Valmiki Ramayana 1.1.3: Bala Kanda, Sarga 1, Shloka 3
श्रीमद्रामायणकथासङ्क्षेपः / The Ramayana in Synopsis
Narada’s Summary to Valmiki
चारित्रेण च को युक्तस्सर्वभूतेषु को हित: ।विद्वान्क: कस्समर्थश्च कश्चैकप्रियदर्शन: ।।।।
cāritreṇa ca ko yuktas sarvabhūteṣu ko hitaḥ |
vidvān kaḥ kas samarthaś ca kaś caika-priyadarśanaḥ ||
ऐसा कौन है जो अच्छा करता है और सबकी भलाई चाहता है? कौन है जो सच में समझदार है और काम कर सकता है? जिसे लोग देख के खुश हो जाते हैं, वो कौन है?
Who is that one gifted with good conduct, given to the wellbeing of all living creatures, learned in the lore (knowledge of all things that is known), capable of doing things which others can not do and singularly handsome?
FAQs
Dharma is defined through universal benevolence and integrity of character: the ideal person benefits all beings, unites learning with capability, and embodies goodness inwardly and outwardly.
At the very opening, Vālmīki asks Nārada to identify a single exemplary person who embodies the highest virtues—setting up Rāma as the answer.
A composite ideal: good conduct, compassion for all beings, wisdom, competence, and a pleasing, non-threatening presence.
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