Ramayana — Yuddha Kanda, Sarga 64, Shloka 4
महोदर-वाक्यं कुम्भकर्ण-प्रतिषेधः
Mahodara’s Counsel and the Critique of Kumbhakarna’s Solo Assault
स्थानंवृद्धिं च हानि च देशकालविभागवित् ।आत्मनश्चपरेषां च बुध्यतेराक्षसर्षभः ।।।।
sthānaṃ vṛddhiṃ ca hāniṃ ca deśakālavibhāgavit |
ātmanaśca pareṣāṃ ca budhyate rākṣasarṣabhaḥ ||
That bull among the rākṣasas, Rāvaṇa, versed in the distinctions of time and place, understands the stability, growth, and decline of both himself and his enemies.
"Ravana, a bull among Rakshasas is conversant with rules of time and place and knows his own enemies, his progress and decline also."
FAQs
The verse mentions 'Sthana' (Stability or Stagnation), 'Vriddhi' (Growth or Prosperity), and 'Hani' (Decline or Loss). A wise king must monitor these states constantly.
It highlights that righteousness and political success depend on context. Understanding 'Desha' (Place) and 'Kala' (Time) is essential for applying Dharma correctly in statecraft.