Shloka 6.106.3

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

Devanagari script

हीनवीर्यमिवाशक्तंपौरुषेणविवर्जितम् ।भीरुंलघुमिवासत्त्वंविहीनमिवतेजसा ।।6.106.2।।विमुक्तमिवमायाभिरस्त्रैरिवबहिष्कृतम् ।मामवज्ञायदुर्बुद्धेस्वयाबुद्ध्याविचेष्टसे ।।6.106.3।।

Transliteration

vimuktam iva māyābhir astrair iva bahiṣkṛtam | mām avajñāya durbuddhe svayā buddhyā viceṣṭase ||

Translation

As though bereft of stratagems, as though cast off from weapons, you act; disregarding me, O misguided one, you follow only your own perverse judgment.

Context

"You dullard! Disdaining me as not capable, lacking manliness, powerless, deficient in valour, timid, incapable, petty, devoid of energy, not knowing conjuring tricks, abandoned weapons, driven out, you act not knowing me in your own way foolishly using your discretion."

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Sārathi (charioteer)
• māyā (stratagem/illusion)
• astra (weapons)

FAQs

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

The verse warns against acting from self-will while disregarding rightful authority and context; dharma in service requires alignment with legitimate command and sound counsel rather than ego-driven impulse.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa, angered that his chariot was drawn away from the fight, accuses the charioteer of acting foolishly and disrespectfully.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Discernment (buddhi) and loyal counsel: an attendant’s intelligence should support the leader’s purpose, not undermine it through rash independence.