Shloka 20
मायामृगप्रकरणम्
The Illusory Deer Episode: Ravana and Maricha at Rama’s Hermitage
मनोहरं दर्शनीयं रूपं कृत्वा स राक्षसः।।3.42.20।।प्रलोभनार्थं वैदेह्या नानाधातुविचित्रितम्।विचरन्गच्छते तस्माच्छाद्वलानि समन्ततः।।3.42.21।।
manoharaṃ darśanīyaṃ rūpaṃ kṛtvā sa rākṣasaḥ || 3.42.20 ||
Rākṣasa itu, setelah mengambil rupa yang menawan dan indah dipandang,
Transfigured into a beautiful, magnificent form painted with the colours of different minerals in order to tempt Sita, Maricha roamed all around the grassland.
FAQs
The verse highlights how adharma often begins with deception—an attractive outer appearance masking harmful intent—warning that dharma requires discernment beyond mere appearance.
Mārīca begins the plan to lure Sītā and draw Rāma away by taking on a captivating form.
Discernment (viveka): the implied need to judge by truth and conduct rather than by alluring appearances.