Shloka 5.52.16

दूतधर्म-परामर्शः (Envoy-Immunity and Royal Counsel in Ravana’s Court)

Devanagari script

कथं च धर्मार्थविनीतबुद्धिः परावरप्रत्ययनिश्चितार्थः।भवद्विधः कोपवशे हि तिष्ठेत् कोपं नियच्छन्ति हि सत्त्ववन्तः।।।।

Transliteration

kathaṁ ca dharmārthavinītabuddhiḥ parāvarapratyayaniścitārthaḥ |

bhavadvidhaḥ kopavaśe hi tiṣṭhet kopaṁ niyacchanti hi sattvavantaḥ ||

Translation

How can one like you—trained in dharma and statecraft, and able to judge what is beneficial or harmful—stand ruled by anger? The strong-hearted indeed restrain their wrath.

Context

"You are well-versed in dharma and artha. Learned men first decide what is right or wrong (before imposing punishment). How are you swayed by unjust anger? Indeed courageous persons (like you) should control anger.

Characters & Entities

• Vibhīṣaṇa
• Rāvaṇa

FAQs

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

Self-mastery is central to dharma: righteous judgment requires controlling anger so decisions align with truth, justice, and long-term welfare.

What is the narrative situation?

Vibhīṣaṇa urges Rāvaṇa to abandon rage and decide punishment through dharma- and artha-informed discernment.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Kṣamā/dama (forbearance and restraint): the hallmark of true strength and sound kingship.