Shloka 6.18.10
शरणागति-धर्मनिर्णयः (Decision on Refuge and Dharma) / Rama’s Vow of Protection and the Acceptance of Vibhishana
अमित्रास्तत्कुलीनाश्चप्रातिदेश्याश्चकीर्तिताः ।व्यसनेषुप्रहर्तारस्तस्मादयमिहागतः ।।।।
amitrās tatkulīnāś ca prātidēśyāś ca kīrtitāḥ | vyasaneṣu prahartāras tasmād ayam ihāgataḥ ||
Even those of the same lineage, and the kings of neighboring lands, are spoken of as enemies, for in times of distress they strike. Therefore, for this reason, he has come here.
"When in difficulty kings of the same clan of adjoining countries keep attacking the renowned and so they are declared as enemies. It is on account of this cause he (Vibheeshana) has come here."
Rāja-dharma requires vigilance: even close relations and neighbors may become hostile in crisis; ethical governance weighs intentions, incentives, and timing while still remaining anchored in righteousness.
A strategic-ethical assessment is being voiced about why a person (contextually, Vibhīṣaṇa) has come—suggesting motives can be shaped by political pressure and danger.
Prudence and discernment (viveka) in counsel—balancing compassion with security and truth-testing.