Ramayana — Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 39, Shloka 12
एकोनचत्वारिंशः सर्गः
Dasaratha’s Lament, Sumantra’s Commission, and Sita’s Vow of Marital Dharma
राज्ञो वचनमाज्ञाय सुमन्त्रः शीघ्रविक्रमः।योजयित्वाऽययौ तत्र रथमश्वैरलङ्कृतम्।।2.39.12।।
rājño vacanam ājñāya sumantraḥ śīghravikramaḥ | yojayitvā yayau tatra ratham aśvair alaṅkṛtam || 2.39.12 ||
Comprenant l’ordre du roi, Sumantra, prompt à l’action, attela les chevaux et s’y rendit avec le char, magnifiquement équipé de ses coursiers.
In obedience to the words of the king, Sumantra promptly harnessed the horses to a well-decorated chariot and brought it there.
FAQs
Dharma as faithful service: an official acts promptly and competently once a lawful royal order is known.
Sumantra prepares and brings the chariot as ordered, enabling the next step in Rāma’s departure.
Sumantra’s efficiency, obedience, and readiness to serve despite the sorrowful purpose.