Shloka 6.58.2

प्रहस्तवधः (The Slaying of Prahasta)

Devanagari script

कएषस्सुमहाकायोबलेनमहतावृतः ।आचक्ष्वमेमहाबाहो वीर्यवन्तंनिशाचरम् ।।।।

Transliteration

ka eṣaḥ sumahākāyo balena mahatāvṛtaḥ | ācakṣva me mahābāho vīryavantaṃ niśācaram ||

Translation

Who is this mighty giant, encompassed by a great host? Tell me, O strong-armed one, of that valiant night-roaming Rākṣasa.

Context

"Oh, Broad shouldered Vibheeshana! Who is this Rakshasa of gigantic form coming surrounded by a great army He seems to be a valiant one. Tell me."

Characters & Entities

• Rāma
• Vibhīṣaṇa
• Rākṣasa (unnamed here)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes prudent discernment: a righteous leader seeks truthful information before acting, rather than being driven by impulse.

What is the narrative situation?

On the battlefield, Rāma notices a formidable Rākṣasa commander approaching with a large force and asks Vibhīṣaṇa to identify him.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Rāma’s composed leadership—clarity, caution, and respect for reliable counsel (Vibhīṣaṇa).