Shloka 5.50.8

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

Devanagari script

यदि तावत्त्वमिन्द्रेण प्रेषितो रावणालयम्।तत्त्वमाख्याहि मा भूत्ते भयं वानर मोक्ष्यसे।।।।

Transliteration

yadi tāvat tvam indreṇa preṣito rāvaṇālayam |

tattvam ākhyāhi mā bhūt te bhayaṃ vānara mokṣyase ||

Translation

“If indeed you have been sent by Indra to Rāvaṇa’s abode, then speak the truth. Do not fear, O vānara—you will be released.”

Context

"Have you came to the abode of Ravana sent by Indra? Speak the truth. Be not afraid.You will be released".

Characters & Entities

• Prahasta
• Hanumān
• Indra
• Rāvaṇa
• Laṅkā (implicitly)

FAQs

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

Satya (truthfulness) is explicitly demanded, and fearlessness is encouraged—truth is best elicited without coercion.

What is the narrative situation?

Prahasta proposes one possibility (Indra’s mission) and asks Hanumān to state the truth, promising release.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Commitment to truth in discourse, paired with assurance (abhaya) to the speaker.