Shloka 6.16.18

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

Devanagari script

अब्रवीच्चतदावाक्यंजातक्रोधोविभीषणः ।अन्तरिक्षगत्शीमान्भ्रातरंराक्षसाधिपम् ।।।।

Transliteration

ity uktaḥ paruṣaṃ vākyaṃ nyāyavādī vibhīṣaṇaḥ | utpapāta gadāpāṇiś caturbhiḥ saha rākṣasaiḥ ||

Translation

Thus addressed with harsh words, Vibhīṣaṇa—steadfast in justice—sprang up, mace in hand, accompanied by four rākṣasas.

Context

Great Vibheeshana was enraged. Then going up into the sky spoke these words to his brother, the Lord of Rakshasas.

Characters & Entities

• Vibhīṣaṇa
• Rāvaṇa
• four rākṣasas (attendants)

FAQs

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

Standing by justice may require decisive action when truthful counsel is met with abuse; dharma can demand separation from adharma.

What is the narrative situation?

After being insulted by Rāvaṇa, Vibhīṣaṇa prepares to depart, taking up his mace and gathering his supporters.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Moral courage and steadfastness in nyāya (just reasoning), even under intimidation.