Ramayana — Yuddha Kanda, Sarga 16, Shloka 6
विभीषणोपदेशे रावणस्य परुषवाक्यम्
Ravana’s Harsh Reply to Vibhishana’s Counsel
श्रूयन्तेहस्तिभिर्गीताश्श्लोकाःपद्मवनेक्वचित् ।पाशहस्तान्नरान्द्रुष्टवाशृणुतान्गदतोमम ।।।।
śrūyante hastibhir gītāḥ ślokāḥ padmavane kvacit |
pāśa-hastān narān dṛṣṭvā śṛṇutān gadato mama ||
On raconte qu’un jour, dans un bosquet de lotus, des éléphants chantèrent des ślokas en voyant des hommes tenant des lacets. Écoutez tandis que je vous les rapporte.
"The behaviour of close relatives in all worlds is known to me. They are happy at the difficulties of relatives."
FAQs
Dharma-based teaching often uses illustrative stories; wisdom is conveyed through parable to awaken discernment and right action.
Vibhīṣaṇa introduces a proverbial teaching (attributed to elephants) to underscore the dangers surrounding a ruler—especially hidden threats.
Pedagogical wisdom: using memorable examples to communicate truth effectively.