Shloka 6.55.22

अकम्पन-प्रेषणम् तथा कपि-राक्षस-रणवर्णनम् (Akampana Dispatched; The Vanara–Rakshasa Battle and Omens)

Devanagari script

हरीनेवसुसंरुष्टाहरयोजघ्नुराहवे ।।।।राक्षसाराक्षसांश्चापिनिजघ्नुस्तिमिरेतदा ।

Transliteration

harīn eva susaṃruṣṭā harayo jaghnur āhave | rākṣasā rākṣasāṃś cāpi nijaghnus timire tadā ||

Translation

Then, in that darkness, the Vānaras—enraged—struck even Vānaras in the fray; and the Rākṣasas likewise struck even their fellow Rākṣasas.

Context

Then in that darkness and in anger Vanaras went attacking Vanaras and Rakshasas also attacked Rakshasas (not knowing).

Characters & Entities

• Vānara
• Rākṣasa
• darkness (timira)

FAQs

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

Dharma warns against acting from blind anger; when rage overrides recognition, one harms even one’s own side—an image of adharma born from delusion (moha).

What is the narrative situation?

Because of darkness and dust, combatants cannot identify allies and enemies, leading to accidental attacks within each army.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Discernment and composure are emphasized by contrast: their absence leads to tragic friendly-fire.