Shloka 6.23.2

निमित्तदर्शनम् (Portents Before the March to Laṅkā)

Devanagari script

निमित्तानिपरिगृह्योदकंशीतंवनानिफलवन्तिच ।बलौघंसंविभज्येमंव्यूह्यतिष्ठेमलक्ष्मण ।।6.23.2।।

Transliteration

ity evam uktvā dharmātmā dhanvī saṅgrāmaharṣaṇaḥ | pratasthē purato rāmo laṅkām abhimukho vibhuḥ ||

Translation

Having spoken thus, righteous-souled Rāma—bow in hand, a source of dread in battle—set out at the front, turning his face toward Laṅkā, the mighty one leading the way.

Context

"Lakshmana! Arrange a place in this forest where there is cool water and fruits for the battalions of the army, we shall remain (alert)."

Characters & Entities

• Rama
• Lanka

FAQs

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

Dharma is leadership by example: Rama, described as dharmātmā, goes first, embodying courage and responsibility rather than pushing others ahead.

What is the narrative situation?

Rama concludes his instructions and personally leads the march toward Laṅkā, bow ready, at the head of the host.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Courage and moral authority—Rama’s righteous character legitimizes his martial action.