Shloka 5.52.5

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

Devanagari script

क्षमस्व रोषं त्यज राक्षसेन्द्र प्रसीद मद्वाक्यमिदं शृणुष्व।वधं न कुर्वन्ति परावरज्ञा दूतस्य सन्तो वसुधाधिपेन्द्राः।।।।

Transliteration

dharmajñaś ca kṛtajñaś ca rājadharmaviśāradaḥ |

parāvarajño bhūtānāṃ tvam eva paramārthavit ||

Translation

You are a knower of dharma, grateful and discerning, skilled in the duties of kings; you understand what is higher and lower among beings—indeed, you know the highest truth.

Context

"O king of ogres! give up your wrath, forgive and calm down. Please listen to my appeal. You know the basic values of life. Virtuous rulers of the earth do not order killing of an envoy.

Characters & Entities

• Vibhīṣaṇa
• Rāvaṇa
• bhūta (beings)

FAQs

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

Ethical appeal: one should act in harmony with one’s own professed knowledge of dharma and truth, not contradict it through anger-driven actions.

What is the narrative situation?

Vibhīṣaṇa uses respectful praise to bring Rāvaṇa back to lawful conduct regarding the captured messenger.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vibhīṣaṇa’s persuasive integrity—he urges dharma by reminding the king of his higher capacities and responsibilities.