Shloka 6.83.33

त्र्यशीतितमः सर्गः (Sarga 83) — Hanumān Reports Sītā’s ‘Slaying’; Rāma Collapses; Lakṣmaṇa’s Counter-Discourse on Dharma and Artha

Devanagari script

अर्थेनहिविमुक्तस्यपुरुषस्याल्पचेतसः ।विच्छिद्यन्तेक्रियास्सर्वाग्रीष्मेकुसरितोयथा ।।6.83.33।।

Transliteration

arthena hi vimuktasya puruṣasyālpacetasaḥ |

vicchidyante kriyāḥ sarvā grīṣme kusarito yathā ||6.83.33||

Translation

For a man of scant understanding who abandons wealth, all his undertakings are cut off, just as small streams dry up in summer.

Context

"Just like streams dry up in summer, if one who is of meagre intelligence and forsakes wealth, all his actions will be interrupted."

Characters & Entities

• Rāma

FAQs

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

It frames a cautionary lesson: without resources (artha), even intended duties and projects may fail. Ethically, it warns that dharmic aims require practical support and foresight.

What is the narrative situation?

In the lead-up to conflict, Rāvaṇa addresses Rāma and argues that renouncing wealth/power undermines effective action.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Practical prudence (nīti): the ability to sustain action through adequate means.