Produced by James Simmons.
This file was produced from page images at the Internet Archive.
Transcriber's Note
This book was transcribed from scans of several different copies of the
original found at the Internet Archive. The typesetters of the original
book represented the letter a (with a macron above) as a (with
circumflex above) when italicized, but this etext uses the macron
throughout. Words in italics in this etext were italicized in the
original book. I have corrected obvious misspellings but I've left
variant spellings alone. Some words and names, like _yojana_ and
_Garuda_, were spelled two different ways in the same text. I have
spelled them consistently to avoid confusion.
THE RAMAYANA
Translated into English Prose from the original Sanskrit of Valmiki
YUDDHA KANDAM.
EDITED AND PUBLISHED BY
MANMATHA NATH DUTT, M. A.
Rector, Keshub Academy.
Printed By Girish Chandra Chackravarti, Deva Press, 65/2, Beadon Street.
CALCUTTA. 1893
[All rights reserved.]
YUDDHAKANDAM. .....................................................
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YUDDHAKANDAM.
SECTION I.
Hearing the words of Hanuman rehearsed properly, Rama, exceedingly
delighted, said,--"By Hanuman hath been performed a very great deed,
rare on earth, and one incapable of being even conceived by any other in
the world. Save Garuda and the Wind-god, and save also Hanuman, him find
I not who crosseth the wide ocean. Entering by main force the city of
Lanka, incapable of being subjugated by the gods and Danavas and
Yakshas, the Gandharbas, serpents or Rakhas, and well protected by
Ravana,--who, living, cometh out (of it)? And who that is not the
compeer of Hanuman in strength and prowess, even entereth into (Lanka),
hard to subdue, and carefully guarded by the Rakshasas? And having so
put forth his strength commensurate with his prowess, Hanuman hath also
performed a great act befitting a servant on behalf of Sugriva.[1] That
servant who, being entrusted with a hard task,--after having
accomplished it, doeth another work in pursuance of (the prescribed
business), is the best of men. That servant is middling, who, deputed to
any task,[2] doth not, albeit capable, perform any other work which may
be dear to the king. And that servant who, entrusted with any work the
king, doth not, although competent, heedfully accomplish the same, hath
been called the worst. Anent the order (which he had received), Hanuman
hath done the work (and more). He hath not been humbled,[3]--and,
further, hath pleased Sugriva. And by seeing Vaidehi, (Hanuman hath),
while reaping righteousness, saved me, the Raghu race, and the highly
powerful Lakshmana. And this pained my mind sore, that I cannot do a
like benefit, returning this dear office of his. Embrace expresseth the
all (of the Deity),[4] and, finding this occasion, I extend my embrace
unto the high-souled Hanuman". Having said this, Rama, with his down
standing on end in joy, embraced the self-controlled Hanuman, who was
present after having finished his speech. Then reflecting for a while,
the best of the Raghus again spoke in the presence of Sugriva, lord of
monkeys. "Complete success hath been attained anent the search for Sita.
But when I think of the ocean, my mind is again sunk in dejection. How
can the assembled monkeys go over to the southern shore of the vasty
deep, difficult to cross? This tidings thou hast related unto me
touching Vadehi, but what are the monkeys to do next about crossing the
sea?" Having said this unto Hanuman, that slayer of foes, mighty-armed
Rama, agitated by anxiety, was then plunged in thought.
[1] Having seen Sita--which was all that he had been commissioned to
do by Sugriva, Hanuman has destroyed Rakshasas and burnt Lanka;
and this he did of himself like a good servant.--T.
[2] i.e. _performing the entrusted work.--T._
[3] _By the Rakskasas.--T._
[4] The commentator explains this obscure passage after his own
orthodox fashion. The gist is this. Delight is the essence of the
Deity, and all His incarnations body forth this. Embrace is
typical of this emotion.--T.
SECTION II.
Then the graceful Sugriva spake words capable of soothing sorrow, unto
Dacaratha's son, Rama, who was wrought up with grief,--"Why, O hero,
dost thou grieve, like one that is base? Let not this be so. Chase away
thy grief, even as an ingrate resigneth amity. Nor, O Raghava, when the
whereabouts of Sita hath been discovered, and when too the abode itself
of the foe hath been known, do I perceive the reason of thy sorrow.
Thou, O Raghava, art intelligent, conversant with learning, wise, and
judicious. Do thou cast away this sorry way of thinking, even as a
self-controlled (ascetic) casteth away any course of thought interfering
with the attainment of his purpose. Crossing over the ocean swarming
with gigantic alligators, we shall enter Lanka and slay thy enemy. Of a
person that is dispirited and poor in pluck and that hath his soul
overwhelmed with grief, every interest droopeth, and he cometh by
misfortunes (one after another). All these heroes, these leaders of
monkey-hordes, who are ardent for thy welfare, are competent to enter
into fire itself. From their cheerful attitude I know this, and firm is
my faith. It behoveth thee so to arrange things that, slaying the foe,
Ravana of impious acts, we may bring hither Sita by our own prowess. Do
thou, O Raghava, so order matters that a bridge may be constructed (over
the main), and that we may behold the palace of the Rakshasa monarch. We
having seen the city of Lanka, established on the summit of Trikuta, do
thou for certain conclude Ravana as slain in battle immediately after
(we see her). Without throwing a bridge over the ocean--the dread abode
of Varuna--even the Asuras and celestials with Indra (at their head) are
unequal to subduing Lanka. When the bridge over the ocean hath been
constructed up to near Lanka, and when my forces have crossed (over the
sea), consider victory as secured. As these monkeys are heroic in fight,
and able to wear forms at will, O king, do not let thy intellect get
stupified and thus mar all interests. In this world, sorrow berefts
people of their prowess. Do thou do even what should be done by a
man--summon thy manliness; for what an actor doeth promptly, conduceth
to his success. At this time, O eminently wise one, do thou realise
goodness through thy energy.[5] Of heroic, high-souled, men like
thyself, on their sustaining an entire or a partial loss, grief undoeth
every interest. Therefore, the foremost of intelligent persons, and
conversant with every lore, thou shouldst along with councilors like me,
strive to beat thy foe. Find I none in the three worlds, O Raghava, who
can stay in fight before thee equipped with thy bow. Thy business
entrusted to these monkeys shall not (anyway) suffer. And soon, crossing
over the boundless main, thou shalt behold Sita. Therefore, O king,
renounce thy sorrow, and call up wrath. Those Kshatriyas that conceive
no anger in respect of their enemies, have their activity annulled; and
all fear furious persons. Drawing nigh unto us, do thou, gifted with
acute intelligence, cast about for crossing over the dreadful deep--lord
of streams--along with us. On these forces getting beyond the ocean, do
thou take it for certain that we have won; and when my whole host hath
reached the further shore, do thou indubitably conclude that we have
obtained victory. These monkeys, heroic and capable of assuming in fight
forms at will, shall slaughter those foes by showering rocks and trees.
If I see any means of crossing the ocean, Varuna's abode, I shall, O
destroyer of foes, deem him as slain in battle. And what is the use of
dilating? Every way thou shalt prove victorious. And I see omens, and my
mind is filled with delight".
[5] _i.e._ as I understand this rather obscure passage, _prove thou
good through thy vigor--secure victory to the cause of goodness
through thy might._--T
SECTION III.
Hearing Sugriva's speech, reasonable and fraught with high sense,
Kakutstha accorded his assent to it and spoke unto Hanuman, saying,--"By
asceticism, or constructing a a bridge, or drying up the
ocean,--competent every way am I for crossing over this ocean. Of
impracticable places, tell me how many there are in (Lanka), which are
incapable of being come at. O monkey, as thou hast seen personally, I
wish to get acquainted with all this. And thou hast at thy leisure duly
noticed in Lanka the number of the army, the inaccessibility (or
otherwise) of the gates, the defence of Lanka, and the dwellings of the
Rakshasas. Do thou faithfully relate this unto me, for thou art
observant". Hearing Rama's speech, Hanuman, offspring of the Wind-god,
foremost of those conversant with speech, again spake unto
Rama,--"Hearken! I will describe unto thee by what method is the city of
Lanka guarded and protected by the Rakshasas, how loyal the Rakshasas
are, the surpassing prosperity of Lanka, the dreadfulness of the deep,
the divisions of the forces, and the number of the elephants, horses,
cars, etc". Having said this, that best of monkeys, knowing the nature
of things, went on,--"Lanka, filled with mad elephants, ever rejoiceth.
She is great, thronging with cars and inhabited by Rakshasas. Her doors
are firmly established and furnished with massy bolts. And she hath four
wide and giant gates. (At those gates) are powerful and large arms,
stones, and engines, whereby a hostile host approaching, is opposed. At
the entrances are arrayed and set in order by bands of heroic Rakshasas,
hundreds of dreadful sharp iron _sataghnis_.[6] She hath a mighty
impassable golden wall, having its side emblazoned in the centre with
costly stones, coral, lapises and pearls. Round about is a moat,
exceedingly dreadful, with cool water, eminently grand, fathomless,
containing ferocious aquatic animals, and inhabited by fishes. At the
gates are four broad bridges, furnished with machines and many rows of
grand structures. On the approach of hostile forces, their attack is
repulsed by these machines, and they are thrown into the ditch. One
among these bridges is immovable, strong and fast established; adorned
with golden pillars and daises. O Rama, albeit Ravana hungereth for
fight, yet is he calm; and he is vigilant and ever engaged in
superintending his army. And dreadful and resembling a celestial
citadel, Lanka cannot be ascended by means of any support. She hath
fortresses composed of streams, those of hills, and artificial ones of
four kinds. And, O Raghava, she is situated on the other shore of the
ocean having its limit far away. And way there is none even for
barks,--and all sides are destitute of division. And that citadel is
built on the mountain's brow; and, resembling the metropolis of the
immortals, the exceedingly invincible Lanka is filled with horses and
elephants. And a moat and _sataghnis_ and various engines adorn the city
of Lanka, belonging to the wicked Ravana. And an _ayuta_ of Rakshasas,
dart-handed, hard to subdue,--and all fighting at the front with their
swords--protect the Eastern gate. And a _niyuta_ of Rakshasas with a
fourfold force, and with the flower of the soldiery--protect the
Southern gate. And a _prayuta_ of Rakshasas, bearing swords and shields,
and skilled in all arms, protect the Western gate. And an _arvuda_ of
Rakhas protect the Northern gate. And car-warriors and horsemen--persons
honored and sprung from noble lines--by hundreds and thousands,--and
irrepressible goblins and _kotis_ of Rakshasas, protect the garrison. I
have broken down the bridges and filled up the entrenchment. I have
burnt the city of Lanka and laid the wall low. Let us by any way
whatever cross over Varuna's abode. Do thou take it for certain that the
city of Lanka is subdued by the monkeys. What is the use of thy
reckoning the rest? Angada, Dwivida, Mainda, Jambavan, Panasa, Nala, and
the general, Nila, bounding and reaching Ravana's abode, and riving the
same consisting of woods and hills, moat and gateway, walls and
dwellings, shall, O Raghava, bring (hither) Sita. If this be so,[7] do
thou order the entire body of the army to be brought; and do thou set
out at the proper hour".
[6] A kind of fire-arms, or ancient Hindu rocket; or a stone set round
with sharp iron spikes.--According to Ramanuya, a sort of mace
about two yards in length, with spikes.--T.
SECTION IV.
Hearing Hanuman's speech duly from the beginning, the exceedingly
energetic Rama having truth for his prowess, said,--"What thou
sayest--'I shall speedily destroy the city of this dreadful Raksha,'--is
true, I tell thee. Therefore, at this very moment arrange for Sugriva's
march. The Sun hath attained his meridian at this proper moment, capable
of conferring victory.[8] Let Ravana carry away Sita (to his own
country),--whither shall Ravana, living, repair? Like a dying person who
hath taken a death-dispelling drug and drunk ambrosia, Sita, hearing of
my preparations for war, shall inspire hope of life. To-day the Northern
Phalguni (is in the ascendant); and to-morrow the moon shall be in
conjunction with Hasta.[9] O Sugriva, shall we set out, surrounded by
the entire host? The omens I witness, augur, that, having slain Ravana,
I shall bring back Janaki. The upper lid of my eye throbbeth; and it
betokeneth that my desire hath indeed been had". Then, honored by the
monkey-king as well as Lakshmana, the righteous Rama, understanding the
import of things, again said,--"Surrounded by hundreds and thousands of
fast-speeding monkeys, let Nila go ahead of this force, for surveying
the route. O Nila, do thou, O general, expeditiously take the army by a
path furnished with fruits and roots, having cool waters of the woods,
and replenished with honey. The wicked Rakshasas vitiate[10] fruits,
roots and water along the way. Thou, ever on the alert, shouldst
preserve these from the Rakshas. And, bounding down into hollow places,
mountain-fastnesses, and woods, let the rangers of the wilds, spy the
posted detachments of the enemy. Let those that are incompetent, stay
here. This business is dreadful, and we should apply our best strength
in conducting the same. Therefore let the foremost monkeys gifted with
prodigious prowess lead forth the choice portion of the army, numbering
hundreds and thousands. And let Gaja resembling a hill, and the
exceedingly powerful Gavaya, and that monkey, Gavaksha, master of the
leaping ones,[11] like a haughty bull among kine, go in the van of the
monkey-host. And let that foremost of monkeys, Rishava, go, protecting
the right wing (of the army); and let Gandha, irrisistible like an
elephant with the fragrant temporal juice trickling down, and the
vehement Gandhamadana, go,[12] protecting the left wing (of the
monkey-army). And, cheering the army, I myself, mounted on Hanuman, like
the Lord (mounted) on Airavata, shall march in the midst of the forces.
And like the lord of wealth and master of riches, mounted on
Sarvabhauma, let Lakshmana resembling the Destroyer, march forth,
mounted on Angada. And let that king of bears, the long-armed Jambavan,
Sushena, and the monkey, Vegadarci, protect the rear (of the forces)".
Hearing Raghava's words, that foremost of monkeys and lord of the army,
the exceedingly energetic Sugriva, issued his orders. And anon those
highly powerful monkeys issuing up from caves and mountain-summits,
began to bound (on all sides). Thereafter, honored by the king of
monkeys and also Lakshmana, the righteous Rama, accompanied by his
forces, set out in a southerly direction. And he marched, surrounded by
hundreds and thousands, Kotis and Ayutas of monkeys resembling
elephants. And he marching was followed by the mighty host of monkeys;
and all those maintained by Sugriva were filled with joy and betrayed
demonstrations of delight. And bounding by way of guarding the flanks of
the forces, and leaping in front of the army for pioneering, blustering,
emitting leonine roars, and uttering cries, the monkeys made towards the
south. And some partook of perfumed honey and fruits, and some bore
mighty trees, holding the sprouts. And some in pride (of strength)
suddenly raised others and threw them down. And some fell and were anon
up, and some brought others down. 'We shall slay Ravana, as also all the
rangers of the night'; thus did the monkeys roar out in the presence of
Raghava. Before (the army), Rhrishabha, the heroic Nila, and Kumuda,
along with many monkeys, went on clearing the route. In the middle were
king Sugriva, Rama and Lakshamana, environed by innumerable powerful and
terrible monkeys. And the heroic monkey, Satavali, surrounded by ten
Kotis (of troops), alone on all sides protected that monkey host. And
accompanied by an hundred Kotis, Kesari, Panasa, Gaja[13] and Arka, by
means of many protected that host on every side. And taking Sugriva
before them, Sushena, and Jambavan, surrounded by innumerable bears,
protected the rear (of the army.) And that foremost of rangers possessed
of excellence, and of restrained senses, the heroic Nila, general (of
the army), kept going round the ranks. And Valimukha, and Prajangha,
Jambha and the monkey Rabhasa, went everywhere, urging on the monkeys.
While thus marching, breathing pride of strength, those tiger-like
monkeys saw that foremost of mountains _Sahya_ crowned with hundreds of
trees, and watery expanses laughing with flowers, and beautiful tanks.
And knowing the order of Rama of dreadful wrath, that terrible and
mighty host, exceedingly terrific and resembling the bosom of the deep,
cowed down through fear, leaving behind cities and villages and
provinces, went like the deep-sounding sea. And at the side of
Dacaratha's son those heroic monkeys resembling elephants, proceeded by
bounds, like noble horses, spurred on. And those foremost of men,
mounted on the monkeys, looked beautiful like the Sun and the Moon half
eclipsed by the two mighty planets, _viz_., Rahu and Ketu. And (thus)
did the righteous Rama proceed towards the South, accompanied by his
army. Then Lakshmana, furnished with consummate sense and promptitude,
who was mounted on Angada, spoke unto Rama, inviting words, fraught with
import. "Speedily recovering Vaidehi, who hath been carried away, and
slaying Ravana, thou wilt, thy end attained, return to Ayodhya, who
shall also have her desire. O Raghava, I see all the great auspicious
omens on earth and in the sky, signifying success unto thee. Mildly and
grateful doth the blessed breeze blow behind the army, inspiring
pleasure. And the birds and beasts are crying in sonorous voices. And
all the points (of the compass) appear pleasant; and the lord of day is
cloudless. Bhrigu's son, Ucanas, also weareth for thee an auspicious
aspect, and Dhruva is without blemish. And all the _rishis_, pure and
furnished with lustre, go round Dhruva. And before us shineth the
grandfather of the high-souled Ikshwakus; the spotless Rajarshi
Tricanku, with his priest.--And stainless and free from disturbances
appeareth Visakha. This is the racial star of us, the high-souled
Ikshwakus. And Nairita, the racial star of the Nairitas, is sore
afflicted and, touched by the rod-bearing Dhumketu is in trouble. All
this is for the destruction of the Rakshasas. At the fated time, those
that are in the clutches of Death, have their stars afflicted by the
planets. And the water is dear and tastes sweet; and the woods are
stocked with fruit. And the odorous gale doth not blow strongly; and the
trees are furnished with all blossoms of of the season. And, O lord,
this host of monkeys appeareth splendid to the height, as did the
celestial host on the occasion of the destruction of Taraka. Seeing all
this, thou shouldst, O noble one, feel delighted". Having thus consoled
his brother, Sumitra's son, feeling enlivened, said this. The
monkey-host went on, covering the earth. And the mighty dust raised by
bears, monkeys, and tigers, having for their weapons nails and
teeth,--with the foreparts of their feet and hands, enveloped the world,
and the splendour of the sun was obscured. And as clouds envelope the
sky, the mighty monkey-host went on, covering up the Southern quarter
with its mountains, woods, and sky. And as they marched covering many a
_yojana_, the streams seemed as if they flowed in an opposite
direction.[14] And they, while proceeding, took rest by pools of clear
water, on mountains covered with trees, on plains and in forests teeming
with fruits. Some moving straight, some moving askance, and some moving
on the earth, that enormous monkey-host went on covering the entire
earth. And they were all of delighted countenances and gifted with the
velocity of the wind. And these monkeys devoted all their energy to the
accomplishment of Raghava's work. And they were displaying unto each
other their joy, prowess and energy. And influenced with the vanity of
youth they set up diverse cries. Some proceeded with speed, some leaped,
some set up cries expressing joy, some were uplifting their tails, and
some were striking the ground with their feet. Some, stretching forth
their arms, were breaking the hills, and others the trees. And others
were ascending the tops of the hills. Some began to make terrible
sounds, and others made a tingling noise. And many others blasted the
creepers with the velocity of their thighs. And some were engaged in
sporting with trees and rocks. And thus was the earth enveloped with
millions and _kotis_ of fearful monkeys. And thus the enormous monkey
host went on day and night. And all those monkeys, delighted, guided by
Sugriva, and taking delight in battle, went on speedily. And they did
not take rest even for a moment, desirous of rescuing Sita. Thereupon,
getting at the mount _Sahya_ covered with various trees and forests,
those monkeys ascended it. And Rama went on beholding the variegated
forest, rivers and fountains of the mount _Sahya_ and _Malaya_. And
those monkeys broke down various trees--_Champakas_, _Tilakas, mangos,
*Prasekas_, _Sindubarakas_, _Tinicas_ and _Karaviras_, _Asokas_,
_Karanjas_, _Plakshas_, _Nyagrodhas_, _Jambukas_ and _Amalakas_. And
seated on picturesque rocks, various forest trees, shaken by the wind,
showered flowers on them. And there blew in those forests filled with
the smell of honey, a wind of pleasant touch, cool as the Moon,
accompanied by the hummings of the bees. And that mount was richly
embellished with diverse metals. And dust issuing from these metals and
thickened by the air, enveloped on all sides the huge monkey-host. There
blossomed in that picturesque mountain-vale _Ketakas_, _Sindubaras_,
beautiful _Vasantees_, _Madhabis_, _Gandhapurnas_, _Kandas_,
_Chiravilyas_, _Mahikas_, _Vanjulas_, _Vakulas_, _Ranjakas_, _Tilakas_,
_Nagas_, _Chutas_, _Patalikas_, _Kobidaras_, _Muchlindas_, _Arjunas_,
_Singsapas_, _Kutajas_, _Pintalas_, _Tinicas_, _Churnkas_, _Neepakas_,
_Neela-Sokas_, _Saralas_, _Ankolas_ and lotuses. And all these trees
were greatly disturbed by those monkeys, delighted with their view.
There were in that mountain many a picturesque lake and pond filled with
_Chakravakas_ and _Karandavas_, ducks, _Chraunchas_ and the mount
abounded on all sides with boars, deer, and terrible bears, lions and
tigers and various other fearful animals, and it was beautified with
full blown lotuses, lilies, _Utpalas_ and various other fragrant trees
growing in the water. And various birds set up their musical choir on
the summit of that mount. And bathing and drinking, these monkeys
sported in the water. And ascending the mount these monkeys continually
bounded. And excited with drink, they crumbled into pieces the
ambrosia-smelling fruits, roots and flowers of the trees. And those
monkeys yellow as honey, delighted, feasted on mangoes, long and
measuring a _drona_. Breaking down the trees, blasting the creepers,
bounding from one tree to another and making the mount _Sahya_ echo,
those leading monkeys went on delighted and excited with drink. Some
ascending the trees, and others drinking, the whole earth was enveloped
with those monkeys, and seemed as if beautified with ripe paddy crops.
And reaching the mount Mahendra, the large-armed Rama, having eyes like
lotuses, ascended the summit adorned with diverse trees. And getting at
the top, Dacaratha's son espied the vast deep filled with tortoises and
fishes. Thereupon, passing by the mounts _Sahya_ and _Malaya_ and
arranging their enormous host, they[15] by and by reached the roaring
deep. And descending therefrom, Rama, the foremost of those who minister
happiness unto all, accompanied by Lakshmana and Sugriva, entered the
forest situate on the banks of the ocean. And reaching the expansive
banks having rocks thereon and continually washed by the rising billows,
Rama spoke saying,--"O Sugriva we have arrived at the abode of Varuna.
Now hath arisen in my mind what I had not thought of before. And this
ocean, the lord of the streams, whose other side is not seen, cannot be
crossed over without some excellent measure. Let the monkey-host be
encamped here therefore, and then concert a plan by means of which they
might get at the other side. And reaching the shores of the ocean, the
large-armed Rama, stricken with grief for Sita, ordered their
encampment, saying,--"O foremost of monkeys, do thou encamp thy host on
the brink of the ocean. Now hath arrived the hour for counsel, when we
should devise some plan for crossing over the main. I fear the Rakshasas
at every step, for they are greatly illusion creating--let the leaders
therefore go to their own hosts and let them not proceed anywhere else,
renouncing them". Hearing the words of Rama, Sugriva along with
Lakshmana, encamped the army on the brink of the ocean covered with
trees. And stationed near the main, the monkey-host in consequence of
their resemblance in colour with the blue contents of the deep, looked
like a second ocean. Thereupon, reaching the shore, those leading
monkeys engaged in concerting a plan to cross over the vasty deep. And
the tumult, of that monkey-host encamped there, was heard above the
roaring of the deep. And that huge army of the monkeys commanded by
Sugriva, and set up in three divisions, were deeply concerned with the
accomplishment of Rama's work. And reaching the shore of the vasty deep,
that monkey host, delighted, beheld the ocean moved by the Wind. And
they waited there beholding the deep of unimpeded expanse, having its
distant shore inhabited by the demons, and thronged with various aquatic
animals. While upheaving its foam on the approach of eve, it appeared
laughing and setting up its surges, it appeared to dance. It increased
with the rising of the Moon and he reflected himself on its breast. That
abode of Varuna was infested with gigantic sharks, whales and
_Timingalas_[16], disturbed with the fury of the Wind, filled with
serpents having flaming frames, and various aquatic animals and rocks
and was fathomless deep. It had picturesque fortresses on its marge and
its other shore was hard to get at. And the _Makaras_[17] and serpents
living therein were moved by the Wind. The waters, as if delighted, were
rising and falling. And having serpents of flaming frames underneath, it
appeared as if sprinkled with scintillations of fire. And that terrible
abode of the demons extended down to the regions inhabited by the
_Nagas_ or serpents. The deep resembled the welkin and the welkin the
deep, and there appeared no difference between them. The sky crested
with stars and the deep filled with gems resembled each other. The sky
enveloped with clouds and the ocean overflowing with surges presented no
contrast whatsoever. The waves of the mighty deep beating at each other
continually, set up a sound resembling that of a trumpet in the sky. It
was filled with diverse gems and its water was poisoned by means of the
air. It was filled with various aquatic animals, and upheaving its
billows, it appeared as if excited with ire. And there beheld those
high-souled monkeys the mighty main agitated by the Wind and muttering
as if with the upheaval of the waves. Thereupon, overwhelmed with
surprise, those monkeys, stationed there, espied the main brimming with
rolling waters and moving as if (off its place).
[7] _Ebam ajnapaya_: Ramanuja reads sense into this passage. _If thou
wishest the principal monkeys to go, bring them; if thou wish the
whole host to march, call it hither, and march at the auspicious
moment.--T._
[8] The moment is named _abhijit.--T._
[9] Hasta sprung from Punarvasu is the star of doom, portending death
to Ravana. The Northern Phalguni is Sita's natal star. The
expedition begun during the influence of this star, augurs
deliverance to Vaidehi.--T.
[10] By means of poison, _etc.--T._
[11] _i.e._ monkeys.--T.
[12] The verb is singular, instead of dual, as also the qualifying
epithet, _Parcamadishthita_. But the sense is clear.--T.
[13] Some other than the first-mentioned Gaja.--T.
[14] Kataka remarks:--"As when clouds drift past, the Moon it is that
seems to scud across the sky, as the monkey-army marched on, the
rivers seemed to flow in an opposite direction". Ramanuya says
that the waters of the streams dashed by the monkeys, held an
opposite course. The former interpretation is hardly satisfactory,
and Ramanuya seems to be right.--T.
[15] The monkey leaders.--T.
[16] A large fabulous fish.--T.
[17] A marine monster confounded usually with the crocodile and
shark.--T.
SECTION V.
There on the northern shore of the ocean the army was encamped and
arranged in order by Nila. And the two leading monkeys Mainda and Divida
patrolled about on all sides to protect the monkey host. And the army
being encamped on the shore of the lord of streams and rivers, Rama,
beholding Lakshmana by his side, spoke, saying--"I know that grief
abates as time passes by, but my sorrow arising from the separation of
my spouse, is increasing day by day. I am not sorry that she hath been
stealthily taken away by the demon--but my sorrow is that her end is
drawing nigh. O Wind, do thou go there where my dear spouse is, and
touching her person, do thou touch me, for I shall then be happy
stationing my looks in the Moon and being touched by thee. Alas! my dear
one cried 'O lord, O lord' when she was taken away. Those words,
revolving burn me like poison. I am now being burnt down day and night
by the fire of desire, having separation from her for its fuel and her
thoughts for its flame. Leaving thee, O Son of Sumitra, I shall jump
into the deep and then shall not this fire burn me any more. This is my
only consolation, for which I draw my vital breath--that myself and she
breathe on the same earth. Like unto a dry land drawing water from a
watered ground, I do live, hearing that Janaki still survives. When
shall I, discomfitting my enemies, behold Sita, having a beautiful waist
and eyes resembling lotus-petals, as a victorious hero beholdeth the
royal Grace. Like unto the sick drinking the _elixir_ of life, when
shall I, raising a little her lotus-like countenance having graceful
teeth and lips, imprint kisses thereon? And when shall she, laughing,
embrace me with her rising breast resembling the palm fruit? Alas that
chaste dime having scarlet corners of the eye, being encircled by the
demons, is wishing for a protector like unto one having no husband,
albeit having a husband in me. How fareth in the midst of the
she-demons, that daughter of the king Janaka, my beloved spouse, and the
daughter-in-law of king Dacaratha? And having those Rakshasas, hard to
repress, slain by me, truly shall she appear like unto the rays of the
Moon extricated from sable autumnal clouds. Sita is constitutionally
slender, and forsooth, she has been greatly reduced by sorrow, fasting
and calamities touching time and place. When shall I, piercing with my
shafts the breast of the lord of Rakshasas, renounce my mind's grief?
And when shall my devoted Sita resembling the daughter of a celestial,
fling herself anxiously around my neck and shed tears of joy? And when
shall I renounce this my sorrow arising out of Maithili's separation,
like unto one casting off his soiled clothes?" The highly intelligent
Rama bewailing thus, the day passed away and the Sun, decreasing
gradually, disappeared at last. And consoled by Lakshmana, Rama,
stricken with thought touching Sita having eyes like lotus-petals,
engaged in rites relating to the worship of Eve.
SECTION VI.
Beholding in Lanka that dreadful and awe-inspiring work performed by
Hanuman like unto the high-souled Sakra, the lord of Rakshasas, looking
down with shame, addressed them all, saying--"That monkey alone hath
invaded and entered the city of Lanka hard to reach and hath espied
Sita, the daughter of king Janaka. He hath shattered the palace, and the
altar of sacrifice, slain the leading Rakshasas, and, in short, agitated
the whole city of Lanka. What shall I do now? And what should you all do
on this occasion? It behoveth you all to give me such counsel as
becometh me and will conduce to my glory". 'Victory is the outcome of
consultation'--this do the sages[18] say. Let us, therefore, O mighty
ones, engage in counsel, relating to the measures we should adopt
towards Rama. There are three orders of men on this earth--the superior
the middling and the inferior. This distinction cannot be perceived
without a knowledge of the signs, and so I shall relate unto you their
merits and demerits. He is said to belong to the superior order, whose
counsel contains the three signs (mentioned below), or who engages in
works after consulting duly with friends capable or with persons having
the same end in view, and some times with others, and who serveth
Providence. He belongs to the middle order who consults his own self
only, depends on the Providence, and engages alone in works. And he
belongs to the inferior order who engageth in works without ascertaining
their merits or demerits, disregarding the will of the Providence and
saying, 'I will do this', and is inactive (at last). And counsels are
also divided into three divisions like unto the three orders of men
(mentioned). That counsel belongs to the superior order in which the
counsellors with their judgment reinforced by a knowledge of political
ethics, are unanimous. That one belongs to the middle order in which the
counsellors after varied discussion, arrive at unanimity in the long
run. And that one is the worst in which the counsellors differ from each
other and agree a little in the long run, with no good result. You are
all gifted with good intellects: do you all unanimously settle as to
what becometh me and conduceth to my well-being. Environed by a thousand
of patient monkeys, Rama, with a view to capture our city, is
approaching towards Lanka. Forsooth, shall he cross over the main along
with his younger brother and a mighty host. He can by his prowess dry up
the ocean and do the other.[19] Rama approaching thus with a hostile
intention along with the monkeys, it behoveth you to devise such means
as might protect my city and army.
[18] _Manaswina_, according to Ramanuya, means, hero.--T.
[19] _i.e._ bridge over the ocean.--T.
SECTION VII.
Being thus accosted by their lord, the highly powerful Rakshasas, devoid
of good sense and ignorant of sound counsel, replied with folded palms,
saying,--"Thou hast, O king, enough of soldiers and weapons. Why art
thou smitten with sorrow then? Repairing to Bhagavati, thou didst
discomfit the serpents in battle. The God of Death, living on mount
Kailaca, encircled by _Yakshas_, was subjugated by thee in a great
battle. And that mighty lord of men, proud of his friendship with Siva,
was defeated by thee wrathfully in battle. Discomfitting and slaying the
band of Yakshas, thou didst bring this flowery car from the mount
Kailaca. O lord of Rakshasas, desiring thy friendship out of fear, Maya,
the king of Danavas, offered thee his daughter[20] for thy spouse. O
thou of mighty arms, thou didst bring under thy subjection the powerful
and irrepressible Danava[21] for the pleasure of _Kumbhinasi_.[22] And
entering the region under the earth, thou didst defeat the serpents--and
thus bring under thy subjection Vasuki, Takshaka, Sankha, and Jati.
Those heroic Danavas, the _Kalakeyas_, were greatly powerful,
irrepressible, and proud of the boons conferred on them. And fighting
with them perpetually for a year, thou didst bring them under thy
control, O lord, O slayer of foes, and learn from them the science of
varied illusions, O king of the Rakshasas. O great hero, by thee were
defeated in battle, the heroic and powerful sons of Varuna, followed by
a fourfold division of their army. The dominion of Death is like the
mighty main, having his rod for aquatic animals, agonies for the trees
that cover its islands, the noose for the billows, his attendants for
the serpents and his terrible fever for the dreadful attitude of the
deep. And diving into this terrible deep, thou didst, O king, discomfit
Death himself and win glorious victory. And every one was pleased there
with thy successful fight. The Earth was filled with various heroic
Kshetriyas, resembling Sakra in prowess as she is adorned now with
various trees. Raghava is not their equal either in strength or prowess.
And all those heroes, hard to repress in battle, were slain by thee, O
king. Do thou wait here, O great king; thou needst not take any trouble.
Indrajit alone shall slay all these monkeys. And this one, O mighty
monarch, having celebrated the Mahecwara[23] sacrifice, hath obtained a
noble boon, rarely (attained by persons). Having agitated the ocean of
celestial hosts, having darts and lances for its fishes, showering arms
for its moss, elephants for its tortoises, steeds for its frogs, Rudra
and Aditya for its ferocious animals, the Maruts and Vasus for its
mighty serpents, cars, horses, and elephants for its volume of waters,
and infantry for its spacious shore, this one (Indrajit), taking captive
the lord of the celestials himself, had brought him into Lanka. Then, O
king, liberated agreeably to the injunction of the Great-father, the
slayer of Samvara and Vritra, worshipped of all the celestials, went
(back) to heaven. Do thou, O great king, entrust Indrajit with this
business,--until he bringeth to destruction the monkey-host along with
Rama. O king, thou must not think that this calamity, coming from an
ignoble person is not insignificant. Thou shalt slay Raghava".
[20] This refers to Mandodari, Ravana's favourite queen.--T.
[21] This refers to Madhu.--T.
[22] Ravana's sister, who was married to Madhu.--T.
[23] Relating to Mahacwara--the great Lord, a designation of Siva.--T.
SECTION VIII.
Then that heroic general, the Rakshasa named Prahasta, possessing the
splendour of sable clouds, submitted with joined hands,--"I am competent
to baffle in battle gods and Danavas and Gandharbas, ghosts, birds and
serpents,--what then is a couple of human beings? Having been negligent
and confident (in our power), we have all been deceived by Hanuman. But,
I living, that ranger of woods shall not (again) go hence with his life.
All the earth down to the ocean, containing hills, forests and woods,
shall be rendered free from monkeys. Do thou command me. And, O ranger
of the night, I shall deliver (the Rakshasas) from the monkeys; and thou
shalt not have to suffer in the least in consequence of thy
transgression".[24] Then the Rakshasa named Durmukha, growing enraged,
said,--"This overpowering of all of us must not be forgiven--this
flagrant discomfiture of the metropolis of the auspicious lord of the
Rakshasas as well as of his inner appartment by the foremost of monkeys.
This moment marching alone (from hence) will I exterminate the monkeys,
even if they shall have entered the dreadful deep, or the sky, or the
subterranean regions". Then the exceedingly powerful Vajradanshtra,
weilding up a terrific bludgeon, stained with flesh and gore, wrathfully
observed,--"Rama the irrepressible existing, and also Sugriva with
Lakshmana, what have we to do with the weak and wretched Hanuman? This
very day, slaying single-handed Rama with Sugriva and with Lakshmana,
with this bludgeon, shall I return, after having sorely troubled the
monkey-host. And, O monarch, if thou art minded, hear this other word of
mine! Verily he that is fertile in resources and ever ready, compasseth
success. Let thousands of Rakshasas, heroic, terrible, fearful to
behold, and wearing forms at will, appointed by the lord of Rakshasas,
presenting themselves before Kakutstha in palpably human shapes, calmly
say unto that foremost of the Raghus,--'Despatched have we been by thy
younger brother.' Hearing this, he (Rama), summoning his forces without
delay, shall come hither. Then, equipped with darts, javelins and maces,
and bearing bows, arrows and scimitars in our hands, we shall swiftly
and summoning speed[25] set out (from hence); and stationing ourselves
in the sky in bands, and slaughtering the monkey-army with mighty
showers of rocks and weapons, we shall lead it to Death's door. Let us
in this wise decoy Rama and Lakshmana; and if they fall into our design,
they shall, without doubt, lose their lives". Then that hero,
Kumbhakarna's son, named Nikumbha, endowed with exceeding prowess, in
high wrath remarked unto Ravana, destroyer of worlds,--"Do ye, all of
you, stay here along with the great king. I alone shall slay Raghava
together with Lakshmana, and Sugriva with Hanuman, and all the monkeys".
Then a Rakshasa, named Vajrahanu, resembling a hill, in wrath lapping
the corners of his mouth with his tongue, said,--"Do ye, casting off
anxiety, engage yourself as ye list. I alone shall swallow up that
entire monkey-host. Do ye, remaining at ease and without anxiety, drink
_Varuna_[26] wine. I single-handed shall slay Sugriva with Lakshmana, as
well as Hanuman with Angada,--and all the monkeys.
[24] _i.e._ the ravishment of Sita.--T.
[25] _Twarita_--summoning speed--redundant.--T.
[26] _Varuna_ wine, otherwise named _Varuni_ is prepared from hog-weed,
ground with the juice of the date or palm, and then distilled.--T.
SECTION IX.
Then, in fierce wrath seizing bludgeons, and _patticas_, lances and
bearded darts and javelins, and axes, bows and excellent shafts and
swords, resembling crystelline water, sprung up the Rakshasas, Rabhasa,
and the mighty Suryyacatru, and Saptaghna, and Yajnakopa, and Mahaparcwa
and Mahodara, Agniketu the irrepressible, and the Rakshasa Racmiketu,
and the lusty Indracatru, son unto Ravana--and Prahasta, Virupaksha, and
the exceedingly strong Vajradanshtra,--and Dhumraksha, and Nikumbha, and
the Raksha Durmukha. And, flaming in energy, they all addressed Ravana,
saying,--"To-day shall we slay Rama, and Sugriva along with Lakshmana,
and the helpless Hanuman, who hath damaged Lanka. Then, preventing them,
who had (thus) equipped themselves with all kinds of weapons, and making
them sit down, Vibhishana, with joined hands, again spoke unto them,
saying,--"The wise have asserted that an appeal to prowess should be
resorted to anent a business _then_ only when the end sought cannot be
attained through the three (other) means.[27] Prowess produceth fruit
only in respect of well-advised action directed while carefully watching
(enemies) that are negligent, or captive,[28] or under Divine
affliction. But why do ye intend to discomfit (Rama), who is vigilant,
who desireth victory, who is strong in the Divine strength, who hath
subdued passion, and who is hard to subdue? Who had in this world ever
thought of or reasoned about Hanuman's career over the dreadful deep,
the lord of streams and rivers? O rangers of the night, the strength and
prowess (of the foe) being immeasurable, ye should by no means
recklessly disregard him. And what was the wrong that formerly had been
done by Rama unto the king of the Rakshasas, that he hath carried off
from Janasthana the spouse of that illustrious one? If Khara, who had
trespassed into regions not his own, hath been slain in battle by Rama,
surely a creature should to the best of his might preserve his life. It
is for this great fear that exerciseth us on the score of Vaidehi owing
its existence to this,[29] that she, having been ravished, should (now)
be given up. What is the use of acting so that quarrel may be the
consequence? And (Rama), possessed of prowess, yet ever abiding by
morality, is incapable of initiating hostilities for no purpose.
Therefore, do ye give him his Maithili. And before, he by means of his
shafts riveth this city together with her elephants and steeds,
overflowing with countless gems, do ye give him his Maithili. And before
the dreadful, irrepressible and mighty monkey-host blocketh up this
Lanka of ours, do ye give (back) Sita. This city of Lanka shall perish
as also all the heroic Rakshasas, if thou dost not thyself make over
Rama's spouse unto him. I exert myself to pleasure thee, because of the
fraternity (that subsisteth between us). Do what I say. I say what is
truth and what also is for thy good. Do thou render (back) Rama's
Maithili. Ere yet the king's son, for compassing thy destruction,
showereth sure shafts resembling the rays of the autumnal Sun, having
shining heads and feathered parts, and exceedingly hard, do thou render
Maithili unto Dacarathi. Forsake thy wrath at once, which destroyeth
happiness and virtue; and follow righteousness, which enhanceth
enjoyment and fame. Be thou propitious,--so that we may live (at ease)
along with our sons and relatives! Render (back) Maithili unto
Dacaratha's son". Having heard Vibhishana's speech, Ravana--lord of
Rakshasas--I leaving all of them, entered his own chamber.
[27] _Viz_., conciliation, gift, and creating division.--T.
[28] In the hands of other enemies.--T.
[29] The feeling of revenge for the slaughter of Khara and the
rest.--T.
SECTION X.
Then early in the morning, like the fiery and refulgent sun entering a
mighty mass of clouds, Vibhishana, fast to virtue and interest, heroic
and possessed of exceeding splendour, playing a perilous part,[30]
entered the apartment of his elder brother, resembling an assemblage of
mountain-summits and elevated like the peak of a mountain, orderly,
divided into spacious rooms,--the resort of the great--inhabited by
august and intelligent persons attached (to Ravana); guarded around by
lusty Rakshasas in limited numbers; having the air agitated by the
breath of mad elephants; with loud blares of conchs, and resounding with
trumpets; embosoming numbers of beautiful damsels, with its high-ways
(overflowing with talk); furnished with doors of polished gold;
embellished with excellent ornaments; resembling the abode of the
Gandharbas, or the mansion of the Maruts; containing heaps of gems; like
unto the dwelling of serpents. And that one of exceeding energy heard
sacred and holy sounds uttered by Veda-versed Brahmanas celebrating the
victory of his brother; and that highly powerful (hero) acquainted with
Mantras and the Vedas saw Vipras worshipped with vessels of curds,
clarified butter, flowers and fried paddy. And the mighty-armed
(Vibhishana) saluted the younger brother of the bestower of riches,[31]
seated there. And that one acquainted with manners, after proper
courtesy, sat him down on a seat decked in gold, which was pointed out
(by a royal glance). And in retirement as also in presence only of his
counsellors, Vibhishana spoke unto the high souled Ravana words backed
by reason, and greatly fraught with his welfare. And having, with
soothing speech, pacified his elder brother and extended towards him the
due civilities, that one, who through height of sentiment had noted
excellence and the want of it, addressed (Vibhishana) in words befitting
the occasion and the place,--"Ever since, O subduer of enemies, Vaidehi
hath come hither, are seen inauspicious omens. Fire, enveloped in smoke
at the time of its being ignited, and thereafter throwing out
scintillations, with its brightness obscured by vapour, doth not
increase adequately even on oblations being poured into it with Mantras.
Reptiles are discovered in kitchens, sacrificial fire-chambers, and the
places of Vaidika recitations; and ants (are found) in clarified butter.
The milk of the kine hath been dried up; and the nobler elephants are
without the temporal juice. And horses, albiet they have feasted on
fresh grass, neigh distressfully.[32] And asses, camels and mules, O
king, with their hair standing erect, shed tears; and although they are
ministered unto medically, they do not return to nature. And crows in
numbers emit harsh cries on all sides, and are seen in swarms at the
tops of edifices. Vultures sit sadly and distressed upon the roofs of
houses. During the two twilights, the jackals, coming in sight, utter
ominous howls. And wolves and other (ferocious) animals, as well as
deer, approaching the gate of the palace in swarms, are heard to set up
loud roars resembling the thunder. Things having come to this pass, even
this expiation, I fancy, is capable of removing the evil omens. Do thou
render back Vaidehi unto Raghava. If I have said this through ignorance
or covetuousness, thou ought not, O mighty monarch, criminate me. All
Rakshasas and Rakshasis, as well as those belonging to palace and the
inner apartment--shall have to experience the evil consequence (of this
act of thine). All the counsellors have retrained from tendering this
counsel unto thee; but surely I must tell thee what I have seen or
heard; and adopting proper measures, it behoveth thee to act so".[33]
(Ravana's) brother, Bibhishana, thus spoke, unto his brother, the chief
of Rakshas, in the midst of counsellors, these words fraught with his
good. Hearing this beneficial, mild and pregnant speech, fortified by
reasons and capable of compassing (his welfare) for the present, past
and the future, (Ravana) who had conceived a passion (for Sita), getting
into a rage, replied,--"Fear find I none whatever. Raghava never shall
have Mithila's daughter. Even if Lakshmana's elder brother should be
supported in battle by the celestials with Indra (at their head), how
can he stay before me (in the field)?" Having said this, that destroyer
of celestial hosts, the Ten-necked one, possessed of mighty strength and
of terrific prowess in battle, then dismissed his brother Vibhishana,
who had spoken truth.
[30] The project he had conceived, via., converting Ravana to his own
policy of pacification, was fraught with peril to himself,
considering his brother's fierce temperament.--T.
[31] Kuvera.--Ravana was Kuvera's younger brother.--T.
[32] The commentator remarks, evidently with justice--"That is, the
horses, having eaten their fill, still hunger".--T.
[33] In accordance with my suggestion.--T.
SECTION XI.
The unrighteous king, overmastered by his passion (for Sita), in
consequence of his sinful act as well as the loss of honor he sustained
at the hands of his friends, became reduced. And the occasion for war
was wanting. Ravana, possessed by lust, and continually thinking of
Vaidehi, conceived along with his counsellors that the time for entering
into hostilities had arrived. And sallying forth, he ascended a mighty
car furnished with golden network, adorned with pearls and coral, and
yoked with trained steeds. And having ascended that excellent vehicle,
having sounds resembling those of mighty clouds, that foremost of
Rakshas, the Ten necked one, drove towards the court. And as he coursed
on, Rakshasas, bearing swords and shields, and carrying all kinds of
weapons, went before the lord of the Rakshasas. And (some of) these,
wearing various frightful suits, and decked with diverse ornaments,
went, surrounding his rear and flanks. And _atirathas_ went with cars,
and superb mad elephants, and sportive steeds; and bearing in their
hands maces and bludgeons; and darts and clubs. And as Ravana marched
towards the court, there arose the loud blares of thousand trumpet, and
the uproarious sounds of conches. And that redoubtable and mighty
car-warrior held his course, suddenly making sides resound, and
beautifying the highways. And the spotless white umbrella of the lord of
Rakshasas, being raised up, looked beautiful like the Moon at her full.
On his right and left graced two crystal white chowris furnished with
threads of gold. And all the Rakshasas standing on the ground with
joined hands, bow down their heads to the foremost of Rakshasas who was
seated on his car. Hymned by the Rakshasas with blessings for victory,
that exceedingly energetic chastiser of enemies arrived at the court
constructed (by Vicwakarma). And that highly energetic one in person
entered that court paved with silver and gold, having its heart
decorated with crystal, and gracefully covered with silk, embroidered
with gold; excellently constructed by Vicwakarma, and guarded by six
hundred ghosts. And Ravana sat down on a superior and august seat
consisting of lapises, furnished with a pillow; and covered with a soft
dear-skin. And lord-like, he commanded the envoys possessed of fleet
vigor, saying, "Do ye speedily summon hither the Rakshasas. I fan some
mighty effort hath to be put forth against our foes. Hearing his words,
the envoys began to range Lanka; and going to every house, they
fearlessly collected the Rakshas from places of sport, bed-rooms, and
gardens. Then some set out, mounting cars, and some mounting proud
coursers, and some on foot. And like the welkin filled with fowls, the
city thronged with approaching cars, elephants and steeds. And leaving
their various vehicles and cars behind, they entered the court on foot,
like lions entering mountain caverns. And taking the feet of the
sovereign, and honored by him (in turn), they sat them down, some on
raised seats, some on cushions of Kuca, and some on the floor. And
presenting themselves agreeably to the command of the monarch, they sat
them down each according to his position, before the lord of Rakshasas,
Ravana. And there came also the learned and competent to arrive at
infallible decisions, and they sat them down in order of merit. And
there also came courtiers endowed with virtues, versed in every thing,
and having intelligence for their eye-sight,--and innumerable heroes by
hundreds also (arrived) at that court for ascertaining the course that
would prove beneficial. And then mounting a large, noble and splendid
car, having its parts decked with gold, and yoked with horses, the
magnanimous and renowned Vibhishana went to the court of his elder
brother. And that younger brother (of Ravana), announcing his name,
bowed down at the feet of his elder brother. And Suka and Prahasta were
employed in giving to each a separate seat befitting his rank. And from
all sides in the court there began to spread the odour of excellent
_agura_ and sandal and wreaths belonging to the Rakshasas, decked in
gold and various gems, and clad in costly attires. And no one among
these present at court uttered any thing, or spoke any falsehood, or
conversed in loud accents. And having completely attained their desire,
all of fierce prowess, gazed at the face of their lord. And in the
assembly of those intelligent, and exceedingly powerful persons,
equipped with arms, the intelligent Ravana appeared splendid like the
Vajra-handed Indra among the Vasus.
SECTION XII.
Then surveying that entire assembly, that conqueror in battle delivered
himself unto Prahasta,--general of the forces, saying,--"O general, it
behoveth thee so to order disciplined fourfold forces that they may
successfully protect the city". Thereat, Prahasta, carefully carrying
out the royal behest, stationed all the forces within and without the
city. And having posted the army for the defence of the city, Prahasta
sitting down before the king, said,--"I have stationed the forces
belonging to thee who art possessed of strength, inside as well as
outside. (Now), without suffering thy mind to be agitated with anxiety,
speedily, do what is in thy heart. Hearing the speech of Prahasta
seeking the welfare of the kingdom, Ravana craving for enjoyment spoke
in the midst of his aderents,--"When virtue, or happiness, or interest
is in straits, it behoveth you to (know your course) in relation to
pleasant and unpleasant, happiness and misery, profitable and
unprofitable, and good and evil. No business of mine which ye have set
about after taking counsel, hath ever miscarried. And like Vasava
environed by the moon, stars and planets, and the Maruts, I surrounded
by you, have attained to plenitude of prosperity. I am, for certain,
going to employ you all. In consequence of sleep, I could not inform him
of this matter. After having slept for six months that one of prodigious
strength--foremost of those bearing arms--hath just risen. Janaka's
daughter and Rama's beloved wife hath been brought hither from the
forest of Dandaka, the region ranged by Rakshas. That indolent damsel
wisheth not to ascend my bed; nor is there any in the three spheres,
that to me is like unto Sita. She is slender waisted, and high-hipped,
and her face is as the autumnal Moon resembling a golden image. She is
meek and looketh like the hand work of Maya himself gifted with an
infinite variety of fascinations.[34] And beholding her dainty and
tender feet with roseate soles, and having coppery nails, my mind
burneth (with desire). And seeing her resembling the flame of a
sacrificial fire and the splendour of the Sun himself; and her fair face
furnished with a prominent nose and elegant eyes, I, having lost control
over self, have come under the sway of desire. And my passion,
uninfluenced by anger and joy, capable of producing pallor, and
constantly causing anguish and sorrow, hath rendered me pale. Expecting
her lord, Rama, the beautiful one having expansive eyes, hath solicited
for a year's space; and I have pledged my fair woods to her of graceful
eyes. But tired am I on account of my passion,--like a horse spent on
the way. How can the rangers of the woods, or the sons of Dacaratha
cross over the sea ungovernable and swarming with countless creatures
and fishes? On the other hand, a single month hath troubled us
grievously. Hard it is therefore to understand the course of events. Do
ye act, each as he thinks proper. And although no fear can come from
mortals, yet ye should deliberate (as to what ye should do). Formerly I
had gained victory with the help given by you; do ye in the same way
stand by me now. The king's son, having learnt that Sita is on the other
shore of the ocean, taking before them monkeys headed by Sugriva,
reached Varuna's abode. Do ye so counsel that Sita may be with-holden by
me and the sons of Dacaratha may be slain; but ye must prefer certain
counsel. No other[35] person in this world hath the power to cross the
sea along with the monkeys,--victory, therefore, is undubitably mine".
Hearing the sorrowful speech of (Ravana) afflicted with lust,
Kumbhakarna greatly enraged, and said,--"When just on seeing (Sita) of
Rama along with Lakshmana, thou didst by main force carry her away, it
plainly appeareth that thy mind, like the Yamuna filling her bed, hath
been possessed (by her).[36] O great king, all this (that thou hast
done) is not worthy of thee. If thou hadst at the outset consulted us in
this matter, we would have done what was proper.[37] O ten-faced one,
the king that arriving at certain conclusions, carrieth on his regal
affairs agreeably to justice, hath not to repent afterwards. But those
actions that are done without deliberation, like unto clarified butter
poured in an impure sacrifice, conduces only to harm. He doth not know
what is proper and what not, that performs prior actions afterwards, and
posterior actions first. Others spy holes in the actions of the
volatile; the latter may be possessed of great power,--like swans
passing Krauncha through the hole.[38] By luck it is that Rama hath not
yet slain thee, who hath done this tremendous thing, without reflection,
resembling food mixed with poison. But as thou hast entered upon a
course of action which is improper even in respect of foes, I will, O
sinless one, perform thy work by slaying thy enemies. And, O ranger of
the night, I will exterminate thy foe. Even if Sakra and the sun-god,
even if fire and the War-god, even if Kuvera and Varuna should range
themselves against me, I will fight them. Purandara himself shall be
afflicted with fright when I have my body measuring a mountain, and
furnished with sharp teeth, shall, setting up roars, fight with my huge
bludgeon. Before Rama shooteth a second shaft, to slay me, I shall drink
his life-blood. Be thou comforted by slaying Dacaratha's son, I will
exert to secure blessed victory for thee. Having killed Rama along with
Lakshmana, I shall devour all the principal monkeys. Do thou make merry
at thy will, drink the Varuni, and, with thy mind set at rest, conduct
affairs fraught with thy welfare. On Rama being despatched to the
mansion of Yama, Sita shall come under thy subjection for ever and a
day".
[34] This reminds one irrisistibly of Cleopatra's. The Bengali
translators evidently failing to understand _Mayava Mayanirmita_,
have conveniently transferred the phrase intact to their
versions.--T.
[35] I fail to understand _anyasya_, "_no other_ person";--nor does the
commentator help me in any way.--T.
[36] This passage is very obscure, and the commentator's gloss does not
anything serve.--T.
[37] i.e. _we would have prevented thee.--T._
[38] The hole made by the dart of Kumara.--T.
SECTION XIII.
Seeing Ravana wrought up with wrath, the exceedingly strong Mahaparcwa,
reflecting for a moment, observed with joined hands,--"The man that,
entering the forest, abounding with deer and ferocious animals, doth not
drink honey, maketh a fool of himself. O destroyer of foes, who is the
lord of thee, that art lord thyself? Enjoy with Vaidehi, taking thy
enemy by the hand. And, O thou endowed with prodigious power, do thou
exerting thy might lead thy life, after the manner of hens, and invading
Sita again and again, do thou enjoy her and derive pleasure (therefrom).
And when thou hast attained thy purpose; what fear can succeed? Alike
when on thy guard, and off it, thou shalt provide against all
exigencies. Kumbhakarna along with us, as well the exceedingly powerful
Indrajit, are competent to chastise the thunder-bearing (Deity) equipped
with his thunder. Passing by gift, conciliation, and dissension, which
have been assigned by the wise as the means of success, I relish the
success in business which is attained through chastisement. O highly
powerful one, we shall, without doubt, by the prowess of our arms,
subdue all these enemies of thine that have come hither". Thus addressed
by Mahaparcwa, king Ravana, honoring his speech, said,--"O Mahaparcwa, I
will relate unto thee, who hast spoken (thus) a secret matter relating
to myself, which befell me to since I saw Panjikasthala, like a flame in
the sky, coursing to the Great-father's mansion. Her pace slackened, as
soon as she saw me, (turn) I feasted on her and deprived her of her
attire. Then she went to the Great-father's place like a crumpled lotus.
That high-souled one received information of all that I had done; and
thereat, waxed enraged, the Deity spoke unto me,--"If from this day,
thou ravish a female by force, thy head certainly shall be riven in an
hundred pieces. It is for this, that with my mind afflicted with fear, I
do not violently force, Videha's daughter Sita, anent lying with her
fair self. My rush is like that of the sea, and my motion that of the
wind. Dacaratha's son doth not know this, and therefore doth he approach
sea. Who wisheth to address a lion that is lying asleep in a cave
resembling Death wrought up by wrath? Rama hath not seen shafts shot by
me, resembling two-tongued serpents and therefore, it is that he
approacheth me. Like a met burning an elephant, I shall, with shafts
shot from bows by hundreds, resembling the thunder-bolt, consume Rama.
And as at the proper hour the risen Sun defeateth the splendor of the
stars, will I, surrounded by a mighty army, overpower his strength.
Neither the thousand eyed Vasava, nor Varuna, is capable of fighting me.
By the might of this army did I formerly conquer this city, governed by
Vaicravana".
SECTION XIV.
Hearing the words of the lord of Rakshasas, as well as the thundering of
Kumbhakarna, Vibhishana addressed the Rakshasa chief, in a pregnant
speech, fraught with his welfare,--"Thou hast been bound about thy neck
by the mighty and huge serpent, Sita, having her breast for its body
anxiety for its venom, smile for its sharp fangs, and her five fingers
for its hood. Therefore before the monkeys, resembling mountain-peaks,
having teeth for their arms and nails for their weapons,--subjugate
Lanka, do thou render Maithili unto Dacaratha's son. And before the
shafts shot by Rama, resembling the thunder-bolt and having impetuosity
of the wind, cut off the heads of the foremost of the Rakshasas, do thou
render Mithila's daughter unto the son of Dacaratha. Neither Kumbhakarna
nor Indrajit, neither Mahaparcwa nor Mahodara, neither Nikumbha nor
Kumbha nor yet Atikaya, O king, can stay in the field against Raghava.
Living, thou, whether thou art protected by the Sun or the winds, or
throwest thyself into the lap itself of Vasava, or enterest the sky or
the nether spheres, shall not escape death". Hearing Vibhishana's words,
Prahasta said,--"Fear know we none whatever from the celestials, or
Danavas, or Yakshas, or Gandharbas, or huge snakes; fear know we none in
battle with birds and serpents. How can fear at all afflict us
proceeding from the king's son, Rama? Hearing Prahasta's speech,
Vibhishana, seeking the welfare of the king, and having his intellect
grounded in virtue, interest and profit, said words enfolding high
sense,--"O Prahasta, like a sinful person being unable to ascend heaven,
what the king, Mahodara, thou, and Kumbhakarna, are saying with
reference to Rama, shall not prove true. As one without a raft cannot
cross over the mighty main, how can I, or thou, or all the Rakshas
combined, cause death unto Rama, who, O Prahasta, is versed in the sense
of things. Even the gods become stolid before the sovereign of the
Ikshwaku race, having righteousness for his principle quality, and being
a mighty car-warrior and of such a character, and who is competent in
action. As yet the Kanka-feathered, terrible and sharp shafts shot by
Raghava, have not pierced into thy body; and therefore thou dost speak
so. And, O Prahasta, as yet the sharpened shafts, capable of destroying
life and having the impetuosity of the thunder-bolt, have not entered
into thy body, and therefore thou dost speak thus, neither Ravana, nor
the exceedingly powerful Tricirsha. Neither Kumbhakarna's son Nikumbha
nor Indrajit, is capable of bearing in battle the son of Dacaratha,
resembling Sakra himself. And neither Devantaka[39] nor Narantaka,[40]
neither Atikaya,[41] nor the magnanimous Atiratha, nor the equally
strong Akampana, is competent to stay Raghava in fight. And the king,
naturally of fierce temper and thoughtless, through the instrumentality
of ye who appearing to be his friends are in reality his foes, seeketh
to destroy the Rakshasas. Do ye take out and deliver the monarch, who
hath through force become subject to a dreadful and mighty, and
thousand-headed serpent bursting with immeasurable prowess. As a person
possessed by fearfully strong ghosts, is saved by his friends pulling
him by his hair, attaining your desire ye should, assembling together,
rescue the king. This one is sunk in the Raghava sea having excellent
waters. Do ye speedily coming together deliver him. He (the king) hath
fallen into the Kakutstha nether regions, I tell thee my full
mind,--fraught with the welfare of this city together with the
Rakshasas, as well of the king with his adherents. Do thou make over
Maithili unto the son of the king. He is a true counsellor who adviseth
his master, after duly ascertaining the strength, position, increase or
destruction of the enemies as well as of their own party.
[39] _Lit._--destroyer of the Deity.--T.
[40] _Lit._--destroyer of men.--T.
[41] _Lit._--huge-bodied.--T.
SECTION XV.
Hearing carefully the words of Bibhisana, gifted with the intelligence
of the lord of speech, the high-souled Indrajit, the leader of demons,
spake, saying,--"Why art thou, O uncle, speaking these useless words
like one terrified? He even, who is not born in this race, cannot speak
or act in this wise. Only one man in this family, my uncle Bibhisana, is
weak in energy, strength, prowess, patience, heroism and vigor. Why art
thou O timid one, afraid of them since any one of these Rakshasas is
capable of slaying those two princes, human beings as they are? The
master of the three worlds, the lord of the celestials, has been brought
down by me as captive on this earth. And all the celestials smitten with
fear fled to different quarters. I brought down on earth the
loud-roaring celestial elephant Airavata and uprooted by force its
tusks. And all the celestials were terrified at this. Am I not, who have
shattered the pride of the celestials, afflicted the leading Daityas,
and am gifted with excellent prowess, capable of discomfitting these two
princess--very ordinary mortals as they are?" Hearing the words of
(Indrajit) gifted with high energy, irrepressible and resembling the
lord of celestials, Bibhisana, the foremost of those using weapons,
addressed him with words, fraught with high import,--"O my son, thou art
a mere child and of unripe intellect and hence thou art not capable of
ascertaining the propriety and impropriety of counsels. Thou art
therefore speaking thus like a maniac for thy own destruction. Thou art
known as a son unto Ravana, O Indrajit, but in sooth, thou art his foe
in disguise, since knowing of his destruction from Raghava, thou dost
not prevent him. Thou art brave, childish and hast been impelled by thy
silly understanding. Thou shalt be slain along with him who hath brought
thee in this counsel chamber. Thou art, O Indrajit, foolish, imprudent,
devoid of humility, of an irritable temper, of feeble sense,
vicious-minded and of a silly understanding. And thou dost speak so,
being impelled by childishness. Who shall withstand in battle, the
shafts, shot by Raghava, resembling the rod of Death, the stick of
Brahman, flaming like the Fire of Dissolution. Do thou render back Sita,
king, unto Rama, with riches, jewels, excellent ornaments, clothes and
jems and we shall then be able to live here void of grief".
SECTION XVI.
Bibhishana addressing him with these excellent and auspicious words,
fraught with high sense, Ravana, impelled by Death, again spake in harsh
accents.--"It is better to live with open enemies or enraged serpents
than with those who pass for friends but are in reality foes. I know
well the nature of kinsmen, in all the worlds, O Rakhasa,--one takes
delight in another's misfortune. The kinsmen, O Rakshasa, generally
disregard him who is their king,[42] protecteth the kingdom, educated
and pious--and they always try to discomfit him, if he be a hero. These
terrible enemies--the kinsmen, hypocrite as they are, always take
delight in one another's calamity. Hear, I shall relate what the
elephants, in yore, spoke beholding some persons with noose in hand--"We
do not fear, fire, weapons, or even the terrible noose--we fear only the
dreadful kinsmen, blinded with selfishness. They alone unfold the means
of our destruction--there is not the least doubt about it. Fear from
kinsmen is therefore known as the worst of all fears. In kine there is
milk, in kinsmen, there is fear, in women there is fickleness, and in
Brahmanas, there is asceticism. It doth not please thee, I fancy, O
gentle one, that I am honored of the three worlds, the lord of riches,
and the subduer of my foes. As the drops of water do not last long on
the leaves of lotuses, so is the friendship with unworthy persons. As
the autumnal clouds, albeit muttering, do not pour forth water, so is
the friendship with unworthy persons. As a bee flies away after sucking
up the honey so is the friendship with unworthy persons. As a bee, after
feeding upon the Kaca flowers, doth not get honey so is (fruitless) the
friendship with unworthy persons. As an elephant, after being bathed,
covers its body again with dust, taking it with its trunk, so is the
friendship with unworthy persons.[43] Fie thee, O monkey, O thou that
bringest disgrace on the family. Had any one else spoken thus he would
have ceased to live by this time". Being thus accosted harshly,
Bibhisana, speaking truth, rose up along with four Rakshasas having
maces in their hands. Thereupon, rising up in the welkin, the graceful
brother Bibhisana, worked up with ire, addressed the lord of
Rakshasas--"Thou art mistaken, O king. Do thou speak what thou
wishest--thou art my elder brother, adorable like unto father--thou dost
not follow the track of virtue. I cannot tolerate the harsh accents of
thine, my elder brother.--For thy welfare I spoke those well-meaning
words, O Ten-necked one, but thou didst not pay heed to them being
brought under the control of Death. O king, many are the persons who
speak sweet words, but rare are they who can speak and hear unpalatable
but well-meaning words. How can I disregard thy death like unto a
burning house bound as thou art by the noose of Death, the destroyer of
all creatures. I do not wish to behold thee slain by the well-sharpened
shafts of Rama, feathered in gold and resembling the flaming fire. Even
the heroic and powerful persons, well versed in the use of weapons, wear
away like sands in battle, being attracted by Death. Thou art worshipful
unto me, do thou forgive me for what I have said for thy welfare. Do
thou protect thyself and this city, abounding in Rakshasas. May good
betide thee! I am going away and do thou be happy without me. What, I
spoke unto thee, O ranger of the night, to prevent thee, for thy
welfare, did not please thee. Persons, whose lease of life is well-nigh
expired, do not pay heed to the well-meaning words of their friends".
[42] On account of the priority of his birth--T.
[43] They afterwards forsake their former friends.--T.
SECTION XVII.
Having addressed Ravana with these harsh words, his younger brother,
reached in no time, where Rama along with Lakshmana was. The leading
monkeys, stationed on earth, espied him on the welkin, resembling in
size the summit of the mount Meru, and burning like lightning in the
effulgence of his own person. And his four attendants of terrible
prowess were adorned with excellent ornaments and armed with armours and
maces. He was like unto a collection of clouds, powerful as the
thunder-bolt, holding an excellent mace, heroic and embellished with
excellent ornaments. And beholding him along with four counsellors, the
highly intelligent Sugriva, the lord of monkeys, engaged in meditation
along with them. And meditating for a while, he spoke unto the monkeys
headed by Hanuman the following excellent words--"Behold, there comes a
Rakshasa, armed with various weapons and followed by four demons to slay
us and there is not the least doubt about it". And hearing the words of
Sugriva, the excellent monkeys, taking up huge trees and crags, bespoke
him,--"Do thou order us, O king, to destroy these vicious-souleri
demons. These shall crush them to death, limited as is the tenure of
their life". They addressing each other in this wise, Bibhisana
descended from the sky on the northern shore. And beholding Sugriva and
all others stationed near him, the highly intelligent Bibhisana accosted
them, at the highest pitch of his voice, saying,--"Liveth there the
Rakshasa, Ravana, the lord of demons, and perpetrator of many iniquitous
deeds. I am his younger brother known as Bibhisana. By him, slaying the
vulture Yatayu, was carried away Sita from Janasthana. She is
imprisoned, brought under his sway, poorly, and being well guarded by
the Rakshasees. With various well meaning words and reasonings I pointed
out unto him, the necessity of rendering back Sita unto Rama. And
Ravana, possessed by Death, paid no heed to my well-meaning words, like
unto one, lying on the brink of death, neglecting the administration of
medicine. Being reviled by him and treated harshly like a menial, I have
come to seek Raghava's shelter, renouncing my children and wives. Do ye
soon mention unto the high-souled Raghava, the refuge of all creatures,
that Bibhisana hath arrived". Hearing those words the quick-paced
Sugriva, excited with ire, spake unto Rama, before Lakshinana,
saying,--"Forsooth hath an enemy entered secretly in our midst and he
shall slay us getting an opportunity like unto an owl killing the crows.
O slayer of foes, it now behoveth thee to be particularly careful about
the counsels, arrangement of soldiers, polity--civil and military and
spies of our own party as well as those of the enemies. These Rakshasas
are heroic; they assume shapes at will, always lie in ambush and
secretly bring about others' ruin--we should not therefore place
confidence in them. This must be the emissary of Ravana--the lord of
Rakshasas. Entering in our midst, he shall, in sooth, sow dissensions in
our camp, or he shall slay us when we are careless, confiding in them.
Avoiding the enemies, we should now collect the forest-rangers our
friends and servants. O lord, this man is a Rakshasa by birth and the
brother of our foe and so is he our enemy, how can we trust him?
Ravana's younger brother, known as Bibhishana, hath come here with four
Rakshasas, to seek thy shelter. O thou the foremost of forgiving
persons, I consider this Bibhishana, who hath been despatched by Ravana,
worthy of being slain. Being impelled by his wicked intention and
commissioned by Ravana, this Rakshasa hath come here and secretly by
virtue of his illussive powers he shall slay thee, O innocent one, when
thou shalt place confidence in him". Having thus accosted Rama, skilled
in the art of speech, that lord of the army, Sugriva, well versed in
speech, became silent. And hearing the words of Sugriva, the mighty Rama
spake unto the monkeys, near him, headed by Hanuman, saying,--"Ye have
all heard, the words well grounded in reason, the lord of monkeys hath
said, regarding Ravana's younger brother. It behoveth him, who desireth
for perpetual wealth, and is intelligent and capable of giving sound
counsels, to advise his friends in difficult matters". Being thus
addressed by Rama (to minister unto him best counsels) all those
monkeys, intent upon encompassing his well-being, gave out their
respective opinions. "O Raghava, there is nothing beyond thy knowledge
in the three worlds. It is only to show thy respect towards us, O Rama,
that thou dost accost us in this wise. Thou art of truthful vows,
heroic, pious, of firm prowess, discriminating, recollecting and having
implicit confidence in thy friends. Let the intelligent and capable
counsellors deliver their reasonable opinions unto thee". They speaking
thus unto Raghava, the intelligent monkey Angada, spoke as follows for
sounding the intention of Bibhishana,--"We should always suspect him
since he has come from the side of our enemies, and should not, all on a
sudden, place confidence in him. The wicked-minded always move about
hiding their real self, and bring about peoples' calamity, taking
advantage of their weak points. And great is the disaster thereof. It is
always proper to engage in actions, considering what is right and what
is wrong. Virtues should always be gathered and vices abandoned. Do thou
renounce him unhesitatingly, if dost thou find in him a source of a
great calamity and do thou embrace him if dost thou find him crowned
with many virtues". Thereupon followed Sarava with words fraught with
high import,--"O best of men, do thou speedily despatch emissaries to
sound Bibhishana. If dost thou, sounding him well through the
instrumentality of sharp spies, find him friendly, do thou win him over
to thy side". Thereupon the wise Jambavan, arriving at conclusions by
virtue of his knowledge of _Sastras_, began with words, void of
defects,--"Surely doth Bibhishana come from the vicious lord of
Rakshasas, dead set against us and hath arrived at such a bad place and
in such a bad hour. We should always fear him". And thereupon followed
Mainda, conversant with what is right and wrong, after due deliberation,
with words pregnant with reason,--"He is Ravana's younger brother, by
name Bibhishana. Let the lord of men ask him every thing at first in
sweet words. Do thou first ascertain, O foremost of men, with what
intention he hath come--evil or good--and then settle what course to
adopt". Thereupon spake Hanuman, the foremost of the counsellors and
well versed in _Sastras_, in accents sweet, glorious and fraught with a
high value,--"Even Vrihaspati, (the lord of speech) cannot excell thee,
capable,[44] gifted with the best of intellect and foremost of those
skilled in the art of speech, as thou art. And what I know I speak, O
king. I do so, in the interest of Rama's work and not impelled by my
skill in the art of speech, by the pride of being a counsellor, by the
vanity of being gifted with a high intellect or by the desire of
speaking for its own sake. What thy counsellors have said for
ascertaining the good or evil intention of Bibhishana appeareth to me as
most defective and productive of no consequence whatever. It is
impossible to sound him without any command.[45] And even to command him
now for the same appears to me as improper. And as regards the despatch
of spies, anent what thou hast been advised by thy ministers, I do not
observe any utility. And what little I have thought of, I have something
to say (regarding Jambavan's proposal) that Bibhishana hath arrived at
such a bad place and in such an evil hour. He has really come to a very
good place and in a very good hour. And truly has he performed a
becoming and sensible action by coming here after duly ascertaining that
Ravana is a vicious wight and thou art a pious person--he is full of
vices--thou art gifted with many virtues--he is tyrranical and thou art
powerful. And what they hate said, O king, as regards sounding him
through secret spies, appears to me as one requiring great wisdom. An
intelligent man, when questioned by any suddenly, suspects many things.
And if the new-comer be a friend and has come here for his own
happiness, how greatly shall his mind be changed by such a course?
Besides by a sudden questioning it is impossible to ascertain the
intention of a foreigner. Do thou therefore thyself accost him and
determine, by his voice, his secret motive. I did not however mark
anything of his wickedness while he spoke; rather I did observe signs of
gladness on his countenance. So I do not suspect him. The wily can never
come fearless and undisturbed. Nor were his words cunning. So I do not
suspect him. It is not very easy to hide one's real nature. It manifests
itself by force. So this action of Bibhishana is not out of place or
season. When accomplished it shall redound to his own interest.
Considering well thy preparations for war and Ravana's vain conduct,
hearing of Vali's destruction and Sugriva's installation on the throne,
he hath, impelled by his good sense, come here, desirous of gaining the
kingdom. Taking these into account, it seems prudent to take him to our
side. O thou the foremost of the intelligent, I have spoken thus
considering him sincere. It now behoveth thee to perform what thou
thinkest proper".
[44] Capable to ascertain the truth of all Sastras.--T.
[45] To command to relate for what he has come.--T.
SECTION XVIII.
Hearing those words of the Wind-god's son, the irrepressible Rama,
conversant with all the Sastras, replied, with words expressing his own
opinion--"I have also thought of some thing regarding Bibhishana. I wish
you all, interested in my well-being, to hear that. (Bibhishana) hath
come here as a friend so I cannot forsake him by any means. And even if
he has come with any evil intent it is not culpable for the pious to
afford him shelter". Thereupon hearing his words and considering them
well, Sugriva, the lord of the monkeys, replied in more auspicious[46]
words,--"Whether this ranger of the night is sincere or wicked, he
should never be offered any shelter, since he hath forsaken his brother
in the midst of these calamities. What reason is there to believe that
he shall not renounce us in our difficulty?" Hearing the words of the
lord of monkeys and casting his looks towards them, Kakutstha, having
truth for his prowess, smiling a little, spake, unto Lakshmana, crowned
with all the marks of piety, saying--"Without being conversant with
_Sastras_, and living in the company of old men, none can speak such
words as have been uttered by the king of the monkeys. There appear unto
me, however two subtler reasons anent the difference between brothers,
amongst the kings--one is evident and another mundane. There are two
classes of foes--one consisting of the members of the same line the
other of the neighbours. And these generally bring about our misfortune
whenever any opportunity presents itself. And it is for this that he
hath come here. Those kinsmen, who do not think of one another's
mischief, generally long for their respective well-being. But even such
well-meaning relatives are feared by the kings. And hear, I shall
relate, what the _Sastras_ say regarding the weak points thou hast
mentioned as to the advisability of taking the enemies to our side. We
are not his kinsmen and this Rakshasa hath come here with a view to gain
the kingdom. Even the Rakshasas are wise enough to ascertain the proper
course--so we must take Bibhishana. If the brothers are confident and
satisfied with each other they generally live together, or else they
fear each other and ultimately engage in a tumultuous war. And there
hath sprung up some difference with Ravana and therefore Bibhishana hath
come here. Nor are, O friend, all brothers like Bharata, all sons like
me unto their father, all friends like thee". Being thus addressed by
Rama, the highly wise Sugriva, along with Lakshmana, rose up and bending
low his head, said--"O thou the best of all forgiving persons, this
night-ranger hath been despatched by Ravana. I therefore think it better
to kill him. Being impelled by his vicious sense that Rakshasa hath come
here to slay us, O innocent one, when myself, thou and Lakshmana shall
consider ourselves secure. Therefore the large-armed Bibhisana, the
younger brother of the ruthless Ravana, deserves to be slain along with
his counsellors". Having thus addressed (Rama) the foremost of Raghu's
race, skilled in art of speech, Sugriva, the lord of monkey host,
equally versed in the art of speech, became silent. And hearing the
words of Sugriva, and weighing them, Rama again addressed the foremost
of monkeys with more reasonable accents--"Wicked or otherwise, whatever
this night-ranger may be, he shall not be able to do me the least
mischief. Pisachas, Danavas, Yakshas or all the Rakshasas on earth,--I
can slay them all, if I like, with the tips of my fingers, O thou the
lord of monkeys. I have heard of a pigeon adoring and entertaining with
its own flesh, an enemy who took its shelter. While a pigeon received so
friendly its enemy, the slayer of its mate, how can I then act
otherwise, O foremost of the monkeys? Do thou hear, I shall relate, a
sacred story, narrated by the great ascetic, the truthful Kandu, son of
the ascetic Kanya. O slayer of foes, even a wicked-minded enemy, if he,
with folded palms and a poor heart, craveth for thy shelter, should not
be slain. If an enemy, proud or terrified, seeketh shelter in affright,
he should be saved by a great man even at the risk of his own life. One,
who from fear, ignorance or wilfully doth not protect him who seeketh
his shelter, perpetrateth a mighty iniquity, blamed of all. When a
person is slain before him whose shelter he hath taken he taketh away
all the virtues of his protector. So great is the sin in not affording
shelter unto those who seek for it; it standeth in the way of going to
heaven, bringeth in calumny and destroyeth the strength and prowess. I
shall therefore follow the excellent words of Kandu--leading to piety,
fame and the attainment of the abode of the celestials. I always declare
'no fear' unto all creatures, whenever any, approaching me, says, 'I am
thine' and seeketh my shelter. Even this is my pious observance. O
Sugriva, O foremost of monkeys, do thou soon bring him here, whether he
be Ravana or Bibhishana and I shall declare unto him 'no fear'. Hearing
the words of Rama, Sugriva, the lords of those who go bounding,
over-flowing with friendliness, bespake Kakutstha.--"What wonder is
there that thou wouldst speak these auspicious words, O thou the
foremost of kings, conversant with morality, gifted with prowess and
ever treading the pious track as thou art. Truly doth my inner self
regard Bibhisana as devoid of any wicked intention. He has been well
sounded by signs and gestures. And let the greatly wise Bibhisana,
Raghava, be placed on an equal footing with us and gain our friendship".
Hearing the words of Sugriva, the lord of monkeys, the king of men
(Rama) made instantly friends with Bibhisana, like unto the conqueror of
enemies' cities making friends with the king of birds.
[46] More reasonable words.--T.
SECTION XIX.
Raghava thus declaring unto him 'no fear', Ravana's younger brother, the
greatly wise Bibhisana, bending low his head, cast his looks on the
earth. And descending from the welkin with his devoted attendants the
virtuous-souled Bibhisana, delighted, bowed unto Rama. And thereupon
touching his feet along with four Rakshasas, Bibhisana addressed
Rama,--with words, fraught with piety, befitting the occasion and
conducing to pleasure. "I am Ravana's younger brother and have been
greatly insulted by him, I have therefore come to seek thy shelter, the
refuge of all creatures, abandoning Lanka, and renouncing my friends and
riches. My kingdom, life and happiness are all at thy disposal". Hearing
his words Rama replied,--comforting him with words and favouring him as
if with looks. "Do thou relate unto me truly the strength and weakness
of the enemies". Being thus accosted by Rama of unwearied actions, the
Raksha, began to describe the strength of Ravana. "O prince, by virtue
of the boon acquired from the Self-Create, the Ten-necked one is
incapable of being slain by all creatures--Gandharbas, serpents, or
birds. My elder brother--the one next to Ravana--is the heroic and
highly effulgent _Kumbharkarna_--Sakra's equal in battle. Thou mayst
have heard, O Rama, his commander is Prahasta, by whom was defeated
Manibhadra on the mount Kailaca. (His son) Indrajit, equipped with
invincible armour, bow and finger-protector made of the skin of iguana,
becomes invisible in fight. And, worshipping Fire and becoming
invisible, that graceful hero, O Raghava, slayeth the enemies in
conflict, having the contending parties vast and well arranged.
Mahodara, Mahaparcwa and the Rakshasa, Akampana, are his lieutenants,
who equal the Lokapalas[47] in battle. His army consists of ten thousand
_kotis_ of Rakshasas, wearing shapes at will, inhabiting the city of
Lanka, and living on flesh and gore. And with the _Lokapalas_ and the
celestials, they were all defeated by the vicious-souled Ravana".
Hearing the words of Bibhisana and weighing them in his mind, that
foremost of Raghu's race said--"I understand well the strength and
prowess of Ravana, which thou hast depicted truly, O Bibhisana. Do thou
hear truly that I shall slay the Ten-necked one together with Prahasta
and his sons, and I shall make thee king. Whether he entereth the
_Rasatala_[48] or the regions under the earth, or seeketh shelter of the
Grand-father of the celestials, he shall not be able to save his life
from me. I do swear by my three brethern that I shall enter the city of
Ayodhya, after slaying in battle Ravana with his sons, kinsmen and
friends". Hearing these words of Rama of unwearied action, the
virtuous-souled (Bibhisana), bowing his head unto him, began--"I shall
lend thee my might in slaying the Rakshasas and devastating the city of
Lanka, and shall be in the midst of Ravana's army". Thereupon, embracing
Bibhisana, who spoke thus, Rama, delighted, said unto Lakshmana,--"O my
brother, do thou bring water from the ocean. Sprinkling the greatly wise
Bibhisana, I shall make him at once the king of the Rakshasas, O
conferer of honor; for I am greatly pleased with him". Being thus
addressed, Saumitri, at the command of the king, annointed Bibhisana and
made him the king of the Rakshasas in the presence of the monkey-host.
Beholding Rama's kindness (towards Bibhisana), the monkeys eulogized the
high-souled one, exclaiming "Excellent! Excellent!" Thereupon, Hanuman
and Sugriva addressed Bibhisana, saying, "Do thou tell us how we shall
cross over the main--the abode of Varuna, along with the host of the
highly powerful monkeys. Do thou inform us of the means by which we may
cross over, along with our army, the lord of rivers and streams--the
abode of Varuna". Being thus addressed, the virtuous-souled Bibhisana
replied,--"It behoveth the king, Raghava, to seek refuge from the Ocean.
This measureless deep was dug out by (the king) Sagara.[49] And the
great Ocean shall surely help Rama belonging to Sagara's race". Being
thus accosted by the wise Rakshasa, Bibhishana. Sugriva reached where
Rama with Lakshmana was. Thereupon, the broad-necked Sugriva began to
explain the well-meaning words of Bibhishana, requesting Rama to seek
the shelter of the Ocean. And those words pleased Rama, pious by nature.
And the highly eflulgent (hero) requested, smiling, the active Lakshmana
and the monkey-chief Sugriva to collect necessaries for his adoration.
"O Lakshmana, this counsel of Bibhisana appeareth to me as most sound.
Sugriva is always greatly wise, and thou art greatly proficient in
counsel. Do ye, holding a conference, intimate to me what you think
becoming". Thus addressed, those two heroes--Lakshmana and Sugriva,
spoke respectfully the following words fraught with propriety,--"Why
shall not the well-meaning words of Bibhisana expressed now, please us,
O Raghava, O thou best of men? Without constructing a bridge over the
deep, the terrible abode of Varuna, even the celestials and their lord
(Indra) cannot get at the city of Lanka. Do thou act on the genuine
counsel of the heroic Bibhisana, and without losing time, do thou engage
the Ocean for this work, so that we may with our army proceed to the
city of Ravana". Being thus addressed Rama reached the shore of the lord
of rivers and streams, covered with Kuca, like unto fire getting into
the sacrificial dais.
[47] Divinities who protect the regions, or the Sun, Moon, Fire, Wind,
Indra, Yama, Varuna and Kuvera.--T.
[48] The seven infernal regions under the earth and the residence of
the _Nagas_, _Asuras_ and _Daityas_. This is the lowest of the
seven divisions of Patala.--T.
[49] _Sagara_ was a sovereign of Ayodhya belonging to the same family
with Rama.
SECTION XX.
Thereupon the greatly powerful Rakshasa, by name _Sardula_, beheld the
army of Sugriva arranged on the shore of the ocean. And, beholding the
army all busy, the emissary of the vicious-souled Rakshasa--Ravana,
entered the city of Lanka and, approaching his lord, said,--"The army of
monkeys and bears hath approached Lanka. It is immeasurably deep as the
ocean. And those two sons of the king Dacaratha--the brothers Rama and
Lakshmana, gifted with great beauty, coming to rescue Sita, have
stationed themselves on the shore of the ocean, O thou of great
effulgence. The army of Rama extends over the sky and ten _yojanas_. I
have come, O great king, to acquaint thee with the real truth. And,
knowing everything, it behoveth thy emissaries, O king, to settle
whether to render back Sita, to adopt measures of conciliation, or to
sow dissensions in the enemy's camp". Hearing the words of _Sardula_,
Ravana, the lord of Rakshasas, being anxious to ascertain his duty,
addressed a Rakshasa by name Suka, the most sensible of his counsellors,
with the following pregnant words,--"Do thou go and communicate unto
king Sugriva my behest, in becoming and excellent accents. 'Thou art
born of a great family and art the mighty son of the king of bears. I
have no dissension with thee. In fact I consider thee as my brother, O
king of monkeys. Though I have stolen the spouse of the high-souled
prince (Rama), yet what is that to thee, O Sugriva? Do thou return to
Kishkindha. The monkeys shall not by any means be able to attack the
city of Lanka. Even the celestials and Gandharbas could not--what of
these men and monkeys?'" And being thus commissioned by the lord of
Rakshasas, that night-ranger assumed the shape of a bird and, bounding,
speedily reached the sky. And, proceeding far over the deep and
stationing himself at the welkin, he spoke unto Sugriva all the words
with which he was addressed by the vicious-souled Ravana. Hearing him
speak thus, the monkeys leaped up quickly and reached there with a view
to chop off his wings or to slay him with their clenched fists. On being
seized vehemently by all these monkeys, that night-ranger was brought
down speedily from the sky to the earth. And being assailed by the
monkeys, Suka said,--"O Kakutstha, it doth not behove (people) to slay
an emissary. Do thou therefore prevent the monkeys. He who passing by
his master's behest, giveth out his own intention, is not faithful; and
he therefore deserveth to be slain". Hearing the piteous accents of
Suka, Rama spake unto the monkeys, who were about to kill him, saying,
"Do not kill him". And again stationing himself on the welkin, that
night-ranger said,--"O Sugriva, O thou gifted with great energy, O thou
of great prowess, what shall I speak unto Ravana, dreaded by all
people?" Being thus addressed, that mighty king of monkeys, the bull
among them, of unwearied energy, spake unto that emissary--the
night-ranger, Suka, saying--"O Ravana, thou art not my friend or an
object of pity. Thou art not my benefactor, nor art liked by me. Thou
art Rama's enemy, and thou dost therefore deserve to be slain by him
like Vali along with thy friends and relatives. I shall therefore slay
thee, O king of night-rangers, together with thy sons, friends and
relatives. And I shall have the whole city of Lanka reduced to ashes by
my mighty force. Thou shalt not be able to escape Raghava, O Ravana, O
thou who hast lost thy sense, even if thou art protected by the
celestials. And thou shalt with thy brother be slain by Rama, even if
thou dost fly into the sky, enter into the regions under the earth, or
seek shelter of Mahadeva. I do not behold any in these three
worlds--Pisacha, Rakshasa, Gandharba, or Asura, who can protect thee.
Thou hast slain the monarch of vultures, who had grown decrepit through
age.[50] Thou hast carried off the large-eyed Sita from the vicinity of
Rama and the neighbourhood of Lakshmana; but, having captured her, thou
understandest not (thy native strength). Nor dost thou understand that
foremost of Raghus, high-souled, possessed of great strength, and
incapable of being repressed even by the celestials,--who shall take thy
life". Then spake that best of monkeys, Angada, son of Vali,--"O highly
wise one, this is no emissary. This one clearly appeareth to me as a
spy. He hath come to form an estimate of thy entire army. Take him. Let
him not go (back) to Lanka. This is indeed what I would". Thereat,
commanded by the king, the monkeys, springing up, seized (Suka) and
bound him, as he burst out bewailing like one forlorn. On being sorely
handled by the relentless monkeys, Suka cried unto tho high-souled Rama,
son of Dacaratha,--"They by main force sever my wings, and they pierce
my eyes. If I lose my life, may all the evil deeds that I have committed
between the night when I was born and the night when I shall die, be
thine!" Hearing this pitiful cry, Rama prevented (the monkeys); and he
said unto them,--"Let go this envoy, who hath come here".
[50] The commentator has a queer and characteristic note on
_Jaravriddha--decrepit through age. One that is old, may stave off
decrepitude through some drug, while a youthful person may come by
the same in consequence of some curse.--T._
SECTION XXI.
Then on the shore of the sea, Raghava, spreading _darbha_, with his
hands joined towards the great deep, laid him down, with his face to the
East. And that slayer of foes (lay down), making his pillow his arm
resembling the shining form of a serpent; always dight with golden
ornaments; full many a time pressed with the palms of beauteous
damsels,[51] decked with jewelled golden _Keyuras_ and superb ornaments
studded with pearls; smeared from above with sandal and _aguru_; (his
arm) which formerly had been graced in bed with the head of Sita; like
unto the body of Takshaka under the waters of the Ganga; resembling a
yoke; in battle increasing the sorrow of foes and enhancing for long the
delight of friends;--his left arm having its skin destroyed by the
strokes of the bow-string; which was the refuge of the entire
earth;--his right arm resembling a mighty bludgeon,--the donor of
thousands of kine,--making this great arm his pillow (he laid him down).
"To-day either I shall die, or shall the Ocean".--Having thus formed his
resolution in respect of the great deep, Rama, restraining his speech,
with a concentrated mind lay down there agreeably to rule. And as Rama
slept on the earth on Kuca spread over, without ever swerving from the
rule, three nights passed away. And while spending three nights, Rama,
learned in polity and attached to virtue, prayed unto that lord of
streams--the Ocean. Yet the wicked Ocean, albeit adored according to his
deserts by Rama with his mind concentrated, did not show himself.
Thereat Rama grew enraged and had the corners of his eyes crimsoned; and
he spake unto Lakshmana of auspicious marks, saying,--"Behold the
hauteur of the Ocean in not presenting himself before me. Calmness,
forbearance, candour, and soft speech--these virtues of the good are by
the insolent taken for the effects of incompetency. The person[52] that
is self-laudatory, wicked, and badly-bold, publisheth his own praise,
and meteth out chastisement every where,[53] is honored in the world. By
moderation one cannot attain celebrity, by moderation one cannot attain
fame,--and, O Lakshmana, in this world by moderation one cannot attain
victory on 'the edge of battle.'[54] See, O Sumitra's son, the abode of
Makaras, with his waters obstructed all around with Makaras destroyed by
my shafts. And, O Lakshmana, see the bodies here of serpents, and the
huge bodies of mighty fishes, and the trunks of elephants,--torn by my
arrows. And to-day in terrible battle will I dry up the Ocean with
conchs and oysters, and fishes and Makaras. This abode of Makaras taketh
me, who is forbearing, to be incompetent. Fie on forbearance towards
such as he! In consequence of my moderation, Ocean showeth not his own
form. O Saumitri, bring thou my bow, my arrows resembling venomous
snakes. I will dry up the Ocean, and the monkeys shall go over on foot.
And, being angered, to-day, albeit incapable of being agitated, will I
agitate the deep. And by means of my shafts will I make Varuna's abode,
surging with a thousand billows and having his dignity maintained by his
shores,--overleap his continents. And I will agitate the deep harbouring
numbers of mighty Danavas". Having spoken thus, Rama, equipped with his
bow, with his eyes dilated in wrath, became exceedingly irrepressible,
like unto the flaming fire at the final dissolution. And straining his
dreadful bow, making the earth shake, tremulously, he let fly fierce
shafts like him of an hundred sacrifices hurling his thunder-bolt.
Thereat, flaming up, those vehement choice shafts surcharged with
energy, enter into the waters of the sea, with its serpents afflicted
with fear. And then great and exceedingly dreadful was the motion of the
sea, with fishes and Makaras, and with the roar of the winds (blowing
there). And on a sudden the mighty deep was heaving with mighty surges,
with conchs scattered about, and a smoke (enveloped) the ocean; and the
billows became visible on all sides. And the serpents were distressed,
with their faces flaming and their eyes aglow; as well as the Danavas of
terrific energy, and the dwellers of the nether spheres. And billows of
the sovran Ocean, resembling Vindhya or Mandara, containing crocodiles
and Makaras sprang up by thousands. And Varuna's abode had its surges
whirling, its serpents and Rakshasas seized with affright, and its
ferocious aquatic animals borne all around; and it sent forth sounds.
Then Sumitra's son, springing up, said unto Raghava of fiery vehemence,
as he sighed and kept stretching his matchless bow.--"This must not be".
And he took away his (Rama's) bow. "Without doing this unto the Ocean,
thou, supreme of heroes, mayst have thy work accomplished. Personages
like thee do not come under the influence of passion. Do thou
deliberately look about for some worthy means (for compassing thy end)".
Then remaining invisible in the sky, Brahmarshis and Surarshis[55]
exclaiming,--"Well-a-day!" and "Don't," in loud accents
ejaculated,--(Oh! and alas!)
[51] The commentator appropriately remarks: _As Rama was wedded to a
single wife, these damsels must mean nurses attending on him_.--T.
[52] The word, however, is _naram (ac.), man_.--T.
[53] i.e. _indiscriminately.--T._
[54] _Rana murddhani_,--'The perilous edge of battle when it raged.'
_Paradise Lost_ Book I
[55] Celestial saints.
SECTION XXII.
Then the foremost of Raghus addressed Ocean in stern words,
saying,--"To-day will I dry up the Ocean along with the nether regions.
And, O Ocean, thy waters being burnt up by my shafts, and thou being
dried up, with thy (aquatic) animals slaughtered, a mighty volume of
dust shall arise (from thy bed). And, O Ocean, in consequence of the
arrowy shower discharged from my bow, the monkeys shall go over to the
further shore on foot. Having attained dimensions in consequence of
access of waters, thou knowest not my manliness or my prowess But, O
abode of Danavas, grief shalt thou reap at my hands". Then fixing an
arrow resembling the rod of Brahma with a Brahma Mantra, on the best of
bows, that exceedingly strong one drew it. And as Raghava suddenly
stretched his bow, heaven and earth seemed to be riven, and the
mountains trembled. And darkness covered the world, and the cardinal
points became invisible. And at once the watery expanses and rivers were
agitated. And the stars appeared simultaneously with the Sun and
Moon.[56] And the sky was illumined with the rays of the Sun, and yet it
was overspread with darkness; and it burned with an hundred meteors. And
thunder-bolts sending forth sounds surpassing all others, dropped from
the firmament. And the winds began to blow violently; breaking down
trees and momentarily scattering clouds; damaging mountain-tops and
shattering summits. And then the dread and mighty thunders possessing
impetuous speed and emitting tremendous roars,--coming together,
produced lightning flashes. And those creatures that could be seen,
uttered sounds resembling the thunder; and those that were invisible
gave forth frightful cries. And overwhelmed with fright, and quaking
(for fear), the creatures began to measure their lengths,--and they were
sore afflicted, and bereft of motion through terror. And then the mighty
deep with its animals, and with its waters and waves, and with its
serpents and Rakshasas, was suddenly wrought up with a violent motion.
And albeit it was not the occasion of the universal dissolution, the
Ocean passed beyond his shores for a full hundred _yojanas_. And seeing
the elated Ocean--lord of streams and rivers--thus overpass his bounds,
that destroyer of enemies, Raghu's son, Rama, was not moved.[57] Then
from forth the mid-sea arose Ocean himself, even as the maker of day
riseth from the mighty ascending-hill, Meru. And accompanied by
Pannagas[58] of flaming faces, the Ocean showed himself, appearing like
cool lapises, adorned with golden ornaments,--wearing a wreath of gems
and a jewelled vesture, with his eyes resembling lotus-leaves, bearing
on his head a noble garland containing all flowers; decked with
ornaments of polished gold; as well with excellent ornaments of gems
originating in himself, like the mountain Himavan embellished with
metals (sprung in himself),--(the Ocean arose) with wave on wave
whirling around, and rife with winds blowing among clouds,--surrounded
by streams, Ganga, Sindhu (and others). And approaching the
arrow-showering Rama, and greeting him fair, Ocean spoke unto him with
joined hands,--"O Raghava, earth, air, sky, water and light,--these, O
mild one, retaining their eternal course, maintain their (respective)
natures. Mine also is that nature whereby I am fathomless and incapable
of being crossed. The reverse of this is the having a bottom. And for
this reason I speak to thee (concerning the means). O king's son, not
from desire, or covetuousness, or fear, or anger, can I anywise deprive
my waters abounding in alligators of their (perpetual) motion. I will
tell thee how thou wilt pass (over me); and I will bear it. And no
ferocious aquatic animals shall do wrong so long as thy forces have not
crossed. And, O Rama, I will make as it were firm land for the crossing
over of the monkeys". Then Rama said,--"O Varuna's abode, listen to me!
This arrow (of mine) must accomplish the end (intended). Where shall I
let it light?" Hearing Rama's speech, and looking at the mighty arrow,
that exceedingly energetic one, the great Deep, addressed Raghava,
saying,--"There is a certain spot of mine in the North, which is more
sacred (than the rest). It is famed as Drumakulya, even as thou art
famed in the world. There are there many robbers of ferocious forms and
actions,--wicked wights, headed by cow-herds,--who drink of my water.
These persons of unrighteous acts touch me, and I cannot bear this sin.
O Rama, do thou at that place render this best of arrows successful".
Hearing the words of the high-souled Ocean, (Rama) immediately
after,[59] let fly that flaming shaft. And the place where the arrow
resembling the thunder-bolt and _vajra_ in splendour, alighted, hath
been celebrated on earth as Marukantara. And hurt with the dart, the
Earth emitted roars; and in consequence of this, water began to gush out
at the mouth of the wound from the subterranean regions. And this then
became well-known as Vrana; and there are seen the waters of the Ocean
spring up. And there arose a terrific report of riving. And owing to
this,[60] as well as the incident of the arrow, the water that existed
in the tanks, was dried up. Having dried up Marukantara famous
throughout the three regions, as well as the reservoirs of water, Rama
the son of Dacaratha, learned and of god-like prowess, conferred a boon
on the desert, saying,--"This place shall be filled with food nourishing
beasts; and ailments shall be rare here. And the fruits and roots shall
be replete with relish; and it shall abound in oil and overflow with
milk; and it shall contain various odorous drugs". Thus did the desert
come to possess these attributes; and from Rama's bestowal of a boon, it
attained a pleasant aspect. On that place being burnt up, that lord of
streams, the Ocean, thus spake unto Raghava, versed in every branch of
learning,--"O mild one, this one is named Nala, son unto Vicwakarma. He
hath received a boon from his sire. Vicwakarma's son is well pleased
with thee. Let this monkey, surcharged with exhuberant spirits, build a
bridge over me. I will hold that up. This one is as his sire". Having
delivered himself thus, Ocean disappeared. Then that foremost of
monkeys, Nala, arising, spoke unto the mighty Rama,--"Resorting to my
sire's skill, I will build a bridge over the spacious abode of Makaras.
The mighty Ocean hath spoken justly. In respect of the ingrate even
chastisement is supreme in this world,--this is my conviction. Down with
forbearance, or moderation, or gift! This dreadful Ocean, this mighty
deep, expecting to see a bridge (thrown over him), hath granted depth
unto Raghava.--(Formerly) is Mandara, Vicwakarma had conferred a boon on
my mother: 'O exalted one, thy son shall be like me.' I am a son of his,
sprung from his loins, and I am like unto Vicwakarma. Not having been
asked by thee, I had not unfolded my qualifications. I also am capable
of constructing a bridge over Varuna's abode. Therefore this very day
let the foremost monkeys construct the bridge". Then directed by Rama,
the principal monkeys with alacrity entered the mighty forest in
hundrerds and thousands. And themselves resembling mountains, the
foremost of the monkeys began to break down and draw them towards the
Ocean. And the monkeys filled the Ocean with _salas_, and _acwakarnas_,
_dhavas_, bamboos _kutajas_, _arjunas_, palms, _tilakas_, _tinicas_,
_billakas_, _aparnas_, and blossoming _karnikaras_, mangoes, and a
trees. And those monkeys--the foremost of their species--began to gather
the trees, some with their roots, some without them,--carrying them like
Indra's ensign. And those huge-bodied monkeys possessed of prodigious
strength, procured palms and pomegranates, cocoanuts and itakas,
Kariras, Vakulas, and Nimbas,--as well as rocks. Measuring elephants'
dimensions; and uprooting crags, they tossed them by means of machines.
And on rocks being plunged into the waters, the latter, suddenly
swelling up, mounted to the welkin, and again subsided.--And (the trees)
dropping (into the deep), vexed it all around. And some made lines (for
insuring straightness unto the bridge). And in the middle of the lord of
rivers and streams, Nala made a grand bridge measuring an hundred
_yojanas_. And then he went about constructing the bridge with the
assistance of monkeys of dreadful deeds. And some took the measuring and
others bore (timber to the sea). And by help of hundreds of monkeys
following Rama's mandate, hued like woods or mountains, (they)
constructed a bridge with grass, and wood. And the monkeys made the
bridge of trees with blossoming tops. And (monkeys) resembling Danavas
were rushing all around with rocks resembling hills, and
mountain-summits. And tremendous was the tumult that came of crags
thrown and rocks toppled down into the mighty deep. And on the first day
the elephant-like monkeys of spirits and exerting themselves vigorously,
finished fifteen _yojanas_. And the exceedingly strong and huge-bodied
monkeys on the second day speedily disposed of twenty _yojanas_. And on
the third day the huge-bodied active monkeys did one and twenty
_yojanas_ on the sea. And on the fourth day the exceedingly impetuous
monkeys, bestirring themselves vigorously, did two and twenty _yojanas_.
And On the fifth day the fast-speeding monkeys accomplished three and
twenty _yojanas_ reaching unto the fair shore. And resembling his sire,
that best of monkeys, the lusty and graceful offspring of Vicwakarma,
(thus) constructed the bridge over the sea. And that bridge built by
force over the abode of _makaras_, looked graceful and splendid like the
Milky way in the firmament. And then the deities and Gandharbas, the
Siddhas and the prime saints, appearing in the heavens, stood there,
eager to behold this wonder. And the gods and Gandharbas saw that bridge
of Nala, difficult of being made, having an area of ten _yojanas_ and
measuring an hundred in length. And the monkeys, leaping and bounding
and roaring, as well as all creatures, beheld that building of the
bridge on the ocean, inconceivable, and marvellous, displaying skill
past thought and capable of making one's hair stand on end. And those
thousands of Kotis of exceeding vigor, having constructed the bridge
over the ocean, went over to the other shore of the mighty main. And
spacious, skillfully constructed, graceful, well-paved and nicely
finished, the great bridge appeared like the line where the hair hath
been parted on the Ocean's head. Then on the other shore of the ocean,
Bibhishana, with the view of opposing foes (that might advance),
stationed himself mace in hand, along with some councilors. Then Sugriva
spoke unto Rama, having truth for his prowess,--"Do thou get upon
Hanuman, and let Laskhmana get upon Angada. O hero, vast is this
Ocean--abode of Makaras. These monkeys, rangers of the sky, shall hold
you up both". Thereat the graceful and righteous Rama along with
Lakshmana, equipped with his bow, set out in the van of the army in
company with Sugriva. And some monkeys proceeded along the middle, and
some plunged into the deep, and some went by the road. And some coursed
through the air, bounding up bird-like. And that dreadful array of
monkeys crossing over, with its mighty uproar drowned the dreadful roar
of the deep, which had been arising. On the monkey-host having crossed
by the bridge of Nala, the king stationed it on the shore abounding in
fruits, roots and water. Beholding that work of Raghava incapable of
being performed, the deities together with the Siddhas and Charanas, and
the Maharshis, suddenly presenting themselves before Rama, sprinkled him
one by one with sacred water, and said,--"Mayst thou be victorious, O
human-divine one! Rule thou the Earth eternally!" Thus in various
auspicious words, did they pay homage unto that one honored by the
Brahmanas, Rama.
[56] The phenomenon, remarks the commentator, was owing to the heavenly
bodies obstructing each other's orbit.--T.
[57] _Natichakrama_ may also mean, (_Rama_) did not discharge any more
arrows.--T.
[58] Semi-divine serpents.--T.
[59] _Sagaradarcanat_--may also mean, agreeably to the Ocean's
instruction.--T.
[60] i.e. _the sound._
SECTION XXIII.
Having seen omens, that one, Lakshmana's elder brother, conversant with
them, embracing the son of Sumitra, said these words,--"O Lakshmana,
occupying (this tract) of cool waters and woods affluent with fruits,
will we, dividing and arranging our forces, stay here. Mighty is the
fear that I see at hand,--boding destruction to people and the slaughter
of the foremost heroes of bears, monkeys and Rakshasas. The wind bloweth
darkly, and the Earth shaketh. The tops of the mountains tremble, and
trees topple down. And the clouds are ashen and roistering, and roar
roughly. And lowering, they shower portentous drops of blood. And the
twilight is terrible and looketh like the red sandal. And a fiery circle
droppeth from the flaming sun. And on all sides birds and beasts,
distressed, uttering woe-begone notes, and grim-visaged, set up crying
against the sun, arousing great fear. And the Moon, although not
appearing[61] in the night, burneth, and with dark and red rays riseth,
as if it intended to exterminate people. And the aspect (of the sun) is
slight, rough, and not good;[62] and, O Lakshmana, a blue mark is
visible on the unclouded Sun. And the stars seem erased by a mighty
volume of dust. O Lakshmana, behold this sight disastrous to people like
unto the universal dissolution. Crows, and hawks, and the inferior
vultures, wheel all round. And jackals are sending inauspicious yells,
exciting great fear. The earth shall be covered with darts and javelins,
and swords discharged by monkeys and Rakshasas, and then turned into
mire with flesh and gore. Surrounded by all these monkeys, will we,
using speed, this very day rapidly enter into the city ruled by Ravana,
incapable of being subdued. Having said this, that subduer in conflict,
that lord, the enchanter of men, Rama,[63] equipped with his bow,
proceeds in the direction of Lanka. And all the principal monkeys--
Sugriva with Bibhishana--went on, setting up roars, for the destruction
of foes, who were determined to battle with them. And consequently
Raghu's son was well pleased with the fortitude and exertions of the
powerful monkeys, for bringing about what was dear unto Raghava.
[61] The moon, it seems, _doth_ appear, but does not look out
clearly.--T.
[62] _Pracasta_--I do not see the propriety of this epithet in this
connection. This may be a mistake.--T.
[63] The word _Rama_ occurs twice, one being the cognomen of the solar
line. The other means, _the enchanter of men.--T._
SECTION XXIV.
And with the presence of the king[64] that assembly of heroes looked
beautiful, as doth the autumnal night, garnished with beauteous stars,
with the Moon. And oppressed with the bursting energy of the host
resembling the ocean, the Earth trembled. And then the rangers of the
forest heard a hubbub in Lanka, as well as the sounds of trumpets and
Mridangas, mighty and capable of making people's down stand on end. And
at those sounds, the leaders of monkey-bands were delighted beyond
measure, and, resenting the same, set up cries louder than those sounds.
And the Rakshasas also heard the roars of the monkeys, resembling the
rumbling of haughty clouds in the sky. Beholding Lanka with variegated
standards, and streamers, Dacaratha's son went[65] to Sita with an
aggrieved heart. "Here that one having eyes resembling those of a young
deer, is confined by Ravana, like unto Rohini overpowered by the
red-bodied planet".[66] And, sighing hot and long, and looking at
Lakshmana, that hero spoke words fraught with his good at that
time--"Behold, O Lakshmana, Lanka towering up as if piercing the
heavens; and, built by Vicwakarma on the brow of the mountain, she seems
to have been made by the Mind. Constructed in time past with edifices
thronging her, Lanka looks like the all-encasing air, covered with pale
clouds. Lanka is embellished with groves resembling Chitraratha, fair,
and eloquent with the notes of various birds, and fraught with fruits
and flowers. Behold the intoxicated birds, and the black bees blending
(with the blossoms). And the blessed breeze swayeth the trees vocal with
the coels". Having divided his forces there agreeably to the directions
of the scriptures, Dacaratha's son, Rama, thus spoke unto Lakshmana. And
he ordered that monkey-army, saying,--"Taking his own forces, let the
puissant and invincible Angada along with Nila, station himself in the
centre of the forces. And let the monkey, named Rishabha, surrounded by
numbers of monkeys, post himself at the right of the monkey-army. And
let the active and irrepressible Gandhamadana, resembling an elephant
fragrant with the temporal exudation, stay, occupying the left of the
forces. I myself along with Lakshmana, shall needfully stay in the
fore-front. And the monkeys, Jambavan, Sushena and Vagadarci, the three
high-souled, foremost bears,[67]--shall protect the interior (of the
forces). And as the Sun, surcharged with energy, protects the hind half
of the globe, let the monkey-monarch protect the rear of the
monkey-army". And that army being skilfully divided into parts and
protected by great monkeys, resembled the welkin covered with clouds.
Then, taking up mountain-peaks and mighty trees, the monkeys began to
proceed towards Lanka burning to crush Lanka in battle. "We shall
demolish Lanka by hurling mountain-peaks, or with our clenched fists".
Thus did the foremost of monkeys think in their minds. Then the
exceedingly energetic Rama addressed Sugriva, saying,--"Our forces have
been rightly marshalled,--let go (now) Suka". Hearing Rama's words, the
lord of monkeys possessed of great strength, liberated the envoy, Suka,
at the command of Rama. Liberated at the word of Rama, Suka, who had
been sore tormented by the monkeys, oppressed with exceeding great fear,
went to the lord of Rakshasas. Thereat, Ravana, laughing, said unto
Suka,--"Are thy wings fettered? And thou seemst as if thy wings had been
severed. Why? Didst thou come under the control of the volatile
(monkeys)?" Thereat, exercised with fear, Suka, commanded by the
monarch, answered the lord of Rakshasas in this excellent speech,
saying,--"Repairing to the northern shore of the sea, I, pacifying (the
monkeys) with mild speech, communicated thy tidings clearly (unto
Sugriva). Thereat, as soon as they saw me, the monkeys flying into a
wrath, captured me, and attempted to clip my wings and slay me with
their clenched fists. They are insuseptible of being spoken to. No doubt
whatever can exist that, O lord of Rakshasas, the monkeys are by nature
wrathful and fierce. The same Rama that hath slain Viradha and Kavandha
and Khara, hath arrived (here) along with Sugriva, searching for the
whereabouts of Sita. Having thrown a bridge across the brine and crossed
the salt sea, Raghava, equipped with his bow, stayeth here, setting the
Rakshas at naught. And the hosts consisting of thousands of bears and
monkeys, resembling hills and clouds, envelope the Earth. And peace
there can be none between the forces of the Rakshasas and the hosts of
the sovereign of monkeys, like unto the deities and the Danavas. And
they advance before the wall. Speedily do one of these things--make over
Sita without delay, or give (him) battle". Hearing Suka's speech, Ravana
with his eyes reddened in wrath, spoke, as if burning (Suka) with
them,--"Even if gods, and Gandharbas, and Danavas should array
themselves against me, I will not from fear of all creatures, render
(back) Sita. When shall my shafts pursue Raghava, like maddened
Bhramaras making towards blossomy trees in spring? When by means of
flaming shafts shot from my bow shall I burn (Raghava) with his body
bathed in blood, even as a meteor (burneth) an elephant? And when,
surrounded by a mighty host, shall I confound his ranks, even as the Sun
arising, (vanquisheth) the light of the stellar spheres? My impetuosity
like the Ocean's, my strength like the Wind's, Dacarathi doth not
know,--and therefore it is that he desireth to fight with me. Rama hath
not seen my shafts resting in the quiver, resembling venomous
serpents,--and therefore it is that he seeketh to fight with me. Raghava
hath not in conflict formerly known my bow representing my Vina sounded
with my shafts; having tremendous sounds proceeding from the strings;
dreadful; with the cries of distressed people for its mighty strains of
music; and resonant with the reports of Narachas and palms. And, having
bathed in the great field of battle representing the river of hostile
forces, I will in the encounter strike (this Vina). Neither the
thousand-eyed Vasava, nor Varuna himself, can (cope) with me in battle;
nor can Yama, or Vaicravana's self vanquish me in mighty conflict with
the fire of arrows".
[64] Rama.--T.
[65] _i.e._ mentally.--T.
[66] Angaraka.--T.
[67] The epithet 'bears' coming after 'monkeys' may look incongruous;
but, I fancy, 'monkeys' is used in the general sense of _being
connected with the monkey-host.--T._
SECTION XXV.
On Dacaratha's son, Rama, having crossed the Ocean with his forces, the
graceful Ravana addressed his two counsellors, Suka and Sarana,
saying,--"The crossing the entire ocean incapable of being crossed, by
the monkey-forces, and the building over the sea of the bridge by Rama--
all this had never happened before. The construction of a bridge over
the ocean cannot at all command credence. But (however it be), I must
enumerate the monkey-hosts. Entering the monkey-army unobserved, it
behoveth you to ascertain the magnitude thereof, its strength, who are
the foremost monkeys, who are the councilors assembled there of Rama,
and who of Sugriva, who range at the head, who among the monkeys are
heroic; how they have constructed the bridge over the water of the
ocean; how the high-souled monkeys stay there; Rama's, as well as
Lakshmana's purpose, prowess and the arms (they fight with). And who is
the commander of those magnanimous monkeys? Having learnt all this
truly, ye ought to return speedily". Being thus commissioned, these
heroes, the Rakshasas, Suka and Sarana, assuming monkey-shapes, entered
into the hosts of monkeys. But Suka and Sarana could not number that
army of monkeys, incomprehensible and capable of making people's hair
stand on end. The forces were on mountain-tops, by fountains and in
caves. And those rangers of the night beheld those forces, some having
already crossed, and some crossing, and some intent on doing so; and
some having sat down and some sitting--that mighty army sending terrific
roars,--that ocean of hosts incapable of being disturbed. As they
remained thus disguised, they were discovered by Vibhishana. Thereat,
taking them captive, he unfolded (the fact) unto Rama, saying,--"These
are the counsellors of the lord of Rakshasas--Suka and Sarana. O captor
of hostile capitals, they have come as spies from Lanka". Seeing Rama,
they were greatly afflicted, and, despairing of their lives and
exercised with fear, with joined hands, said,--"O placid one, commanded
by Ravana, we have come here, O son of Raghu, for the purpose of
gathering information concerning this army". Hearing their speech,
Rama--son unto Dacaratha--ever engaged in the welfare of all beings,
laughing, remarked,--"If you have heedfully noted this entire array, or
if you have done what ye had been commanded to do, return in peace. If
aught remaineth unseen, do ye see it anew. Or Vibhishana will again
fully show it unto you. Having been taken, ye need not fear on the score
of your lives. Even if envoys happen to be taken who are equipped with
weapons, they should not be slain. And albeit these night-rangers have
come as spies in disguise, with the view of creating division among
their foes, yet, O Vibhishana, let them off. Entering the extensive
Lanka, ye should say unto the king--younger brother unto the Dispenser
of riches--the words which I utter,--'That force relying on which thou
hast carried away my Sita, do thou as thou wishest, along with thy
forces and friends, display the same. On the morning of the morrow
behold the city of Lanka with her wall and gates, as well as the hosts
of Rakshasas, destroyed by me with my shafts. And as Vasava equipped
with the thunder-bolt hurleth the same amidst the Danavas, will I, O
Ravana, on the morning of the morrow pour down my dreadful ire upon thee
along with thy forces.'" Thus directed (by Rama), those Rakshasas, Suka
and Sarana, having saluted the righteous Raghava with 'Victory!,' came
(back) to Lanka and spoke unto the lord of Rakshasas, saying,--"O lord
of Rakshasas, having been taken by Vibhishana for the purpose of being
slain, we came to be seen by the righteoua-souled Rama of immeasurable
energy, and (finally) were liberated (by him). As these four persons
have combined--like unto the Lokapalas, heroic, accomplished in arms,
and of steady prowess--viz., Dacaratha's son, Rama, the graceful
Lakshmana, Vibhishana, and the highly powerful Sugriva, resembling the
great Indra, these are capable of uprooting the city of Lanka--walls and
gateways--and replacing her (on her former site),--leave thou the
monkeys aside. Such is Rama's figure and arms that he shall alone
demolish Lanka,--leave the other three alone. And that host protected by
Rama, Lakshmana and Sugriva, shall become exceedingly hard to combat
even by the Asuras and gods.--And the army of the high-souled rangers of
the woods, eager for encounter, contains warriors bursting with high
spirits. No use of dispute. Be thou intent on pacification. Do thou
render back Maithili unto Dacaratha's son".
SECTION XXXI.
Hearing Sarana's words, pregnant and truthful, king Ravana addressed
him, saying,--"Even if the gods, Gandharvas and Danavas should attack
me, Sita will I not part with from fear of all creatures. O amiable one,
thou, having been hard handled by the monkeys and distressed in
consequence, deemst it fit that Sita should be rendered back this very
day. What foe of mine is there who is competent to conquer me in
battle?" Having uttered this rough speech, the graceful Ravana--lord of
the Rakshasas--desirous of surveying (the monkey-hosts), ascended an
edifice white like snow, and elevated like many palms (placed one upon
another). And transported with passion, Ravana in company with those
spies, saw the sea, mountains and forests. And they beheld the Earth
enveloped with monkeys, and the mighty host of monkeys, boundless and
irresistible. And having seen this, king Ravana asked Sarana,--"Who
among these monkeys are the foremost, who are the heroes, and who
possessed of great strength? Who, bursting with spirits, stay all about
the fore? Whom doth Sugriva listen to? And who are the leaders of the
monkey-leaders? O Sarana, relate thou all this unto me. And what is the
prowess of the monkeys?" Thereat, Sarana, knowing the chiefs (of the
monkey-army), spoke unto the sovereign of Rakshasas, who had asked
(him), as to who were the heads of the rangers of the woods. "This
monkey, that, setting up roars, stayeth in front of Lanka, surrounded by
hundreds and thousands of monkey-leaders, by whose tremendous shouts
Lanka trembleth with her wall, gateways, hills, woods and forests, and
who is posted in front of the forces of the high-souled Sugriva--master
of all the monkeys--is the heroic leader of monkey-bands named Nila. And
that one, possessed of prowess, who, folding up his arms, paceth the
gound on foot, who, facing Lanka, from wrath is frequently yawning, who
resembles a mountain-peak and is like the filaments of a lotus, who,
enraged again and again soundeth his tail, and the ten cardinal points
resound with the sounds of whose tail,--is he who hath been sprinkled by
Sugriva--king of monkeys--the heir apparent, named Angada. He
challengeth thee to the fight. The worthy son of Vali and ever dear unto
Sugriva, he putteth forth his prowess, as Varuna doth for Sakra. That
that well-wisher of Raghava, the vehement Hanuman, hath seen Janaka's
daughter, was owing to the advice of this one. That powerful (hero) is
proceeding, taking innumerable bands belonging to the lord of monkeys,
for the purpose of beating thee by means of his soldiery. Following
Vali's son, and surrounded by a mighty force, stayeth in the field the
heroic Nala, the builder of the bridge. Those that with their limbs
lying inactive, and setting up roars and ululations, are following this
one,[68] are heroes dwelling in _Chandana_.[69] With his own army alone,
the silver-hued Sweta of dreadful prowess hopes to subdue Lanka.
Marshalling his monkey-forces and cheering up his soldiers, that
intelligent monkey, famed over the three regions, having speedily met
with Sugriva, is retracing his steps. From days of yore on the banks of
the Gomati there is a mountain, (named) Ramya, (otherwise) called
Sanrochana. The mount abounds with various trees. There that leader of
bands, named Kumuda, governs his kingdom. And he that cheerfully draweth
after his hundreds and thousands of monkeys, and the long grim hairs of
whose tail, coppery, yellow, sable and white, are cast about, is the
energetic monkey, Chanda, eager for encounter. And he hopes to conquer
Lanka by help of his own forces. And this one, resembling a lion, tawny
and furnished with a long mane, who, remaining apart, vieweth all Lanka
as if consuming her with his eyes, dwelleth for ever and a day in
Vindhya, the mountain Krisha, Sahya, and the mount Sudarcana, and, a
leader of bands, is named Rambha. Three hundred Kotis of the foremost of
monkeys, dreadful and fierce and possessed of terrific prowess,
surrounding (him) go in his wake for the purpose of demolishing Lanka by
their (native) might. And he that expandeth his ears and yawneth again
and again, who defieth the fear of death and doth not move his forces,
who trembleth for wrath and eyeth frequently askance,--and behold the
lashing of his tail!--and who setteth up leonine shouts, O king, with
great energy and with fear cast off,--resideth in the romantic mount,
Salweya, and, a leader of companies, is named Sarabha. To him, O king,
belong forty hundred thousands of powerful leaders. And he that stayeth,
like unto a mighty mass of clouds covering up the sky, in the midst of
the monkey-heroes, as doth Vasava in the centre of the celestials, whose
lofty shout is heard (mingled with) the uproar set up by the foremost
monkeys, burning for battle, dwelleth in the excellent hill Parijatra;
and, ever irrepressible in fight, is named Panaca, a leader of
(monkey)-bands. Fifty _lacs_ of leaders with their forces arranged,
environ this commander of monkeys. He that stayeth gracing the dreadful
array overflowing with talk, stationed on the shore of the
ocean,--resembling a second sea and like unto Durdara[70]--is the leader
named Vitata. And he rangeth, drinking of (the waters of) the
Vena,--best among streams--and his forces are sixty lacs of monkeys. And
the monkey, named Krathana, challengeth thee to conflict. He hath (under
him) powerful and vigorous generals, and forces well divided. And the
monkey owning that person of the hue of red chalk, and, who, elated with
strength, disregardeth all the monkeys,--is named Gavaya, who
approacheth thee wrathfully. Several lacs (of troops) girt him round;
and by their means he has to bring down Lanka. These are the heroes,
incapable of being borne, whose numbers cannot be enumerated. These are
the leaders and the heads thereof, as well as the forces set in order of
battle".
[68] The reference is prospective. It means the monkey, Sweta, in the
next _sloka.--T._
[69] This may mean some _wood of sandals_; but the commentator is
silent over it.--T.
[70] Name of a celebrated monkey-leader.--T.
SECTION XXVII.
As thou lookest on, I shall describe unto thee the leaders who shall put
forth their prowess for Raghava, lay down their lives (in his behalf.)
That one of dread deeds the long hairs on whose long tail, coppery, and
yellow, and black, and white, thrown up, look like the rays of Sun, and
are trailing over the ground, is the monkey, named Hara; whom follow
hundreds and thousands (of monkeys) desperately upraising trees, intent
upon (scaling) Lanka--leaders of the monkey-king and his servants
present (in that conflict.) And these whom thou beholdest present,
resembling mighty masses of sable clouds, like unto black collyrium, of
genuine prowess, countless and incapable of enumeration dwelling in
mountains, provinces, and rivers,--terrible beings--approach thee, O
king. In their amidst is their king, gray eyed and of fierce appearance,
like unto Parjanya[71] encompassed by clouds,--who dwelleth in that best
of mountains, Rikkhavan, drinking of the Narmada.--Behold this one
resembling a hill--younger brother of Dhumra, lord of the bears. He is
equal to his brother in beauty, and of superior prowess. This leader of
redoubtable leaders named Jambavan. He is mild, obedient to his
superiors and fierce in fight. The intelligent Jambavan assisted Sakra
signally in the war of the gods and Asuras, and he hath won many boons
(in consequence). Ascending the tops of mountains, these hurl down
gigantic crags huge as colossal clouds, nor doth (the fear of) death
(ever) disquiet them. And their bodies covered with hair, they resemble
Rakshasas and ghosts (in their conduct). This one of immeasurable energy
hath innumerable troops going about, who behold this leader of leaders
under unusual excitement leaping and resting (by turns). This lord of
monkeys dwelleth near the thousand-eyed Deity; and this leader of bands,
gifted with strength, is named Rambha. And he that going, toucheth with
his side a mountain situated at the distance of a Yojana, and, rising
up, measureth the same length,--and whose beauty is surpassed by none
among quadrupeds,--is known under the name of Sannadana, the
grand-father of the monkeys;--this intelligent one battled with
Sakra,[72]--nor did he meet with discomfiture. This is that general of
the forces. And he whose prowess is like that of Sakra, is this one
begot by Fire on a Gandharva's daughter, for assisting the celestials on
the occasion of the war of the gods and the Asuras. And this graceful
and powerful one--best of monkeys--disporteth in that sovereign of
mountains inhabited by numbers of Kinnaras, where king Vaicavana eateth
rose apples, and which, O lord of Rakshas, ever conduceth to the
pleasure of thy brother. And this one who never extolleth himself in
battle, is named Krathana--leader of hosts. Surrounded by a thousand
Koti (of troops), and stationed in the midst of the monkeys, he hopeth
to subjugate Lanka with his own troops alone. And he that roameth about
the Ganga, terrifying leaders of elephant-herds, remembering the former
hostility of the monkeys and the elephants, is this leader of bands,
who, roaring, opposeth wild elephants in mountain-caverns and crusheth
trees,--and foremost of monkeys, and chief of the monkey-forces--like
Sakra himself in heaven, sporteth, resorting to Uciravija pertaining to
Mandara, best of mountains, on the golden river.[73] A thousand lacs of
monkeys, elated with vigor and prowess, setting up roars and furnished
with (long) arms follow him; and this one is the leader of those high
souled monkeys. And, O king, he whom thou seest resembling clouds
uplifted by the winds, is a leader named Pramathi. And his
fleet-coursing soldiery are fiery, and volumes of red-hued dust are
scattered about him profusely on all sides. And these wondrous strong
and dreadful Golangulas[74] numbering hundreds and hundred thousands,
seeing the building of the bridge, surrounding, O mighty monarch, the
leader named Gavaksha--a Golangula--set up shouts, intending to demolish
Lanka with their prowess. Where the trees bring forth fruits of every
season and the black bees resort,--in the mountain furnished with solar
splendour, which the Sun circumambulates, by whose radiance ever beam
beasts and birds with a like hue,--whose table-lands are never forsaken
by magnanimous Maharshis; where the trees yield every object of desire
and all are fraught with fruits; in which best of mountains excellent
honey is found,--there in the charming Golden hill, O king, sporteth
this one--the foremost of the principal monkeys, Kacari by name, a
leader of bands. There are sixty thousand charming Golden hills. In
their midst is that best of mountains,[75] even as thou, O sinless one,
art among the Rakshas. There in the inmost hill dwell (monkeys)
tawny-hued; and white,--with coppery faces; yellowish like honey;
sharp-toothed; having nails for their weapons; and four teeth like
lions; irresistible like tigers all equal to Vaicwanara, and resembling
flaming venomous snakes; furnished with long tails; like unto mad
elephants; seeming like gigantic hills; roaring like mighty clouds; with
eyes tawny and round; of terrific mein; and emitting sounds,--and these
are gazing at Lanka, as if devastating her. And this powerful one
staying in their midst, is their leader, eager for victory; and the
puissant (monkey) always looketh like the Sun himself; and this one, O
king, is famed on earth by the name of Satavali. And this heroic one,
powerful and mighty, established in his own prowess, hopeth to devastate
Lanka with his own forces. And for compassing Rama's desire, the monkey
doth not cherish any kindness for his life. Gaya, Gavaksha, Nala, and
the monkey Nila--each of these is encompassed by ten _kotis_ of
warriors. (Besides these) there are other choice monkeys dwelling in the
Vindhya mountain, but I cannot enumerate these (monkeys) possessed of
fleet vigor, in consequence of their vast number. All these, O mighty
monarch, are of exceeding prowess,--all possess persons resembling
mighty mountains; and all are competent in a moment to remove mountains
and scatter the Earth with them".
[71] Indra.
[72] There is a word--_rane, in battle_ in this line, left out on the
ground of pleonasm.--T.
[73] Ganga.--T.
[74] _Vide ante_.
[75] Savarni Meru.--T.