumān accepts temporary limitation (honouring the astra) to fulfill a higher duty—communication on behalf of his king.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanumān clarifies that his capture was voluntary to gain an audience with Rāvaṇa, because he carries a message tied to royal duty.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Strategic self-control—strength is disciplined in service of mission and truth.