Shloka 6.106.21

रावण-सारथि-संवादः (Ravana and the Charioteer: Counsel, Omens, and Battlefield Conduct)

Devanagari script

तवविश्रामहेतोस्तुतथैषांरथवाजिनाम् ।रौद्रंवर्जयताखेदंक्षमंकृतमिदंमया ।।।।

Transliteration

tava viśrāma-hetos tu tathaiṣāṃ ratha-vājinām |

raudraṃ varjayatā khedaṃ kṣamaṃ kṛtam idaṃ mayā ||

Translation

This was done by me to give you rest, and likewise to spare these chariot-horses from fierce strain and exhaustion; for this act, I ask to be forgiven.

Context

"The reason for retreating in this way is to give you rest and relieve the horses from the terrible feat and fatigue. I deserve to be excused for this action."

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• charioteer (sārathi/sūta)
• chariot-horses (ratha-vājinaḥ)

FAQs

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

Care for dependents and instruments of action (horses, warrior) is part of dharma; compassion and sustainability temper heroic aggression.

What is the narrative situation?

The charioteer defends a retreat/withdrawal as a practical measure to rest Rāvaṇa and the horses, requesting pardon.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Loyal service with empathy—protecting the master’s capacity and the animals’ welfare.