Shloka 5.52.6

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

Devanagari script

राजधर्मविरुद्धं च लोकवृत्तेश्च गर्हितम्।तव चासदृशं वीर कपेरस्य प्रमापणम्।।।।

Transliteration

gṛhyante yadi roṣeṇa tvādṛśo 'pi vicakṣaṇaḥ |

tataḥ śāstravipaścittvaṃ śrama eva hi kevalam ||

Translation

If even a discerning man like you is seized by anger, then learning and scriptural expertise become nothing but wasted effort.

Context

"Mighty king! killing this Hanuman is contrary to righteousness of kings. This is deplorable diplomacy and also unbecoming of you.

Characters & Entities

• Vibhīṣaṇa
• Rāvaṇa
• śāstra (scripture)

FAQs

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

True dharma requires mastery over anger; knowledge without self-control fails in the moment it is most needed.

What is the narrative situation?

Vibhīṣaṇa cautions Rāvaṇa that rage will nullify his discernment and lead to unlawful punishment of Hanumān.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

The virtue of kṣamā and dama (forbearance and restraint), presented as the practical proof of genuine wisdom.