Shloka 6.53.21

युद्धकाण्डे त्रिपञ्चाशः सर्गः — धूम्राक्षवधश्रवणं, वज्रदंष्ट्रप्रेषणं, अङ्गद-राक्षसयुद्धम् (Ravana Dispatches Vajradamshtra; Portents and Angada’s Assault)

Devanagari script

द्रुमाणांचशिलानांचशस्त्राणांचापिनिस्स्वनः ।।।।श्रूयतेसुमहांस्तत्रघोरोहृदयभेदसः ।

Transliteration

drumāṇāṃ ca śilānāṃ ca śastrāṇāṃ cāpi niḥsvanaḥ |

śrūyate sumahāṃs tatra ghoro hṛdayabhedasaḥ ||

Translation

There was heard a tremendous and terrifying din that seemed to split the heart—the clashing of trees, rocks, and weapons.

Context

There, a very loud fearful noise was heard which pierced the hearts in the battlefield, that was produced by the striking of weapons with trees and rocks.

FAQs

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

The verse functions as a moral reminder of war’s terror: dharma seeks order and protection of beings, while uncontrolled conflict generates fear and suffering that 'pierces the heart.'

What is the narrative situation?

A vivid sensory depiction of the battlefield, emphasizing the overwhelming noise from impacts of natural and martial implements.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Not a single virtue, but the verse stresses the seriousness of righteous decision-making before war, given its dreadful consequences.