Shloka 6.18.27

शरणागति-धर्मनिर्णयः (Decision on Refuge and Dharma) / Rama’s Vow of Protection and the Acceptance of Vibhishana

Devanagari script

आर्तोवायदिवादृप्तःपरेषांशरणांगतः ।अरिःप्राणान्परित्यज्यरक्षितव्यःकृतात्मना ।।।।

Transliteration

ārto vā yadi vā dṛptaḥ pareṣāṃ śaraṇaṃ gataḥ | ariḥ prāṇān parityajya rakṣitavyaḥ kṛtātmanā || 6.18.27 ||

Translation

Even if he is distressed—or even arrogant—an enemy who has come seeking refuge (from others) must be protected by a self-controlled person, even at the cost of one’s own life.

Context

An enemy who comes for protection against another enemy should be protected, even giving up one's own life whoever he may be, even if he is afflicted or arrogant.

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Sugrīva
• ari (enemy)
• śaraṇa (refuge)

FAQs

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

Protection of the surrendered is unconditional with respect to their temperament; dharma demands safeguarding the refuge-seeker even at personal cost.

What is the narrative situation?

Rāma lays down a stringent rule of conduct for dealing with an enemy who seeks asylum.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Integrity and self-mastery—upholding dharma despite provocation, pride, or fear.