Shloka 6.16.23

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

Devanagari script

दीप्तपावकसङ्काशैश्शितैःकाञ्चनभूषणैः ।नत्वामिच्छाम्यहंद्रष्टुंरामेणनिहतंशरैः ।।।।

Transliteration

dīptapāvaka-saṅkāśaiḥ śitaiḥ kāñcana-bhūṣaṇaiḥ | na tvām icchāmy ahaṃ draṣṭuṃ rāmeṇa nihataṃ śaraiḥ ||

Translation

I do not wish to see you slain by Rāma’s sharp arrows—you who are adorned with gold and blaze like fire.

Context

"While the sharp golden arrows of Rama burning like fire strike you, I do not wish to see."

Characters & Entities

• Vibhīṣaṇa
• Rāvaṇa
• Rāma
• arrows (śara)

FAQs

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

Even when opposing adharma, dharma can retain compassion: Vibhīṣaṇa warns not out of hatred, but to prevent needless destruction.

What is the narrative situation?

Vibhīṣaṇa foresees Rāvaṇa’s death at Rāma’s hands and expresses a reluctant, sorrowful warning.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Benevolence—he remains a well-wisher despite rejection and insult.