Valmiki Ramayana 2.21.35: Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 21, Shloka 35
अयोध्याकाण्डे एकविंशः सर्गः
Lakṣmaṇa’s militant counsel and Rāma’s dharma-based persuasion of Kausalyā
नाहं धर्ममपूर्वं ते प्रतिकूलं प्रवर्तये।पूर्वैरयमभिप्रेतो गतो मार्गोऽनुगम्यते।।2.21.35।।
nāhaṃ dharmam apūrvaṃ te pratikūlaṃ pravartaye |
pūrvair ayam abhipreto gato mārgo ’nugamyate || 2.21.35 ||
Je ne te propose pas un nouveau 'dharma' qui irait à l'encontre des pratiques établies ; je suis le chemin même approuvé et parcouru par nos ancêtres.
I am not advancing anything new, contrary to the existing practice. I am only following the trodden path of our ancestors.
FAQs
Dharma is presented as a tested, inherited path (mārga) validated by the conduct of the righteous ancestors, rather than a novelty driven by emotion.
Rama argues that his decision is aligned with established royal-ethical norms, countering his mother’s grief-driven resistance.
Respect for maryādā (normative righteousness) and steadiness in principled conduct.
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