Ramayana — Ayodhya Kanda, Sarga 99, Shloka 34
चित्रकूटप्राप्तिः
Bharata Reaches Chitrakuta and Beholds Rama
यस्य यज्ञैर्यथादिष्टैर्युक्तो धर्मस्य सञ्चयः।शरीरक्लेशसम्भूतं स धर्मं परिमार्गते।।2.99.34।।
yasya yajñair yathādiṣṭair yukto dharmasya sañcayaḥ | śarīra-kleśa-sambhūtaṃ sa dharmaṃ parimārgate ||2.99.34||
ज्याच्यासाठी यथाविधि सांगितलेल्या यज्ञांनी धर्मसंचय सहज होता, तोच आता शरीरक्लेशातून उत्पन्न होणारा धर्म शोधीत आहे.
That Rama, who in accordance with tradition deserves accredition of religious merit through sacrifices now seeks it through mortification of body.
FAQs
Dharma is not merely ritual prosperity; it also includes tapas-like endurance when circumstances demand. Rāma’s righteousness adapts in form but remains constant in intent.
Bharata marvels that Rāma—who could have gained merit through royal sacrifices—now pursues merit through bodily austerity in exile.
Rāma’s unwavering commitment to righteousness regardless of means or setting.