Shloka 6.87.18

न्यग्रोध-प्रवेश-निवारणम् (Preventing Indrajit’s Banyan-Tree Rite) / Indrajit Confronts Vibhishana

Devanagari script

इत्युक्तोभ्रातृपुत्रेणप्रत्युवाचविभीषणः ।अजानन्निवमछचीलंकिंराक्षसविकत्थसे ।।6.87.18।।

Transliteration

ity ukto bhrātṛputreṇa pratyuvāca vibhīṣaṇaḥ | ajānann iva macchīlaṃ kiṃ rākṣasa vikatthase || 6.87.18 ||

Translation

Thus addressed by his brother’s son, Vibhīṣaṇa replied: “O Rākṣasa, why do you boast as though you did not know my true nature?”

Context

Indrajith having spoken like that, Vibheeshana replied," why do you speak like that as though you do not know my disposition?"

Characters & Entities

• Vibhīṣaṇa
• Indrajit (Meghanāda)

FAQs

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

Dharma includes steadfastness to one’s known moral nature; Vibhīṣaṇa asserts that his conduct is consistent and not driven by boastful violence.

What is the narrative situation?

After Indrajit’s taunt, Vibhīṣaṇa responds directly, challenging the accusation by appealing to his established character.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Satya (truthfulness) and integrity—Vibhīṣaṇa insists his ‘śīla’ is already known and consistent with righteousness.