Shloka 6.2.13

युद्धकाण्डे द्वितीयः सर्गः — Sugriva’s Counsel: From Grief to Strategy (Bridge to Lanka)

Devanagari script

सेतुर्बद्धस्समुद्रेचयावल्लङ्कास्समीपतः ।।6.2.12।।सर्वंतीर्णंचमेसैन्यंजितमित्युपधारय ।इमेहिसमरेवीराहरयःकामरूपिण ।।6.2.13।।

Transliteration

setur baddhas samudre ca yāval laṅkās samīpataḥ ||6.2.12||

sarvaṃ tīrṇaṃ ca me sainyaṃ jitam ity upadhāraya |

ime hi samare vīrā harayaḥ kāmarūpiṇa ||6.2.13||

Translation

With the bridge built across the sea up to Laṅkā’s approach, and with my whole force crossed, regard the victory as secured—these Vānara heroes in battle can take whatever form they wish.

Context

"On building a bridge over the large ocean up to Lanka, when all my army of vanaras can cross over, you may consider that you have won. These vanaras are heroic in war and can assume any form at will."

Characters & Entities

• Laṅkā
• Ocean (Samudra)
• Bridge (Setu)
• Vānaras (Harayaḥ)

FAQs

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

Dharma is steadfast execution: when the righteous plan is implemented (bridge built, forces crossed), confidence becomes ethically grounded—rooted in duty and preparedness.

What is the narrative situation?

This verse repeats/echoes the prior instruction (a Southern Recension feature), reinforcing the decisive importance of the bridge for reaching Laṅkā.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Resolve reinforced by repetition—teaching that crucial dharmic strategy may be restated to steady the leader’s mind.