Shloka 6.23.5

निमित्तदर्शनम् (Portents Before the March to Laṅkā)

Devanagari script

मेघाःक्रव्यादसङ्काशाःपरुषाःपरुषस्वनाः ।क्रूराःक्रूरंप्रवर्षन्तिमिश्रंशोणितबिन्दुभिः ।।6.23.5।।

Transliteration

meghāḥ kravyādasaṅkāśāḥ paruṣāḥ paruṣasvanāḥ | krūrāḥ krūraṃ pravarṣanti miśraṃ śoṇitabindubhiḥ ||6.23.5||

Translation

Clouds, the color of raw flesh, roar with harsh and dreadful sounds, and pour down a terrifying rain mixed with drops like blood—an omen of impending ruin.

Context

"Clouds resembling raw flesh in colour, are making harsh frightening sounds, and rain mixed with drops of blood."

FAQs

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

Dharma is implied through contrast: when adharma dominates, nature itself appears disturbed; the verse teaches attentiveness to moral disorder and its consequences.

What is the narrative situation?

As the conflict nears its climax, terrifying portents appear in the sky—ominous clouds and blood-like rain—signaling catastrophe around Laṅkā and the battlefield.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vigilance and discernment: the righteous side must read signs soberly and remain steady rather than panic.