Shloka 6.16.10

विभीषणोपदेशे रावणस्य परुषवाक्यम् (Ravana’s Harsh Reply to Vibhishana’s Counsel)

Devanagari script

ततोनेष्टमिदंसौम्ययदहंलोकसत्कृतः ।ऐश्वर्यमभिजातश्चज्ञातीनांमूर्ध्न्यवस्थितः ।।।।

Transliteration

tato neṣṭam idaṃ saumya yad ahaṃ loka-satkṛtaḥ | aiśvaryam abhijātaś ca jñātīnāṃ mūrdhny avasthitaḥ || 6.16.10 ||

Translation

Therefore, gentle one, you cannot bear this: that I am honored by the world, possess sovereignty, am of noble birth, and stand at the head of our kin.

Context

"Gentle (Vibheeshana) one! Since you belong to the same kinsfolk (as I) you do not like me, who is born of noble descent, attained the position of chief (of clan), is worshipped by the world, and attained sovereignty."

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• Vibhīṣaṇa

FAQs

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

The verse shows adharma’s psychology: pride interprets truthful criticism as jealousy. Dharma calls for self-examination rather than blaming the well-wisher.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāvaṇa accuses Vibhīṣaṇa of disliking him out of envy for his status and honor.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Negatively, Rāvaṇa’s insecurity and ego; positively (by implication), Vibhīṣaṇa’s loyalty to truth over courtly approval.