Kishkinda Kand
[Excerpt from the end of the previous chapter]
Then the king of bears said, “Hanuman, why are you keeping silent? O Mighty One, Son of the Wind, whose strength is equal to the Wind. A storehouse of intelligence, discernment, and wisdom. What task in this world, however difficult, cannot be done by you dear child? You were born for the sake of Rama's work.”
Hearing this, Hanuman grew to the size of a mountain. His body turned golden and radiant, as if he were the king of all great mountains.
Roaring again and again like a lion, Hanuman declared, “I can easily cross this ocean. I could kill Ravana and his army, uproot Mount Trikuta and bring them all here upon it.”
“Jambavan, I ask you. Give me proper counsel.”
Jambavan replied, “Do only this much, dear child. Go, and having seen Sita, report back to us. Then, by his own strength, the lotus-eyed one, Rama, will take along the monkey army for sport and…”
Together with the monkey army, Rama will destroy the demons and bring back Sita. The gods and sages, first among them Narada, will recount at length His glory, which purifies the three worlds. A man who hears, sings, speaks, or understands it will attain the supreme state and Tulsidas, his servant, a bee at the lotus feet of the Raghu hero, forever sings it.
The glory of the Lord of Raghus is the remedy to samsara. For whoever hears it, the Slayer of Trishira will fulfill all their desires. Body dark as a blue lotus, beauty greater than a million Kamas, let one hear of the multitude of his virtues. He whose very name is the hunter of the bird of sin.
Sundarkand
[Opening prayer to Rama]
Peaceful, eternal, immeasurable, without fault, bestowing peace and liberation. Worshipped by Brahma, Shiva, and Shesha. Supreme, knowable through Vedanta, all-pervading. Called Rama, the Lord of the Universe, the Guru of the Gods, the Supreme Being assuming human form through His Maya. I bow to the source of compassion, the best of Raghus, the crown jewel among kings.
I have no other longing in my heart. I speak the truth, for You are the inner Self within all. O foremost of Raghus, grant me wholehearted devotion! Free my mind of desire and its impurities!
The source of incomparable strength, whose body shines like a golden mountain, who is fire to the forest of demons, foremost among the wise, the treasure house of all virtues, Lord of the monkeys, the beloved devotee of the Lord of Raghus, born of the Wind, I bow to You.
[The story now resumes.]
On hearing Jambavan’s beautiful words, Hanuman was greatly pleased at heart.
Said Hanuman, “Wait for me until then, brothers, enduring hardship and eating tubers, roots, and fruits until I return. Having seen Sita, I will come back filled with joy on accomplishing my task.”
On saying this, he bowed his head to all and set off with delight, keeping Ram in his heart.
On the shore of the ocean stood a beautiful mountain, Hanuman easily leapt up atop it. Again and again remembering Ram, he took off with immense strength. The next mountain upon which he landed was instantly driven down into the underworld. Like the infallible arrows shot by Ram, Hanuman went forth. The ocean, recognizing him as Rama's messenger, summoned Mainaka, the golden mountain, to relieve him of his fatigue.
Hanuman, touching the mountain, offered his respects. “There can be no rest for me while Ram’s work is left undone.” Then he continued forward.
When the gods saw the Son of the Wind God, knowing of his extraordinary strength and intelligence, they sent the mother of serpents, Surasa. Approaching him, she said, “Today, the gods have given me food.” Hearing these words, the Son of the Wind replied, “Allow me to complete Ram’s work and report the whereabouts of Sita to the Lord. After doing so, I will come back and enter your mouth. I speak the truth Mother, please let me go.”
When he understood that she would not relent, Hanuman declared, “You will not swallow me.”
Surasa then opened her mouth to the length of a full yojana. Hanuman expanded his body to twice that size. She opened to 16 yojanas wide, and immediately the Son of the Wind grew to 32 yojanas.
Each time Surasa enlarged her mouth, Hanuman displayed a form twice her size. She stretched her mouth to the length of 100 yojanas. Then the Son of the Wind shrank to an extremely tiny form and entered her mouth himself. He then came back out and bowed his head to her, intending to take his leave. Surasa said, “The gods have sent me for this purpose. I now understand the true nature of your wisdom and strength. You will accomplish all of Rama’s work. You are a repository of strength and intelligence.” She gave this blessing then departed. Hanuman, filled with joy, continued onward.
There lived a female demon in the ocean who, using her maya, would catch birds out of the sky. When she caught its shadow, it could no longer fly. In this way, she never failed to eat creatures who flew through the sky. This same trick was used on Hanuman, but the monkey saw through it immediately. Easily dispatching of her, the heroic Son of the Wind, steadfast in mind, then crossed to the other side of the ocean.
Upon arriving, he noticed the beauty of the forest, filled with buzzing bees, all greedy for honey. The many kinds of trees, beautiful fruits and flowers, as well as flocks of birds and animals delighted him. Seeing a vast mountain ahead, he rushed there and climbed it without fear.
O Uma, this was not at all from the power of the monkey himself. It was the Lord’s power, which devours even Death.
Climbing atop the mountain, Hanuman saw Lanka. Towering over the ocean, which surrounded the golden fortress on all sides, it shone brilliantly. Its gold walls were adorned with a variety of extraordinary jewels. It was filled with countless beautiful dwellings. Crossroads, bazaars, and well-laid streets in the city were decorated in many different styles. There were multitudes of elephants, horses, mules; foot soldiers, chariots, and military divisions. Who could count them all? Hosts of rakshakas of many forms, an immensely powerful army that was indescribable. Forests, gardens, groves, orchards, lakes, wells, and reservoirs adorned the city. The daughters of humans, Nagas, gods, and Gandharvas possessed a beauty that could enchant even the minds of sages. The wrestlers with enormous bodies like mountains, immensely strong, roared about. In various wrestling arenas, they challenged each other, fighting in many ways. Millions of soldiers with fierce, monstrous bodies made great efforts to guard the city on all sides. Buffaloes, humans, cows, donkeys, and goats were eaten by wicked rakshakas. Tulsidas has told only a little of their story here. For in giving up their bodies to Raghubira’s sanctifying arrows, even they will surely attain the ultimate state.
Seeing the many guards of the city, the monkey thought, “I shall take on a very tiny form and enter the city at night.” The monkey shrank to the size of a mosquito. Ever remembering Ram, he headed toward Lanka. The guardian demoness named Lankini saw him and said, “Where are you going, ignoring me? You don’t know my secret, fool. I devour trespassers!” The great monkey struck her with a single blow and she fell to the ground, vomiting blood. Then, gathering herself, she arose, joining her hands, and pleaded fearfully, “When Brahma gave Ravana his boon, as he was leaving, Brahma gave me this omen: ‘you will be overwhelmed by the blow of a monkey, then know the demons will be destroyed.’ O child, my karma must be truly great, for I have seen Rama’s messenger with my own eyes.”
She continued, “O child, the bliss of heaven and final liberation combined cannot compare to the joy of even a moment in the presence of saints. Enter the city and accomplish all your deeds, keeping in your heart the King of Ayodhya. Poison becomes nectar, enemies become friends, fire becomes cool, and the ocean becomes like a cow’s footprint. O Garuda, Mount Sumeru becomes like a speck of dust to one who has seen Rama, through His grace.”
Hanuman assumed a tiny form and entered the city, all the while remembering God. In each and every palace he found countless warriors all about. Arriving at Ravana’s palace, he found it so extremely marvelous, yet also strange, it was impossible to put to words. The monkey saw Ravana asleep in the palace, but could not find Sita.
He then saw one particularly beautiful mansion, standing apart from the rest, a temple to Hari. Depictions of Rama’s weapons adorned the temple; its beauty was indescribable. There was a grove of young, verdant tulsi plants. Seeing them, the monkey chief rejoiced.
He thought, “Lanka is the land of demons, could the dwelling of a virtuous person really be here?” As he began to ponder this, Vibhishana awoke and uttered the words, “Rama, Rama”. The monkey rejoiced, recognizing him as a truly virtuous person. “I must introduce myself to him. No harm can come to my mission from a sadhu.” Assuming the form of a priest, he called out to Vibhishana, who got up and came to him. Vibhishana bowed, then asked after his well-being. “O Brahmin, please tell me your story. Are you one among the devotees of Hari, for whom I feel intense love rising in my heart? Or are you Rama himself, the beloved friend of the helpless, who has come for my sake? For this, I would be greatly fortunate.”
Hanuman then recounted the entire story of Ram and revealed his own name. Upon hearing this, a thrill ran down both their bodies and their minds became absorbed in remembering the multitude of Rama’s virtues.
“Listen, O Son of the Wind, my situation is just like that of a wretched tongue among teeth. O dear child, knowing me to be orphaned, will the Lord of Raghus ever show me His grace? Having a tamasic body, I cannot perform sadhana. No love or devotion exists for His lotus feet within my mind. But now, O Hanuman, I have gained faith, for one does not meet the saints without Hari’s grace.”
Hanuman replied, “It is only because of Raghubira’s grace that you have willingly granted me your audience. Listen, O Vibhishana, this is the Lord’s way: he forever shows love towards his devotees.”
“Tell me, of what noble lineage am I? A fickle monkey, hopeless in every way, whoever utters our name in the morning does not obtain food for the day. Such a wretched one am I. Listen, O friend, even upon me Raghubira has shown grace.” Remembering His virtues, Hanuman’s eyes filled with tears.
“Knowing of such a Master, how could those who forget him and roam about not know suffering?” Speaking in this way on the multitude of Ram’s virtues, Hanuman became filled with indescribable peace.
Then Vibhishana recounted the full story of how Sita now lived in Lanka. Hanuman afterwards said, “Listen, brother, I wish to see Mother Janaki.” Vibhishan explained how and the Son of the Wind set off. Assuming the same tiny form once more, he went to the Ashoka grove where Sita was staying. On seeing her there, he bowed to her in his mind. She had been sitting there motionless, passing by the watches of the night. With an emaciated body and matted hair in a single braid, she kept repeating in her heart the multitude of Ram’s virtues. With eyes fixed at her own feet, her mind remained absorbed on Rama’s lotus feet.
Seeing Janaki in such a pitiable state, the Son of the Wind was struck with sorrow. He remained hidden among the tree leaves and thought, “What should I do, brother?” At that moment, Ravana arrived, accompanied by many finely adorned women. The wicked one employed numerous tricks to persuade Sita, using appeasement, gifts, fear and manipulation. Ravana said, “Listen, O fair and wise one. I pledge that Mandodari and all my other queens will become your maidservants, if you just look my way once.” Blocking him with a blade of grass, Sita spoke, remembering her supreme beloved, the Lord of Ayodhya. “Listen, O ten-faced one, the light of a firefly can never make a lotus bloom. Understand this, says Janaki. O wicked one, you have no knowledge of Raghubira’s arrow. O fool, unguarded, you kidnapped me and brought me here. O vile one, shameless one, you truly feel no shame.”
Hearing himself likened to a firefly and Rama to the sun, at those harsh words he drew his sword and spoke, now enraged, “Sita, for the insult you have caused me, I will cut off your head with this sharp blade. Heed my words at once, O fair-faced one, or you will lose your life.”
“Beautiful like a garland of dark-blue lotuses, the Lord’s arms resemble elephant trunks. O ten-necked one, those arms will deal with your necks. As for your sword, listen, fool, to my solemn vow. O Camdrahasa, take away my anguish, the fire caused by separation from Raghupati. Cooling and sharp, you bear an excellent edge. Therefore, remove the burden of my suffering.”
Hearing her speech, he again rushed forward to kill her, but Mandodari, Maya’s daughter, pacified him, speaking on proper conduct. He then called the demonesses to him and said, “Go and intimidate Sita in every possible way. In one month’s time, if she still does not accept my terms, I will draw my sword and kill her.”
Ravana then returned to his palace, while the demonesses crowded around Sita, assuming various vile forms to terrorize her.
One certain demoness named Trijata was devoted to Ram’s feet and had great wisdom. She spoke to all of them, relating a dream, “Treat Sita well for your own good. In my dream, a monkey burned Lanka and killed the entire demon army. The ten-headed one was mounted naked on a donkey, head shaven and twenty arms severed. He was taken south and Lanka came into the possession of Vibhishana. Around the city, they were chanting Raghubira’s name. Then the Lord sent word to Sita: ‘I proclaim this dream will prove true after four days have passed.’”
On hearing her words, all of them grew afraid and fell at the feet of Janaka’s daughter.
The demonesses dispersed. Then Sita began to worry, “In a month’s time, the wretched demons will kill me.” To Trijata she spoke with folded hands, “O mother, you are my companion in adversity. Quickly, find a way to kill me. I cannot bear this separation. Bring wood and arrange a pyre, O mother. Set it alight and prove true my love for Rama, O wise one. Who could bear to hear those words that pierce the ear like a thorn?”
Hearing this, Trijata clasped her feet and recounted the Lord’s glory and strength, consoling her. “Listen, O gentle one, no fire can be had at night,” said Trijata, who departed home.
“Fate has turned against me. Fire cannot be obtained. My anguish will not end. Embers are clearly visible in the sky, yet not even a single star falls to earth. The moon is made of fire, but refuses to drip down flames, as if just for me, as if my fate has turned wretched. O Ashoka tree, listen to my prayer. Make your name true, remove my sorrow. Your fresh new shoots are like fire, give me that fire, do not delay.”
Seeing Sita utterly overwhelmed by the pain of separation, that moment for Hanuman felt as if it lasted an entire kalpa. Deliberating in his heart, the monkey then dropped the ring from the tree as if it were an ember. Sita rose up joyfully and took it into her hand.
On seeing such a captivating ring, with Rama’s name inscribed in the utmost beauty, she gazed in astonishment. Recognizing the ring, her heart was overwhelmed with joy and sorrow. “Who could have defeated the invincible Lord of Raghus? For such a ring could not be produced by maya.” Sita deliberated much on this. Then Hanuman began to speak sweetly, recounting the virtues of Ram. Sita’s sorrow vanished and she began to listen, fully engaged as he told His entire story from the very beginning. After hearing the story to the very end, Sita was greatly pleased and asked, “Why does the one who tells this story not reveal himself?” Then Hanuman approached and sat down, surprising her.
“I am Rama’s messenger, O Mother Janaki. I swear by the compassionate one, the ocean of mercy, I have brought this ring Mother. It was given by Rama as a sign for you.” Sita replied, “Tell me, how did this companionship of man and monkey come about? Please tell the story of how this friendship came to be.”
Hearing the love and affection of the monkey’s words, trust arose in her mind. She then knew that in thought, word, and deed, he was a servant of the ocean of compassion.
Knowing him as Hari’s servant, her love grew very deep, her eyes filled with tears, and she tingled with ecstasy. “Drowning in the ocean of separation, O Hanuman, you have become, O dear one, a lifeboat for me. Now tell me, I beg of you, about the welfare of the abode of happiness, the slayer of Khara, along with his younger brother. The tender-hearted, compassionate Lord of Raghus, O monkey, for what reason has he adopted such cruelty? By nature, He is the giver of happiness to His devotees, but does the Lord of Raghus ever remember me? When will my eyes be soothed, O dear one, on beholding his dark and gentle form?”
Sita could hardly speak, as her eyes filled with tears. She then lamented, “Alas, O Lord, you have completely forgotten me.”
Seeing Sita utterly overwhelmed by the pain of separation, the monkey spoke these gentle, humble words, “O Mother, The Lord and His younger brother are well. The abode of great compassion grieves over your sorrow. Know this, O mother, and have no doubt in your mind and heart: Rama’s love for you is twice that of yours for Him.”
“Now keep steady and listen, O Mother, to this message of the Lord of Raghus.” The monkey’s voice choked with emotion and his eyes filled with tears.
“Rama says: ‘O Sita, since our separation, everything has become like its opposite. New tree leaves appear to be flames. Night feels like the day of final death. The moon scorches like the sun. Groves of lotuses appear like forests of spears. Clouds appear as if raining boiling oil. Those who were once dear to me now cause me pain. The cool, gentle, fragrant breeze feels like a serpent’s breath.’”
“‘By speaking of it, one’s agony may find some relief, but to whom shall I speak? No one else understands. The reality of the chord of love that binds us, my dear, is known to me alone, and I ever abide within you. Know this to be the essence of my love.’”
Upon hearing the Lord’s message, Baihedi became immersed in love and lost consciousness of her body. The monkey then said, “O Mother, keep courage in your heart and continue to meditate on Rama, the giver of happiness to His servants. Bring into your heart the Lord of Raghu’s sovereign power and hearing my words, abandon all cowardice.”
“The hordes of demons are like moths and Raghupati’s arrows, like fire. O Mother, keep steady at heart and know that the demons will be consumed by fire. If Raghubira were to receive news of you, the Lord of Raghus would not delay. When Rama’s arrows have risen like the sun, O Janaki, of what concern is the demon’s army of darkness? O Mother, I would take you to him now, but there is no order from the Lord, I swear by Rama. A few more days, O Mother, remain patient and together with the monkeys, Raghubira will come. Killing the demons, He will rescue you, then Narada and the other sages will sing of His glory in all the three worlds.”
Sita replied, “O son, are all the monkeys equal to you? The demons are very mighty warriors. In my heart there is great doubt.”
Hanuman then revealed his own form, his body like a golden mountain, terrifying in battle like an extremely mighty warrior. Confidence arose in Sita’s mind and again the Son of the Wind God assumed his small form.
“Listen Mother, as a mere tree monkey, I have no great strength or vast intelligence. But by the Lord’s might, even the smallest serpent could devour Garuda.”
Sita felt content after hearing the monkey’s words, seeing his devotion, glory, splendor, and strength. She gave him her blessing, “O one who is dear to Rama, may you become, O son, a repository of strength and virtue. May you ever remain ageless and immortal as the repository of virtues. And may the Lord ever show you His grace.” On hearing this, Hanuman became utterly overwhelmed with love. Again and again, he bowed his head at her feet. The monkey then spoke these words with folded hands. “Now my purpose has been fulfilled, O Mother. Your blessing is renowned as infallible.”
“Listen, O Mother, I am extremely hungry, having seen these beautiful fruit trees.”
“Listen, O Son, very mighty and formidable demons guard this grove.”
“O Mother, I have no fear of them. If you may only give your consent.”
Seeing the monkey’s intelligence and strength, Sita said, “Go, holding Raghupati’s feet in your heart, O Son, eat the sweet fruits.”
Bowing his head, he entered the grove and began eating the fruits and breaking the trees. There were many guards stationed there. Some he killed and some ran to raise the alarms. “O master, a huge monkey has come and devastated the Ashoka grove. He ate the fruits and uprooted the trees and, crushing the guards one after another, threw them all to the ground.”
In response, Ravana sent various warriors. Hanuman roared upon seeing them and destroyed them all. Badly wounded, a few were able to run away, crying out as they fled. Ravana then sent his son, the prince Kumara. He set out, taking with him a horde of his best fighters. As they approached, Hanuman seized a tree and threatened them. He struck the prince down and then roared with a tremendous sound.
Some he killed, some he crushed, some he grabbed and slammed to the ground. Some again fled crying for help, “O my lord, the monkey’s strength is tremendous.”
Hearing that his son had been killed, the Lord of Lanka became enraged. He then sent forth the mighty Meghanada. “Do not kill him, my son, but capture him and bring him here. Let us find out where this monkey is from.” The slayer of Indra, that incomparable warrior, set out, filled with rage from the death of his brother. The monkey, seeing the formidable warrior approaching, gnashed his teeth, then roared and charged forward. Swinging a huge tree, he knocked the prince of Lanka off his chariot. Great warriors stood alongside the prince, but the monkey crushed them with his bare hands. Having felled them, Hanuman clashed with the prince. The two fought like great elephant kings. Hanuman struck the prince, then climbed up a tree, and the prince fainted for just a moment. On recovering, the prince resorted to many mayas, but the ever-victorious Son of the Wind God could not be conquered.
Meghanada then prepared to fire Brahmastra. The monkey thought to himself, “If I do not honor Brahma’s weapon, its immeasurable glory will be lost.”
The arrow of Brahma struck the monkey, and even as he fell he crushed an army of soldiers beneath him. Seeing the monkey unconscious, the prince bound him in a noose of serpents and took him away.
Listen, O Parvati, by chanting whose name do wise men sever the bonds of worldly existence? Could His messenger truly be bound? For the sake of the Lord’s task, the monkey allowed himself to be bound.
Hearing of the monkey’s capture, the demons all rushed to the court in curiosity. Arriving at the ten-faced one’s court, Hanuman found it unspeakably grand and majestic. With folded hands, the gods and guardians of the eight directions stood submissively. At Ravana’s mere frown, they all turned fearful. On seeing such might, however, the monkey felt no fear. He felt as Garuda would among a crowd of snakes.
Looking at the monkey, the ten-headed one laughed loudly, shouting harsh and insulting words. Then he remembered his son’s death and sorrow arose in his heart. The Lord of Lanka asked, “Who are you, monkey? And by whose power have you destroyed the Ashoka grove? Have you not heard of me? I see you are utterly fearless, and a fool. For what crime have you killed the demons? Tell me, fool, have you no fear of losing your life?”
“Listen, Ravana. By whose power the totality of the cosmos is manifested by maya; by whose power Brahma creates, Vishnu preserves, and Shiva destroys, O ten-headed one; by whose power the thousand-headed Shesha holds up the cosmic spheres, together with their mountains and forests. Who, as the protector of the gods, assumes various forms to give teachings to insolent fools like you; who broke Shiva’s mighty bow and in doing so crushed the pride of the whole assembled host of kings. Kara, Dushana, Trishira, and Bali, who all possessed incomparable strength, were all slain by him. By a mere trace of whose power, you have conquered all of creation. I am His messenger, the one whose beloved wife you have taken away.”
Hanuman continued, “I know of your greatness. You fought with Sahasrabahu and gained fame in battle with Bali.” Hearing these words, Ravana laughed mockingly. “O king, I was hungry, so I ate the fruits. Being a monkey by nature, I broke the trees. Everyone holds his own body most dear, O king, yet these evil demons assaulted me, so I had to strike back. Then your son bound me, but I have no shame in being bound, for I wish only to do my Lord’s work. With folded hands, I beseech you, O Ravana, set aside your pride and listen to my advice. Consider your family and, abandoning delusion, worship the dispeller of fear for His devotees. Never harbor enmity toward Him, of whom even Death stands in immense dread. He who consumes gods, demons, and all of creation, moving or unmoving. On my behalf, please give Janaki back.”
“The protector of those who turn to Him, the Lord of Raghus, the ocean of compassion, the slayer of Khara, the Divine Lord will protect all who take refuge in Him, forgetting your wrongdoings.”
“Enshrine Rama’s lotus feet in your heart. You may then have permanent rule of Lanka. The sage Pulastya is pure and spotless like the moon. Do not become a blemish on that moon. Without Rama’s name, speech has no beauty. Reflect on this, abandoning pride and delusion. Without garments, even a beautiful woman does not shine, O enemy of the gods, but adorned with all her ornaments, she appears exquisitely beautiful. For those who turn away from Rama, prosperity and power may stay for a while, but have been obtained without truly possessing them. Rivers that have no water at their source, even after rainfall, soon dry up again. Listen, O ten-necked one, I tell you this with absolute certainty. There is no protector for one who opposes Rama. Even a thousand Shivas, Vishnus, and Brahmas could not protect an enemy of Rama.”
“Abandon ego and pride which, rooted in ignorance, cause immense anguish, and worship Rama, the Lord of the Raghus, the ocean of compassion who is God Himself.”
Although the monkey spoke words of immense goodwill, steeped in devotion, wisdom, detachment, and moral counsel, the greatly arrogant one laughed and said, “We have found a very wise guru in this monkey! Your death is imminent, O wicked one, yet you attempt to give such despicable teachings.”
“The opposite is true,” said Hanuman, “I can clearly see your delusion.” Hearing the monkey’s words, he flew into a rage and shouted, “Take this fool’s life at once!” The demons then rushed to kill him, but Vibhishana arrived with the ministers. Bowing his head, he pleaded earnestly, “It is against diplomatic code to kill a messenger. Impose some other punishment, O lord.” All those present agreed, saying, “This is good counsel, brother.” Hearing this, the ten-headed one laughed and said, “Mutilate the monkey and send him away.”
“A monkey is greatly attached to its tail. I tell you all this so that you understand. Wrap it with cloth soaked in oil, then set fire to it.”
“Without a tail, the monkey will leave. The fool will come back with his master, of whom he has done much boasting. Let me see his lord’s power then.” On hearing of their plans, the monkey smiled to himself and thought, “I see that Saraswati has come to help me.” The demons, having heard Ravana’s command, set about preparing that very plan. No cloth, ghee, or oil remained in the city, for the monkey had made a game out of growing his tail. The city’s residents came out to see the spectacle, kicking and mocking him relentlessly. Beating drums and clapping their hands, they paraded him around the city, then set his tail on fire. Seeing the flames blazing, Hanuman instantly assumed his extremely tiny form. Slipping free, the monkey leapt onto the golden roofs and the demon women became frightened.
At that moment, impelled by Hari, the forty-nine winds began to blow. The monkey then let out a thunderous laugh and grew in size until he touched the sky. His body was vast and immense, yet extremely light. He leapt from palace to palace as the city burned. The people were in distress as flames darted around in terrifying multitudes. Cries were heard, “O father! O mother! Who will save us now? This is no mere monkey. It must be some god in the form of a monkey!”
Shiva interjected, “Such is the bitter fruit of insulting a holy person, the city burned as if it had no protector. In the blink of an eye, Hanuman burned down the entire city, except for one place, Vibhishana’s house. O Girija, Hanuman is the messenger of He who created Fire itself, that is why he left unscathed. Moving about, he burned all of Lanka then leapt into the middle of the ocean.”
Having extinguished his tail and recovered from his fatigue, he once again assumed a small form and stood with folded hands before Janaka’s daughter.
“O Mother, give me some token, just as the Lord of Raghu’s did.” Sita then removed the crest-jewel in her hair and handed it to him. The Son of the Wind God received it with joy.
Sita then asked, “Say this, O dear son, my prayer to Him, ‘O Lord, who fulfills all desires, who is compassion to the humble and wretched, uphold your solemn pledge: remove, O Lord, my heavy suffering.’ O son, tell him the story of Indra’s son. Make the Lord understand the might of His arrow. If the Lord does not come within a month’s time, then he will not find me alive. Tell me, O monkey, how shall I stay alive? For you too, my son, tell me you are now leaving. Seeing you, my heart was comforted, but now, once more on my own, I will suffer the same days and same nights.”
Consoling Janaka’s daughter in many ways, he restored her patience and courage. Bowing his head at her lotus feet, the monkey then departed toward Rama. As he set off, he roared with such a mighty sound that upon hearing it, the wombs of the demon women miscarried.
Leaping across the ocean, he arrived back on shore. He shouted joyously, announcing himself to the monkeys. All rejoiced on seeing Hanuman return. The monkeys felt as though they had been given new life. Hanuman’s face was radiant and his body shone with splendor. He had accomplished Rama’s work.
All who met him became extremely joyful, like a flailing fish that has finally obtained water. Together they set off in glee toward the Lord of Raghus, hearing of and recounting the news as they went. They then entered Sugriva’s royal garden, Madhuvana. With Angada’s permission, they began eating the honey and fruits. When the guards came to stop them, the monkeys began attacking with their fists, causing them to flee. The guards complained, “O prince, they have ravaged the grove.” Sugriva heard this and rejoiced, knowing the monkeys had returned after completing the Lord’s task.
“If they had not received news of Sita, they could not dare to eat the fruit of Madhuvana.” Thus the king reasoned that the entire assembly of monkeys had come. The monkeys arrived and all bowed their heads at Sugriva’s feet. The monkey king embraced them all with great affection. He asked after their welfare. “All is well now that we behold your feet. By Rama’s grace, the task has been completed with great success. O Lord, it is Hanuman who has accomplished this deed and saved the lives of all the monkeys!” Hearing this, Sugriva embraced him once again. Then, all together, they set off toward the Lord of Raghus.
When Rama saw the monkeys approaching, his heart was filled with a special joy, knowing the task had been accomplished. The two brothers were sitting on a crystal rock when the monkeys came and fell at their feet.
Raghupati, the embodiment of compassion, lovingly embraced them all and asked after their well-being. “O Lord, all is well now, upon seeing your lotus feet.”
Jambavan then spoke, “Listen, O King of Raghus. The one upon whom You, O Lord, bestow your grace, enjoys constant well-being and good fortune. Gods, men, and sages are all pleased with him. He alone is victorious, humble, and an ocean of virtues. His fame illuminates the three worlds.”
“By the Lord’s grace, our task has been completed in its entirety. Today our birth has finally borne fruit. O Lord, these deeds that the Son of the Wind has performed, even a thousand mouths could not fully describe.” Jambavan then recounted the wondrous tale of the Son of the Wind God.
The treasure house of compassion was greatly pleased to hear this and joyfully embraced Hanuman, holding him close to his heart. “Tell me, O son, how is Janaki? How does she stay alive?”
“Your Name stands guard day and night like a watchman and meditation on You is the closed door. By what path could her life depart? For her eyes are ever fixed on her own feet.”
“As I left, she gave me her crest jewel.” Rama took it and pressed it to his heart.
“O Lord, her eyes filled with tears and Janaka’s daughter spoke these words: ‘Together with your younger brother, I embrace the Lord’s feet. Friend of the lowly and wretched, remover of suffering for those who take refuge in you. In mind, deed, and word, I am devoted to your feet. For what offense then, O Lord, have I been forsaken? I acknowledge one fault of my own, that at the moment of separation from You, my soul did not depart. O Lord, the fault lies in these eyes. As my life tried to escape, they forcibly blocked its way. The fire of separation would have burned away my body in a second, like cotton in the wind, but these eyes, for their own sake, shed so many tears. For that reason I was not burned away.’ Sita’s suffering is so very great, and you are so compassionate to the distressed, it is better not to describe it.”
“Each moment, O ocean of compassion, passes like a kalpa for her. Quickly, O Lord, by Your strength, march forth and conquer the host of wicked demons. Bring Her back.”
Learning of Sita’s sorrow, the Lord, the abode of happiness, felt his lotus-like eyes fill with tears. “Could calamity ever come to one entirely devoted to Me in mind, body and speech, even in a dream?”
Hanuman replied, “O Lord, the only true calamity is when one forgets You and ceases to worship Your name. Of what matter are these demons to You, O Lord? You will conquer the enemy and bring back Janaki.”
“Listen, O monkey, there is no one, no god, human or sage, in any embodied form, who has done me as great a service as you. What recompense could possibly be given to you? Even now, I can hardly bear to face you.”
“Listen, O dear son, I will never be free of my debt to you. This I have concluded, having reflected deeply within myself.” Again and again, the protector of the gods gazed at the monkey. His eyes filled with tears and his whole body was overcome with intense emotion.
Hanuman rejoiced at his Lord’s words and, gazing at his face and form, fell to His feet, overwhelmed with love. “Save me, save me, O Lord!”
Again and again, the Lord tried to raise him up, but, immersed in love, he had no wish to rise. The Lord’s lotus hand then rested upon the monkey’s head.
Recalling that tender scene, even Shiva became absorbed in emotion. Composing himself, Shankara once again began to recount this beautiful tale.
The Lord raised the monkey up and held him to his heart. Taking his hand, He seated him very close beside himself.
“Tell me, O monkey. Lanka was protected by Ravana. How did you burn that incredibly formidable fortress?” Hanuman saw that the Lord was pleased, and spoke these words free of pride and arrogance, “A mere monkey’s greatest ambition is to swing from branch to branch. I crossed the ocean, burned the golden city, slayed the hosts of demons, and devastated the grove all by Your power, O Raghurai. None of it was by my own greatness, O Lord.”
“Nothing is unattainable, O Lord, for one who enjoys Your grace. By Your power, a mere wisp of cotton could burn the great fire Badavanala.”
“O Lord, make my devotion, the source of extreme bliss, ever unfailing through your grace.” Hearing the monkey’s guileless words, the Lord said, “So be it.”
O Parvati, O Uma, he who has known Ram’s true nature, for him there is no desire apart from worshipping Him. In whosoever's heart this dialogue comes to dwell, that one attains devotion to Raghupati’s feet.
Hearing the Lord’s words, the whole host of monkeys exclaimed, “Hail, hail, hail to the compassionate one, the source of all joy!” Then Raghupati called for the king of monkeys and said, “Make preparations for our departure. Why should we delay any further? Quickly, give the command to the monkeys.”
Seeing this spectacle, the gods showered an abundance of flowers from the sky and joyfully returned to their homes. The monkey king quickly summoned his generals, each with his own troop, including hosts of monkeys and bears of various colors and incomparable strength.
All bowed their heads at the Lord’s lotus feet. The bears roared, the mighty monkeys too. Rama, seeing the monkey army, gazed upon them in grace with his lotus eyes. Through the strength of Rama’s grace, the monkey generals appeared like great mountains with wings. Then Rama, rejoicing, set out, and many beautiful, auspicious omens occurred. For He whose glory is entirely auspicious, omens at departure are customary. Sita came to know of the Lord’s departure, for her left limbs throbbed to signal it. But what were good omens for Janaki foreboded ill fate for Ravana.
The army marched, but who could describe it fully? Countless monkeys and bears roared beyond measure. Armed with claws, carrying mountains and trees, they marched through the sky and earth, moving wherever they wished. The bears and monkeys let out lion roars, and the mythical elephants that guarded the corners of the world shook and cried out in fear.
The mythical elephants trumpeted. The earth shook. The mountains swayed, and the oceans were thrown into turmoil. The gandarvas, gods, sages, nagas, and kinnaras were all glad at heart, for their sorrows had come to an end. The monkeys, those fearsome warriors, gnashed their teeth. Millions upon millions rushed forth, exclaiming, “Victory to Rama, the mighty Lord of Kosala!” They endlessly sung of his many virtues.
The noble lord of serpents, Shesha, could not bear their weight. Again and again, he swooned. He, again and again, gripped the hard back of the tortoise with his fangs. It looked as if, in recognizing Raghubira’s beautiful march as supremely charming, the king of serpents was inscribing an imperishable, sacred account on the tortoise’s shell.
Continuing in this way, the treasure house of compassion reached the shore of the ocean. All about, the vast host of bears and monkey heroes began to feast on fruit.
Meanwhile, ever since the monkey had burned Lanka and left, the demons had been living in fear. In each home, they all had the same thought, “There is no hope for the demon race. If the strength of His messenger was so beyond description, what good can await us when He Himself enters the city?” Hearing the words of the townspeople from her female spies, Mandodari felt extremely distressed. In private, with folded hands, she touched her husband’s feet and spoke these words, steeped in the essence of wise counsel, “O beloved husband, give up your hostility toward Hari. Take to heart my words, which are meant only for your benefit. On reflecting upon the deeds of His messenger, the wives of the night rangers miscarry. Summon your minister and send back His wife, O husband, if you desire your own welfare. Like a wintry night blowing through a grove of lotuses, Sita has come as the bringer of grief to your family.”
“Listen, O Lord, unless you give Sita back, no good can come to you, even if Shiva and Brahma act on your behalf. Rama’s arrows are like a host of serpents and the horde of demons like frogs. So long as the serpents have not yet swallowed them, take action and give up your stubbornness.”
When the foolish Ravana heard her words, he laughed, and the one known all over the world for his haughtiness spoke, “A woman’s nature is indeed timid. She even fears in the midst of good fortune, her mind is truly immature. If the monkey army comes, the rakshakas will devour those poor fouls. The guardians of the world tremble in fear of me. How greatly laughable that my own wife is frightened!” He laughed and embraced her, then went to the court, still holding great affection for his wife.
Mandodari felt great anxiety in her heart. She feared that Providence had turned against him. Ravana took his seat in the assembly and the following news was brought to him: the opposing army had arrived across the ocean.
He asked his ministers to give their proper counsel. They all laughed, taking it as a joke. “You have defeated gods and demons with ease. What then are men and monkeys in comparison?”
When counselors, physicians, and gurus speak only pleasing words, kingdom, body, and dharma quickly fall to ruin.
Such counsel proved pleasing to Ravana. They praised and flattered him again and again. Seeing his opportunity, Vibhishana came and bowed his head at his brother’s feet. Again bowing his head, he took his own seat and, upon receiving the order, spoke these words, “If, O merciful one, you ask for counsel, I will speak, according to my understanding, only what is beneficial for you, O dear brother.”
“He who desires for his own well-being, good renown, good judgment, a good destiny, and a multitude of joys should renounce another man’s wife just as one turns away from the moon on the fourth lunar day. Even if one were the sole master of the fourteen worlds, he cannot remain if he has hostility toward others. A civilized man with an ocean of virtues, if he has even the slightest greed, no one speaks well of him.”
“Lust, anger, pride, and greed. All are paths to hell, O Lord. Abandon them all and worship Raghubira, that one whom the saints adore.”
“Dear brother, Rama is not a human king. He is the Lord of the worlds, the destroyer of even Time. He is Brahman, free from affliction, unborn, the Divine Lord, all-pervading, unconquerable, without beginning or end.” Beneficiary to the earth, the twice-born, the cows, and the gods. He is the ocean of compassion assuming a human body to delight the people, destroy the wicked, and protect the dharma. Listen, brother. Abandon hostility toward Him and bow your head. For the Lord of Raghus is the one who destroys the suffering of those who surrender into Him. O king, give Sita to the Lord and adore Rama, who loves unconditionally.”
“Even he who holds hatred toward all beings, in taking refuge in the Lord, He does not abandon him. He whose name destroys the threefold suffering, that very Lord has now come manifest. Know this in your heart, O Ravana.”
“Again and again, I fall at your heart, O ten-headed one. Abandon pride, delusion, and arrogance. Worship the Lord of Kosala. The sage Pulastya has sent this message through his disciple. Having found a good opportunity, I have immediately conveyed it to you, O dear one.”
Malyavanta, a very wise minister, was greatly pleased to hear these words. “Dear one, the counsel of your younger brother, hold in your heart what Vibhishana says.”
“Both of these fools glorify the enemy! Is there no one here who will remove them from my sight?” Malyavanta then returned home, while Vibhishana spoke again with joined palms, “Right and wrong understanding dwell in everyone’s heart, O Lord, so say the Puranas and Vedas. Where there is right understanding, prosperity abounds. Where there is wrong understanding, misfortune abounds.”
“In your heart dwells wrong understanding which has turned your judgment contrary. You regard what is beneficial as harmful and you regard your enemy as dear. Sita is the night of death for the demon race, yet you regard her with great affection.”
“Dear one, grasping at your feet, I beg of you: Honor my love for you. Restore Sita to Rama so that no harm may come to you.”
These wise words, approved by the Puranas and Vedas, Vibhishana spoke, expounding his counsel. Hearing this, the ten-faced one became enraged. “Wretch, death now nears for you! You have always lived on my generosity, fool. Yet now, deluded one, you favor the enemy’s cause. Tell me, wretch, is there anyone in this world whom I have not conquered by the might of my arms? You live in my city, yet have an excessive affection for hermits. Fool, go and meet them and tell them your counsel.” Saying this, he struck him with his foot.
The younger brother grasped his feet again and again. O Uma, this is the greatness of saints. They do good to one who does evil to them.
“You are a truly good father, even though you struck me. Worship Rama for your own good, O lord.” He then took his ministers and departed through the sky, exclaiming so that all could hear, “Ram’s vow is true. The king’s assembly, destined to Death, will be destroyed. I go now and take refuge in the Hero of Raghus. Do not fault me for this.”
Announcing this, Vibhishana departed. As soon as he did, all became bereft of life. For the disrespect of a holy person, O Bhavani, causes the destruction of all welfare. The very moment that Vibhishana abandoned Ravana, the unfortunate wretch lost all his prosperity and power.
Vibhishana went joyfully toward the Lord of Raghus, forming many wishes in his heart. “I shall go and see the crimson soft lotus feet of the giver of happiness for His devotees. By touching those feet, Ahalya was liberated and the Dandaka forest was sanctified. Those feet which Janaka’s daughter held dear in her heart, which caused her to rush after the deceitful deer. Those which are the lotus in Hara’s heart. O what good fortune that I shall see those very ones!”
“Those feet whose sandals Bharata ever keeps his mind fixed upon. Today I shall behold those with my own eyes!”
Reflecting with love in this manner, he quickly arrived at the other side of the ocean. The monkeys saw Vibhishana coming and understood him to be a special messenger of the enemy. They detained him and sent word to the lord of the monkeys. Sugriva said, “Listen, O King of the Raghus, the brother of the ten-faced one has come for a meeting.”
The Lord said, “Friend, what should be asked of him?”
The king of the monkeys replied, “Listen, O Ruler of men, a demon’s maya cannot be known, able to assume any form at will. For what reason has he come other than to obtain our secrets, that wicked one! My mind favors that we keep him bound.”
The Lord replied, “Friend, your counsel is sound and well-considered. But my vow is to remove the fears of all who seek refuge in me.” Hearing the Lord’s words, Hanuman rejoiced, “Bhagavan is truly affectionate toward those who seek refuge.”
The Lord continued, “Those who abandon one who seeks refuge forsake themselves. These men incur sin and, full of sin, even looking upon them brings harm.”
“Even one who has killed millions of Brahmins, having come to My refuge, I will not abandon him. As soon as a soul comes before Me, the sins of millions of births are destroyed. A sinner by his very nature is averse to worship of Me. If one were indeed wicked at heart, would that one ever turn toward Me?” That one of pure mind and heart, it is he who attains Me. Deceit, trickery, and guile do not please me. If our secrets were obtained and sent to Ravana, even then, there is nothing to fear and no harm can come, O lord of the monkeys. Lakshmana can kill all the demons of the world in an instant, O friend. If one, frightened and afraid, comes to My refuge, I shall protect him as my own life.
The abode of compassion then said with a laugh, “In either case, bring him here.” Chanting “Hail to the compassionate one”, the monkeys left with Angada and Hanuman.
With Vibhishana placed respectfully in front, the monkeys proceeded to where the compassionate Lord of Raghus was. From a distance the prince saw the two brothers, those givers of delight to the eyes. On beholding Rama, that abode of beauty, he suddenly stopped and stared intently. His arms were long, his eyes red as a lotus, his body dark as dusk. The liberator of fear to the surrendered had lion-like shoulders and a broad chest. His face radiated with such beauty, it could enchant the minds of innumerable gods of love. Tears filled Vibhishana’s eyes and he felt a thrill run through his body. Having built up the courage, he then spoke these soft, gentle words, “O Lord, I am the brother of the ten-faced one. I was born as a demon of the night, O protector of the gods. My body is tamasic, so just as an owl loves darkness, my nature is toward sin.”
“Hearing of Your good fame, I have come. O Lord, O destroyer of the fear of worldly existence, save me, save me, O remover of distress, giver of happiness to those who seek refuge, O Hero of Raghus.”
Seeing him fully prostrate, the Lord immediately rose with great joy. Hearing his humble words, the Lord felt pleased at heart. He took him into His great arms, drew him to His heart, and had him sit down beside Him and His younger brother.
The remover of fear to his devotees then spoke these words, “Tell me, O Lord of Lanka, as your home is in an unfortunate place, is all well with you and your family? You dwell day and night among a company of wicked ones. Friend, how can dharma be carried out? I know all your ways. You are an expert in wise conduct and unrighteousness does not appeal to you. Better to live in hell, O dear one, than be fated to live in the company of the wicked.”
“Having now seen your feet, I am well, O King of Raghus. For You have shown me compassion, knowing me as Your devotee. Not a single living soul finds peace in his mind or heart, even in a dream, until that one worships Rama. He then abandons desire, the source of sorrow itself.”
“The evils of greed, obsession, jealousy, arrogance, and pride vacate the heart once the Lord of Raghus takes abode there, holding His mighty bow, with arrows and quiver at His waist. Attachment is like the deep dark night, delightful to the owls of attraction and aversion. It dwells in the heart of all living beings until the sun of the Lord’s glory rises within. Now I am well and my great fears have been removed upon seeing Your lotus feet, O Rama.”
“O compassionate One, for those upon whom You are gracious, the threefold agonies of worldly existence cease to afflict. I am a demon, exceedingly vile by nature. I have not performed any virtuous acts. Yet He whose form does not come to mind even in the meditation of sages, that very Lord has drawn me to His heart with delight.”
“O, my good fortune is boundlessly immense! By Rama’s grace and with an abundance of joy, I have beheld with these eyes the pair of lotus feet adored by Brahma and Shiva.”
The Lord of Raghus then spoke, “Listen, O friend, I shall tell you my true nature, known to Busundi, Shiva, and Parvati. Even if a man is an enemy to all of creation, if he comes to Me afraid, seeking shelter in Me, abandoning arrogance, obsession, hypocrisy, and trickery, I at once regard that person as a saint. Gathering up all the threads of attachment, they bind to My feet as a single strong cord. He sees all equally and has no desire for anything, then joy, sorrow, and fear do not dwell in his mind.”
“A saintly person such as this, I keep in my heart like the greedy keep wealth in theirs. Saints like you are beloved to Me. I have taken this body for their sake alone. Those who worship God in form, who are devoted to the welfare of others, who are steadfast in moral conduct and religious discipline, those men, who hold love for the feet of the twice-born, are as dear to Me as life itself.”
“Listen, O king of Lanka, you hold all these virtues. For that reason, you are greatly loved by Me.”
Hearing Rama’s words, the troop of monkeys cried, “Hail to the abode of compassion!” The Lord’s words were nectar for the ears. Vibhishana knew this, yet still was not satisfied, and over and over grasped His lotus feet. His heart could not contain his boundless love for Him. “Hear this, O Lord, master of all creation, protector to the surrendered, knower of all hearts. Some desire had yet remained in my heart, but it has drifted away in the river of love for the Lord’s feet. Now, O compassionate one, forever grant me that purifying devotion to You, that is so cherished in Shiva’s mind.”
“So be it,” said the mighty Lord, who then immediately asked for the water of the ocean. “Even though, friend, you have no desire, My darshan is unfailing in this world.” Rama then applied the tilak on his forehead and an abundance of flowers rained down from the sky.
Vibhishana had been burning, as Ravana’s anger was like a fire and his breath a fierce wind, yet the Lord saved him and had now blessed him with sole kingship of Lanka. That same wealth and prosperity Shiva gave to Ravana after sacrificing his ten heads, Rama now gave to Vibhishana.
“Those who abandon such a Lord to worship another are beasts without tails or horns.”
Then, the all-knowing one, who lives in every heart and has every form yet is free and detached from all, in order to uphold proper conduct and as the slayer of the demon race for the sake of men, spoke these words, “Listen, O king of monkeys, O heroic lord of Lanka, by what means may we cross the deep ocean? Filled with various kinds of sea creatures, serpents, and fish, it seems unfathomably deep and impossibly difficult to cross.”
Said the lord of Lanka, “Listen, O Lord of Raghus, Your arrow could dry up a million oceans. Nevertheless, proper conduct says we must approach the ocean and make an entreaty to him. My lord, the ocean is your family’s guru, it will tell us a way by which all bears and monkeys may cross the ocean effortlessly.”
“Friend, you have said an excellent plan. Let us do it and let fate become our aid.” The advice, however, did not please Lakshmana. He felt greatly distressed upon hearing Rama’s words.
“My Lord, what trust can there be in fate? Take up anger in your mind and dry up the ocean. Fate is a crutch for the minds of cowards alone, lazily crying out, ‘Fate, fate!’”
Raghubira heard this and laughed, “I shall do it this way. Keep calm in your mind.” The Lord reassured His younger brother then went to the ocean. He offered obeisance first, bowing his head. He then spread sacred grass all around and sat on the shore.
Now when Vibhishana had originally come to the Lord, Ravana had sent spies after him. Assuming the false appearance of monkeys, they observed all that had happened. In their hearts, they praised the Lord’s qualities, especially His love toward those who sought shelter in Him. They began to openly praise Rama’s nature and, in that great love, forgot their disguise.
The monkeys then recognized these spies of the enemy and, binding them up, brought them before the lord of the monkeys.
Sugriva said, “Listen, all monkeys, mutilate these demons and send them back.” The monkeys began to beat them in many ways. Even when they cried out in pity, they did not release them. “Whoever would cut off our noses and ears, we plead to remember the Lord of Kosala!”
On hearing this, Lakshmana called them all near. Filled with compassion by their words he smiled and immediately released them. “Give this letter to Ravana. Read these words to the destroyer of his family. And tell the fool directly my gracious message: ‘Make peace and surrender Sita. Otherwise your destruction has come.’”
The demons bowed their heads at Lakshmana’s feet and then departed, speaking all the while of his compassion. With Rama’s glory on their lips, they returned to Lanka and bowed their heads at Ravana’s feet.
Smiling, the ten-faced one asked, “Do you parrots not speak your own words? Think of your own welfare then tell me the news of Vibhishana, whose death has come very near indeed. That fool, abandoning his rule of Lanka, will become an unfortunate worm. Tell me about the army of bears and monkeys, who have come impelled by harsh fate. Those whose lives are protected by the tender, soft-hearted ocean, being so considerate. Tell me again of those hermits whose hearts hold great terror toward me.”
“Did you meet them or did they run away hearing of my glorious name? Why do you not speak? Is the enemy’s power and strength so great that your minds have been stunned?”
“My lord, in the same manner which you kindly ask, take these words I say devoid of anger. No sooner had your younger brother met Rama that He began to apply the sacred tilak. When the monkeys learned we were your spies, they bound and tormented us. They were about to cut off our noses and ears, but when I prayed to Ram, they let us go. You have enquired, my lord, about the army of Rama, but a thousand million tongues would fail to describe it. They have a host of bears and monkeys of all different colors and bodies, with enormous, gruesome faces. That one who burned your city and killed your son, he was the weakest of them all. There were countless warriors, fierce and formidable, immensely vast and possessing the strength of innumerable elephants.”
“Dvivida, Mayanda, Nila, Naia, Angada, Gada, Vikatasya, Dadhimukha, Kesari, Nisatha, and the powerful Jambavan were among that mighty host of warriors.”
“Each of these monkeys is as mighty as Sugriva and they were among tens of millions, impossible to count. By Rama’s grace they possess incomparable strength. Each regards the three worlds as akin to blades of grass. This I have heard with my own ears, O ten-headed one: the monkey generals number in the eighteen padma and, my lord, in that army there is no monkey who could not defeat you in battle. In furious rage, they clench their fists but Rama does not yet give the order. They could dry up the ocean, with all its fish and serpents, or otherwise fill it with immense mountains. ‘I will crush the ten-headed one and grind him down to dust!’ all the monkeys say. Fearless by nature, they raged and roared, as if they wished to swallow Lanka whole.”
“Naturally brave and heroic were all the monkeys and bears, and moreover, they have Lord Rama upon their heads. I say, Ravana, they could conquer millions of Deaths in battle.”
“For even Sesa with his hundred thousand mouths could not describe the vast strength, intelligence, and splendor of Rama. With one arrow he could dry up a hundred oceans, yet he asked your brother, skilled in strategy, O civilized one. Hearing his course, He went to the ocean to ask for a path through, with compassion in His heart.”
The ten-headed one laughed. “Such is his wit, that he has made monkeys his allies and following the words of a born coward, stubbornly dug in before the ocean, demanding what could not be had. Fool, why do you bestow false praise? I have understood the enemy’s strength and intellect. He whose counselor is the frightened Vibhishana, how could there be victory for him?”
The messengers grew angry on hearing the words of the wicked one and took out the letter. “Rama’s younger brother gave this letter. Lord, read it and cool your chest.”
Smiling, Ravana took it in his left hand. He then called a minister and began to have it read.
“Your mind has been beguiled by flattering words. O rascal, do not bring your race to ruin. One who has enmity toward Rama will be not saved, not even by taking refuge in Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva. Either abandon pride, like your younger brother, and become a bee at the lotus feet of the Lord, or become a wretch, a moth in the fire of Rama’s arrows, together with your race.”
Hearing those words, the ten-faced one felt fear in his heart, but kept a smile on his face and spoke, making sure he was heard by all, “Like one who falls to the ground and grasps with his hands toward the sky, this is how the little ascetic's words sound.”
Shuka replied, “My lord, this speech is all true. Please, abandon pride, hear my words and set aside your anger. Lord, abandon enmity toward Rama. Very tender is the nature of Raghubira, though He is the king of all worlds. On meeting him, the Lord will show you grace. He will hold not even a single offense in his heart.”
“Please, return Janaka’s daughter to the Lord of Raghus. This much of my word, O lord, please do.”
At the mention of returning Vaidehi, the scoundrel struck him with his foot.
Shuka bowed his head at Ravana’s feet then went to the place of the ocean of mercy. He offered obeisance and told his story. By Rama’s grace, he then returned to his original state. By the sage Agastya’s curse, O Bhavani, the wise sage had become a demon. After worshipping Rama’s feet again and again, the sage set foot toward his old hermitage.
Three days had elapsed and the ocean, dull and unresponsive, would not heed the Lord’s humble request. Then Rama spoke with anger, “Without fear, there is no love.”
“Lakshmana, bring My bow and arrow. I shall dry up this ocean Myself. Humble entreaty before a fool, friendship with the deceitful, proper conduct with a born miser, talking of wisdom before the very worldly, of renunciation to the very greedy, of peace to the very angry, and of Hari’s stories to the very lustful; all are like sowing seeds on barren land.”
Having said this, the Lord raised his bow, which pleased Lakshmana. The Lord fitted His dreadful arrow and a flame arose within the heart of the ocean. The multitudes of sea creatures, serpents, and fish felt fear. When the ocean perceived the creatures of the ocean burning, with a golden platter filled with jewels, he came in the form of a Brahmin, abandoning his pride.
One may water a plantain tree with ten million efforts, but only when cut does it bear fruit. Listen, O lord of birds, only when rebuked do the lowly bend.
Filled with fear, the ocean grasped the Lord’s feet.
“Forgive me, Lord, for all of my faults. Sky, air, fire, water, and earth, Lord, they all are by nature stiff and unmoving. Impelled by Your Maya they were produced for the sake of creation, all the scriptures declare this. Lord, to whomever receives Your command, whatever it may be, that one attains happiness in living by it. Lord, you have done right in giving me this lesson and establishing Your rule. A drum, an uncultured swine, a slave, an animal, and a woman; all deserve to be beaten. By the Lord’s might I shall dry up and the army will cross, though I will have none of the glory. But the Lord’s command is irrevocable, so the Vedas sing, so I shall quickly do what pleases you.”
Hearing these words of submission, the Lord smiled and said, “Tell Me, dear one, by what means may the monkey army cross.”
“Lord, Nila and Nala, the two monkey brothers, received a sage’s blessing in childhood. With their touch, and always by Your power, even heavy mountains will float on the ocean. Moreover, keeping the Lord’s greatness in my heart, I will lend my strength to the best of my ability. In this manner, Lord, let the ocean be bridged and this glorious fame be sung across the three worlds.” With this arrow, strike down, Lord, the one who resides on my northern bank, that wicked mass of sins.
Seeing the ocean’s distress, Rama, ever merciful and powerful, immediately removed it. The ocean rejoiced at Rama’s strength and prowess and became happy once more. He related to the Lord the entire account and, after worshipping his feet, departed.
The ocean returned to his dwelling, his counsel pleasing Sri Raghupati. This story is the remover of impurity in the Kali Yuga. According to his own understanding, the servant Tulasi has sung it. The abode of happiness, the quieter of doubt, the subduer of sorrow; these are Raghupati’s host of virtues, abandoning all hopes and desires, rely only on singing and listening to them constantly, O foolish mind.
The singing of the Lord of Raghu’s virtues is the giver of all auspiciousness. Those who hear it with reverence cross over the ocean of worldly existence with no ship.