Shloka 6.79.31

मकराक्षवधः (The Slaying of Makarākṣa)

Devanagari script

तत्तिष्ठद्वसुधांरक्षश्शूलंजग्राहपाणिना ।त्रासनंसर्वभूतानांयुगान्ताग्निसमप्रभम् ।।।।

Transliteration

tat tiṣṭhad vasudhāṃ rakṣaḥ śūlaṃ jagrāha pāṇinā | trāsanaṃ sarvabhūtānāṃ yugāntāgnisamaprabham ||

Translation

Standing there upon the earth, the rākṣasa seized a pike in his hand—an object of terror to all beings—blazing like the fire at the world’s end.

Context

Standing on the ground that Rakshasa who created fear among all beings shone like fire at the time of dissolution of the universe, seized his pike in hand.

Characters & Entities

• Makarākṣa (implied by context)
• Śūla (pike)
• Yugānta-agni (fire at cosmic dissolution)

FAQs

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

The verse contrasts fear-driven power with righteous purpose. Dharma is not measured by how terrifying a weapon is, but by the justice of the cause and the restraint of the wielder.

What is the narrative situation?

After losing his chariot, the rākṣasa escalates by taking up a dreadful pike described with apocalyptic imagery.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

For the antagonist, it shows audacity and intimidation; by implication it sets the stage for Rāma’s steadiness against terror.