Kāṇḍa 4

4.1.1 Having reached that lotus-pond teeming with blue lotuses and fish, Rāma, accompanied by Saumitri, lamented with distraught senses.

4.1.2 At the very sight of it his senses trembled with delight; overpowered by longing, he spoke thus to Saumitri.

4.1.3 "O Saumitri, behold the beautiful forest of Pampā, where trees that resemble mountains stand splendid, as if with crests."

4.1.4 "Yet anguishes torment me, scorched as I am by grief — by the sorrow of Bharata and by the abduction of Vaidehī."

4.1.5 "This meadow of blue and yellow gleams all the more richly, spread as if with garlands of the many-coloured blossoms of the trees."

4.1.6 "O Saumitri, this season's breeze is pleasant; Kāma reigns abundantly; the month is fragrant and sweet-scented, the trees laden with flowers and fruit."

4.1.7 "See, O Saumitri, the beauty of these flower-bearing forests as they shed showers of blossoms, like rain-clouds releasing rain."

4.1.8 "On the charming rocky ledges, diverse forest trees, shaken by the rush of the wind, scatter flowers upon the earth."

4.1.9 "The wind blows with a pleasant touch, cool as sandalwood, in the honey-scented forests that hum with swarms of bees."

4.1.10 "On the charming hillslopes, the mountains blaze with glory, their peaks interlocked with great trees full of blossoms."

4.1.11 "See these karṇikāra trees in full bloom all around, covered with golden flowers — like men robed in yellow garments."

4.1.12 "This spring, O Saumitri, resounding with many birds, fans the flames of my grief for one who is parted from Sītā."

4.1.13 "Manmatha scorches me, overwhelmed by grief, while the joyful cuckoo calls and seems to challenge me."

4.1.14 "This water-cock, joyful in the lovely forest waterfall, will make me grieve still more, O Lakṣmaṇa, stricken as I am with desire."

4.1.15 "Birds of mingled kinds, gladdened by their own flocking together, rejoicing with the king-bee, sing in sweet voices, O Saumitri."

4.1.16 "The cruel wind of Caitra's forest scorches me, O Saumitri, overwhelmed by anguished grief for that doe-eyed one."

4.1.17 "Peacocks attended by peahens on the mountain ridges intensify the longing of one — me — already consumed by longing."

4.1.18 "See, Lakṣmaṇa, the peacock dancing — the peahen, filled with desire, dances beside her lord on the mountain ridge."

4.1.19 "Surely the beloved of the peacock has not been stolen by a rākṣasa in the forest; but my dwelling without her in the month of flowers is utterly unbearable."

4.1.20 "See, Lakṣmaṇa, the flowers become fruitless for me, even though the forests are rich with burdens of blossoms at winter's end."

4.1.21 "Birds in joyful flocks cry out their melodies, calling to one another as if challenging — driving me mad with desire."

4.1.22 "Surely Sītā, fallen into another's power, grieves even as I do — that dark-complexioned one, lotus-petal-eyed, gentle in speech, my beloved."

4.1.23 "This flower-laden wind, pleasant to the touch and carrying coolness, is like fire to me as I think longingly of that beloved."

4.1.24 "Without her, that bird — a crow perched in a tree — cries out joyfully, calling in its delight."

4.1.25 "Surely this very bird shall be the herald of Vaidehī there; the bird will lead me to the side of the wide-eyed one."

4.1.26 "See, Lakṣmaṇa, the chorus in the forest — heightening intoxication — of birds calling among the flower-crowned trees."

4.1.27 "O Saumitri, see how in the variegated groves of Pampā the lotuses shine in the water like the newly-risen sun."

4.1.28 "Here is Pampā with her clear waters, stretching with lotuses and blue water-lilies, swarming with swans and kāraṇḍava ducks, rich with white saugandhika flowers."

4.1.29 "She is ever graced with cakravāka birds, her variegated banks enclosed by groves, and she gleams with herds of elephants and deer that seek the water."

4.1.30 "The eye, on beholding the petals of lotus buds, imagines they resemble the eye-cups of Sītā, O Lakṣmaṇa."

4.1.31 "Mingled with lotus pollen, issuing from among the trees, the enchanting breeze blows like the breath of Sītā."

4.1.32 "O Saumitri, see on the southern ridge of Pampā the supremely beautiful flowering stalk of the karṇikāra tree."

4.1.33 "This king of mountains, adorned yet more by its mineral veins, sheds a many-coloured dust driven loose by the force of the wind."

4.1.34 "O Saumitri, the hillslopes everywhere seem like lamps with the kiṃśuka trees in full bloom on all sides, leafless and charming."

4.1.35 "These clustered, honey-fragrant trees growing on the bank of Pampā — thickets of mālatī and mallikā — and the karavīra trees are in bloom."

4.1.36 "Ketakī, sinduvāra, and vāsantī are beautifully flowered; the mādhavī vines are full of fragrance, and kunda shrubs bloom everywhere."

4.1.37 "Ciribilvā, madhūka, vañjula, bakula, campaka, tilaka, and nāgavṛkṣa trees are all in bloom."

4.1.38 "Nīpa, varaṇa, and kharjūra trees are beautifully blossoming; aṅkola, kuraṇṭa, cūrṇaka, and pāribhadraka bloom as well."

4.1.39 "Mango, pāṭalā, and kovidāra trees are in flower; mucukunda and arjuna too are visible on the mountain ridges."

4.1.40 "Ketaka, uddālaka, śirīṣa, śiṃśapā, dhava, śālmalī, kiṃśuka — red and blooming — kurabaka, tiniśa, naktamālā, sandal, and syandana trees as well."

4.1.41 "The rocky ledges on the mountain ridges, O Saumitri, are made golden and red by the varied blossoms of those diverse trees scattered upon them."

4.1.42 "See, O Saumitri, the flowering of trees at winter's end; in the month of flowers the trees bloom as if through mutual friction."

4.1.43 "See this cool-watered lake, O Saumitri, filled with lotuses, attended by cakravāka birds, frequented by kāraṇḍava ducks, teeming with plavas and cranes, and visited by boars and deer."

4.1.44 "Pampā shines all the more with its calling birds."

4.1.45 "Various joyful birds seem to kindle my desire as I remember my beloved — dark-complexioned, moon-faced, lotus-eyed."

4.1.46 "See the deer accompanied by does on the variegated ridges — and me, bereft of Vaidehī of the doe-like eyes."

4.1.47 Thus lamenting there, his mind stricken by grief, he gazed upon the auspicious Pampā, her lovely waters flowing, fair and beautiful.

4.1.48 The great-souled one, gazing suddenly at the whole forest with its waterfalls and ravines, agitated of heart, deliberated together with Lakṣmaṇa, and then set forth, stricken by sorrow.

4.1.49 Those two set forth together toward Ṛśyamūka, frequented by Sugrīva and his band of monkeys. On seeing those two — the mighty Rāghava and Lakṣmaṇa — the monkeys were struck with fear.

4.2.1 On seeing those two great-souled brothers, Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa, those heroes bearing excellent weapons, Sugrīva became suspicious.

4.2.2 With an anxious heart, scanning all directions, that foremost of monkeys could not stay in any one place.

4.2.3 His mind would not settle in one spot as he watched those two of great strength; the mind of the monkey, utterly terrified, faltered.

4.2.4 Having pondered and weighed what was grave and what was slight, Sugrīva, greatly agitated, together with all his attendants —

4.2.5 — then that lord of leaping monkeys, Sugrīva, spoke to his counsellors, utterly alarmed, watching those two — Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa.

4.2.6 "These two, surely, have been sent here by Vālin into this impenetrable forest — moving about in disguise, clad in bark garments, they have come here."

4.2.7 Then the counsellors of Sugrīva, seeing those two supreme archers, left that mountain-ledge and went to another excellent peak.

4.2.8 Those horde-leaders quickly approached and surrounded that bull among herds, that best of monkeys, and stood in attendance.

4.2.9 Going one by one on a single path, leaping from mountain to mountain, with their speed they shook the peaks of the mountains.

4.2.10 Then all those powerful branch-animals, leaping, broke down the flowering trees that grew in those difficult places.

4.2.11 Those foremost of tawny monkeys, leaping around that great mountain on all sides, went forth frightening the deer, wildcats, and tigers.

4.2.12 Then the counsellors of Sugrīva, having taken refuge on the king of mountains, gathered before that foremost of monkeys and all stood with hands folded in reverence.

4.2.13 Then Hanūmān, skilled in speech, spoke to Sugrīva who was trembling with fear and suspected the sin of Vālin.

4.2.14 "The one on account of whom you flee with agitated heart, O foremost of monkeys — that cruel-looking, cruel Vālin — I do not see him here."

4.2.15 "The one from whom you fear, dear friend — your elder brother of wicked deeds — that evil-souled Vālin is not here; I see no danger for you."

4.2.16 "Ah, your monkey-nature is evident indeed, O leaping one — through such fickleness of mind you cannot steady yourself in thought."

4.2.17 "Act in everything by signs, endowed with intelligence and discernment; for a king without wisdom cannot rule all beings."

4.2.18 Sugrīva, having heard all of Hanūmān's fair words, then spoke an even fairer speech to Hanūmān.

4.2.19 "Long-armed, broad-eyed, bearing arrows, bows, and swords — who would not feel fear on seeing these two who resemble sons of the gods?"

4.2.20 "I suspect these two foremost of men have been sent by Vālin; kings have many friends, and trust is not appropriate here."

4.2.21 "Enemies must be recognised by a man though they move in disguise; the untrustworthy, after gaining trust, strike at vulnerabilities."

4.2.22 "Vālin is clever in his undertakings; kings of wide vision are destroyers of enemies — ordinary men must be alert to that."

4.2.23 "Go to them yourself in an ordinary guise, O leaping one, and learn who they are through the means used with those who are suspected — by form and by speaking with them."

4.2.24 "Observe the disposition of those two; if their minds are joyful, reassure them again and again with praise and with signs."

4.2.25 "Standing in my very presence, ask them, O foremost of monkeys, what is the purpose of those bow-bearers' entry into this forest."

4.2.26 "If these two have pure souls, so learn, O leaping one; their wickedness, if any, will be discerned through their speech or through their forms."

4.2.27 Thus directed by the king of monkeys, the son of the Wind God resolved to go where those two — Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa — were.

4.2.28 Having honoured the words of that greatly fearful, unapproachable monkey with "so be it," the great-spirited Hanūmān then went to where Rāma of surpassing strength and Lakṣmaṇa were.

4.3.1 Hanūmān, having understood the words of the great-souled Sugrīva, leaped from the mountain Ṛśyamūka to where the two Rāghavas were.

4.3.2 Having gone there, the powerful Hanūmān, foremost of monkeys, of true valour, approached those two with gentle words.

4.3.3 Abandoning his own form, the monkey approached in the guise of a mendicant and spoke to those two heroes and praised them as was fitting.

4.3.4 "You two ascetics, resembling royal sages or gods, firm in vows and of excellent complexion — how have you arrived in this place?"

4.3.5 "Frightening the herds of deer and other forest-dwellers, gazing in all directions at the trees that grow on the banks of Pampā —"

4.3.6 "— you who adorn this river of auspicious waters, you who are swift, steadfast, golden in lustre — who are you two, clad in bark garments?"

4.3.7 "Heroes with the side-glance of lions, with the surpassing might and gait of lions, holding bows resembling Indra's bow in your wide arms —"

4.3.8 "— endowed with majesty and beauty, with the gait of the foremost of bulls, with arms like an elephant's trunk, radiant, O bulls among men —"

4.3.9 "— by whose radiance this king of mountains is illumined, you two worthy of kingship, resembling immortals — how have you come to this place?"

4.3.10 "Lotus-petal-eyed heroes, wearing circles of matted locks, heroes alike to one another — you seem to have come from the world of the gods."

4.3.11 "As if by chance arrived on this earth — like the moon and the sun — broad-chested heroes, human in form but divine in appearance."

4.3.12 "With lion shoulders, of great spirit, equal in pride like bull-oxen, your arms long and well-rounded, like the finest iron bars, worthy of all ornaments — why then are you not adorned?"

4.3.13 "I consider you both fit to protect this entire earth — with its oceans and forests, adorned with Vindhya and Meru."

4.3.14 "And these two bows, beautiful and smooth, adorned with wondrous decorations, shine like Indra's thunderbolt decked with gold."

4.3.15 "And the quivers, filled with sharp arrows and fair to behold, are terrible, life-ending — like blazing serpents."

4.3.16 "These two swords, of great size and broad, adorned with refined gold, blaze with glory like serpents that have shed their skins."

4.3.17 "Thus I address you — why do you not speak to me?"

4.3.18 "There is one named Sugrīva, a righteous-souled leader of a monkey troop, a hero wronged by his brother, who wanders the world in misery."

4.3.19 "I have come, sent by that great-souled Sugrīva, king among the foremost of monkeys — I am a monkey named Hanūmān."

4.3.20 "The righteous-souled Sugrīva desires friendship with you two; know me as his minister, a monkey, the son of the Wind God."

4.3.21 "Concealed in the guise of a mendicant, able to go wherever I will, able to take any form I wish, I have arrived here from Ṛśyamūka out of desire to please Sugrīva."

4.3.22 Having thus spoken to those two heroes, Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa, who were versed in speech, the one skilled in speech said nothing more.

4.3.23 Having heard his words, the glorious Rāma, with a delighted face, spoke to Lakṣmaṇa, his brother standing at his side.

4.3.24 "This is the minister of Sugrīva, the great-souled lord of monkeys, for whom I have been longing — he has come to my presence."

4.3.25 "Address him, O Saumitri — this monkey who is Sugrīva's minister, versed in speech — with sweet words full of affection, O subduer of foes."

4.4.1 Then Hanūmān, greatly delighted, on hearing those sweet-spoken words — "one whose purpose is accomplished" — went in his mind to Sugrīva.

4.4.2 "The return of the kingdom is fitting for that great-souled Sugrīva, since one whose purpose is accomplished has arrived, and this very purpose has come to meet him."

4.4.3 Then Hanūmān, the foremost of monkeys, supremely delighted and skilled in speech, replied with these words to Rāma.

4.4.4 "For what purpose have you come, along with your younger brother, to this dreadful and inaccessible forest adorned by the Pampā woodland and filled with all manner of serpents and wild beasts?"

4.4.5 Hearing those words of his, Lakṣmaṇa, prompted by Rāma, described the great-souled Rāma, son of Daśaratha.

4.4.6 "There was a king named Daśaratha, resplendent and devoted to righteousness; this man is his elder son, known among people by the name of Rāma."

4.4.7 "A refuge for all living beings, one who has perfectly fulfilled his father's command, this hero is the most virtuous among the sons of Daśaratha."

4.4.8 "Fallen from his kingdom, he came here to dwell in the forest together with me; self-controlled and of great splendour, he was followed by his wife Sītā — like the sun at the close of day attended by its radiance."

4.4.9 "I am his younger brother, who by reason of his virtues have taken upon myself the condition of a servant; my name is Lakṣmaṇa — of one who is grateful and widely knowledgeable."

4.4.10 "Of one worthy of happiness, worthy of greatness, whose soul is devoted to the welfare of all beings — now stripped of sovereignty and resorting to forest-dwelling."

4.4.11 "His wife has been carried off by a rākṣasa who assumed any form at will, seizing his moment when they were alone; nor is it known which rākṣasa it was that abducted his wife."

4.4.12 "Danu by name, the son of Śrī, who had become a rākṣasa through a curse, informed him of Sugrīva, the capable lord of monkeys."

4.4.13 "'That mighty hero will know the abductor of your wife' — having said thus, Danu departed radiant to heaven in peace."

4.4.14 "All this has been truthfully told to you as you inquired; both Rāma and I have come to Sugrīva for refuge."

4.4.15 "This man, having formerly been lord of the world and having bestowed wealth and attained unsurpassed renown, now desires Sugrīva as his master."

4.4.16 "With Rāma overwhelmed by grief, afflicted by sorrow and seeking refuge, it is fitting that Sugrīva, together with his troop-leaders, show him his favour."

4.4.17 To Lakṣmaṇa, who was speaking thus in a pitiful manner with tears falling, Hanūmān, skilled in speech, replied with these words.

4.4.18 "Such men as these — endowed with wisdom, who have conquered anger and mastered their senses — are indeed to be met by the lord of monkeys; by good fortune they have come into view."

4.4.19 "For he too has been driven from his kingdom, has been made an enemy by Vālin, his wife has been taken, he wanders in the forest in fear, and has been grievously wronged by his brother."

4.4.20 "Sugrīva, son of the Sun-god, together with us, will render assistance to you both in the search for Sītā."

4.4.21 Having said thus, Hanūmān spoke smoothly and with sweet speech to Rāghava: "Let us go to Sugrīva."

4.4.22 The righteous-souled Lakṣmaṇa, having duly honoured Hanūmān who had spoken thus, said this to Rāghava.

4.4.23 "As this son of the Wind-god, the monkey, reports with delight — one whose purpose is accomplished has also arrived here; your purpose too is as good as accomplished, O Rāghava."

4.4.24 "His countenance is serene and bright, and he speaks with evident gladness; the heroic Hanūmān, son of Vāyu, will not speak anything untrue."

4.4.25 Thereupon the greatly wise Hanūmān, son of the Wind-god, took the two heroes, the Rāghava princes, and went to the king of the monkeys.

4.4.26 That foremost of monkeys, the son of the Wind, of vast renown and great valour, with auspicious mind, as though his task were already accomplished, set forth in great delight along with Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa toward that best of mountains.

4.5.1 And Hanūmān, going from Ṛśyamūka to that Malaya mountain, then announced the two heroes, the Rāghava princes, to the king of monkeys.

4.5.2 "This is Rāma, of great wisdom and firm valour, who has arrived along with his brother Lakṣmaṇa — this Rāma of true heroism."

4.5.3 "Born in the lineage of the Ikṣvākus, the son of Daśaratha, Rāma is renowned for righteousness and has honoured his father's command."

4.5.4 "While this great-souled, disciplined man was dwelling in the forest, his wife was carried off by a rākṣasa; he has come to you for refuge."

4.5.5 "He is one by whom the sacrificial fire has been gratified with Rājasūya and Aśvamedha rites, and by whom gifts of cows numbering hundreds of thousands have been distributed as sacrificial fees."

4.5.6 "He by whose ascetic power and truthful speech the earth was governed — for the sake of a woman, that son, this Rāma, has come to you for refuge."

4.5.7 "These two brothers, Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa, who desire friendship with you — receive them and honour them; both are most worthy of honour."

4.5.8 Having heard the words of Hanūmān, Sugrīva was glad at heart; the dreadful fear he had felt on account of the Rāghava princes left him, and his anxiety was gone.

4.5.9 Sugrīva, the lord of monkeys, assuming human form and having become most handsome in appearance, addressed Rāghava with affection.

4.5.10 "You are disciplined in righteousness, valiant, and affectionate toward all; your virtues have been truthfully described to me by the son of Vāyu."

4.5.11 "Therefore this is indeed my honour and the highest gain for me, O lord, that you desire friendship with me, a mere monkey."

4.5.12 "If friendship pleases you, here is my arm extended; let hand take hand, and let the bond of that compact be made firm."

4.5.13 Hearing those well-spoken words of Sugrīva, Rāma, with a joyful heart, clasped that hand in his own hand and embraced him tightly, taking that heartfelt friendship to himself.

4.5.14 Then Hanūmān, the subduer of enemies, casting aside his mendicant's form, kindled fire in his own true form from two sticks of wood.

4.5.15 Having then worshipped and honoured the blazing fire with flowers, he, greatly pleased and with full concentration, placed it between those two.

4.5.16 Then Sugrīva and Rāghava both circumambulated the blazing fire and thus entered into the state of friendship.

4.5.17 Then those two — the monkey and the Rāghava — both with greatly gladdened hearts, gazed at each other without finding satiation.

4.5.18 Then the spirited Sugrīva, with one-pointed mind, spoke these words to Rāma, son of Daśaratha, who is versed in all matters.

4.6.1 "O Rāma, this counsellor of mine, that best of ministers Hanūmān, has told me the reason for which you have come to this desolate forest."

4.6.2 "While you were dwelling in the forest together with your brother Lakṣmaṇa, your wife Maithilī, the daughter of Janaka, was carried off by a rākṣasa."

4.6.3 "She was crying, separated from you and from the wise Lakṣmaṇa; that one, seeking his opportunity, after slaying the vulture Jaṭāyus —"

4.6.4 "The sorrow born of separation from your wife — you shall be freed from it before long; I will bring her back, as a lost Vedic text is recovered."

4.6.5 "Whether she abides in the netherworld or in the sky above, O subduer of foes, I will bring your wife back and give her to you."

4.6.6 "Know this to be the truth of my word, O Rāghava; cast aside grief, O mighty-armed one — I will bring that beloved wife to you."

4.6.7 "By inference I know — there is no doubt — it is that Maithilī; I saw her being carried away by a rākṣasa of cruel deeds."

4.6.8 "She was crying out 'Rāma! Rāma!' and 'Lakṣmaṇa!' loudly, writhing in the arms of Rāvaṇa like the wife of the king of serpents in his coils."

4.6.9 "Having seen me standing on the mountain slope as the fifth among my companions, she cast down her upper garment and her bright ornaments."

4.6.10 "Those were gathered up and stored away by us, O Rāghava; I will bring them — you should identify them."

4.6.11 Then Rāma said to Sugrīva, who had spoken such pleasing words: "Bring them quickly, my friend — why do you delay?"

4.6.12 Thus addressed, Sugrīva quickly entered the deep cave of the mountain, out of desire to please the Rāghava.

4.6.13 And taking the upper garment and the bright ornaments, the monkey showed them to Rāma saying, "Look at these."

4.6.14 Then, having taken that garment and those bright ornaments, he was choked with tears — like the moon obscured by mist.

4.6.15 Overwhelmed by the flood of tears welling up from his love for Sītā, crying out "Ah, my beloved!" he abandoned his composure and fell to the ground.

4.6.16 Pressing those finest ornaments again and again to his heart, he heaved deep sighs — like an angered serpent in its burrow.

4.6.17 With an unbroken stream of tears, Rāma looked to Lakṣmaṇa at his side and, in his wretchedness, began to lament.

4.6.18 "Look, Lakṣmaṇa — this upper garment cast away upon the ground by the daughter of Videha as she was being carried off, and these ornaments from her body."

4.6.19 "On the grassy ground it was surely cast by Sītā as she was carried away; this ornament is seen here, of just such an appearance as hers."

4.6.20 "Tell me, Sugrīva — in what direction was she seen by you as she was being carried off by the fearsome-formed rākṣasa — she who is as dear to me as my own life?"

4.6.21 "Or where does that rākṣasa dwell — that great affliction of mine — on whose account I shall destroy all the rākṣasas?"

4.6.22 "By the one who carried off Maithilī and who has grievously enraged me, the door of death has been opened for the end of his own life."

4.6.23 "She who is dearest to me has been seized and carried off from the forest by a night-wanderer who overpowered her — tell me who that enemy of mine is, O lord of monkeys; today I will send him to the presence of Yama."

4.7.1 Thus addressed by the grief-stricken Rāma, the monkey Sugrīva spoke with hands folded in reverence, his voice choked with tears and his speech broken by weeping.

4.7.2 "I do not know the abode of that wicked demon in any way, nor his power, his prowess, nor indeed the lineage or family of that base-born one.

4.7.3 Yet I truly promise you: abandon your grief, O subduer of enemies — I shall make such effort that you will recover the daughter of Mithilā.

4.7.4 Having slain Rāvaṇa together with his retinue and having satisfied my own valor, I shall act in such a way that before long you will be pleased.

4.7.5 Enough of clinging to this despondency — recall the inner fortitude natural to you. Such mental feebleness does not befit one of your kind.

4.7.6 I too have suffered a great calamity born of the abduction of my wife, yet I do not grieve in this manner, nor do I abandon my fortitude.

4.7.7 I, a mere common monkey, do not mourn her — you who are high-souled and well-disciplined, how much less should you who are so resolute grieve!

4.7.8 You ought to restrain these tears that have come upon you through lack of fortitude; you ought not to abandon the steadfastness that is the mark of those endowed with true courage.

4.7.9 In calamity, or in hardship, or in fear, even when life itself is at stake — one who reflects with his own reason and remains steadfast does not sink into despair.

4.7.10 But the man who perpetually follows after despondency is a fool — helplessly he sinks into grief, like a ship in water overwhelmed by its cargo.

4.7.11 With these hands folded in supplication, I entreat you out of affection: take refuge in your valor — you ought not to give room to grief.

4.7.12 Those who follow grief find no happiness, and their energy diminishes. You should not grieve thus.

4.7.13 I speak to you as your well-wisher, with a friend's regard — I do not presume to instruct you. Honoring our friendship, you should not grieve, I say."

4.7.14 Sweetly consoled by Sugrīva in this manner, that scion of the Raghu clan wiped his face, wet with tears, with the hem of his garment.

4.7.15 Restored to his natural composure by Sugrīva's words, that mighty Kākutstha embraced Sugrīva and spoke these words:

4.7.16 "What ought to be done by a friend who is affectionate and well-meaning, what is fitting and proper — all that you have done, Sugrīva.

4.7.17 And indeed I have been restored to my natural state by your entreaties, O friend. Such a kinsman as this is rare to find, especially in a time like this.

4.7.18 Yet effort must be made by you to search for the daughter of Mithilā, and against that fierce demon, the evil-souled Rāvaṇa.

4.7.19 And let what I must do be told to me in confidence — as rain on good soil, all shall come to fruition for you.

4.7.20 And this speech uttered by me in pride — let it be taken by you, O tiger among monkeys, as the truth.

4.7.21 I have never spoken a falsehood before, nor shall I ever speak one — this I promise you, and by truth itself I swear to you."

4.7.22 Then Sugrīva was delighted, along with his monkey ministers, having heard the words of the scion of the Raghu clan — above all, the vow that was made.

4.7.23 Having heard the words of that great-spirited one, the bull among men, that foremost hero among monkeys — knowing in his heart that his own purpose was as good as accomplished — considered it done.

4.8.1 Thoroughly pleased by those words, the monkey Sugrīva spoke these words to Rāma, the elder brother of Lakṣmaṇa:

4.8.2 "I am, without doubt, blessed by the gods in every way — I, whose friend is you, endowed with qualities both natural and acquired.

4.8.3 Truly, O Rāma, O sinless one, with you as ally it would be possible to win even the kingdom of the gods — how much more my own kingdom, O lord?

4.8.4 I am to be honored by kinsmen and friends alike, O scion of the Raghu clan, for I have gained as a friend, with fire as witness, one born of the Raghu lineage.

4.8.5 I too am a fitting companion for you — you shall come to know this gradually. Yet I am not capable of proclaiming my own inner qualities myself.

4.8.6 For great-souled ones like you, those who have mastered themselves, the affection that arises is steadfast — like the fortitude of those who possess true self-possession.

4.8.7 Silver or gold, garments or ornaments — the good regard these as undivided and held in common: such is the understanding of the good.

4.8.8 Whether wealthy or poor, whether in sorrow or in happiness, whether blameless or at fault — a true companion is the highest refuge.

4.8.9 Giving up wealth, giving up comfort, and even giving up one's body — men act thus for the sake of a friend, when they have seen affection of such a kind.

4.8.10 To Sugrīva who spoke such agreeable words, Rāma said "so be it" — in the presence of Lakṣmaṇa, as Indra the wise might reply to his glorious companion.

4.8.11 Then, seeing Rāma standing there and the mighty Lakṣmaṇa beside him, Sugrīva let his gaze wander restlessly in all directions through the forest.

4.8.12 Then that lord of monkeys saw, not far away, a śāla tree in full bloom, with somewhat sparse foliage but adorned by humming bees.

4.8.13 Breaking off one leafy, well-flowering branch of that śāla tree, Sugrīva spread it out and sat down together with Rāma.

4.8.14 Then seeing the two seated, Hanūmān too pulled off a śāla branch and had Lakṣmaṇa seated upon it with due courtesy.

4.8.15 Then the delighted Sugrīva, with smooth and sweet speech, spoke to Rāma out of affection, his words faltering with joy:

4.8.16 "I, wronged by my brother, wander here tormented by fear, on the excellent mountain Ṛśyamūka, my wife stolen away, in great misery.

4.8.17 Thus I dwell in fear, immersed in dread, my mind distracted, wronged by my brother Vālin, with enmity made between us, O scion of the Raghu clan.

4.8.18 O you who dispel the fear of all the worlds — I, tormented by fear of Vālin, masterless as I am, you ought to show grace to me as well."

4.8.19 Thus addressed, that splendid one, the knower of dharma, the lover of dharma — that Kākutstha replied to Sugrīva almost with a smile:

4.8.20 "A friend is one whose fruit is helpfulness; harm is the mark of an enemy. This very day I shall slay him who has stolen your wife.

4.8.21 For these arrows of mine are swift as wind, feathered, of sharp brilliance, golden-adorned, born of the groves sacred to Kārttikeya.

4.8.22 Covered with heron feathers, resembling the thunderbolt of Mahendra, well-jointed, with very sharp tips, they are like angry serpents.

4.8.23 See your enemy who bears the name of brother — Vālin who has committed this offense — struck down by my arrows, like a mountain shattered."

4.8.24 Hearing the words of the scion of the Raghu clan, Sugrīva, lord of the host, was filled with incomparable joy and cried out "Well said! Well said!"

4.8.25 "I, overwhelmed by grief just as Rāma is, pour out my lament to you — for you are the refuge of those afflicted by grief — counting you as my companion.

4.8.26 For you are the friend made by the joining of hands, witnessed by fire — held dear as life itself — I swear by truth itself.

4.8.27 And so, counting you as my companion, I speak freely — the grief that lies within, that ever burns my heart.

4.8.28 Having spoken these many words, his eyes clouded with tears, his voice stricken by weeping, he could no longer speak loudly.

4.8.29 But Sugrīva restrained by his fortitude, in the presence of Rāma, that sudden surge of tears which had come upon him like the current of a river.

4.8.30 Having suppressed those tears, having wiped his beautiful eyes and drawn a deep breath, that splendid one again addressed the scion of the Raghu clan:

4.8.31 "Long ago, O Rāma, I was deposed from my own kingdom by Vālin — having caused me to hear harsh words, the mighty one cast me out.

4.8.32 My wife was stolen by him — she who is dearer to me than life itself — and those who were my friends were bound in imprisonment by him.

4.8.33 And that most corrupt soul made repeated efforts for my destruction, O scion of the Raghu clan, and the many monkeys sent by him I have slain.

4.8.34 Yet out of this same suspicion, even upon seeing you, O scion of the Raghu clan, I did not approach — I was afraid, for all fear when there is reason to fear.

4.8.35 For these alone are my allies, Hanūmān foremost among them — it is because of them that I maintain my life even now, fallen into such hardship as I have.

4.8.36 These affectionate monkeys protect me on all sides — they go with me when I go, and they always remain with me when I remain still.

4.8.37 In brief, this is my situation, O Rāma — why should I say more at length to you? That brother of mine, Vālin of celebrated prowess, is my elder and my enemy.

4.8.38 By his destruction my misery would immediately vanish; my happiness and my very life are bound up in his destruction.

4.8.39 This, O Rāma, is the end of my grief as reported by one afflicted by grief — whether in sorrow or not, a friend is ever the refuge of a friend.

4.8.40 Hearing this speech, Rāma spoke to Sugrīva: "What was the cause from which the enmity arose? I wish to hear it truly and in detail.

4.8.41 For having heard the reason for your enmity easily, O monkey, I shall arrange for what follows, having weighed the relative strength and weakness.

4.8.42 For my indignation upon hearing of your humiliation is powerful and grows, making my heart throb — like the rushing surge of water in the rainy season.

4.8.43 Tell me gladly and with confidence — before the bow is strung, my arrow loosed, and your enemy dispatched."

4.8.44 Thus addressed by the great-souled Kākutstha, Sugrīva was filled with incomparable delight, together with his four monkey companions.

4.8.45 Then Sugrīva, his face radiant with joy, began to recount to the elder brother of Lakṣmaṇa the true cause of the enmity.

4.9.1 "My brother named Vālin, the destroyer of enemies, is my elder — always held in high esteem by our father, and so too by me in former times.

4.9.2 When our father passed away, the ministers, saying 'this one is the elder,' installed him, with the highest approbation, as lord of the monkeys over the kingdom.

4.9.3 While he ruled over that great ancestral kingdom, I remained always bowing to him in humility, standing like a servant.

4.9.4 There was a powerful demon named Māyāvī, the firstborn son of Dundubhi — between him and Vālin there arose a great enmity, over a woman, as is well known of old.

4.9.5 He came to the gate of Kiṣkindhā at night while the people slept, roaring with great fury, challenging Vālin to battle.

4.9.6 My brother Vālin, asleep, heard that terrifying roar and could not endure it — he leapt forth instantly.

4.9.7 Going out in wrath to slay that greatest of demons, he was restrained by the women of the household and by me, who bowed humbly before him.

4.9.8 But he, the mighty one, shaking off all of us, went out. Then I too, out of brotherly affection, went forth together with Vālin.

4.9.9 But that demon, on seeing my brother and seeing me standing at a distance, was seized with terror and fled with great speed.

4.9.10 As he fled in terror, the two of us pursued him at even greater speed — and the rising moon made the path bright at that time.

4.9.11 That demon, with great speed, entered a large difficult cave in the earth covered over with grass, while we two stood there having reached the place.

4.9.12 Seeing the enemy enter the cave, Vālin, overcome with anger, his senses agitated, spoke these words to me:

4.9.13 "Wait here, Sugrīva, at the mouth of the cave, attentive — until I enter within and slay the enemy in combat."

4.9.14 Having heard these words, I besought him, O scorcher of foes — but he made me swear by his feet, and then entered the cave.

4.9.15 More than a full year passed after his entering the cave — and that time elapsed while I stood at the entrance.

4.9.16 I, considering him lost and filled with the agitation that comes from affection — for I could not see my brother — and my mind suspected something terrible.

4.9.17 Then, after that long time, seeing blood — red and foaming — flowing out from that cave, I was overcome with deep sorrow.

4.9.18 And the sound of demons roaring reached my ears, and the outcry of my elder being overwhelmed in battle and crying out.

4.9.19 Concluding by those signs that my brother had been slain, and blocking the mouth of the cave with a rock as large as a mountain, I performed the water-rites in grief and returned to Kiṣkindhā, O friend.

4.9.20 The truth I was concealing was diligently ascertained by the ministers — and then, meeting together with them all assembled, I was consecrated as king.

4.9.21 While I was ruling the kingdom rightfully, O scion of the Raghu clan, Vālin returned, having slain that greatest of demons.

4.9.22 Seeing me consecrated, his eyes reddened with anger, he bound my ministers and spoke harsh words to me.

4.9.23 Though capable of restraining him, against that wicked one, O scion of the Raghu clan, my mind did not stir to action — constrained by reverence for my brother.

4.9.24 Honoring that great-souled one duly, I greeted him with proper salutation — and blessings were spoken by him, his inner self apparently satisfied."

4.10.1 Then, out of desire for his good will, I sought to placate my brother who had come upon me seized with anger and agitation.

4.10.2 "By good fortune you have returned safe, and the enemy has been slain by you; for me who was without a protector, you alone are my protector — the joy of one who had none."

4.10.3 "Receive this royal parasol, raised aloft by me, adorned with many ribs, risen like a full moon, together with the yak-tail fans."

4.10.4 "You alone are the king worthy of honour, and I am ever as before — I restore to you this kingdom that was held in trust."

4.10.5 "Do not be angry with me, gentle one, O destroyer of enemies; I beseech you, O king, with my head — these joined palms are folded by me."

4.10.6 "I was forcibly brought together with the ministers and the citizens of the capital and installed in the royal office out of a desire to keep the kingdom from becoming masterless."

4.10.7 But that monkey, despite my speaking to him with affection, reviled me and, saying "Shame on you," said many reproachful things.

4.10.8 Having gathered the subjects together and the respected ministers as well, he spoke to me in the midst of friends words that were most shameful.

4.10.9 "You know how that great demon, that trickster, that cruel and utterly wicked one who longed for battle, challenged me one night."

4.10.10 "Hearing that roar of his, I issued forth from the royal palace, and this harsh brother of mine followed swiftly behind me."

4.10.11 "That mighty one, seeing me accompanied by another in the night, fled in fear; we two gave chase, and he, being pursued, swiftly entered into the great cave."

4.10.12 "Knowing he had entered that most dreadful and vast cavern, I then addressed this brother of mine, fierce in aspect:"

4.10.13 "'I have not the power to return to the city without slaying him — wait at the mouth of the cave until I have killed him.'"

4.10.14 "Believing he would remain there, I entered that difficult lair; and while I was searching for him, a full year passed."

4.10.15 "That fearsome enemy was finally found by me without despairing, and there he was slain by me along with his kinsmen."

4.10.16 "That cave became filled with a flood of blood flowing from his mouth, impassable, while he rumbled upon the ground."

4.10.17 "Having slain that valiant enemy, the son of Dundubhi, I saw even as I was coming out that the mouth of the cave was sealed shut."

4.10.18 "As I called out again and again 'Sugrīva!' and there was no answer at all, I became exceedingly sorrowful."

4.10.19 "I broke it open again and again with blows of my feet, then made my way out through it and returned home."

4.10.20 "There, by this cruel Sugrīva, who sought the kingdom for himself and forgot the bond of brotherhood, I was barred from entry."

4.10.21 "Having spoken thus against me there, Vālī the monkey banished me, stripped of fear, with but a single garment."

4.10.22 "Cast out by him and robbed of my wife, O Rāghava, I have traversed this entire earth with its forests and oceans in fear of him."

4.10.23 "Anguished by the abduction of my wife, I entered the foremost of mountains, Ṛśyamūka, which is impregnable, by reason of another circumstance concerning Vālī."

4.10.24 "All this great tale of the enmity has been told to you — behold, O Rāghava, the calamity that has befallen me though I am innocent."

4.10.25 "O hero who brings safety to all the worlds, you should grant me your grace, who am stricken with fear of Vālī, through his suppression."

4.10.26 When thus addressed, that splendid one, the knower of dharma, began to speak words consonant with righteousness to Sugrīva, smiling gently.

4.10.27 "These sharp arrows of mine, bright as the sun, unfailing, will fall upon that wicked Vālī filled with my wrath."

4.10.28 "Only until I set eyes upon him who stole your wife does that vile-souled Vālī, that defiler of conduct, continue to live."

4.10.29 "Judging by my own experience, I see you plunged in an ocean of grief; I will carry you across, and you shall attain every abundance."

4.11.1 Hearing Rāma's words, which heightened both joy and valour, Sugrīva honoured the Rāghava and praised him.

4.11.2 "Without doubt, with your blazing, sharp arrows that pierce vital spots, you could, when angered, burn the worlds, like the sun at the end of an age."

4.11.3 "Having heard with one-pointed mind what prowess, what valour, and what resolve Vālī possesses, decide thereafter what is to be done."

4.11.4 "Before the sun has risen, Vālī strides — from the western ocean to the eastern, from the southern to the northern — without weariness."

4.11.5 "Having ascended the peaks and great summits of mountains, that valiant one hurls them upward with force and catches them again."

4.11.6 "Many sturdy trees of various kinds in the forests have been snapped by Vālī with force as he displays his strength."

4.11.7 "There was a buffalo named Dundubhi, brilliant as the peak of Kailāsa, who possessed the strength of a thousand elephants, so valiant was he."

4.11.8 "Intoxicated by excess of might and deluded by the boon he had received, that great-bodied, evil-souled one went to the ocean, lord of rivers."

4.11.9 "Surpassing the wave-crested ocean, treasure-laden, he addressed the great sea: 'Give me battle!'"

4.11.10 "Then the ocean, righteous-souled and mighty, rising up, spoke these words to that demon driven on by fate, O king:"

4.11.11 "'I am not capable of giving you battle, O master of warfare; hear, I shall tell you who will give you battle.'"

4.11.12 "'There is the king of mountains in the great forest, the supreme refuge of ascetics, the father-in-law of Śaṃkara, renowned by the name Himavān.'"

4.11.13 "'Possessed of caverns and springs, full of many gorges and cascades — he is capable of giving you matchless satisfaction in combat.'"

4.11.14 "Recognising that the ocean was afraid, that foremost of demons rushed to the Himālayan forest like an arrow discharged from a bow."

4.11.15 "Then Dundubhi hurled many white boulders, as vast as great elephants, of that mountain to the ground and roared loudly."

4.11.16 "Then Himavān, white as a rain-cloud, gentle, of pleasant form, standing upon his own peak, spoke:"

4.11.17 "'You ought not to harass me, O Dundubhi, O devotee of dharma — I am unskilled in the deeds of battle, for I am the refuge of ascetics.'"

4.11.18 "Hearing those words of the wise king of mountains, Dundubhi spoke, his eyes reddened with anger:"

4.11.19 "'If you are incapable of battle, or if you have no inclination out of fear of me, then name to me one who would today give battle to me who am eager to fight.'"

4.11.20 "Himavān, master of speech, righteous-souled, hearing him, spoke words never spoken before to that foremost of demons in his anger:"

4.11.21 "'There is a monkey of great wisdom named Vālī, glorious and of valour equal to Indra's, who resides in Kiṣkindhā of incomparable splendour.'"

4.11.22 "'That greatly wise one, skilled in warfare, is capable of giving you great single combat, as Vāsava gave to Namuci.'"

4.11.23 "'Go to him quickly, if you desire battle here — for he is ever irresistible, a hero in the deeds of war.'"

4.11.24 "Hearing the words of Himavān, Dundubhi, overcome with anger, went to that city of Vālī — Kiṣkindhā."

4.11.25 "Wearing the form of a buffalo, with sharp horns, terrifying, he was like a great rain-cloud full of water in the sky at the onset of the monsoon."

4.11.26 "Then that mighty Dundubhi, arriving at the gate of Kiṣkindhā, roared, shaking the earth like a kettledrum."

4.11.27 "Breaking the nearby trees, tearing the earth with his hooves, scratching at that gate with his horns in arrogance, like an elephant."

4.11.28 "Vālī, who had entered the inner chambers, hearing the noise and being intolerant, burst forth with his women, like the moon with the Tārā stars."

4.11.29 "Vālī, lord of all the forest-ranging monkeys, spoke to that Dundubhi in measured, clear words:"

4.11.30 "'For what reason do you roar here blocking this city gate? You are known to me, O Dundubhi, O mighty one — protect your life.'"

4.11.31 "Hearing those words of the wise lord of monkeys, Dundubhi spoke, his eyes reddened with anger:"

4.11.32 "'You ought not to speak in the presence of women, O hero — give me battle; then I shall know your strength.'"

4.11.33 "'Or else I shall restrain my anger for this one night — take your pleasure freely in the enjoyment of desires, O monkey.'"

4.11.34 "'For whoever would slay one who is intoxicated, heedless, asleep, or utterly alone — such a one would be a slayer of an embryo in this world, one deluded by pride, like you.'"

4.11.35 "He laughed and spoke gently with anger to that foremost of demons, having sent away all those women beginning with Tārā."

4.11.36 "'Do not think of me as drunk — if you are fearless in battle, let this intoxication in this combat be reckoned as the warrior's drink.'"

4.11.37 "Having spoken thus and being greatly angered, he threw up the golden garland given him by his father the great Indra and stood ready for battle."

4.11.38 "Seizing that Dundubhi, who resembled a mountain, by the horns, Vālī threw him down and roared with a great sound."

4.11.39 "In that life-taking battle, Dundubhi was crushed; blood then flowed from both his ears as he fell, and that great-bodied one crashed to earth, reduced to the five elements."

4.11.40 "Having lifted that lifeless, unconscious body with both arms, swift Vālī hurled it a full league with a single burst of speed."

4.11.41 "From the mouth of him thus hurled with force, drops of blood were carried by the wind and fell toward the hermitage of Mataṅga."

4.11.42 "Seeing those drops of blood fallen there, the sage discharged a great curse against Vālī, the thrower: 'This place must not be entered by him; if he enters, he will meet his death.'"

4.11.43 "He went to the great sage and besought him with joined palms."

4.11.44 "Then, afraid and fearful of the curse, that monkey will not enter, nor even approach, the great mountain Ṛśyamūka, O lord of men."

4.11.45 "Knowing his prohibition from entry, O Rāma, I roam this great forest with my minister, free from despair."

4.11.46 "Here the heap of bones of that Dundubhi, hurled away in excess of valour, is visible — great, resembling a mountain peak."

4.11.47 "And here are these seven great śāla trees, their branches hanging down — to strip a single one of its leaves is Vālī's feat of strength."

4.11.48 "This incomparable valour of his has been set forth by me, O Rāma; how, O king, will you be able to slay that Vālī in battle?"

4.11.49 "If you, O mighty-armed one, were to split these śāla trees with a single arrow, then I would know you capable of slaying Vālī."

4.11.50 Hearing those words of the great-souled Sugrīva, the mighty-armed Rāghava effortlessly lifted the body of Dundubhi with his big toe and hurled it ten leagues.

4.11.51 Seeing the body thus hurled, Sugrīva then spoke these meaningful words to Rāma in the presence of Lakṣmaṇa:

4.11.52 "When it was hurled before, O friend, the body was fresh, moist and full of flesh; now, O Rāghava, it is light, desiccated, and reduced to straw — hence your strength or his, which is greater, cannot be judged from this."

4.12.1 Hearing these well-spoken words of Sugrīva, the greatly resplendent Rāma took up his bow to give proof of his power.

4.12.2 He, the honoured one, taking up the terrible bow and a single arrow, let fly at the śāla trees, filling the directions with the sound of the bowstring.

4.12.3 That arrow, adorned with gold, released by the powerful one, pierced all seven śāla trees on the mountain slope and entered the earth.

4.12.4 Having entered the earth, that swift arrow, piercing through to the netherworld, swiftly leapt back out and returned to its own quiver.

4.12.5 Seeing those seven śāla trees pierced through by the speed of Rāma's arrow, the foremost of monkeys was filled with the utmost amazement.

4.12.6 Sugrīva, exceedingly delighted, his ornaments hanging loose, fell to the ground with his head and joined his palms to the Rāghava.

4.12.7 Gladdened by that feat, he spoke these words to Rāma, knower of dharma, best among all who know weapons, the steadfast hero:

4.12.8 "You, O bull among men, are capable of slaying in battle all the gods together with Indra by your arrows — how much more then Vālī, O lord."

4.12.9 "By whom seven great śāla trees, the mountain, and the earth have been cloven by a single arrow, O Kākutstha — who could stand before you in the van of battle?"

4.12.10 "Today my grief has departed, today my joy is supreme, having encountered you as my friend — you who are comparable to Mahendra and Varuṇa."

4.12.11 "Today itself, for my dear sake, slay Vālī — who is my enemy wearing the guise of a brother, O Kākutstha; these palms are joined by me in supplication."

4.12.12 Then Rāma, the greatly wise one, embracing the pleasing-looking Sugrīva, replied with words approved by Lakṣmaṇa:

4.12.13 "Let us go from here to Kiṣkindhā — go quickly in front; and upon arriving, O Sugrīva, challenge Vālī who has only the semblance of a brother."

4.12.14 All of them went quickly to Kiṣkindhā, the city of Vālī, and concealed themselves with trees, standing in the dense forest.

4.12.15 Sugrīva roared terribly for the purpose of challenging Vālī, clothed in a tight garment, splitting the sky, as it were, with his cries in his swiftness.

4.12.16 Hearing that roar of his brother, the mighty Vālī, enraged, burst forth in great fury, like the sun from the rim of the sunset mountain.

4.12.17 Then there arose a most tumultuous and terrible battle between Vālī and Sugrīva in the sky, like that of the planets Mercury and Mars.

4.12.18 Those two brothers, overcome with rage, struck each other in combat with palms like thunderbolts and fists like vajras.

4.12.19 Then Rāma, bow in hand, observing both of them — those two heroes who resembled each other mutually, like two divine Aśvins —

4.12.20 — since the Rāghava could not distinguish Sugrīva from Vālī, he did not then resolve to release the death-dealing arrow.

4.12.21 In this interval, Sugrīva was broken by Vālī and, not seeing the Rāghava as his protector, fled headlong to Ṛśyamūka.

4.12.22 Exhausted, his body drenched in blood, shattered by blows, pursued by Vālī in wrath, he entered the great forest.

4.12.23 Seeing him enter the forest, the mighty Vālī, out of fear of the curse, said 'You are freed' and turned back.

4.12.24 The Rāghava too, together with his brother and also with Hanūmat, came to that very forest where the monkey Sugrīva was.

4.12.25 Seeing Rāma arrive with Lakṣmaṇa, Sugrīva, ashamed and dejected, looking down at the earth, spoke these words:

4.12.26 "Having told me 'Challenge him,' and having displayed your prowess, and then having had me struck down by my enemy — what is this that you have now done?"

4.12.27 "At that very moment you should have told me truly, O Rāghava, 'I will not slay Vālī' — then I would not have departed from here."

4.12.28 As the great-souled Sugrīva spoke thus with pitiable and mournful voice, the Rāghava again replied:

4.12.29 "Hear me, dear Sugrīva, and let your anger be dispelled — hear the reason why that arrow was not released by me."

4.12.30 "In ornaments, dress, build, and gait, you and Vālī, O Sugrīva, are alike to each other."

4.12.31 "In voice, in lustre, in glance, O monkey, in manner of movement, and in speech — I could not discern any mark of distinction between you two."

4.12.32 "Thus, O foremost of monkeys, confounded by the similarity of form, I did not release that swift, enemy-destroying arrow."

4.12.33 "But see now — this very moment I shall fell Vālī in battle with a single arrow, writhing on the ground."

4.12.34 "Make some distinguishing mark upon yourself, O lord of monkeys, by which I may recognise you as you come to single combat."

4.12.35 "Uprooting this blossoming gajapuṣpī creeper of auspicious marks, place it, O Lakṣmaṇa, around the neck of this great-souled Sugrīva."

4.12.36 Then, having uprooted from the mountain slope that gajapuṣpī laden with blossoms, Lakṣmaṇa placed it around his neck.

4.12.37 He, the glorious one, thus adorned with the creeper clinging to his neck, shone like a rain-cloud with the Saṃdhyā glow, like a garland of cranes.

4.12.38 Shining brilliantly in form, confirmed by Rāma's words, he went together with Rāma to Kiṣkindhā, governed by Vālī.

4.13.1 That righteous-souled elder brother of Lakṣmaṇa departed from Ṛśyamūka together with Sugrīva toward Kiṣkindhā, which was guarded by the might of Vālī.

4.13.2 Rāma took up his great bow adorned with gold, and grasped his battle-winning arrows, blazing like the sun.

4.13.3 In front of that great-souled Rāghava went Sugrīva with his powerful neck, and mighty Lakṣmaṇa.

4.13.4 Behind came the heroic Hanūmān, the monkey Nala, Nīla, and the great-splendored Tāra—leaders of the monkey troops.

4.13.5 They gazed upon trees bending under the weight of blossoms, and upon rivers bearing clear waters flowing toward the ocean.

4.13.6 They looked upon caves and mountain ranges, cascading waterfalls, caverns, prominent peaks, and lovely rocky clefts.

4.13.7 Along the way they beheld ponds full of water, beautified by leaves clear as vaidūrya gems and by lotuses with sky-reaching buds.

4.13.8 Those ponds resounded with kāraṇḍava ducks, sārasa cranes, haṃsa geese, vañjūla birds, water-hens, cakravāka pairs, and many other birds.

4.13.9 On all sides they saw deer standing on open ground, ranging the forest fearlessly, feeding on tender shoots of fresh grass.

4.13.10 They also saw fearsome wild elephants adorned with white tusks, lone wanderers, enemies of embankments, striding alone through the forest.

4.13.11 Beholding yet other forest-dwelling creatures and sky-roaming birds, those who were subject to Sugrīva's command advanced quickly.

4.13.12 As they hastened along, Rāma the delight of the Raghu lineage, catching sight of a grove of trees, spoke to Sugrīva.

4.13.13 "This cluster of trees gleams in the sky like a cloud—vast as a mass of storm-clouds, its borders ringed with plantain trees."

4.13.14 "I wish to know what this is, my friend—I am curious. I want you to relieve my curiosity."

4.13.15 Hearing those words of the great-souled Rāghava, Sugrīva, even as he walked on, described that great forest.

4.13.16 "O Rāghava, this is a vast hermitage, a destroyer of fatigue, endowed with gardens and woodland, rich in sweet roots, fruits, and water."

4.13.17 "Here dwell sages known as the Seven Persons, of sharpened vows—seven in number, who remain with heads downward, ever lying in the water."

4.13.18 "They eat once every seven nights, they subsist on air, dwelling in the forest; over seven centuries they have ascended to heaven, still embodied."

4.13.19 "By their power this hermitage, encircled by a wall of trees, has become utterly unconquerable—even by gods and demons together with Indra."

4.13.20 "Birds avoid this place, as do other forest-wanderers; those who enter it through delusion do not return."

4.13.21 "From here, O Rāghava, are heard the distinct sounds of ornaments, and strains of music and song, and a divine fragrance."

4.13.22 "The three sacred fires still blaze here; that smoke is visible, a dense pigeon-gray-red column, wrapping itself around the treetops."

4.13.23 "O righteous-souled Rāghava, offer obeisance to them—reverently, with your brother Lakṣmaṇa, with palms joined."

4.13.24 "For those who bow to these enlightened sages, O Rāma, no misfortune whatsoever is seen to afflict their bodies."

4.13.25 Thereupon Rāma, together with his brother Lakṣmaṇa, with palms joined, directed his obeisance toward those great-souled sages and reverently saluted them.

4.13.26 Having paid their salutations, the righteous-souled Rāma, his brother Lakṣmaṇa, Sugrīva, and the monkeys proceeded with joyful hearts.

4.13.27 Having traveled a great distance from that hermitage of the Seven Persons, they beheld Kiṣkindhā, that impregnable city, ruled by Vālī.

4.14.1 All of them, having swiftly reached Kiṣkindhā ruled by Vālī, concealed themselves among trees and stood in the dense forest.

4.14.2 Casting his glance all around the forest, Sugrīva who delighted in the forest—broad-necked—roused his anger fiercely.

4.14.3 Then, surrounded by his retinue, he let out a terrible roar, as if splitting the sky with his cries, challenging Vālī to battle.

4.14.4 Then Sugrīva, radiant as the morning sun, with the gait of a proud lion, seeing Rāma skilled in action, spoke these words.

4.14.5 "We have arrived at the city of Kiṣkindhā belonging to Vālī—filled with monkey nets, with portals of burnished gold, abundant with flagstaffs and devices."

4.14.6 "The pledge you made earlier, O hero, regarding the slaying of Vālī—now fulfill it swiftly, like the season of fruiting come for the vine."

4.14.7 Thus addressed by Sugrīva, that righteous-souled Rāghava, destroyer of enemies, then spoke these words to Sugrīva.

4.14.8 "You must bear a distinguishing mark, by means of this garland of gaja flowers, so that I may know you—as the sun in the sky is distinct from the garland of stars."

4.14.9 "Today, O monkey, I shall free you in a single stroke—releasing one arrow in battle—from both the fear and the enmity arising from Vālī."

4.14.10 "Show me Vālī, the enemy of Sugrīva who wears the form of a brother—so that he may writhe in the forest dust when struck down."

4.14.11 "If he comes within range of my sight and yet retreats alive, then let that fault not fall on me—and you must not blame me then."

4.14.12 "Before your eyes I pierced seven śāla trees with a single arrow—know by that power that Vālī is today already slain by me."

4.14.13 "I have never spoken an untruth, O hero, even in the most difficult circumstances, overwhelmed though I may be by desire for righteousness—nor shall I ever speak one."

4.14.14 "I shall fulfill my pledge—abandon your agitation. As Indra of a hundred sacrifices brings rain to make the sown grain sprout in the field, so shall it be."

4.14.15 "Therefore, for the purpose of that challenge, O Sugrīva, make that sound which will cause the golden-garlanded Vālī, that monkey, to rush forth."

4.14.16 "That Vālī who glories in victory, who boasts of conquest, who loves combat—having been challenged and provoked by you, he will spring forth from the city without hesitation."

4.14.17 "Heroes do not endure provocation by enemies in battle, especially when they know their own valor—and all the more so before the eyes of women."

4.14.18 Then Sugrīva, tawny as gold, hearing Rāma's words, roared with a fierce and terrible cry, as if cleaving the sky asunder.

4.14.19 Terrified by his sound, cows scattered, their brightness dimmed, distraught like noblewomen afflicted by the vice of a king.

4.14.20 Deer fled swiftly, like horses broken and routed in battle; birds fell to the ground, like planets whose merit is exhausted.

4.14.21 Then that son of the Sun, with valor-enhanced splendor, confident and swift, sent forth a roar like the thunder of gathered storm-clouds—like the lord of rivers whose waves are stirred by the wind.

4.15.1 Then Vālī, intolerant of his brother, who was within the inner apartments, heard that roar of the great-souled Sugrīva.

4.15.2 Hearing that roar which made all creatures tremble, in an instant his intoxication vanished and great fury descended upon him.

4.15.3 Vālī, his body suffused with rage, blazed like the reddened sun at twilight—and instantly became as it were stripped of his calm radiance.

4.15.4 Vālī with his fearsome fangs, resembling blazing fire in his wrath, shone like a pond whose lotuses have sprung up together with their stalks.

4.15.5 Hearing that unbearable sound, the monkey lord sprang forth with such speed that the stamp of his feet seemed to split the earth.

4.15.6 But Tārā, embracing him and showing her affection from love, frightened and agitated, spoke to him these words bearing beneficial consequences.

4.15.7 "It is well, O hero—restrain this anger that has swept in like a river in spate; having just risen from your bed at daybreak, put it away like a garland already enjoyed."

4.15.8 "Your sudden sally does not please me. Hear me—I shall tell you the reason why you are being restrained."

4.15.9 "Before, he came upon you in anger and challenged you to combat; but when he was repulsed by you and lay nearly slain, he fled in all directions."

4.15.10 "That he returns here now to challenge you again, after having been so utterly routed and afflicted by you—this arouses my suspicion."

4.15.11 "The pride and resolve that can be read in his roaring, and the fierce urgency of that cry—this is no small cause for concern."

4.15.12 "I do not think Sugrīva has come here without allies; he roars here relying on some powerful support."

4.15.13 "That monkey is by nature shrewd and wise; Sugrīva would not go to combat alongside one whose valor he has not tested."

4.15.14 "Even before now, O hero, I heard words from Prince Aṅgada's account; I shall now speak to you words that are for your good."

4.15.15 "Your brother's ally is the renowned and battle-hardened Rāma, crusher of enemy armies, arisen like the fire of the world's end."

4.15.16 "He is the sheltering tree of the virtuous, the ultimate refuge of those who are distressed, the support of the afflicted, and the sole vessel of glory."

4.15.17 "Endowed with knowledge and realized wisdom, devoted to his father's command—like the king of mountains is to minerals, he is a great mine of virtues."

4.15.18 "Therefore it is not fitting that you enter into conflict with that great-souled Rāma, who is unconquerable and immeasurable in the deeds of battle."

4.15.19 "O hero, I will tell you something—I do not wish to be censured for it. Listen, and do as I counsel; I shall tell you what is for your welfare."

4.15.20 "Quickly and properly install Sugrīva as crown prince; do not, O hero and king, enter into conflict with a brother who is backed by a mightier power."

4.15.21 "I truly believe what befits you is friendship with Rāma and reconciliation with Sugrīva—casting enmity far away."

4.15.22 "This younger monkey is your brother who deserves to be cherished; whether he is there or here, he is in every way still your kinsman."

4.15.23 "If my good is dear to you, and if you consider me well-wishing, then, earnestly entreated, heed my words well."

4.16.1 To Tārā who spoke thus — she whose face resembles the lord of stars — Vālī spoke words of rebuke and said this:

4.16.2 "For what reason should I endure the fury and roaring of him who is both my brother and my enemy? Tell me, O lovely-faced one.

4.16.3 For heroes who have never been humbled, who never turn back in battle — to endure insult, O timid one, is worse than death.

4.16.4 I am incapable of enduring in combat the fury and roaring of Sugrīva, that wretched-necked one who thirsts for battle.

4.16.5 You should not grieve on my account concerning Rāghava; how would one who knows dharma and is grateful commit sin?

4.16.6 Turn back with the women — why do you follow me further? O Tārā, your friendship toward me has been shown; your devotion has been rendered.

4.16.7 I shall go and fight Sugrīva — abandon your agitation. I will crush his arrogance; he shall not escape with his life.

4.16.8 I swear by my own life — turn back. I shall return victorious after defeating that brother of mine in battle."

4.16.9 Then Tārā, that sweet-spoken one, embraced Vālī and, weeping softly, performed the auspicious circumambulation of him.

4.16.10 Then, having performed the benedictory rites as prescribed by injunction, she who desired his victory entered the inner apartments together with the women, overcome with grief.

4.16.11 When Tārā had entered her dwelling together with the women, the angry Vālī went forth from the city, hissing like a great serpent.

4.16.12 That swift Vālī, utterly furious, cast his gaze in all directions, eager for the sight of his enemy.

4.16.13 Then that glorious one beheld Sugrīva — tawny as gold, well-girded, steadfast, blazing like a fire.

4.16.14 Seeing Sugrīva of great might standing ready for battle, the utterly furious Vālī girded his garment tightly.

4.16.15 That valiant Vālī, firmly girded, raised his fist and advanced straight toward Sugrīva, resolved to do battle.

4.16.16 Sugrīva too, raising his tightly-clenched fist and coming forward with even greater fury, aimed himself at Vālī who wore a golden garland.

4.16.17 To Sugrīva the battle-expert, who came rushing with great speed, Vālī — his eyes red with rage — spoke these words:

4.16.18 "This fist of mine, tightly closed with fingers firmly set — when I hurl it with full force, it will depart taking your life with it."

4.16.19 Thus addressed, Sugrīva in anger replied to Vālī: "Let my fist fall upon your head, bearing away your very life."

4.16.20 Struck by him, Vālī in great fury rushed forward with speed and began to pour forth blood, like a mountain gushing with a spring.

4.16.21 By Sugrīva, who with his might uprooted a sāla tree and struck Vālī across the limbs, Vālī was shaken like a great mountain struck by a thunderbolt.

4.16.22 Vālī, assaulted and reeling from the blow of the sāla tree, became like a vessel in the ocean weighed down by a heavy load.

4.16.23 Those two, of fearsome strength and prowess, with the speed of Suparṇa, towering and terrible in form, were like the sun and moon in the sky.

4.16.24 Sugrīva, his pride shattered by Vālī and his strength failing, yet showing his agility in anger, displayed his nimbleness before Vālī.

4.16.25 Then Rāghava, fitting to his bow an arrow like a venomous serpent, loosed that mighty shaft and drove it into the chest of Vālī.

4.16.26 Struck with great force, Vālī fell to the earth.

4.16.27 Then, drenched with streams of blood-water, like a blossoming aśoka tree tossed by the wind, the son of Indra — his senses fled — fell to the ground in battle like the banner of Indra cast down.

4.17.1 Then Vālī, that hardened warrior, struck by Rāma's arrow, fell suddenly like a felled tree.

4.17.2 His whole body laid upon the earth, adorned with ornaments of refined gold, he fell like the banner of the king of gods when its ropes are loosed.

4.17.3 When that lord of the host of monkeys fell to the ground, the earth ceased to shine, like the sky when the moon is lost.

4.17.4 Even as that great-souled one lay fallen on the earth, neither glory, nor life, nor splendour, nor heroic power departed from his body.

4.17.5 The excellent garland given by Śakra — golden, adorned with gems — upheld the life, the radiance, and the glory of that foremost among monkeys.

4.17.6 That hero, lord of the monkey hosts, wreathed in that golden garland, its borders fringed as if with twilight hues, resembled a rain-cloud.

4.17.7 His garland, his body, and the arrow that had pierced his vitals — as though the glory were fashioned in three parts — shone even in his fallen state.

4.17.8 That weapon, hurled from Rāma's bow, lighting the path to heaven for that hero, conveyed him toward the highest destiny.

4.17.9 Him thus fallen in battle — like a fire whose flames have departed, like Yayāti fallen from the celestial world when his merit was exhausted —

4.17.10 like the sun cast down to earth by time at the end of an age, like Mahendra himself impossible to assail, like Mahendra himself impossible to endure —

4.17.11 — Vālī, son of Mahendra, fallen, wearing his golden garland, lion-chested, mighty-armed, blazing-faced, with tawny eyes — Rāma, followed by Lakṣmaṇa, beheld and approached him.

4.17.12 Seeing Rāghava and the mighty Lakṣmaṇa, Vālī spoke words that were at once respectful and harsh, yet in accord with dharma:

4.17.13 "What virtue have you gained by slaying one turned away from you? For it is because of you that I, inflamed for battle, have met my death.

4.17.14 'Rāma is of noble lineage, endowed with virtue, radiant, faithful to his vows, compassionate, and devoted to the welfare of his subjects' —

4.17.15 'He is merciful, of great energy, knowing the appointed times, firm in his vows' — thus all beings speak of your fame upon this earth.

4.17.16 Weighing those virtues and your high lineage — though restrained by Tārā — I came forth to meet Sugrīva.

4.17.17 'He should not strike me — enraged and unwary as I am — from the side of another' — such was the thought that arose in me at not seeing you openly.

4.17.18 I did not know you to be this — a man of destroyed soul, bearing the banner of dharma yet unrighteous, of evil conduct, like a well covered with grass.

4.17.19 Bearing the guise of the virtuous yet evil, like a fire concealed — I did not recognize you, wrapped in the disguise of dharma.

4.17.20 When I have done you no harm in your domain or in your city, and I do not even know you, why do you slay the innocent?

4.17.21 I, a monkey who always subsists on fruits and roots, who roams the forest — who was here engaged in combat with another, not with you —

4.17.22 You are known as the son of a king of men, pleasing in appearance; even the mark of dharma can be seen upon you, O king.

4.17.23 Who, born in a kṣatriya family, learned, with doubts resolved, wearing the mark of dharma as a guise, would commit such a cruel act?

4.17.24 Rāma — born in a royal lineage, renowned as righteous — why do you roam about, unworthy yet wearing a worthy form?

4.17.25 Conciliation, gift, forbearance, dharma, truth, steadfastness, and heroism — these are the qualities of kings, O king; and punishment too, for those who transgress.

4.17.26 We, O Rāma, are forest-dwellers, animals who eat roots and fruits — that is our nature. You are a man, a lord of men.

4.17.27 Land, gold, and silver — these are reasons for punishment. What greed of yours in the forest, or for my fruits, is there?

4.17.28 Both policy and propriety, both punishment and favour — the conduct of kings is unsullied. Kings do not act by the rule of passion.

4.17.29 But you are governed by passion, irascible, unstable, your royal conduct muddled, and devoted only to the bow.

4.17.30 You have no reverence for dharma, your mind is not fixed on what is right; enslaved by passion through the senses, you are dragged about, O lord of men.

4.17.31 Having slain me here with an arrow — me, the guiltless one — O Kākutstha, what will you say in the assembly of the virtuous, having committed this censurable deed?

4.17.32 Slayer of a king, slayer of a brahmin, killer of cows, thief, one addicted to killing living beings, an atheist, one who marries before his elder brother — all these go to hell.

4.17.33 My hide is not to be worn by the virtuous; my hair and bones are to be avoided; my flesh is not to be eaten by those like you who practise dharma.

4.17.34 Five five-clawed animals are permitted as food for brāhmaṇas and kṣatriyas, O Rāghava: the porcupine, the śvāvidha, the monitor lizard, the hare, and the tortoise as the fifth.

4.17.35 My hide and bones, O king, the wise do not touch, and my flesh is not to be eaten — such am I, a five-clawed animal, slain by you.

4.17.36 With you as its lord, O Kākutstha, the earth is truly without a worthy lord — like a virtuous woman fallen prey to a scoundrel.

4.17.37 Treacherous, deceitful, petty, false in your outward show of humility — how is it that you, a sinner, were born of the great-souled Daśaratha?

4.17.38 By the elephant that is Rāma — whose girths of good conduct are severed, who transgresses the dharma of the virtuous, who has cast off the goad of righteousness — I have been slain.

4.17.39 Had you fought openly against me in battle, O son of a king, today you would have met the god Vaivasvata, slain by my hand.

4.17.40 But I, formidable as I am, have been slain in battle by you who remained unseen — like a man overpowered by drink, bitten by a snake while asleep.

4.17.41 Though you have slain me for the sake of pleasing Sugrīva, I could have bound Rāvaṇa by the neck and delivered him to you unslain in battle.

4.17.42 I would have found out for you, at your command, where Maithilī is hidden — whether in the ocean's waters or in the underworld — as one traces a white she-mule.

4.17.43 It would be fitting that Sugrīva obtain the kingdom on my death by natural causes — but it is unfitting that I have been slain by you through unrighteousness in battle.

4.17.44 Let the world be thus disposed by time as it will — if indeed you have a fitting response, let it be well considered."

4.17.45 Having spoken thus, his mouth parched, the great-souled son of the king of the immortals — tormented by the wound of the arrow — gazed upon Rāma who blazed like the sun, and fell silent.

4.18.1 Thus addressed with words at once respectful, grounded in dharma and good counsel, yet harsh — words spoken by the stricken and senseless Vālī — Rāma replied.

4.18.2 To that foremost of monkeys who had spoken his words — like the sun bereft of radiance, like a cloud that has released its water, like a fire that has subsided —

4.18.3 — endowed with the qualities of dharma and statecraft, that peerless lord of monkeys, by whom Rāma had been rebuked — Rāma then spoke to Vālī:

4.18.4 "Without understanding dharma, artha, kāma, and worldly convention, how do you in your childishness rebuke me here today?

4.18.5 Without consulting the wise elders honoured by teachers, O gentle one, you wish to speak against me here out of mere monkey frivolity.

4.18.6 This entire earth with its mountains, forests, and groves — and the power of punishment and favour over animals, birds, and men alike — belongs to the Ikṣvākus.

4.18.7 That earth is governed by the righteous-souled Bharata — truthful, upright, knowing the true nature of dharma, kāma, and artha, devoted to punishment and favour alike.

4.18.8 In whom both policy and propriety, and truth too are well-established, and whose heroism has been witnessed — he is the king who knows place and time.

4.18.9 Acting on his orders established in dharma, we and the other kings roam the entire earth, desiring the perpetuation of righteousness.

4.18.10 While that tiger among kings, Bharata — devoted to dharma — governs the entire earth, who could transgress the bounds of righteous rule?

4.18.11 We, established in our highest dharma, placing Bharata's command foremost, restrain those who have strayed from the right path, according to due procedure.

4.18.12 But you, your dharma sullied, censured by your deeds, governed by the rule of passion — you have not stood on the path of kingship.

4.18.13 An elder brother, a father, and one who confers knowledge — these three are to be known as fathers; and they who walk the path of dharma.

4.18.14 A younger brother, one's own son, and a pupil endowed with virtues — these three are to be thought of as sons, if dharma is the governing principle here.

4.18.15 The dharma of the virtuous is subtle and supremely difficult to know, O leaper; dwelling in the heart, the ātman of all beings knows the auspicious and the inauspicious.

4.18.16 Fickle as you are, deliberating with fickle monkeys of unformed selves — like one born blind deliberating with the congenitally blind — what indeed can you see?

4.18.17 I shall make this matter clear to you. Surely you ought not to rebuke me from mere anger alone.

4.18.18 Observe then this reason for which you have been slain by me: you cohabit with your brother's wife, having abandoned the eternal law of dharma.

4.18.19 While the great-souled Sugrīva is still alive, you in your lust cohabit with Rumā — who is as a daughter-in-law to you — O perpetrator of evil deeds.

4.18.20 Therefore, this punishment has been meted out to you — who have transgressed dharma and acted by passion — for this violation of your brother's wife, O monkey.

4.18.21 For one who has acted contrary to dharma and strayed from worldly convention, I see no restraint other than punishment, O lord of monkey hosts.

4.18.22 A man who from lust makes advances upon his own natural sister, or upon the wife of his younger brother — for him death is prescribed as the punishment.

4.18.23 Bharata is the sovereign of the earth; we act on his command; and you have transgressed dharma — how could this be overlooked?

4.18.24 The wise Bharata, governing righteously those who transgress the dharma of their superiors, is established in the restraint of those who act by passion.

4.18.25 And we, O lord of monkeys, making Bharata's command our rule, are established in the restraint of those like you who have broken the boundaries of propriety.

4.18.26 My friendship with Sugrīva is the same as with Lakṣmaṇa; and he who is devoted to highest good — his cause concerning wife and kingdom is mine as well.

4.18.27 And a pledge was given by me then in the presence of the monkeys — how could one such as I leave a pledge unregarded?

4.18.28 Therefore, by all these reasons, great and in accord with dharma, let you accept that which is a fitting chastisement for you.

4.18.29 In every way, your restraint is to be seen as dharma itself; and to one who looks upon dharma as supreme, it is a service to a friend.

4.18.30 Men who have committed sins and been punished by kings come forth purified and reach heaven, like the virtuous who have performed meritorious deeds.

4.18.31 By the noble Māndhātṛ of mine, a grievous calamity was once sought — just as the sin was committed by an ascetic in that case, so the sin has been committed by you.

4.18.32 Even sins committed by other heedless sovereigns — they perform atonement for them, and by that the taint is quenched.

4.18.33 Therefore, enough of anguish — this death has been ordained according to dharma, O tiger among monkeys; we do not act by our own will.

4.18.34 With snares, nooses, and various traps, both hidden and visible, men take very many animals — whether running, frightened, calm, or standing still.

4.18.35 Men seeking meat strike animals forcefully whether they are heedless or heedful, and even those with their backs turned — and there is no fault in this.

4.18.36 Royal sages too skilled in dharma go hunting here. Therefore you, O monkey, have been slain in battle by me with an arrow — whether you fought back or not — for you are a tree-dwelling animal.

4.18.37 Of the rare gift of dharma and of auspicious life, O foremost of monkeys, kings are the givers — there is no doubt.

4.18.38 One should not injure them, nor revile them, nor offend them, nor speak unpleasant words to them — these kings walk the earth in human form as gods.

4.18.39 But you, not knowing dharma, clinging to mere rage, seek to sully me — who am established in the dharma inherited from my fathers and forefathers."

4.18.40 Thus addressed by Rāma, Vālī, greatly pained, then replied to Rāma with joined palms — that lord of monkeys:

4.18.41 "What you have said, O best of men — it is indeed so; there is no doubt in this. Against the exalted, the lowly is not capable of reply.

4.18.42 Whatever unbecoming and unpleasant word I spoke before through heedlessness — even for that you should not find fault with me, O Rāghava.

4.18.43 For you are the knower of the true nature of things that are seen, devoted to the welfare of your subjects; your imperishable intellect is clear in determining cause and effect.

4.18.44 Me too — who am recognized as one who has placed transgression of dharma foremost — protect with words in accord with dharma, O knower of dharma.

4.18.45 Then Vālī, his throat choked with tears, in a voice full of grief and sorrow, gazing at Rāma softly spoke — like an elephant mired in mud:

4.18.46 "It is not for myself that I grieve, nor for Tārā, nor for my kinsmen — but for my son Aṅgada, golden-limbed, foremost in virtues.

4.18.47 He who, cherished from his very childhood, will be wretched at not seeing me — like a pool whose waters have been drunk, he will wither away.

4.18.48 Bestow your highest regard upon both Sugrīva and Aṅgada — for you are the chastener and the protector, established in the rule of what should and should not be done.

4.18.49 The same conduct that you observe, O lord of men, toward Bharata and Lakṣmaṇa — that same conduct toward Sugrīva and Aṅgada, O king, you should think fit to show.

4.18.50 You should conduct yourself in such a way that Sugrīva does not despise that afflicted Tārā — blameless on her own account yet tainted by my fault.

4.18.51 For one favoured by you, walking under your sway and following your will, the kingdom can be enjoyed in peace."

4.18.52 Rāma then consoled Vālī, who was now clear of vision.

4.18.53 "Neither should you be anxious about us, nor about yourself, O best of monkeys — we have acted with special regard for you, our resolve established in dharma.

4.18.54 He who metes out punishment to one deserving punishment, and he who deserves it and is punished — both, their purpose of cause and effect accomplished, do not fall into disgrace.

4.18.55 Therefore you, through this contact with punishment, freed from taint, have returned to your own righteous nature, walking the path as seen by dharma.

4.18.56 Hearing those sweet, collected words of the great-souled Rāma — who treads the path of dharma, who crushes the arrogant in battle — those well-reasoned words, the monkey replied:

4.18.57 "O lord, whatever offensive words I, scorched by the arrow and out of my senses, not knowing, spoke against you — for this, O one comparable to Mahendra in fearsome prowess, be pleased and forgive me, O lord of the earth."

4.19.1 That great king of the monkeys, struck by the arrow and lying prostrate, though addressed with reasoned words, could find no reply.

4.19.2 His limbs shattered by rocks, grievously struck by trees, and now overwhelmed by Rāma's arrow, he fell into a swoon at the threshold of death.

4.19.3 Tārā heard that Vālin, that tiger among monkeys and her own lord, had been slain in battle by the arrow discharged by Rāma at a wife's behest.

4.19.4 Hearing that most terrible news of her husband's death — dreadful alike for her and for her son — she rushed out in great terror from the various mountain caves.

4.19.5 The mighty monkeys who formed Aṅgada's escort, catching sight of Rāma with his bow, fled in terror.

4.19.6 She then saw the terrified monkeys racing toward her in headlong flight — like deer scattered from a herd whose leader has been slain.

4.19.7 She, herself stricken with grief, approached those grief-stricken ones — all of them put to flight by Rāma as though pursued by his arrows — and spoke to them.

4.19.8 "O monkeys, you who were the vanguard of that lion among kings — why do you flee in such great terror, abandoning him, reduced to this miserable state?"

4.19.9 "If indeed that brother has felled this brother for the sake of a kingdom — by Rāma, with his far-flying shafts loosed from a distance — then flee!"

4.19.10 Hearing the words of the monkey-queen, the monkeys — those shape-shifters — spoke to her in timely and coherent words.

4.19.11 "Live for your son — turn back! Protect your son Aṅgada. Death, having taken the form of Rāma, has slain Vālin and carries him away."

4.19.12 "Vālin, who had hurled uprooted trees and massive boulders — that Vālin has been struck down by arrows like thunderbolts, as if by the thunderbolt itself."

4.19.13 "With this tiger among monkeys slain — he whose splendor was equal to Indra's — this entire army that had charged forward has now scattered and fled."

4.19.14 "Let the city be guarded by the heroes, and let Aṅgada be consecrated as king. Standing firm in his father's place, the monkeys will rally to Vālin's son."

4.19.15 "Or else, O fair-faced one, this stronghold is a fitting refuge for you — the monkeys are quickly entering the fortresses even today."

4.19.16 "Among these forest-dwellers, some have wives and some do not; we face tremendous danger from our own folk — the greedy and the lawless."

4.19.17 Having heard the words of those who had drawn near within a short distance, that beautiful-smiling woman spoke what was fitting for herself.

4.19.18 "What need have I of a son, what of a kingdom, what of my own life, now that that most glorious lion among monkeys, my husband, has perished?"

4.19.19 "I shall go to the feet of that noble great-souled one himself, who has been struck down by the arrow set flying by Rāma."

4.19.20 Having spoken thus, she ran forward weeping, wasted by grief, beating her head and her breast with her arms in her anguish.

4.19.21 As she hurried forward she then saw her husband fallen upon the ground — he who in battles had never turned back, the slayer of lords of demons.

4.19.22 He who had hurled the kings of mountains like Vāsava his thunderbolts, who had been filled with the force of a great storm and roared like a mass of great thunder-clouds —

4.19.23 — whose valor equaled Indra's, terrible in his roaring among those who roar, like a cloud stilled after releasing its rain, that hero laid low by a hero.

4.19.24 As a tiger kills a lion for the sake of flesh — him who was honored by all the world with banners and ceremonial platforms.

4.19.25 As Garuḍa demolishes a sacred tree for the sake of a serpent — thus she saw him, still grasping and upholding his mighty bow, even as he lay fallen.

4.19.26 That beautiful woman passed by Rāma and Rāma's younger brother, and also her husband's younger brother, and drew near to her husband slain in battle.

4.19.27 Gazing upon him she fell to the ground, anguished and bewildered; then rising again as if from sleep, she cried aloud, "My noble lord!"

4.19.28 She wept, beholding her husband bound fast in the bonds of death. Sugrīva, watching her crying out like an osprey, —

4.19.29 — fell into deep despondency, and seeing Aṅgada also arrived, sorrow overwhelmed him.

4.20.1 Tārā — she whose face was like the lord of stars — seeing him struck down upon the ground by the death-dealing arrow loosed from Rāma's bow,

4.20.2 that passionate woman drew near to her husband and embraced him, seeing Vālin, who resembled a great elephant, struck down by the shaft.

4.20.3 Tārā lamented in anguish over the lord of monkeys, who resembled great Indra, her heart tormented by grief — as over a great tree torn up by the roots.

4.20.4 "O you of terrible valor in battle, O hero, O best among those who leap — why do you not speak today to me who am wretched and without good fortune?"

4.20.5 "Rise, O tiger among monkeys, and take your place on an excellent couch — for kings of your kind do not lie upon the bare earth."

4.20.6 "Truly the earth is exceedingly dear to you, O lord of the earth, that even having lost your breath of life you abandon me and lie embracing her with your limbs."

4.20.7 "It is clear, O hero, that another has been chosen by you, you who proceed according to your own dharma — a beautiful city like Kiṣkindhā has been fashioned for you on the path to heaven."

4.20.8 "Those pleasures we enjoyed together with you in the fragrant forests — you have in your time put an end to all of them."

4.20.9 "I am joyless, I am hopeless, plunged into an ocean of grief, now that you — the lord of great monkey-troops — have been reduced to the five elements."

4.20.10 "My heart is very firm indeed — that, seeing you struck down upon the ground, it does not burst today into a thousand pieces, scorched by grief."

4.20.11 "You seized Sugrīva's wife and drove him into exile — and now, O lord of monkeys, this retribution from him has come upon you for that deed."

4.20.12 "And I too, who out of concern for the welfare of the lord of monkeys had spoken words of benefit to you, was censured by you in delusion as one fixated on mokṣa."

4.20.13 "Time, the ender of life, is doubtless irresistible — it is by Time's force that you have fallen helplessly under Sugrīva's power."

4.20.14 "Wretched that I am, a wretched woman, unaccustomed to sorrow before, I shall now live out widowhood, grief, and torment, like one without a protector."

4.20.15 "Aṅgada the hero, who was pampered, tender, accustomed to comfort — in what condition will he live now for me, with his uncle enraged and maddened?"

4.20.16 "Look well upon your father, my son — he who was devoted to dharma and virtuous. The sight of him, my dear child, will henceforth be hard to obtain."

4.20.17 "Comfort your son, and give him your final message; sniff his head in farewell, for you are departing on a long journey from which there is no return."

4.20.18 "Great indeed is the deed done by Rāma in slaying you — he has thereby discharged his debt in fulfillment of his pledge to Sugrīva."

4.20.19 "May you have your desire, Sugrīva — you shall recover Rumā; rule the kingdom without anxiety; your enemy, your brother, has been slain."

4.20.20 "Why do you not speak to me with affection as I lament so? Look upon these, your many excellent wives, O lord of monkeys."

4.20.21 Hearing her lament, the female monkeys all around, embracing the wretched Aṅgada, cried out in their anguish.

4.20.22 "O hero of powerful arms, why do you depart today on this long journey leaving Aṅgada behind? It is not fitting, O you who loved your son, to go thus, leaving behind a son so close to you in virtues."

4.20.23 "What wrong have I done you, O master of lovely and pleasing form, or what has your son done, that today, O hero, leaving me your companion, you go recklessly to the abode of Yama?"

4.20.24 "If I have done anything displeasing to you without knowing it, forgive me for that, O long-armed one, O master of the monkey lineage — I go, O hero, touching your feet with my head."

4.20.25 And thus Tārā, of blameless complexion, weeping piteously together with the female monkeys near her husband, resolved upon the fast unto death, settling down beside Vālin where he lay upon the ground.

4.21.1 Then Hanūmān, the leader of the monkey troops, gently consoled Tārā where she had fallen — like a star fallen from the sky.

4.21.2 "A being, composed of virtues and faults, and conditioned by the fruits of its own actions, receives without fail all the good and ill that is due to it in the next world."

4.21.3 "You who are worthy of lamentation lament for whom? You who are pitiable take pity on whom who is pitiable? And who is there to mourn for whom, in this body that is like a bubble?"

4.21.4 "This prince Aṅgada must be looked after by you who have a son still living; think also of what is capable of being done for him in the future."

4.21.5 "You know that the coming and going of all beings is thus uncertain; therefore, O wise one, what is auspicious must be done — not what is merely of this world."

4.21.6 "He in whose service thousands, millions, and ten-hundreds-of-millions of monkeys performed their appointed portions — even he has come to his fated end."

4.21.7 "Because he was one who perceived things rightly, who was devoted to conciliation, generosity, and forbearance, he has gone to the realm won by dharma — you ought not to grieve for him."

4.21.8 "All the monkeys, and this your son Aṅgada, and the kingdom of the lords of monkeys and bears — all these, O blameless one, have you as their protector."

4.21.9 "Gently urge these two who are tormented by grief, O passionate one; let this Aṅgada, taken under your guardianship, rule the earth."

4.21.10 "And the line of succession as it has been established, and whatever is now the pressing duty for the king — let all of that be carried out; such is Time's decree."

4.21.11 "Let the king of monkeys be duly cremated, and let Aṅgada be consecrated; beholding your son seated upon the lion-throne, you will find peace."

4.21.12 She, tormented by the calamity of losing her husband, heard his words and replied to Hanūmān as he stood before her.

4.21.13 "A hundred sons equal to Aṅgada placed on one side — the embrace of the body of this hero, even slain, is better."

4.21.14 "And I have no power over the kingdom of the monkey king, nor over Aṅgada — Sugrīva, his paternal uncle, is the next in authority in all matters."

4.21.15 "This resolve is not to be entertained regarding Aṅgada, O Hanūmān — for it is the father who is the kinsman of the son, not the mother, O best of monkeys."

4.21.16 "For there is nothing more fitting for me than to take refuge with the king of monkeys — in this world or the next; and it is fitting that I attend upon this couch attended by the hero who fell facing the foe."

4.22.1 Breathing faintly and gazing all around, Vālī, his life-breath now slow, saw Sugrīva standing there first of all, alert and watchful near his own son.

4.22.2 Vālī addressed Sugrīva, lord of the monkeys, who had now attained victory, and spoke these words to him with a clear voice full of affection.

4.22.3 Do not go blaming Sugrīva's fault for my ruin; it was I who was dragged by force into this, my intellect bewildered by what fate had decreed.

4.22.4 Dear brother, I do not think prosperity was ordained for both of us simultaneously; the fraternal bond and affection between us has thus turned out otherwise.

4.22.5 Take up at once this very day the kingdom of these forest-dwellers; and know that I too am departing this very day to the abode of Vaivasvata, the god of death.

4.22.6 Life, kingdom, this vast royal glory, and great unblemished fame — I am quickly relinquishing all of them now.

4.22.7 O hero, O king, in this condition I shall speak words which, though difficult to carry out, you must nonetheless perform.

4.22.8 Look at this boy Aṅgada, fallen to the ground, his face filled with tears — he who deserves happiness and was reared in comfort, blameless though young.

4.22.9 Guard this son, dearer to me than my own life, as if he were your own born son; though bereft of me, let him lack nothing — protect him in every way.

4.22.10 You too shall be his provider, his protector in all things, and his deliverer from every fear — just as I was, O lord of the monkeys.

4.22.11 This glorious son of Tārā, equal to you in valor, shall march at the forefront of your forces in the slaying of those rākṣasas.

4.22.12 Young Aṅgada, Tārā's son, swift and mighty, shall perform deeds worthy of his lineage, displaying his prowess in battle.

4.22.13 And this daughter of Suṣeṇa — Tārā — is thoroughly versed in adjudicating subtle matters of policy, and is fully accomplished in interpreting all manner of omens and portents.

4.22.14 Whatever she pronounces as right and proper, let that be done without doubt; for nothing that Tārā deems wise ever turns out otherwise.

4.22.15 And you must carry out Rāghava's purpose without hesitation; for neglecting it would be unrighteous, and he, if slighted, would harm you.

4.22.16 And take this divine golden garland of Sugrīva's — great sovereignty resides in it; it would abandon this world on my death.

4.22.17 Thus spoken to by Vālī out of brotherly love, Sugrīva, abandoning all joy, became wretched again — like the moon seized by a planet.

4.22.18 Pacified by Vālī's words, acting rightly and without hesitation, he accepted — having been given leave — that golden garland.

4.22.19 Having given away that golden garland and seeing his son standing near, Vālī, readied now for departure from this life, spoke to Aṅgada with affection.

4.22.20 Attend now to place and time; bear with equanimity both the pleasant and the unpleasant; endure joy and sorrow alike; and in due season remain submissive to Sugrīva.

4.22.21 O mighty-armed one, Sugrīva will not hold you in the same regard as I always did when I indulged you; behave accordingly.

4.22.22 Do not follow those who have gone over to enemies; do not go with your foes, O subduer of foes; be self-restrained, devoted to your lord's interests, and obedient to Sugrīva.

4.22.23 Neither excessive intimacy nor excessive aloofness should be practiced by you; both are great faults. Therefore be one who sees the middle path.

4.22.24 Having said these words, his eyes rolled back, tormented greatly by the arrow, his fearsome teeth bared — Vālī's life departed from him.

4.22.25 When that heroic lord of monkeys was slain, the forest-roaming monkeys found no peace — even as cows in a great forest find no peace when their bull has been killed by a lion.

4.22.26 Then Tārā, overwhelmed and drowned in an ocean of grief, gazed upon the face of her dead husband and fell to the ground embracing Vālī — like a creeper clinging to a great tree that has been felled.

4.23.1 Then Tārā, pressing her face close to inhale the scent of the monkey-king's face, her husband fallen from the living world, spoke these words to him as he lay dead.

4.23.2 You lie here, O hero, on this hard and painful earth strewn with crushed grass, without having heeded my words — and in great sorrow do I find myself.

4.23.3 The earth is surely dearer to you than I am, O lord of monkeys; for you lie there embracing her, and you do not speak a word to me.

4.23.4 O hero, O bold and beloved one — it is Sugrīva alone who has triumphed; yet the chieftains of bears and monkeys attend upon you, the mighty one.

4.23.5 Hearing the anguished lamentations of these, the grief of sorrowing Aṅgada, and this speech of mine — why do you not wake and reply?

4.23.6 This is that hero's resting place where you lie slain in battle — the very ground where in former times your enemies were laid low and slaughtered by you.

4.23.7 O you of pure nature and noble lineage, O lover of battle, my beloved, O giver of honor — you have gone, leaving me alone, without a protector.

4.23.8 Truly the wise should not give a maiden in marriage to a hero; look at the wife of a hero now slain — see me, made a widow in an instant.

4.23.9 My pride is shattered; my eternal path is broken; I am sunk deep in a boundless, fathomless ocean of grief.

4.23.10 My heart must surely be made of the hardest iron, for upon seeing my husband slain it does not break into a hundred pieces this very moment.

4.23.11 He was my friend, my husband, by nature my beloved; and he was a hero who showed his valor in battle — and now he has merged into the five elements.

4.23.12 A woman bereft of her husband — let her have sons if she will, let her be filled with wealth and grain — is still called a widow by the wise.

4.23.13 O hero, you lie thus on a bed born of your own body — a pool of blood, covered with insects and reddish matter — as if resting on a couch.

4.23.14 Your body is smeared all over with dust and blood; I am unable to embrace it with my arms, O bull among monkeys.

4.23.15 Sugrīva has today accomplished his purpose in this most terrible enmity — his fear has been removed by a single arrow released by Rāma.

4.23.16 The arrow lodged in your heart prevents me from touching your body; I look at you and hold myself back — now that you have merged into the five elements.

4.23.17 Then Nīla drew out the arrow lodged in his body — as one draws out a blazing venomous serpent that has coiled itself deep in a mountain cave.

4.23.18 As that arrow was being drawn out, its radiance shone forth — like a ray of sunlight blocked by the summit of the setting mountain.

4.23.19 Streams of blood poured from his wounds on all sides — like streams tinged with red ochre flowing from a mountain.

4.23.20 Wiping the battle-dust that had settled on her husband, she bathed the hero — struck down by the weapon — with the tears flowing from her eyes.

4.23.21 Seeing her husband slain, his entire body drenched in blood, Tārā spoke to her tawny-eyed son Aṅgada.

4.23.22 Son, look upon the dreadful final condition of your father — one who pursued enmity and met his end through sinful deeds.

4.23.23 Son, pay homage to the king your father — who gave honor to all — as he departs to Yama's abode, his body glowing like the rising morning sun.

4.23.24 Thus addressed, Aṅgada rose up and clasped his father's feet with his two stout rounded arms, saying "I am here, I am Aṅgada."

4.23.25 Why do you not speak to Aṅgada as he salutes you — as you used to do before — saying "May you live long, my son"?

4.23.26 I attend upon you, senseless as you are, together with your son — even as a cow with her calf attends upon a bull that a lion has just slain.

4.23.27 Having performed the sacrifice of battle with the waters of various weapons, how did you bathe in this concluding ablution without me, your wife?

4.23.28 The golden garland that the king of the gods, pleased with you in battle, once gave to you — why do I not see it on you here now?

4.23.29 The royal glory does not abandon you even in death, O giver of honor — like the light that does not leave the king of mountains even as the sun moves away.

4.23.30 You did not heed my wholesome words, nor was I able to restrain you. I am ruined — I and my son — by you who are ruined; along with you slain in battle, prosperity deserts me here.

4.24.1 Seeing Vālī now lifeless, Rāghava, the scorcher of enemies, thereupon addressed Sugrīva with gentle words.

4.24.2 The dead are not served by the torment of grief; you should now attend to what is to be done next in this matter.

4.24.3 The shedding of tears, which is the way of the world, has been done by you; no act can be carried out beyond its appointed time.

4.24.4 Fate is the cause in this world; fate is the instrument of action; fate is the cause that ordains all beings to their appointed tasks here.

4.24.5 No one is the independent maker of anything, nor is anyone master of their own ordainment; the world moves according to its own nature, and time is its ultimate refuge.

4.24.6 Time does not transcend time; time is never diminished; and once one's nature is reached, no one can transgress it.

4.24.7 Time has no kinship, no motive, no heroic valor; neither friendship, nor relation, nor family ties are a cause for it; and one's own will is not the cause either.

4.24.8 Rather, the ripening of time must be observed by one who sees clearly; dharma, artha, and kāma are all gathered together through the orderly course of time.

4.24.9 From here Vālī has gone to his own elemental nature, having attained the fruit of his deeds; he is purified by the conjunction of dharma, artha, and kāma, O lord of monkeys.

4.24.10 Through his adherence to his own duty, that great soul has conquered and secured heaven — he who did not protect his life in battle.

4.24.11 This is indeed the highest destiny that this leader of monkey troops has attained; therefore enough with grief — let what is timely and appropriate now be attended to.

4.24.12 When Rāma had finished speaking, Lakṣmaṇa, the slayer of enemy heroes, addressed Sugrīva, who was lost in grief, with gentle words.

4.24.13 Sugrīva, perform the funeral rites for him now without delay; together with Tārā and Aṅgada, proceed with the cremation of Vālī.

4.24.14 Give orders for many dry pieces of wood to be assembled, along with divine sandalwood — for the purpose of Vālī's obsequies.

4.24.15 Comfort Aṅgada whose heart is stricken; do not be foolish in your thinking — this city now depends upon you.

4.24.16 Let Aṅgada bring garlands, various garments, clarified butter, oil, perfumes, and whatever else is required next in this matter.

4.24.17 You, Tāra, quickly bring a palanquin with all haste; speed is especially meritorious at this particular time.

4.24.18 Let the monkeys who are fit to bear a palanquin make themselves ready — those who are capable and strong — they shall carry Vālī forth.

4.24.19 Having spoken thus to Sugrīva, Lakṣmaṇa — increaser of Sumitrā's joy, slayer of enemy heroes — stood by his brother's side.

4.24.20 Hearing Lakṣmaṇa's words, Tāra, his mind agitated and his thoughts fixed on the palanquin, quickly entered the cave.

4.24.21 Taking the palanquin, Tāra furnished it duly, to be borne by monkeys — those heroic ones trained to carry burdens.

4.24.22 Then Sugrīva, lifting Vālī and wailing aloud, placed him upon the palanquin — together with Aṅgada.

4.24.23 Having placed Vālī, bereft of life, upon the palanquin, he was adorned with various ornaments, garlands, and garments.

4.24.24 Then King Sugrīva, lord of monkeys, gave command: "Let the post-mortem rites befitting a noble one be performed duly."

4.24.25 "Let the monkeys go in front, distributing various gems in great numbers; the palanquin shall follow directly after."

4.24.26 Such special royal splendors as are seen among kings on earth — with such did they swiftly perform Vālī's post-mortem rites.

4.24.27 Quickly taking hold of Aṅgada, and together with Tāra and the others, all the monkeys, bereaved of their kinsman, went forward weeping aloud.

4.24.28 All the female monkeys, led by Tārā, whose troop-leader had been slain, followed their husband with piteous cries, wailing mournfully.

4.24.29 By the sound of those female monkeys weeping in the forest's depths, the forests and all the mountains seemed to cry out in every direction.

4.24.30 On a sandbar of a mountain river, in a secluded place surrounded by water, the many forest-roaming monkeys built the funeral pyre.

4.24.31 Then those trained to carry, lowering the palanquin from their shoulders, stood apart in a secluded spot, all overcome with grief.

4.24.32 Then Tārā, seeing her husband lying on the floor of the palanquin, placed his head in her lap and lamented in profound sorrow.

4.24.33 You seem to look upon this grief-stricken people — your face appears almost joyful, O giver of honor; even in death it glows like the color of the setting sun, as though you still lived.

4.24.34 It is time itself, in the form of Rāma, that has dragged you away, O monkey — by whose single arrow all these women have been made widows in battle.

4.24.35 These beloved monkey-wives of yours, O king of kings, have come a long road trudging on foot — why do you not take notice of them?

4.24.36 Are these not your beloved wives with faces like the moon? Why do you not look at them now, and why not at Sugrīva, lord of monkeys?

4.24.37 O blameless king, these ministers of yours, led by Tāra, and all these citizens of your city sit gathered around you.

4.24.38 Dismiss these mighty ones fittingly, O subduer of foes, and then let us all sport in the forests, intoxicated with wine.

4.24.39 As Tārā lamented thus, overwhelmed with grief for her husband, the female monkeys, themselves wasted with sorrow, raised her up.

4.24.40 Then Aṅgada, together with Sugrīva, weeping for his father and his senses struck down by grief, placed Vālī upon the funeral pyre.

4.24.41 Then, having duly offered fire, he walked the circumambulation counter-clockwise around his father, who had set out on the long journey — his senses overwhelmed with grief.

4.24.42 Having performed the rites for Vālī according to prescribed custom, those monkeys went to a river of cool, auspicious waters to make the water-offering.

4.24.43 There, assembled together, they placed Aṅgada at the fore; and together with Sugrīva and Tārā, they poured the water-oblation for Vālī.

4.24.44 And Kākutstha — Rāma of great might — himself stricken, sharing the same grief together with the wretched Sugrīva, caused all the funeral rites to be performed.

4.25.1 Then the great ministers among the tree-dwelling monkeys gathered around Sugrīva, who was burning with grief and whose garments were still damp.

4.25.2 All of them approached the mighty-armed Rāma, who acts without fatigue, and stood with folded hands, like sages before Brahmā the Grandfather.

4.25.3 Then Hanūmān, son of the Wind-god, who shines like a mountain of gold and whose face blazes like the rising sun, spoke these words with folded hands.

4.25.4 "By your grace, O lord, Sugrīva has obtained this great kingdom of the monkeys — the realm of his fathers and grandfathers — which was so very difficult to recover."

4.25.5 "With your permission he will enter the fair city and attend to all the affairs of state together with his friends and allies."

4.25.6 "Having bathed and been anointed with various perfumes and medicinal herbs according to prescribed rite, he will especially honour you with jewels and garlands."

4.25.7 "You should come from here to this lovely mountain cave, O master; establish your connection with us and delight the monkeys."

4.25.8 Thus addressed by Hanūmān, the wise Rāghava, slayer of enemy heroes, who was skilled in speech, replied to Hanūmān.

4.25.9 "For fourteen years, dear friend, I shall not enter any village or city — I who honour my father's command, O Hanūmān."

4.25.10 "Let the heroic Sugrīva, bull among monkeys, who has entered the richly furnished and splendid cave according to rite, be swiftly consecrated to the kingdom."

4.25.11 Having spoken thus to Hanūmān, Rāma said to Sugrīva: "O hero, consecrate this Aṅgada also as crown prince."

4.25.12 "This is the first month of the rainy season, Śrāvaṇa, that brings the coming of the waters; the four months known as the rainy season have now begun, dear friend."

4.25.13 "This is not the season for military exertion. Enter your fair city; I shall dwell on this mountain together with Lakṣmaṇa, dear friend."

4.25.14 "This mountain cave is lovely and spacious, well-ventilated, rich in water, and abundantly filled with lotuses and blue water-lilies, dear friend."

4.25.15 "When Kārtika arrives, devote yourself to the slaying of Rāvaṇa — this is our agreement, dear friend. Enter your own dwelling, get yourself consecrated to the kingdom, and gladden your friends."

4.25.16 Thus granted leave by Rāma, Sugrīva, bull among monkeys, entered the fair city of Kiṣkindhā, which had been governed by Vālin.

4.25.17 Thousands of monkeys, filled with joy, saluted that lord of monkeys as he entered and surrounded him on all sides.

4.25.18 Then all the subjects, upon seeing the lord of the monkey host, prostrated themselves with bowed heads to the ground with composed minds.

4.25.19 The valiant and mighty Sugrīva addressed all the subjects, raised them up, and then entered the fair inner apartments of his brother.

4.25.20 When Sugrīva, bull among monkeys, had entered and then came forth again, his friends consecrated him just as the immortals consecrated the Thousand-eyed Indra.

4.25.21 They brought for him a white parasol adorned with gold, and two white fly-whisks with golden handles that bestow glory.

4.25.22 Likewise all manner of jewels, all kinds of seed-bearing plants and medicinal herbs, and the sprouts and blossoms of milk-bearing trees.

4.25.23 And white garments, white unguent, fragrant garlands, and flowers both of land and water.

4.25.24 And divine sandalwood and many various fragrances, whole unhusked grain, gold, priyaṅgu grain, honey, and clarified butter.

4.25.25 And curd, a tiger-skin, and sandals made from the hide of a boar. Sixteen choice maidens arrived there with joy, bearing an anointing preparation, yellow orpiment, and manaḥśilā mineral.

4.25.26 Then they satisfied the best of the twice-born with jewels, garments, and food-offerings as befitting the time and proper rite, doing honour to that foremost of monkeys.

4.25.27 Then those versed in sacred formulas, having laid out a spread of kuśa grass and kindled the fire of Jātavedas, offered oblations into it with clarified butter consecrated by mantras.

4.25.28 Then, on the lovely summit of the palace that was furnished with a golden throne-platform covered with choice spreads and adorned with colourful garlands,

4.25.29 having placed him facing east on an excellent seat with various mantras, and having gathered water from all directions — from rivers, streams, and sacred fords —

4.25.30 — and having brought water from all the oceans and stored the pure and auspicious water in golden vessels, the bulls among monkeys —

4.25.31 — using auspicious bull-horns and golden vessels, according to the rite prescribed by the scriptures and established by the great sages —

4.25.32 — Gaja, Gavākṣa, Gavaya, Śarabha, Gandhamādana, Mainda, Dvivida, Hanūmān, Jāmbavān, and Nala —

4.25.33 — consecrated Sugrīva with clear and fragrant water, just as the Vasus consecrated Vāsava, the Thousand-eyed Indra.

4.25.34 When Sugrīva had been consecrated, all those noble bulls among monkeys there raised a shout of joy in their thousands.

4.25.35 Acting upon Rāma's word, Sugrīva, the foremost among the tawny monkeys, embraced Aṅgada and consecrated him as crown prince.

4.25.36 When Aṅgada too had been consecrated, the noble and compassionate monkeys honoured Sugrīva, saying "Well done, well done!"

4.25.37 The fair city of Kiṣkindhā in its mountain gorge was filled with joyful and prosperous people and shone with banners and flags.

4.25.38 Having reported the great consecration to the noble Rāma, the valiant lord of the monkey army, having also recovered his wife Rumā, obtained the kingdom just as the lord of the thirty gods.

4.26.1 When Sugrīva had been consecrated and the monkey had entered the cave, Rāma came together with his brother to Mount Prasravaṇa.

4.26.2 That mountain resounded with tigers and deer, was thronged with lions of fearsome roar, was dense with various shrubs and creepers, and was thick with many trees.

4.26.3 Frequented by bears, monkeys, and langurs, and by wild cats, that mountain resembling a mass of clouds always sheltered pure water.

4.26.4 On the summit of that mountain, Rāma together with Saumitri took up for dwelling a great and spacious cave.

4.26.5 The righteous Rāghava dwelt there together with Lakṣmaṇa on that Mount Prasravaṇa, full of ravines and glades offering many lovely views.

4.26.6 Even though that mountain was most pleasant and rich in many things, dwelling there afforded not the slightest joy to Rāma, who constantly thought of the wife who had been taken from him — she who was dearer than life itself.

4.26.7 Especially upon seeing the moon risen at its rising, sleep would not come to him at night even when he had lain down.

4.26.8 His brother Lakṣmaṇa, sharing in his pain, spoke consoling words to that scion of Kākutstha, whose mind was shattered by tears, who constantly lamented with grief arising from this sorrow, ever given over to grief.

4.26.9 "Enough, hero — do not surrender to anguish; you should not grieve. For you well know that all one's purposes sink when one grieves."

4.26.10 "You, Rāghava, are foremost in action in the world; you are devoted to the gods; you are a believer; you are of righteous disposition; and you are a man of resolution."

4.26.11 "For without firm resolve, you are not capable of slaying in battle that enemy, that Rākṣasa in particular — that one who acts crookedly — with your valour."

4.26.12 "Uproot your grief, make your resolve firm, and then extirpate that Rākṣasa together with his entire retinue."

4.26.13 "O scion of Kākutstha, you are capable of overturning the entire earth with its oceans, forests, and mountains — how much less, then, Rāvaṇa?"

4.26.14 "I, for my part, am awakening your heroic energy that has fallen asleep, as one revives with blazing oblations a fire covered in ashes at the right moment."

4.26.15 Having honoured Lakṣmaṇa's beneficial and auspicious words, Rāghava spoke this reply to his loving friend.

4.26.16 "What should be said by one who is devoted, affectionate, and well-wishing — by one endowed with true valour — that have you said, O Lakṣmaṇa."

4.26.17 "This grief, which depresses all one's purposes, is hereby abandoned. I rouse my energy, which is unhindered in its valorous deeds."

4.26.18 "I await the season of autumn — this rainy season has now arrived. When it passes, I shall slay that Rākṣasa together with his kingdom and his entire host."

4.26.19 Hearing those words of Rāma, Lakṣmaṇa, son of Sumitrā and the joy of his friends, was delighted and spoke once more.

4.26.20 "This speech you have uttered is worthy of you, O destroyer of enemies. Now, O scion of Kākutstha, you have returned to your true nature."

4.26.21 "Having understood your own true heroic power, you ought to be as you really are. What you have said is befitting both your learning and your noble lineage."

4.26.22 "Therefore, O tiger among men, let the night of the rainy season that has arrived pass by while you contemplate the subduing of the enemy, O Rāghava."

4.26.23 "Restraining your anger, await the autumn season. Bear with these four months; dwell on this mountain with me — this mountain frequented by the king of beasts — growing ever more resolved for the slaughter of the enemy."

4.27.1 Then Rāma, having slain Vālin and consecrated Sugrīva and now dwelling on the slopes of Mount Mālyavat, spoke to Lakṣmaṇa.

4.27.2 "This season has now arrived — the time of the coming of waters. Look now at the sky covered over with clouds like mountains."

4.27.3 "Having drunk up the essence of the oceans through the rays of the sun and held it as an embryo for nine months, the sky now gives birth to its elixir."

4.27.4 "One could climb up into the sky by staircases formed of clouds and deck the sun himself with garlands of Kuṭaja and Arjuna blossoms."

4.27.5 "With its smooth cloud-coverings that are copper-coloured from the crimson of twilight at the edges and more pale in the middle, the sky looks as if a wound has been bound up."

4.27.6 "With its gentle-wind sighs, painted with the sandal-paste of twilight glow, bearing clouds that are somewhat pale, the sky shines like one smitten with longing."

4.27.7 "This earth, afflicted by the law of nature, inundated with fresh water, and tormented by grief — like Sītā — sheds its tears."

4.27.8 "The breezes released from the bellies of clouds, cool and pleasant as the Kahlāra water-lily, fragrant with the scent of Ketaka — one could drink them up in cupped hands."

4.27.9 "This mountain with its Arjuna trees in full bloom, fragrant with Ketaka flowers, is consecrated by the streams of rain — like Sugrīva, his enemies now at peace."

4.27.10 "Wearing dark cloud-skins, with their sacred threads of downward streams, their caves filled with wind-sound, the mountains are like those who have thoroughly studied the Vedas."

4.27.11 "Struck as if by golden whips — by lightning bolts — with the rumble of thunder deep within, the sky seems to be in pain."

4.27.12 "The lightning flashing among the dark clouds appears to me like the suffering Vaidehī, writhing in Rāvaṇa's embrace."

4.27.13 "These directions, which were beneficial to those struck by the arrows of Manmatha, are now obscured — smeared over as it were by the clouds, with their stars and moon invisible."

4.27.14 "Look, O Saumitri, at the Kuṭaja shrubs in bloom here and there on the mountain slopes — pent up with moisture like tears, exuberant at the arrival of the rains — they stand there kindling desire in me who am already overwhelmed by grief."

4.27.15 "The dust is settled, the wind today carries moisture, the afflictions spreading from the summer heat have abated. Military campaigns of kings have halted; wanderers and travellers return to their own lands."

4.27.16 "The Cakravāka birds, eager to reach their beloved Mānasa lake, set out now together with their mates; but their vehicles do not run on the roads battered by the constant rain-water."

4.27.17 "The sky adorned with scattered clouds shines bright in some places and dark in others, its form obstructed here and there by mountains — like the great ocean when it has grown calm."

4.27.18 "The mountain rivers carry swiftly water mingled with the blossoms of Sarja and Kadamba trees, copper-coloured from the mountain minerals, followed by the cries of peacocks."

4.27.19 "The Jambū fruit, full of juice and resembling a bee in colour, is being relished abundantly; and the mango fruit, ripened fully, is tossed down to the ground by the wind."

4.27.20 "The forms of the clouds adorned with lightning-banners, emitting deep and mighty sounds, shine like great war-elephants poised for battle."

4.27.21 "A row of cranes flying all about, eager toward the clouds and joyful, shaken by the wind, shines like a garland of choice white lotuses hung in the sky."

4.27.22 "Sleep approaches Keśava slowly; the river rushes swiftly to the ocean; the joyful crane approaches a cloud; the ardent beloved approaches her lover."

4.27.23 "Forest borders have come alive, with peacocks dancing beautifully; Kadamba trees have grown, with Kadamba-laden boughs; bulls have grown ardent among the cows, equally desirous; the earth has become lovely, adorned with fields of grain and groves."

4.27.24 "Rivers flow; clouds rain; rutting elephants trumpet; forest borders gleam; devoted-to-beloved women meditate; peacocks dance; monkeys take breath."

4.27.25 "Thrilled, having caught the fragrance of Ketaka blossoms, the great elephants in the forest waterfalls, disturbed by the thunderous sounds, cry out together with the maddened peacocks."

4.27.26 "Bees, beaten by the downpours of rain and hanging on Kadamba boughs, slowly relinquish the intoxication that was quickly gained from being immersed in the flowers' nectar."

4.27.27 "The boughs of the Jambū trees shine out with their fruits resembling heaped coal-powder, richly filled with abundant juice, as if settled upon by swarms of bees."

4.27.28 "The forms of the storm-clouds adorned with lightning-banners, emitting deep and mighty rising sounds, shine like elephants roused for battle."

4.27.29 "A maddened king elephant, walking the path and following the mountain forest, having set out and then heard the thunderclap of the clouds, eager for battle and suspecting it to be a rival bull, has turned back."

4.27.30 "Birds with ruffled plumage, joyful and thirsty, drink from the folds of leaves the water falling like pearls — pure and clear, gifted by the lord of the gods."

4.27.31 "Clouds — dark, filled with fresh water — shine clinging to dark clouds, and mountains scorched by forest-fire cling to mountains scorched by forest-fire, as if fixed in place by roots."

4.27.32 "The great elephants are in rut; the chief bulls are joyful; in the forests the lions rest at greater ease; the great trees are lovely; the great serpents are still; and Indra, lord of the gods, plays with the rain-bearing clouds."

4.27.33 "The military campaigns of kings have ceased; armies turn back; enmities and roads alike are levelled by water."

4.27.34 "In the month of Prauṣṭhapada, the sacred season has arrived — the time of study of the Brahman — for brāhmaṇas who wish to expound, and for those who chant the Sāmaveda."

4.27.35 "Bharata, the guardian of the royal treasury, having now finished his seasonal observances and accumulated his stores, has surely observed the Āṣāḍhī vow."

4.27.36 "Surely the current of the swelling Sarayū river rises stronger — like the sound of Ayodhyā seeing me come home."

4.27.37 "These rains, full of abundance, Sugrīva enjoys in happiness — his enemy defeated, his wife restored to him, established in a great kingdom."

4.27.38 "But I, my wife stolen and fallen from a great kingdom, sink down, O Lakṣmaṇa, like a waterlogged riverbank."

4.27.39 "My grief is vast, the rains make travel utterly impossible, and Rāvaṇa is a great enemy — the obstacle before me seems without end."

4.27.40 "Seeing this season unfit for marching and the roads utterly impassable, and since Sugrīva bows before me, I have said nothing at all to him."

4.27.41 "Moreover, the monkey has been long distressed and has only recently been reunited with his wives; because my own need weighs heavily on me, I do not wish to press him."

4.27.42 "For Sugrīva will himself, having rested and knowing that the proper time has come, recognise the obligation of repaying a service — of this there is no doubt."

4.27.43 "Therefore I stand here awaiting the right moment, O auspicious one, watching for the clearing of Sugrīva and of the rivers."

4.27.44 "A hero is indeed bound by service rendered to return service; an ungrateful one who does not repay wounds the hearts of those who are virtuous."

4.27.45 Then, thus addressed, Lakṣmaṇa listened carefully, joined his palms in reverence, honoured that speech, and spoke to Rāma — displaying his own auspicious outlook to him whose very sight is beautiful.

4.27.46 "All that you have desired as you have spoken it, the lord of the monkeys will accomplish before long. Awaiting the autumn, may you, O king of men, bear this outpour of rain, firm in your resolve to subdue the enemy."

4.28.1 Having observed the clear sky, emptied of lightning and clouds, resounding with the calls of sārasas and āravas, smeared as it were with lovely moonlight,

4.28.2 and having observed Sugrīva, his object accomplished, but slack in the pursuit of duty and purpose, exceedingly gone the way of the ignoble, his mind wholly bent on pleasure,

4.28.3 his tasks discharged, his aims fulfilled, always delighting in women, having obtained all the desires of his heart,

4.28.4 sporting day and night with his own beloved wife and with Tārā whom he desired, having achieved his end, free from fever,

4.28.5 sporting like the lord of gods in Nandana with hosts of Apsarases, having delegated his affairs to his ministers, and not supervising those ministers—

4.28.6 having abandoned his royal commands, remaining under the sway of desire — Hanūmān, who had resolved on his purpose, who knew the true nature of things and the special significance of time and duty,

4.28.7 having propitiated with sweet, reasoned, and pleasing words the lord of the monkeys who was skilled in speech and knew the truth of language — the son of Māruta,

4.28.8 approaching the lord of the monkeys, spoke words that were beneficial, truthful, and wholesome, in accord with the polity of conciliation, duty and purpose, joined with affection and love, and designed to inspire confidence.

4.28.9 "Kingdom has been gained, glory as well, the ancestral prosperity has increased; what remains is the gathering in of friends — that, Your Lordship, it is right for you to do."

4.28.10 "For the one who is wise regarding timing and always behaves rightly toward friends — his kingdom, his fame, and his majesty continually increase."

4.28.11 "O lord of the earth, he whose treasury, power of punishment, allies, and self are all united — he enjoys great kingship."

4.28.12 "Therefore you, endowed with virtue, standing on the blameless path, ought properly to fulfill what is well-ordered and meant for the sake of your friend."

4.28.13 "But he who attends to a friend's affairs when the time has passed — even if he achieves great things, he will not be joined to the fruit of friendship."

4.28.14 "Let the search for Rāghava's Vaidehī be carried out. O hero, O subduer of foes, this task of yours has passed its proper time."

4.28.15 "A wise man who knows the right moment, though eager himself, does not report to you that the time has passed, O king — he who follows your command."

4.28.16 "Rāghava is the banner of his prosperous lineage, a friend for long ages, of immeasurable power, and himself without equal in virtues."

4.28.17 "Do his task — what was done for you first by him. O lord of monkeys, you should command the foremost of monkeys."

4.28.18 "For the time would not have passed without a prompting; but for a task already prompted, there could indeed be a transgression of time."

4.28.19 "You, O lord of monkeys, are the doer even for one who has done nothing; how much more so for him who has repaid you with kingdom and wealth."

4.28.20 "You are capable and valiant, O lord of troops of monkeys and bears; why then do you hesitate at the command to bring joy to the son of Daśaratha?"

4.28.21 "Indeed, the son of Daśaratha is certainly capable with his arrows of bringing gods, demons, and great serpents under his sway; yet he waits upon your promise."

4.28.22 "Without hesitation in abandoning even life, he did what was dear to you; let us search for his Vaidehī — on earth or in the sky."

4.28.23 "Neither gods nor Gandharvas, neither Asuras nor hosts of Maruts, nor Yakṣas could cause him fear — let alone Rākṣasas."

4.28.24 "Since he is thus endowed with power, and since he had previously done what was dear to you, O lord of tawny monkeys, you ought with your whole soul to do what is dear to Rāma."

4.28.25 "By your command, O lord of monkeys, none of our movements is impeded — not below on the earth, not in the waters, not above in the sky."

4.28.26 "Therefore give the command — who shall dwell where and for what purpose; your monkeys, invincible, number crores upon crores, O sinless one."

4.28.27 Having heard his words, well-spoken at the right moment, Sugrīva, endowed with good judgment, formed a most excellent resolve.

4.28.28 He commanded the trusted Nīla, ever diligent, to gather together the armies from all directions.

4.28.29 "Arrange things so that my entire army and all the troop-leaders assemble without delay, together with their vanguards."

4.28.30 "And let those monkey border-guards who are swift and resolute quickly summon the troops by my command; and you yourself thereafter shall personally review the army."

4.28.31 "Whatever monkey fails to arrive here within fifteen days shall suffer the penalty of death — in this matter no deliberation need be made."

4.28.32 "And together with Aṅgada, let the elder monkeys approach with my command firmly established in view." Having thus arranged affairs, the mighty lord, chief among the foremost of monkeys, entered his palace.

4.29.1 When Sugrīva had entered his cave-palace and the sky was emptied of clouds, Rāma, who had spent the rainy nights waiting, tormented by desire and grief,

4.29.2 seeing the pale sky, the clear orb of the moon, and the autumnal night smeared as it were with moonlight,

4.29.3 and reflecting that Sugrīva was absorbed in pleasure, that the daughter of Janaka was lost, and that the time had passed — fell into a swoon, exceedingly afflicted.

4.29.4 But after a moment, regaining consciousness, the wise Rāghava began to think of Vaidehī who dwelt only in his mind.

4.29.5 Seated on the summit of the mountain adorned with golden minerals, gazing at the autumnal sky, he went in his mind to his beloved.

4.29.6 And seeing the clear sky, emptied of lightning and clouds, resounding with the cries of sārasas and āravas, he lamented with a voice full of pain.

4.29.7 "The young woman who used to delight in the hermitage, herself calling out like the sārasas and āravas — how does she delight today without me?"

4.29.8 "Seeing the flowering aśana trees, pure as gold — how does that young woman delight, beholding them yet not seeing me?"

4.29.9 "She who once awakened at the sweet speech of the kalahaṃsas, herself sweet-voiced, beautiful in every limb — how does she awaken today without me?"

4.29.10 "Having heard the cries of the cakravāka birds with their companions — she whose eyes are wide as a white lotus — how will she fare?"

4.29.11 "Wandering among lakes, rivers, pools, forests, and groves — without her, whose eyes are like a fawn's, I find no happiness today."

4.29.12 "Surely separation from me and her own delicateness must not long torment that passionate woman — love continuously accompanied by autumnal qualities."

4.29.13 Thus and in like vein the best of men, that prince, lamented — like a sāranga bird seeking water from the lord of the thirty gods.

4.29.14 Then, having roamed the lovely mountain slopes in search of fruit and turning back, the glorious Lakṣmaṇa saw his elder brother.

4.29.15 Seeing him overwhelmed by unbearable grief, barely conscious, alone in a deserted place, the high-souled son of Sumitrā, distressed and pained by his brother's despair, spoke to Rāma:

4.29.16 "Why, noble one, surrender to the power of desire? Why overpower your own manly strength? This steadiness of mind is always to be gathered in — what is accomplished here by abandoning such discipline?"

4.29.17 "Apply yourself to action, to the tranquility of mind, to the time suited to disciplined effort, to the capacity of your allies — O you of undaunted spirit, make the cause of your own deeds your motive."

4.29.18 "O lord of the human lineage, Jānakī is not easily gained by another while she has you as her protector; and approaching a blazing fire crowned with flame, no one, O you worthy of the foremost of heroes, goes unburned."

4.29.19 Then Rāma, together with Lakṣmaṇa, spoke to the indomitable Lakṣmaṇa a natural word, both beneficial and wholesome, attached to prudent policy and composed with conciliation, duty, and purpose:

4.29.20 "The task must undoubtedly be attended to; indeed the particular undertaking must be pursued; surely for a difficult task once set in motion, the fruit need not be anxiously considered — it follows in course."

4.29.21 Then, brooding upon Maithilī whose eyes are like lotus petals, Rāma spoke to Lakṣmaṇa with a face that had grown parched:

4.29.22 "The thousand-eyed Indra, having satisfied the earth with water, having caused the crops to ripen, stands established having done his work.

4.29.23 "The clouds, their sound deep and resonant, with mountains and trees preceding them, having released their waters, are now exhausted, O prince.

4.29.24 "Dark as petals of the blue lotus, having darkened all ten directions, the rain-clouds, like elephants out of rut, have quieted their rush.

4.29.25 "The rain-winds, laden with water, of great speed, fragrant with kuṭaja and arjuna blossoms, having coursed their way, have ceased, O gentle one, though they were fully roused.

4.29.26 "The sound of the clouds, of elephants, of peacocks, and of mountain torrents, O Lakṣmaṇa — O sinless one — has suddenly grown still.

4.29.27 "Drenched by the great clouds, the mountains with their varied slopes shine clear, gleaming as if anointed with the rays of the moon.

4.29.28 "The autumnal rivers slowly, slowly reveal their sandbanks — like women bashful at a new union revealing their hips.

4.29.29 "The bodies of water, O gentle Lakṣmaṇa, their waters clear, resounding with the cries of kurara birds, and filled with flocks of cakravākas, shine beautifully.

4.29.30 "For those kings who are bound together in mutual enmity and eager for victory, O prince, O gentle one, the season of enterprise has arrived.

4.29.31 "This is the foremost season of campaign for kings, O prince — yet I do not see Sugrīva, nor any such effort on his part.

4.29.32 "The four months of the rains have passed, each seeming like a hundred years to me, scorched by grief as I am, not seeing Sītā, O gentle Lakṣmaṇa.

4.29.33 "Bereft of my beloved, afflicted by sorrow, my kingdom taken, banished from home — yet king Sugrīva shows no compassion toward me, O Lakṣmaṇa.

4.29.34 "Without a protector, his kingdom stolen, humiliated by Rāvaṇa, wretched, far from home, maddened with desire — he came to me as his refuge.

4.29.35 "For all these reasons, O gentle scorcher of foes, I am being scorned by that evil-souled king of monkeys.

4.29.36 "He who, having reckoned the time for the search for Sītā and made a compact, now that his purpose is achieved, that evil-minded one does not remember.

4.29.37 "You — enter Kiṣkindhā and speak to that foremost of monkeys, that fool attached to rustic pleasures: speak to Sugrīva on my behalf, this word:

4.29.38 "He who, having promised hope to supplicants who have come to him — and those who have also previously done him service — then destroys that hope, is the most wretched of men in the world.

4.29.39 "He who, whatever word is spoken — auspicious or inauspicious — grasps it with truthfulness: he is a hero, he is the best of men.

4.29.40 "Those who, having achieved their own ends, cease to be friends to those whose ends are not yet achieved — even flesh-eaters do not consume those ingrates when they die.

4.29.41 "Surely he wishes to see the form of my golden-backed bow, drawn in battle, like a cluster of lightning.

4.29.42 "He wishes to hear again the terrible sound of my bowstring when I am angry in combat — a sound like the crash of Indra's thunderbolt.

4.29.43 "Though things have come to such a pass, O hero, O prince, if his valor is well-known and I have you as my ally, I need have no worry.

4.29.44 "The purpose for which this undertaking was made — O conqueror of enemy cities — the lord of monkeys, having achieved his own aim, does not honor the compact.

4.29.45 "Having pledged the rainy season as the time, the lord of monkeys sports through the four months that have passed and takes no heed.

4.29.46 "Sporting with his ministers and assembly, he engages only in drinking; Sugrīva shows no compassion toward us who are wretched with grief.

4.29.47 "Go, and tell Sugrīva — O mighty son, let him be told what the nature of my wrath is; and speak this word to him:

4.29.48 "The path by which Vālin went when he was slain has not narrowed, O Sugrīva — stand by your compact; do not follow the path of Vālin."

4.29.49 "Vālin alone was slain by my arrow in battle; but you, who have transgressed truthfulness, I shall slay together with your kinsmen."

4.29.50 "With affairs having come to such a pass, speak whatever is beneficial, O bull among men, O best of men — make haste; time is being transgressed."

4.29.51 "Fulfill toward me, O lord of monkeys, what was promised, looking to the eternal law of duty; do not, after death, go to Yama's abode to behold Vālin there — struck down today by my arrows sent upon you."

4.29.52 He — the lord of monkeys and lord of the race of men, of fierce splendor — having observed his elder brother lamenting, his rage intensely grown, wretched, formed a resolute and fierce intention.

4.30.1 He — the son of the lord of men, Rāma's younger brother, of undaunted spirit — spoke thus to his elder, that son of the lord of gods, who was afflicted by desire, wretched, overwhelmed by grief, his anger surging:

4.30.2 "A monkey will not stand firm in righteous conduct, nor reflect on the fruits that follow from deeds, nor will he abandon the prosperity of the monkey-kingdom — for such is the bent of his mind.

4.30.3 "Through the decay of his mind, addicted to rustic pleasures, incapable of requiting your grace — let him, slain, behold his elder Vālin; kingship ought not to be given to one so lacking in virtue.

4.30.4 "I cannot contain the wrath of surging force — I shall slay that untruthful Sugrīva today; then let the son of Vālin, with the foremost heroes of the monkeys, carry out the search for the wife of the lord of men."

4.30.5 To him who had seized his bow and arrows and was about to spring forward, his fierce battle-rage declared, Rāma — slayer of enemy heroes — spoke a word of his own judgment, with gentle entreaty:

4.30.6 "Truly, one like you in the world would not act in such an evil manner; he who, though noble, destroys evil — he is a hero, he is the best of men.

4.30.7 "This course, O Lakṣmaṇa of righteous conduct, ought not to be taken by you today; pursue rather that affection, and the compact made at our previous association.

4.30.8 "With words employing conciliation, avoiding harshness, you ought to speak to Sugrīva — who has let time pass in the course of seasons."

4.30.9 Thus duly instructed in purpose by his elder, the heroic Lakṣmaṇa, slayer of enemy heroes, that bull among men, entered the city.

4.30.10 Then Lakṣmaṇa, of auspicious mind and wisdom, devoted to the well-being and good of his brother, his anger fully roused, went toward the palace of the monkey.

4.30.11 Seizing his bow resembling the bow of Indra, his wrath like that of Death at the end of time, like Mount Mandara with its peaks —

4.30.12 the younger brother of Rāma, a doer of what was commanded, considering counter-word after counter-word, in wisdom equal to Bṛhaspati —

4.30.13 enveloped in the fire of his brother's wrath arising from desire and anger, Lakṣmaṇa went forth then like an angry tempest.

4.30.14 Swiftly felling many śāla, tāla, and aśvakarṇa trees, circling mountain peaks and other trees with speed,

4.30.15 shattering rocks with his feet like a swift elephant, covering great distances in a single stride, he moved quickly under the urgency of the task.

4.30.16 That tiger of the Ikṣvāku line beheld the great city of the monkey-king Kiṣkindhā, filled with hosts of monkeys, set in the mountain gorge, difficult to approach.

4.30.17 Lakṣmaṇa, his lips quivering with rage toward Sugrīva, saw the fearsome monkeys moving outside Kiṣkindhā.

4.30.18 The monkeys, resembling elephants, were seizing hundreds of mountain crags and full-grown great trees among the mountain hollows.

4.30.19 Seeing those monkeys who had taken up weapons, Lakṣmaṇa became doubly enraged, like a fire fed with much fuel.

4.30.20 Seeing him in fury, like Death at the end of time, those monkeys were seized with terror in all their limbs and fled in hundreds in every direction.

4.30.21 Then those foremost monkeys, entering the palace of Sugrīva, reported both the anger and the arrival of Lakṣmaṇa.

4.30.22 But the bull of monkeys, filled with desire, was absorbed in private company with Tārā; at that moment he did not hear the words of those monkey-heroes.

4.30.23 Then, dispatched by the ministers, monkeys that made the hair stand on end, resembling mountain-elephants and clouds, issued forth from the city.

4.30.24 Armed with claws and fangs, all terrible, all of distorted appearance, all with the pride of tigers, all of monstrous aspect —

4.30.25 some having the strength of ten elephants, some ten times that and more, and some were equal in valor to a thousand elephants —

4.30.26 the angry Lakṣmaṇa saw all of Kiṣkindhā, that impregnable city, pervaded by those powerful monkeys who bore trees in their hands.

4.30.27 Then all those monkeys came forth from within the ramparts and moats and stood there displaying themselves, their spirits erect.

4.30.28 Reflecting on Sugrīva's negligence and his afflicted elder brother, the self-possessed hero, under the sway of wrath, went forward again.

4.30.29 He breathed long, hot, great sighs; his eyes reddened with fury; that tiger of men blazed like a fire with smoke.

4.30.30 His tongue darting like an arrow's point, his body the coil of bow and arrows, the accumulated venom of his own splendor — he was like a five-headed serpent.

4.30.31 Approaching him who blazed like the fire of Time, who was like an enraged lord of serpents, Aṅgada fell into deep despondency from fear.

4.30.32 Then Sugrīva, of great glory, his eyes copper-red with rage, commanded Aṅgada: "Go, dear son, and announce my coming."

4.30.33 "The subduer of foes, Lakṣmaṇa — the younger brother of Rāma — has come to your vicinity; scorched by his brother's misery, he stands at the gate."

4.30.34 Having heard Lakṣmaṇa's words, Aṅgada, overwhelmed with grief, came near his father and said: "The son of Sumitrā has arrived here."

4.30.35 Seeing him, whose roar was like a great flood, whose sound was like a thunderbolt, those monkeys together raised a lion's roar near Lakṣmaṇa.

4.30.36 Roused by that great sound, the monkey awoke — his eyes copper-red, dazed with intoxication, his garlands and ornaments in disarray.

4.30.37 Then, having heard Aṅgada's words and come together by the same impetus, two ministers of the monkey-king who were respected and of broad vision —

4.30.38 Plakṣa and Prabhāva, ministers versed in purpose and duty, both reported to him the arrival of Lakṣmaṇa, who had come to speak of matters high and low.

4.30.39 Having propitiated Sugrīva with words firmly set in conciliation, they sat in attendance upon him as he was seated — even as one attends upon Indra, lord of the Maruts.

4.30.40 "The two brothers Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa, true to their pledges, of great fortune, who have attained the status of friends, who are worthy of kingdoms and givers of kingdoms —

4.30.41 "— of those two, one, Lakṣmaṇa, stands at the gate with bow in hand; from fear of him the monkeys tremble and let out cries.

4.30.42 "He — this brother of Rāghava, Lakṣmaṇa, whose charioteer is speech, whose chariot is resolve — has arrived by the command of that Rāma.

4.30.43 "O king, bow your head to him and, together with your son and kinsmen, stand firm in your proper compact; be one who is true to his promise."

4.31.1 Having heard the words of Aṅgada, and having heard that Lakṣmaṇa was enraged, the self-possessed Sugrīva rose from his seat together with his counsellors.

4.31.2 Skilled in counsel and thoroughly versed in deliberation, he weighed the gravity and lightness of the matter and spoke these words to his ministers who were wise in counsel.

4.31.3 "I have spoken no ill word, nor have I done anything amiss. Why then is Lakṣmaṇa, the brother of Rāghava, angered? This I ponder."

4.31.4 "By my ill-wishers and enemies, who ever seek to sow discord, Rāghava's younger brother has been made to hear of faults in me that do not exist."

4.31.5 "In this matter, you must all carefully and methodically ascertain the true state of things, each according to his understanding and with due deliberation."

4.31.6 "Indeed I have no fear of Lakṣmaṇa, nor of Rāghava; yet a friend angered without proper cause does indeed cause anxiety."

4.31.7 "In every way it is easy to acquire a friend but difficult to maintain that friendship; for because of the inconstancy of minds, affection is sundered even by a trifle."

4.31.8 "For this very reason I am afraid regarding the great-souled Rāma: that the benefit he has conferred upon me I am unable to repay."

4.31.9 When Sugrīva had spoken thus, Hanūmān, foremost among the monkeys, spoke his own reasoned counsel in the assembly of the monkey ministers.

4.31.10 "In every respect it is no wonder, O lord of the monkey host, that you do not forget the auspicious act of deep affection and service rendered to you."

4.31.11 "By the heroic Rāghava, casting fear far aside, Vālin — whose prowess equalled Indra's — was slain for your sake alone."

4.31.12 "Without any doubt Rāghava is angry out of affection; it is for that reason he has dispatched his brother Lakṣmaṇa, the increaser of glory."

4.31.13 "You have been negligent and do not perceive the season, O best of those who know the proper time: the auspicious autumn has arrived, dark-green with flowering saptacchada trees."

4.31.14 "The sky is clear, its planets and stars unclouded; the storm-clouds have dispersed; all the quarters, the rivers and the lakes are bright and serene."

4.31.15 "Yet you do not recognise the season of effort that has arrived, O foremost of monkeys. It is manifest that you are heedless — and so Lakṣmaṇa has come here."

4.31.16 "The harsh words of the great-souled Rāghava — who is afflicted and whose wife has been stolen — spoken through an intermediary, must be endured by you."

4.31.17 "For one who has committed an offence such as yours, I see no other fitting course save joining your palms and propitiating Lakṣmaṇa."

4.31.18 "A king must inevitably be told what is for his benefit by the ministers he has appointed; and so it is that, setting fear aside, I speak these resolute words."

4.31.19 "For Rāghava, when truly enraged and raising his bow, has the power to bring the entire world — gods, asuras, and gandharvas included — under his sway."

4.31.20 "He who must afterwards be propitiated again ought not to be provoked; especially so by one who is grateful and remembers the prior benefit received."

4.31.21 "Bowing your head before him, together with your son and your allies, O king, abide by your own covenant and remain under his command, as a wife obeys her husband."

4.31.22 "The command of Rāma and Rāma's younger brother, joined with the authority of the lord of monkeys, cannot be set aside even in thought; for your mind will come to know the human might of this Rāghava, who blazes with the splendour of Indra."

4.32.1 Then Lakṣmaṇa, slayer of enemy heroes, having been duly announced, entered the fearsome cavern-city of Kiṣkindhā by the command of Rāma.

4.32.2 The great-bodied and mighty monkeys stationed at the gate, upon seeing Lakṣmaṇa, all stood with their palms joined in reverence.

4.32.3 Seeing the son of Daśaratha breathing heavily with rage, the monkeys became frightened and did not surround him.

4.32.4 The glorious Lakṣmaṇa beheld that vast and divine cavern, filled with jewels, adorned with flowering groves, charming, and strewn all about with gems.

4.32.5 It was crowded with mansions and palace-towers, beautified by merchandise of every kind, and adorned by flowering trees bearing all desired fruits.

4.32.6 It was graced by monkeys who were sons of gods and gandharvas, shapeshifters wearing divine garlands and garments, delightful to behold.

4.32.7 Its broad avenues were suffused with the fragrances of sandalwood, agaru, and lotuses, and with the sweet scents of maireyā liquors and honey.

4.32.8 Rāghava saw there multi-storeyed palaces resembling the slopes of Vindhya and Meru, and clear mountain streams as well.

4.32.9 He saw the charming mansions of Aṅgada and Mainda, of Dvivida, Gavaya, Gavākṣa, Gaja, and Śarabha;

4.32.10 of Vidyunmālin, Saṃpāti, Sūryākṣa, Hanūmat, Vīrabāhu, Subāhu, and the great-souled Nala;

4.32.11 of Kumuda, Suṣeṇa, Tāra, Jāmbavat, Dadhivaktra, Nīla, Supāṭala, and Sunetra.

4.32.12 Lakṣmaṇa saw the principal dwelling-places of these great-souled monkey chiefs, standing along the royal road, vast and of great substance.

4.32.13 They shone white as autumn clouds, adorned with divine garlands, filled with abundant wealth and grain, and beautified by women of surpassing excellence.

4.32.14 Surrounded by a white rocky hill and thus impregnable, the charming abode of the lord of monkeys resembled the dwelling of great Indra.

4.32.15 It was adorned with bright, towering palace-summits resembling the peaks of Kailāsa, and by well-nourished trees bearing all desired fruits.

4.32.16 Gifted by great Indra, the magnificent trees resembling dark rain-clouds bore divine flowers and fruits, gave cool shade, and were wondrously beautiful.

4.32.17 Its gateway was guarded by powerful monkeys armed with weapons, was bright and pure, wreathed in divine garlands, and its archway was of burnished gold.

4.32.18 The mighty son of Sumitrā entered the charming abode of Sugrīva, unhindered, like the sun entering a great cloud.

4.32.19 The righteous Lakṣmaṇa passed through seven inner courtyards filled with vehicles and seats, and then beheld the vast and well-guarded inner apartments.

4.32.20 It was adorned throughout with beds of gold and silver, with many excellent seats, and furnished with coverings of the highest quality.

4.32.21 As he continued to enter, he heard without pause a melodious sound — a song composed of well-formed syllables, mingled with lute music.

4.32.22 The mighty Lakṣmaṇa saw many women of varied forms in Sugrīva's palace, proud of their beauty and youth.

4.32.23 He observed them to be of noble birth, wearing garlands of many-hued flowers, occupied with making choice garlands, and adorned with the finest ornaments.

4.32.24 Lakṣmaṇa observed that Sugrīva's attendants too were neither unsatisfied nor overly agitated, and were attired in noble dress.

4.32.25 Then he saw Sugrīva seated on a supreme golden throne spread with the finest covering, blazing like the sun.

4.32.26 His body was adorned with divine ornaments, his form was divine, his fame resplendent; wearing divine garlands and garments, he was unconquerable as great Indra, and surrounded by women decked in divine ornaments and garlands.

4.32.27 The heroic Sugrīva, tawny as fine gold, seated on his splendid throne and holding Rumā in a close embrace, caught sight of the undaunted Lakṣmaṇa of wide eyes — he himself wide-eyed.

4.33.1 Seeing Lakṣmaṇa, that bull among men, enter unimpeded and in a rage, Sugrīva was seized with distress in all his senses.

4.33.2 Seeing the son of Daśaratha — breathing in rage, blazing as it were with energy, scorched by anguish over his brother's misfortune —

4.33.3 the foremost of monkeys leapt up, abandoning his golden throne, like the great well-adorned banner of Mahendra rising aloft.

4.33.4 As Sugrīva leapt up, Rumā and the other women rose after him, as a cluster of stars follows the full moon across the sky.

4.33.5 The glorious Sugrīva, his eyes flushed red, approached with palms joined and stood there like a great wish-fulfilling tree.

4.33.6 Then the angry Lakṣmaṇa addressed Sugrīva, who stood in the midst of the women with Rumā at his side, as if addressing the moon ringed by its stars.

4.33.7 "A king endowed with valour and noble birth, compassionate, with his senses mastered, grateful, and truthful in speech — such a king is honoured in the world."

4.33.8 "But what king is more cruel than one who abides in unrighteousness and makes a false promise to friends who have rendered him service?"

4.33.9 "A falsehood concerning a horse destroys a hundred; a falsehood concerning a cow destroys a thousand; but a man who utters a falsehood concerning a man destroys himself and all his kindred."

4.33.10 "He who, his purpose having been served, does not requite his friends — that ingrate deserves to be slain by all beings, O lord of the leaping ones."

4.33.11 "This verse was sung by Brahmā himself, revered by all the worlds — uttered in wrath upon beholding an ingrate. Hear it, O monkey."

4.33.12 "For the slayer of a brahmin, for the drunkard, for the thief, for the one who has broken his vow — the righteous have prescribed expiation; but for an ingrate there is no expiation."

4.33.13 "You are ignoble, ungrateful, and a speaker of falsehood, O monkey — for having had your purpose served by Rāma, you do not requite him for it."

4.33.14 "Surely you, O monkey, having had your purpose served, ought — if you truly wish to act rightly — to exert yourself in the search for Sītā on Rāma's behalf."

4.33.15 "Yet you are absorbed in vulgar pleasures and have given a false promise. Rāma did not know you to be like a serpent that merely croaks like a frog."

4.33.16 "O sinful one, you of wicked soul were given sovereignty over the monkeys by the greatly blessed and compassionate Rāma, that great-souled one."

4.33.17 "If you do not acknowledge the deed done by Rāma, whose actions are tireless, you will this very moment, struck by his sharp arrows, behold Vālin."

4.33.18 "The path by which Vālin went after being slain has not grown narrow. Abide by your covenant, Sugrīva; do not follow the path of Vālin."

4.33.19 "Surely you do not see the arrows — thunderbolt-like — released from the bow of that foremost scion of the Ikṣvākus; it is only therefore that, at ease, you indulge in pleasures and do not attend even in mind to Rāma's cause."

4.34.1 As Saumitri spoke thus, blazing as it were with energy, Tārā — whose face resembled the lord of stars — addressed Lakṣmaṇa.

4.34.2 "Do not speak thus, Lakṣmaṇa; the lord of the monkeys does not deserve to hear harsh words, especially from your mouth.

4.34.3 Sugrīva is not ungrateful, nor is he deceitful or cruel; the lord of monkeys is not a speaker of falsehood, O hero, nor is he dishonest.

4.34.4 This brave monkey Sugrīva has not forgotten the service rendered by Rāma in battle — what others would find impossible to do.

4.34.5 By Rāma's grace, Sugrīva has here obtained glory, the eternal kingship of the monkeys, Rumā, and myself, O scorcher of foes.

4.34.6 Having lain previously in great misery and then attaining this supreme pleasure, he does not perceive the passing of time — just as the sage Viśvāmitra did not.

4.34.7 Absorbed in Ghṛtācī for ten years, O Lakṣmaṇa, the righteous great sage Viśvāmitra reckoned it as but a single day.

4.34.8 If even Viśvāmitra of great splendor, the foremost among knowers of time, did not perceive time thus passed, what then of an ordinary man?

4.34.9 For this one who has succumbed to the ways of the body, who is weary, O Lakṣmaṇa, and who is not yet sated in sensual pleasures — Rāma should bear with him here.

4.34.10 You should not, dear one, fall under the sway of anger, O Lakṣmaṇa, or act rashly without ascertaining the truth, like a common man.

4.34.11 Men of true virtue such as yourself, O bull among men, do not suddenly fall under the sway of anger without deliberation.

4.34.12 O knower of righteousness, I earnestly beseech you on Sugrīva's behalf — this great agitation born of anger should be relinquished.

4.34.13 It is my opinion that Sugrīva would give up Rumā, myself, the kingship of the monkeys, and all wealth, grain, and treasures for Rāma's sake.

4.34.14 Sugrīva will reunite Rāghava with Sītā — like the moon reunited with Rohiṇī — after slaying Rāvaṇa in battle.

4.34.15 In Laṅkā there are, it is said, hundreds of thousands of crores of rākṣasas, and thirty-six ten-thousands plus thousands and hundreds more.

4.34.16 Without slaying those invincible rākṣasas who change form at will, it is not possible to slay Rāvaṇa, by whom the Maithilī was abducted.

4.34.17 They cannot be slain in battle without allies, O Lakṣmaṇa, and especially not Rāvaṇa of cruel deeds by Sugrīva alone.

4.34.18 Thus spoke Vālin, who was knowledgeable in these matters, the lord of monkeys. My information is not from direct knowledge — I speak from what I heard from him.

4.34.19 Indeed for the purpose of your assistance, foremost monkeys have been dispatched to bring back very many monkey troops — the leaders of monkey battalions for battle.

4.34.20 Awaiting those valiant and supremely powerful ones, the lord of monkeys does not depart — for the purpose of accomplishing Rāghava's goal.

4.34.21 Moreover, a time limit has been set by Sugrīva as before, O Saumitri — today all those mighty monkeys are to arrive.

4.34.22 Thousands of crores of bears and hundreds of golāṅgūlas will approach you today — abandon your anger, O subduer of foes! Many crores of brilliantly glowing monkeys will come to you, O scion of the Ikṣvāku line.

4.34.23 Beholding your face and gazing upon your eyes reddened with anger, O one born to wound foes, the wives of the foremost monkeys find no peace — indeed we are all alarmed by this initial dread."

4.35.1 Thus addressed by Tārā with words that were humble and imbued with righteousness, Saumitri — gentle by nature — accepted those words.

4.35.2 When that speech was accepted, the lord of the monkey host cast off his great fear of Lakṣmaṇa as one sheds a wet garment.

4.35.3 Then Sugrīva, the lord of monkeys, removed the variegated, many-stringed, great garland from his neck and, free from intoxication, came to his senses.

4.35.4 Sugrīva, the best of all monkeys, addressed Lakṣmaṇa of fearsome might with humble words, gladdening him.

4.35.5 "Lost prosperity, glory, and the eternal kingship of the monkeys — all this has been regained by me through Rāma's grace, O Saumitri.

4.35.6 Who is capable of repaying such valor to that godlike hero, renowned by his own deeds, O warrior, O subduer of enemies?

4.35.7 The righteous Rāghava will recover Sītā and will slay Rāvaṇa by his own might — with me serving only as an ally.

4.35.8 What need has he of allies — he by whom seven great trees, a mountain, and the very earth were pierced with a single arrow?

4.35.9 He at whose mere twanging of the bow the earth with its mountains trembled, O Lakṣmaṇa — what need does such a one truly have of allies?

4.35.10 I shall accompany the lord of men, O bull among men, as he goes to slay the enemy Rāvaṇa along with his entourage.

4.35.11 If I have transgressed at all out of trust or affection — as a servant — that should be forgiven me; there is no one who does not err.

4.35.12 As the great-souled Sugrīva spoke thus, Lakṣmaṇa became pleased and spoke to him with affection.

4.35.13 "In every way my brother has a protector, O lord of monkeys — especially with you, O Sugrīva, as his modest and devoted guardian.

4.35.14 Such is your power, O Sugrīva, and such is your supreme purity — you deserve to enjoy the unsurpassed glory of the kingship of the monkeys.

4.35.15 With you as his ally, O Sugrīva, the mighty Rāma will slay his enemies in battle before long — there is no doubt in this.

4.35.16 The words you have spoken, O Sugrīva, are fitting and proper, coming from one who knows righteousness, is grateful, and never turns back in battle.

4.35.17 Who else, being capable and knowing what is fitting, deserves to speak thus — save my elder brother and yourself, O best of monkeys?

4.35.18 You are a match for Rāma in valor and strength — you have been given by the gods as his ally for a long time, O foremost of monkeys.

4.35.19 But now, O hero, depart quickly from here with me and console your friend who is afflicted with grief over the abduction of his wife.

4.35.20 And the harsh words with which I addressed you, having heard Rāma's words spoken in his grief-stricken state — that too you should forgive."

4.36.1 Thus addressed by the great-souled Lakṣmaṇa, Sugrīva spoke these words to Hanūmān, his minister, who stood at his side.

4.36.2 "Those who dwell on the peaks of Mahendra, Himavat, Vindhya, and Kailāsa, on Mandara, on Pāṇḍuśikhara, and on the five mountains —

4.36.3 Those dwelling on mountains glowing with the color of the rising sun, shining in all directions, along the ocean's edge in the western direction —

4.36.4 And the foremost monkeys who inhabit the fearsome forest of lotuses and palmyra palms on the mountain that is the abode of Āditya, resembling clouds at twilight —

4.36.5 Those leaping monkeys who resemble the dark Añjanā cloud, who possess the strength of elephants, and who dwell on and beyond Mount Añjanā —

4.36.6 Those monkeys of golden radiance who dwell in caves of red arsenic ore, those ranging the slopes of Meru, and those who have taken refuge on the smoky mountain —

4.36.7 And those leaping monkeys of fearsome speed, colored like the young sun, who drink honey-wine on the great red mountain —

4.36.8 And those dwelling in very beautiful, fragrant, great forests, and in the pleasant forest margins of ascetics, on all sides —

4.36.9 Bring all those various monkeys throughout the earth quickly; dispatch the monkeys swiftly by means of conciliation, gifts, and such other expedients.

4.36.10 Those swift messengers who were previously dispatched by me — for the purpose of hastening them, send yet more monkeys additionally.

4.36.11 Those monkeys who are absorbed in pleasures or who are dilatory — bring all of them here quickly by my command.

4.36.12 Those wicked ones who do not come within ten days by my order — they are to be slain, for they are violators of the royal command.

4.36.13 Hundreds, thousands, and crores of lion-like monkeys, abiding by my will, are to set out in the various directions at my command.

4.36.14 Resembling clouds and mountains, seemingly covering the sky, the foremost monkeys of fearsome appearance are to depart from here at my command.

4.36.15 Knowing the ways and having traversed all routes, all those monkeys throughout the earth are to bring all the monkeys here swiftly, in accordance with my command."

4.36.16 Hearing the words of the monkey king, the son of Vāyu dispatched valiant monkeys in all directions.

4.36.17 Traversing the path measured by Viṣṇu's stride, following the route of birds and lightning, those monkeys sent forth by the king departed instantly.

4.36.18 Those monkeys spurred on all monkeys — in the oceans, on mountains, in forests, and along rivers — for the sake of Rāma.

4.36.19 Hearing the command of Sugrīva, king of kings, which was like the call of death, the monkeys came — having perceived the terror of Sugrīva's wrath.

4.36.20 Then three crores of leaping monkeys, resembling collyrium, of great speed, issued forth from that mountain to where Rāghava was.

4.36.21 From that excellent mountain where the sun sets, where they delight — those resembling refined gold in their brilliance — ten crores issued forth.

4.36.22 From the peaks of Kailāsa came thousands of crores of monkeys with the lustre of lion manes.

4.36.23 Those who live on fruits and roots and dwell on Himavat — from among them thousands of crores arrived, numbering a thousand.

4.36.24 From the Vindhya, resembling burning coals, fearsome and of fearsome deeds — thousands of crores of monkeys rushed forth swiftly.

4.36.25 Those dwelling on the shores of the milk ocean, inhabiting forests of tamāla trees, and feeding on coconuts — their number is beyond reckoning.

4.36.26 From forests, from caverns, and from rivers, the monkey army came at great speed — as if drinking up the sun.

4.36.27 Those valiant monkeys who had gone to hasten all the monkeys beheld the Himavat mountain with its great trees.

4.36.28 On that excellent, beautiful mountain a great sacrifice had once been performed by Maheśvara — divine, enchanting, and pleasing to the minds of all gods — and its glory still shone.

4.36.29 There the monkeys saw roots and fruits born from the flowing of the sacrificial food — tasting like nectar in flavor.

4.36.30 That divine, enchanting fruit and root born of the sacrificial food — whoever eats even once becomes satisfied for a full month.

4.36.31 Those fruit-eating leaders of monkey troops gathered those divine roots, fruits, and divine herbs.

4.36.32 Going there, the monkeys also brought back fragrant flowers from that sacrificial ground — for the sake of pleasing Sugrīva.

4.36.33 And all those foremost monkeys, having swiftly urged on all the monkeys throughout the earth, marched at the head of the troops.

4.36.34 In that very hour, those swift-acting troop leaders swiftly reached Kiṣkindhā, where Sugrīva the monkey dwelt.

4.36.35 Those monkeys, having taken all the herbs, fruits, and roots, presented them to him and spoke these words.

4.36.36 "All the mountains, oceans, and forests have been traversed; all the monkeys of the earth are coming at your command."

4.36.37 Hearing this, Sugrīva, lord of the leaping monkeys, was overjoyed and gladly accepted all the gifts they had brought.

4.37.1 Having received all that had been brought and presented as tribute, and having consoled all the monkeys, he dismissed them all.

4.37.2 Having dismissed those heroic monkeys who had accomplished their task, he considered both himself and the mighty Rāghava to have attained their purpose.

4.37.3 Then Lakṣmaṇa, delighting Sugrīva, spoke deferential words to that best of all monkeys possessed of terrible strength: "Come forth from Kiṣkindhā, O gentle one, if it pleases you."

4.37.4 Hearing those well-spoken words of Lakṣmaṇa, Sugrīva, supremely pleased, spoke these words in reply.

4.37.5 "So be it; let us go — I must abide by your command." Having spoken thus to the auspicious-marked Lakṣmaṇa, Sugrīva then...

4.37.6 ...dismissed Tārā and the other women at that moment. Then Sugrīva called out loudly to the foremost of the monkeys, saying "Come!"

4.37.7 Hearing his command, the monkeys — all of those who were fit to appear before women — came quickly with palms joined in reverence.

4.37.8 To those who had arrived, the king, whose radiance resembled the sun's, then said: "Monkeys, quickly bring my palanquin forward."

4.37.9 Hearing his words, the monkeys of swift step at once brought forward a beautiful palanquin pleasing to behold.

4.37.10 Seeing the palanquin brought forth, the lord of monkeys said to Saumitri: "Lakṣmaṇa, mount this quickly."

4.37.11 Having spoken thus, Sugrīva mounted together with Lakṣmaṇa the golden conveyance that resembled the sun, drawn by large monkeys.

4.37.12 A white royal parasol was held above his head, and white yak-tail fans were waved about him on all sides.

4.37.13 Acclaimed by bards and heralded by the sounds of conches and kettledrums, Sugrīva, having attained the unsurpassed glory of kingship, set forth.

4.37.14 Surrounded by many hundreds of fierce monkeys bearing weapons in hand, he proceeded to the place where Rāma was stationed.

4.37.15 Reaching that excellent place frequented by Rāma, the great-spirited one descended from the palanquin together with Lakṣmaṇa.

4.37.16 Approaching Rāma, he stood with palms joined in reverence; and as he stood thus with joined palms, the monkeys did likewise.

4.37.17 Seeing that vast army of monkeys — like a lake full of closed lotuses — Rāma was filled with affection for Sugrīva.

4.37.18 When the lord of monkeys fell at his feet, touching them with his head, Rāghava raised him up and embraced him with affection and deep regard.

4.37.19 Having embraced him, the righteous-souled one said: "Be seated." Then, seeing him seated upon the ground, Rāma spoke these words.

4.37.20 "O hero, O best of monkeys — the one who constantly pursues righteousness, wealth, and pleasure each in its proper time and measure, he is a true king.

4.37.21 But one who, abandoning righteousness and wealth alike, indulges only in pleasure, wakes to find himself fallen — like a man who fell asleep at the top of a tree.

4.37.22 A king who is engaged in the destruction of enemies, devoted to the protection of allies, and who enjoys the fruit of the threefold human aims — he is joined to righteousness.

4.37.23 The time for exertion has now arrived, O destroyer of enemies. Take counsel, O tawny-eyed lord, together with the monkeys and your ministers."

4.37.24 Thus addressed, Sugrīva spoke these words to Rāma.

4.37.25 "Prosperity, fame, and the eternal kingdom of the monkeys — all of it had been lost to me, O mighty-armed one, and has been regained through your grace.

4.37.26 By the grace of you who art as a god, and of your brother, O best among the victorious — one who does not requite a good deed done is the blight of mankind.

4.37.27 These foremost of monkeys have arrived by hundreds, O slayer of enemies, bringing with them all the powerful monkeys of the earth.

4.37.28 Bears too are here, watchful and heroic, O Rāghava, and the golāṅgūlas — those fearsome in appearance who know the fastnesses of wildernesses and forests.

4.37.29 Monkeys who are sons of gods and gandharvas, who can assume any form at will, each surrounded by their own armies — they are on the march, O Rāghava.

4.37.30 Hundreds, hundreds of thousands, tens of millions — the leaping ones arrive; heroes encompassed by tens of thousands and by śaṅkus in number, O scorcher of foes.

4.37.31 By arbuda-multitudes and hundreds of arbudas, by madhyas and antas, by samudras and parārdhhas — the monkeys and monkey-troop-leaders come in such numbers.

4.37.32 They shall come to you, O king — those whose valor matches Mahendra's, who loom like Meru and Mandara, whose abodes are on the Vindhyas and Meru.

4.37.33 They will come to you — having slain Rāvaṇa together with his kinsmen in battle, they will bring back the Maithilī."

4.37.34 Then, beholding that readiness of the foremost monkey who stood obedient to his direction, the wise son of the earth's lord blazed with joy — his appearance equal to that of a blooming blue lotus.

4.38.1 While Sugrīva spoke thus, Rāma, best among those who uphold righteousness, embraced him with both arms and replied to him who stood with palms joined.

4.38.2 "That Indra sends down rain upon the earth — that is no wonder; that Āditya of the thousand rays dispels darkness from the sky —

4.38.3 that the moon with its rays purifies the earth — O gentle one, O scorcher of foes, that one like you should requite friends — none of this is a marvel.

4.38.4 So also in you, whatever is noble and good is no wonder, O gentle one. I know you, Sugrīva, as one who always speaks with affection.

4.38.5 With you as my protector, O friend, I shall conquer all enemies in battle. You alone are my well-wisher and ally; it is fitting that you render me aid.

4.38.6 That vilest of rākṣasas abducted the Vaidehī to his own destruction, just as Anuhlāda carried off Śacī, daughter of Puloman, by deception.

4.38.7 Before long I shall slay Rāvaṇa with my keen arrows, as Śatakratu, the destroyer of enemies, slew the proud father of Paulomī."

4.38.8 Just then a great cloud of dust arose, hot and dense, obscuring the bright radiance of the thousand-rayed sun in the sky.

4.38.9 The directions became confused and thick with that dust; the whole earth, with its mountains, forests, and groves, trembled.

4.38.10 Then the entire earth was covered over by innumerable leaping monkeys resembling mountain-peaks, possessing sharp fangs and immense strength.

4.38.11 In the mere twinkling of an eye, it was covered by those monkey-troop-leaders, able to assume any form at will, each attended by hundreds of crores of followers.

4.38.12 By monkeys of the rivers, of the mountains, and of the oceans — all of great strength, thundering like clouds — and by others who roam the forests.

4.38.13 By monkeys of the color of the young sun, and by those as pale as the moon; by those of the hue of lotus stamens, and by the white ones who make their home on Meru.

4.38.14 Then appeared the illustrious and heroic monkey named Śatabali, surrounded by ten thousand crores of monkeys.

4.38.15 Then appeared the valorous father of Tārā, resembling a mountain of gold, with many tens of thousands of crores.

4.38.16 Of the hue of lotus stamens, with a face like the young sun — wise, the foremost of monkeys, the best of all the monkey-host —

4.38.17 — attended by armies of many thousands of monkeys, the illustrious Kesarī, father of Hanūmān, appeared.

4.38.18 The great king of the golāṅgūlas, Gavākṣa of terrible valor, appeared surrounded by a thousand crores of monkeys.

4.38.19 Dhūmra, destroyer of enemies, lord of bears of terrible speed, advanced surrounded by two thousand crores.

4.38.20 The troop-leader named Panasa, of great valor, came attended by three crores of monkeys terrible as great mountains.

4.38.21 The troop-leader named Nīla appeared — of the hue of a mass of blue antimony, immense of body — attended by ten crores.

4.38.22 The powerful troop-leader Darīmukha came forth at that time, surrounded by a thousand crores, and presented himself to Sugrīva.

4.38.23 Mainda and Dvivida, both sons of the Aśvins, both of immense strength, appeared with a thousand crores of crores of monkeys.

4.38.24 Then Gandhamādana arrived, followed from behind by thousands of thousands of crores, along with hundreds of crores of monkeys.

4.38.25 Then came Aṅgada the crown prince, equal to his father in valor, surrounded by a thousand padmas and a hundred śaṅkus.

4.38.26 Then Tāra, the monkey of terrible valor and with the radiance of a star, was seen from afar, attended by five crores of monkeys.

4.38.27 The heroic monkey Indrajānu, a troop-leader, appeared as the lord of eleven crores, surrounded by them.

4.38.28 Then Rambha arrived, resembling the young sun, surrounded by ten thousand along with a thousand hundreds.

4.38.29 Then the heroic troop-leader, the powerful monkey named Durmukha, appeared surrounded by two crores.

4.38.30 Hanūmān appeared, surrounded by a thousand crores of monkeys of terrible valor who resembled the peaks of Kailāsa.

4.38.31 Nala too, of great valor, surrounded by tree-dwellers, arrived with a hundred crores along with a hundred thousands.

4.38.32 Śarabha, Kumuda, Vahni, the monkey Rambha — these and many other monkeys who could assume any form at will —

4.38.33 — covering the whole earth, its mountains and its forests, leaping, bounding, and roaring, those leaping ones came toward Sugrīva as clouds come toward the sun.

4.38.34 Making great clamor, joyful and strong, they presented themselves to Sugrīva, the lord of monkeys, bowing their heads.

4.38.35 Other foremost of monkeys, having met and saluted Sugrīva in the proper manner, stood before him with palms joined.

4.38.36 Swiftly Sugrīva, the righteous-minded one, introduced all those bull-like monkeys to Rāma, then stood with palms joined and spoke.

4.38.37 "Let the lords of monkeys quarter the forces at ease in the mountain streams and all the forests; then he who knows strength, having arrayed the army properly, is ready to march."

4.39.1 Then Sugrīva, lord of the leaping ones, his purpose fully achieved, spoke to Rāma, that tiger among men and crusher of enemy armies.

4.39.2 "The lords of monkeys who dwell in my domain — powerful, able to assume any form at will, and resembling Mahendra — have arrived and are encamped.

4.39.3 These terrible monkeys who have come, each attended by many thousands of monkeys of fearful valor, are like the Daityas and Dānavas in might.

4.39.4 Known for deeds and exploits, powerful, inured to fatigue, renowned for their valor and foremost in their undertakings —

4.39.5 — wanderers of the earth and waters, O Rāma, dwellers on many mountains — these monkeys have arrived by the crore as your servants.

4.39.6 All are obedient to command, all are devoted to the welfare of their lord; they are capable of carrying out your purpose, O subduer of enemies.

4.39.7 Whatever you deem timely, O tiger among men — let it be declared. This army is at your disposal; you ought to give the command."

4.39.8 "Though this task of theirs is truly known to me in its essence, even so, you ought to give the command in the proper way."

4.39.9 To Sugrīva speaking thus, Rāma, the son of Daśaratha, embraced him with both arms and spoke these words.

4.39.10 "Let it be ascertained, O gentle one, whether the Vaidehī lives or does not live — and the place, O greatly wise one, where Rāvaṇa dwells.

4.39.11 Having found the Vaidehī and Rāvaṇa's dwelling, I shall do what is fitting in that time, together with you.

4.39.12 In this task, O lord of monkeys, I am not the master, nor is Lakṣmaṇa — you are both the cause and the master of this undertaking, O lord of leaping ones.

4.39.13 You yourself, O lord, must determine and direct my task; for you know what is to be done for me, O hero — of this there is no doubt.

4.39.14 You are valorous, accompanied by a friend, wise, knowing the distinctions of time — you are engaged in our welfare, accomplished in worthy deeds and foremost among those who understand purpose."

4.39.15 Thus addressed, Sugrīva spoke in the presence of Rāma and the wise Lakṣmaṇa to the troop-leader named Vinatā — that lord of leaping ones, mountain-like, thundering like a cloud, and mighty.

4.39.16 "O foremost of monkeys, accompanied by monkeys who are sons of Soma and Sūrya, guided by policy suited to place and time, adept at distinguishing what ought and ought not to be done —

4.39.17 — attended by one hundred thousand swift-moving monkeys, go and search the eastern direction with its mountains, forests, and groves.

4.39.18 There, search for Sītā the Vaidehī and for Rāvaṇa's dwelling in the mountain fastnesses, in the forests, and in the rivers.

4.39.19 The lovely Bhāgīrathī, the Sarayū, the Kauśikī, the Kālindī, the lovely Yamunā, and the great mountain Yamunā —

4.39.20 — the Sarasvatī and the Sindhu; the Śona with its gem-bright waters; the Mahī and the Kālamahī adorned with hills and forests —

4.39.21 — the Brahmamālas, the Videhas, the Mālavas, the Kāśi-Kosalas; the Māgadhas with their great towns; the Puṇḍras and the Vaṅgas as well —

4.39.22 — the city of the silk-worm workers and the land rich in silver mines — all this must be searched through, ranging here and there in your quest.

4.39.23 Search for Sītā, the dear wife of Rāma and daughter-in-law of Daśaratha — in the seas, on the mountains, and in the cities.

4.39.24 And those who inhabit the high ridge of Mandara — those who use their ears as coverings, and those with lip-ears too —

4.39.25 — the terrible iron-mouthed ones, the swift one-footed ones, the inexhaustible and powerful men-eaters —

4.39.26 — Kirātas with topknot-ears, golden-limbed, beautiful to behold; Kirātas who eat raw fish, dwelling there on islands —

4.39.27 — those terrible ones known as tiger-men who range beneath the waters — all the forest-dwellings of these must be searched.

4.39.28 And those places reached by mountains, or by swimming, or by boat — Yavadvīpa, rich in gems, adorned with seven kingdoms —

4.39.29 — rich in gold and silver, ornamented with mines of gold. Beyond Yavadvīpa is a mountain named Śiśira —

4.39.30 — whose peak touches the sky, frequented by gods and dānavas. In the fastnesses of these mountains, their sun-scorched heights, and their forests —

4.39.31 — Rāvaṇa with the Vaidehī must be searched for, here and there. Then you must look upon the ocean-islands, so dreadful to behold.

4.39.32 There, asuras of great body, who are perpetually hungry and have been so permitted by Brahmā, ever seize upon shadows.

4.39.33 Approaching the great ocean, which roars loudly and resembles a dark rain-cloud, by a proper ford — that sea frequented by great serpents —

4.39.34 — going onward, you shall see the dread Lohita ocean with its blood-red waters, and also the great Kūṭaśālmalī tree.

4.39.35 And there too is the dwelling of Vainateya, adorned with manifold jewels, white as Kailāsa, fashioned by Viśvakarman.

4.39.36 There, rākṣasas named Mandehas, terrible and mountain-like, of many forms and inspiring terror, hang from the mountain-peaks.

4.39.37 They fall into the water every day at the sun's rising, and, scorched by the sun, they hang again and again.

4.39.38 Then, advancing, you shall see the Kṣīroda ocean, resembling a pale-white cloud, whose waves make it like a garland — a formidable sight.

4.39.39 In its midst stands a great white mountain named Ṛṣabha, surrounded by silver trees in blossom with divine fragrances.

4.39.40 And there is a lake named Sudarśana, filled with silver lotuses blazing with golden stamens, thronged with royal swans.

4.39.41 The vibudhas, cāraṇas, yakṣas, kiṃnaras, and hosts of apsarases, joyful and desirous of sport, all frequent that lotus-lake.

4.39.42 Passing beyond the Kṣīroda, you will then see, O monkeys, the Jaloda, foremost of oceans and inspiring fear in all creatures.

4.39.43 There, they say, resides that great fire born of wrath, which has been given the form of a horse's mouth — that one of tremendous speed, which consumes all things moving and still.

4.39.44 There the cries of ocean-dwelling creatures are heard — of those unable to endure what they see — upon beholding that submarine mare-fire.

4.39.45 To the north of the sweet-water ocean, thirteen yojanas away, stands a great golden mountain named Jātarūpaśila.

4.39.46 Seated on the peak of that mountain, adored by all beings, is the god Ananta of a thousand heads, clothed in blue garments.

4.39.47 The three-headed golden banner in the form of a palmyra palm, planted atop that mountain by that great soul, shines with its altar.

4.39.48 That construction in the eastern direction was made by the lords of the thirty gods; beyond it stands the glorious Udaya mountain made of gold.

4.39.49 Its peak, touching the sky and extending a hundred yojanas, shines with a divine altar made of pure gold.

4.39.50 It is adorned with śāla, tāla, tamāla, and flowering karṇikāra trees — all made of pure gold, divine, and resembling the sun.

4.39.51 There stands a certain peak named Saumanasa, one yojana in breadth and ten yojanas in height, immovably made of pure gold.

4.39.52 There Viṣṇu, the supreme among persons, in the ancient act of his triple-stride, placed his first step; his second stride he placed on the peak of Meru.

4.39.53 The sun, moving northward to circuit Jambūdvīpa, is most fully visible from that towering peak.

4.39.54 There the great sages called Vaikhānasas and Vālakhilyas, of solar radiance, glowing with ascetic power, may be seen.

4.39.55 In front of it shines Sudarśana island — the very place which is the light and the sight of all living beings.

4.39.56 In the thickets, caves, and forests of that mountain, Rāvaṇa along with the Vaidehī must be searched for, here and there.

4.39.57 Pervaded by the energy of that golden mountain and of the great-souled sun, the eastern twilight shines red.

4.39.58 Beyond that, the eastern direction becomes impassable — encircled by the thirty gods, void of sun and moon, invisible, enveloped in darkness.

4.39.59 In all those mountains, caves, and forests, and in those regions not named by me, Jānakī must be searched for in all of them.

4.39.60 This far, O bull-like monkeys, is it possible for monkeys to go. What lies beyond — sunless and boundless — we do not know.

4.39.61 When you have found the Vaidehī and Rāvaṇa's dwelling, return when the month is full, having reached the Udaya mountain.

4.39.62 Beyond the month, none may remain — one who dwells beyond it shall be slain by my order. Having accomplished your purpose and found the Maithilī, return.

4.39.63 Monkeys, having searched that direction beloved of Mahendra, adorned with forest thickets, with skill and care — having found Sītā, the beloved of the scion of the Raghu lineage, and then returned, you shall be happy."

4.40.1 Then Sugrīva, having dispatched that great monkey army, sent to the south those monkeys distinguished by their marks.

4.40.2 Nīla, son of Agni, and the monkey Hanūmant, and the great ape Jāmbavant, son of Pitāmaha —

4.40.3 and Suhotra, Śarīra, and Śaragulma likewise, Gaja, Gavākṣa, Gavaya, Suṣeṇa, and Ṛṣabha,

4.40.4 and Mainda and Dvivida, Vijaya and Gandhamādana, Ulkāmukha and Asaṅga — both sons of Hutāśana —

4.40.5 these heroes led by Aṅgada — swift and valiant — the heroic lord of the monkey troops, wise in distinctions, commanded.

4.40.6 Placing at their van a great and unimpeded force of monkey heroes, he directed them toward the southern quarter.

4.40.7 Whatever localities in that direction were most difficult of access, the lord of monkeys recounted them all to those foremost of monkeys.

4.40.8 The Vindhya with its thousand peaks, covered with diverse trees and creepers, and the river Narmadā, difficult of passage, haunted by great serpents —

4.40.9 then the lovely Godāvarī, the great river Kṛṣṇāveṇī, and the auspicious Varadā, that most blessed stream haunted by great serpents —

4.40.10 the Mekhala lands and the Utkala country, the cities of Daśārṇa, and Avanti and Abhravantī — search all of these.

4.40.11 The Vidarbhas, the lovely Ṛṣikas, the Māhiṣakas as well, and likewise the Vaṅgas, the Kaliṅgas, and the Kauśikas on all sides.

4.40.12 Having searched the Daṇḍaka forest with its mountains, rivers, and caves, and the river Godāvarī — inspect all of it.

4.40.13 Likewise the Āndhra country and the Puṇḍras, the Colas, Pāṇḍyas, and Keralas; and the mountain Ayomukha, adorned with mineral ores, must be visited.

4.40.14 That great mountain with its variegated peaks, its forests bright with flowering trees, its tracts of sandalwood groves — that splendid range must be searched.

4.40.15 Then you shall see the divine Kāverī, that auspicious river of clear waters, where bands of Apsarases disport themselves.

4.40.16 There on the crest of mount Malaya you shall see Agastya, best of seers, of mighty power and radiance like the sun, seated there.

4.40.17 Then, granted leave by that great-souled one in his graciousness, you shall cross the great river Tāmraparṇī, frequented by crocodiles.

4.40.18 Shrouded in divine groves of sandal, adorned with islands, she enters the beloved sea like a young woman embracing her beloved.

4.40.19 Then, having gone there, you monkeys shall see the divine gate of the Pāṇḍyas, made of gold and adorned with pearls and gems.

4.40.20 Then, having reached the ocean and deliberated on your purpose, you will find there in the sea what was installed by Agastya.

4.40.21 The splendid Mahendra, foremost of mountains, bright with diverse trees, golden and glorious, plunges into the great ocean.

4.40.22 It is adorned with diverse kinds of flowering trees and creepers and is frequented by foremost gods, sages, yakṣas, and Apsarases.

4.40.23 It is scattered with throngs of Siddhas and Cāraṇas and is most enchanting; the thousand-eyed Indra always visits it on each sacred day.

4.40.24 On the further shore of it lies an island, a hundred yojanas in extent, blazing with light, inaccessible to humans — search it on all sides. There Sītā must be sought with all your might, above all.

4.40.25 For that region is the abode of the wicked Rāvaṇa, the lord of Rākṣasas deserving death, whose splendor equals that of the thousand-eyed Indra.

4.40.26 In the midst of that southern ocean there is a Rākṣasī known as Aṅgārakā, who feeds by seizing the shadow of her prey.

4.40.27 Having passed her, there is in the sea at a hundred yojanas a glorious mountain named Puṣpitaka, frequented by Siddhas and Cāraṇas.

4.40.28 Radiant as the rays of the sun and moon, surrounded by the waters of the ocean, it gleams with its broad peaks as if scratching the sky.

4.40.29 One of its peaks is golden — that one the sun frequents; one is white and silvery — that one the moon frequents.

4.40.30 The ungrateful do not see it, nor the cruel, nor the impious. Having bowed your heads to that mountain, search onward, O monkeys.

4.40.31 Having passed it, O irresistible ones, there is a mountain named Sūryavān, fourteen yojanas distant along a road difficult to traverse.

4.40.32 And having passed that too, there is the mountain named Vaidyuta, with trees bearing fruits of all desires, charming in every season.

4.40.33 There, having eaten the excellent roots and fruits and drunk the finest honeys, proceed onward, O monkeys.

4.40.34 There is a mountain named Kuñjara, delightful to eye and mind, where the dwelling of Agastya was built by Viśvakarman.

4.40.35 There stands a divine golden pavilion, one yojana wide and ten yojanas high, adorned with various jewels.

4.40.36 There is the city called Bhogavatī, abode of serpents, with broad thoroughfares, formidable, guarded on all sides, protected by dreadful serpents with sharp fangs and great venom.

4.40.37 In it dwells Vāsuki, the great and terrible king of serpents; venturing out, that city of Bhogavatī must be searched.

4.40.38 Having passed that region, there stands great Ṛṣabha, shaped like a bull, the glorious mountain called Ṛṣabha, composed of all manner of gems.

4.40.39 There the divine sandal varieties grow: Gośīrṣaka, Padmaka, and the dark-green Hariśyāma, as brilliant as fire.

4.40.40 Yet having seen those sandalwood trees they must never be touched, for fearsome Gandharvas named Rohitas guard that forest.

4.40.41 There the lords of Gandharvas dwell, each blazing like five suns: Śailūṣa, Grāmaṇī, Bhikṣu, Śubhra, and Babhru likewise.

4.40.42 At the very end of the earth, those irresistible ones stand who have conquered heaven. Beyond that, you must not enter the realm of the Pitṛs — most terrible, the capital of Yama, shrouded in dreadful darkness.

4.40.43 Only thus far, O heroes, O foremost of monkeys, is it possible for you to search and go — beyond this there is no path even for those who can move anywhere.

4.40.44 Having surveyed all this and whatever else may be seen, and having discovered the whereabouts of the princess of Videha, you should return.

4.40.45 Whoever returns within a month and declares 'Sītā has been seen' — he shall enjoy pleasures equal to mine and live in happiness.

4.40.46 Furthermore, there is none dearer to me than he — above even my own life — and one who has wronged me many times shall become my kinsman.

4.40.47 You are of immeasurable strength and valor, born in lineages of great virtue; undertake this highest of human goals so that you may find the daughter of the king of men.

4.41.1 Then Sugrīva, having dispatched those monkeys endowed with intelligence and valor — swift as the wind — to the southern direction,

4.41.2 then summoned a troop-leader named Suṣeṇa, the mighty king, father of Tārā and his own formidably valiant father-in-law.

4.41.3 He approached him with joined palms, bowed, and said: "Render your assistance to Rāma in this task that has now presented itself."

4.41.4 "Attended by a hundred thousand swift monkeys, O gentle one, O lord, proceed to the western quarter, the quarter of Varuṇa."

4.41.5 "The Surāṣṭra lands together with the Bāhlīkas, the Śūrābhīras likewise, the prosperous Añjana territories, their lovely settlements and great cities —"

4.41.6 "thickets of puṃnāga trees, regions dense with uddalāka trees, and groves of ketaka — search all these, O leaders of monkey troops."

4.41.7 "Rivers flowing westward with cool and auspicious waters, the forests of ascetics, the wildlands, and whatever mountains there are —"

4.41.8 "Having searched the west, that difficult quarter enclosed by chains of mountains, then upon reaching the western ocean you shall behold its unagitated waters teeming with timi fish and crocodiles, O monkeys."

4.41.9 "Then the monkeys shall roam through groves of ketaka, through dense tamāla forests, and through coconut groves."

4.41.10 "There search for Sītā and for the dwelling of Rāvaṇa, and also the lovely city of Marīcipattana and Jaṭīpura."

4.41.11 "Avanti and Aṅgalopā, the unseen forest, and the broad kingdoms and towns here and there —"

4.41.12 "At the confluence of the Sindhu and the ocean there is a great mountain named Hemagiri, with a hundred peaks and mighty trees."

4.41.13 "On its beautiful plateaus live winged lions who carry timi fish, ordinary fish, and elephants up to their nests."

4.41.14 "In those nests of the lions, and on the mountain peaks, proud and well-fed elephants, rumbling like thunder-clouds, roam about through that vast water-filled expanse on all sides."

4.41.15 "Its sky-touching golden peak, with its variegated trees — all of this must be swiftly searched by the shape-shifting monkeys."

4.41.16 "There in the ocean you shall see the golden cape of Pariyātra, a hundred yojanas in extent, difficult to behold, O monkeys."

4.41.17 "Twenty-four crores of swift Gandharvas dwell there, terrible shape-shifters blazing like fire."

4.41.18 "Those Gandharvas must not be approached too closely by even the formidably valiant monkeys, and no fruit whatsoever from that region must be taken by the leaping ones."

4.41.19 "For those heroes are unapproachable, possessed of great vitality and might; those ones of fearsome valor guard the fruits and roots there."

4.41.20 "Yet effort must be made there and Jānakī must be sought; there is no fear at all from them for those who follow the nature of monkeys."

4.41.21 "At the fourth quarter of the ocean stands the mountain named Cakravān; there the discus of a thousand spokes was fashioned by Viśvakarman."

4.41.22 "There, having slain Pañcajana and the demon Hayagrīva, the Supreme Person carried off the discus and the conch shell."

4.41.23 "On its variegated slopes and in its vast caves, Rāvaṇa together with the princess of Videha must be searched for here and there."

4.41.24 "Sixty-four yojanas distant, in the fathomless realm of Varuṇa, stands the mountain named Varāha, with golden peaks, supremely splendid."

4.41.25 "There is the golden city called Prāgjyotiṣa, in which the evil-souled one named Naraka dwells, in caves as well."

4.41.26 "On its variegated slopes and in its vast caves, Rāvaṇa together with the princess of Videha must be searched for here and there."

4.41.27 "Having passed that king of mountains, there is a wholly golden mountain with rifts and caverns of gold within, filled with cascades and waterfalls."

4.41.28 "Elephants, boars, lions, and tigers continually roar all around it, made proud by that very sound."

4.41.29 "On that mountain named Meghavān, the splendid Mahendra with horse-colored steeds, Pākaśāsana Indra, was consecrated king by the gods."

4.41.30 "Having passed that king of mountains guarded by Mahendra, you shall travel through sixty thousand golden peaks."

4.41.31 "They are the color of the young sun, gleaming on all sides, beautified by golden trees in full bloom."

4.41.32 "In the midst of these stands the king Meru, the highest of mountains — the mountain to which a boon was granted of old by the gracious Āditya."

4.41.33 "Thus addressed by the sun, the lord of mountains was told: 'All those who take refuge in you shall become golden by my grace, both by day and by night.'"

4.41.34 "'And whatever gods, Gandharvas, and Dānavas dwell upon you — they shall be suffused with golden radiance, blazing with that luster.'"

4.41.35 "The Ādityas, Vasus, Rudras, and Maruts — all the celestial beings — come at the western twilight to Meru, the highest of mountains,"

4.41.36 "and attend upon the sun; and the sun, worshipped by them, becomes invisible to all creatures and goes to the western mountain."

4.41.37 "In half a muhūrta the day-maker swiftly traverses ten thousand yojanas to reach that rocky mass."

4.41.38 "On its peak stands a great divine palace radiant as the sun, filled with the excellence of palatial halls, fashioned by Viśvakarman."

4.41.39 "Adorned with variegated trees and thronged with birds of all kinds, it is the abode of the great-souled Varuṇa, who holds the noose."

4.41.40 "Between Meru and the western mountain stands a great ten-headed palmyra tree, golden and splendid, blazing on its variegated altar-base."

4.41.41 "In all those fastnesses, and in the lakes and rivers as well, Rāvaṇa together with the princess of Videha must be searched for here and there."

4.41.42 "There dwells the righteous-souled sage Merusāvarṇi, perfected by his own austerities, renowned, equal to Brahmā himself."

4.41.43 "The great sage Merusāvarṇi, radiant as the sun, must be asked — bowing your heads to the ground — about any tidings concerning the daughter of Mithilā."

4.41.44 "This far the sun illuminates the world of the living, and at the end of night, having dispelled all darkness, sets behind the western mountain."

4.41.45 "Thus far, O foremost of monkeys, it is possible for monkeys to go; beyond this, sunless and boundless, we have no knowledge."

4.41.46 "But having found the princess of Videha and the dwelling of Rāvaṇa, and having reached the western mountain, return when the month is complete."

4.41.47 "No one may remain beyond a month — one who does so shall be condemned to death by me; together with you brave ones my father-in-law shall go."

4.41.48 "All of what this one says must be heeded by you, who do as ordained; this is my guru, my long-armed, mighty father-in-law."

4.41.49 "And you too are heroic — authorities in all endeavors; taking him as your guide, proceed to survey the western quarter."

4.41.50 "But once the wife of the king of immeasurable splendor has been found, we shall have accomplished our purpose by rendering this return service for what was done for us."

4.41.51 "Whatever else besides this might be beneficial to this task, weigh it well — bearing in mind the place, the time, and the purpose."

4.41.52 Then those leaping ones led by Suṣeṇa, having carefully heard Sugrīva's words and taken leave of the lord of the monkeys, all went to that quarter protected by Varuṇa.

4.42.1 Then Sugrīva, that bull among monkeys, having dispatched his father-in-law to the western quarter, addressed the heroic monkey named Śatabali,

4.42.2 the king, learned in counsel, spoke words approved by all the monkeys, words that were for his own benefit and equally for Rāma's benefit.

4.42.3 "Attended by a hundred thousand forest-dwellers of your kind, along with the sons of Vaivasvata, set forth with your own counselors."

4.42.4 "Search the heroic northern quarter, crowned with the Himālayan range, on all sides for the blameless wife of Rāma."

4.42.5 "When this task is accomplished and the favor of the son of Daśaratha is fulfilled, we shall be freed from our debt — best of those who know the meaning of what is accomplished."

4.42.6 "For the great-souled Rāghava has done what is dear to us; if there is a return service for him, then life has borne fruit."

4.42.7 "Holding to this resolve, act in whatever way Jānakī may be found — you who seek what is dear and beneficial to us."

4.42.8 "For this Rāma, conqueror of enemy cities, is the most honored of all beings and came to us with affection."

4.42.9 "These forest fastnesses, rivers, and mountain gorges — search through them all with the fullness of your intelligence and valor."

4.42.10 "There search among the Mlecchas and Pulindas, likewise the Śūrasenas, the Prasthālas and Bharatas, the Kurus along with the Madras,"

4.42.11 "the Kāmbojas and Yavanas as well, the Śakas and the Āraṭṭakas, the Bāhlīkas and Ṛṣikas, and also the Pauravans and Ṭaṅkaṇas;"

4.42.12 "the Cīnas and Paramacīnas, and the Nīhāras again and again, and having searched the Daradas as well, thoroughly comb the Himavat mountains."

4.42.13 "In the groves of lodhra and padmaka trees, and in the deodar forests, Rāvaṇa together with the princess of Videha must be sought here and there."

4.42.14 "Then, having gone to the hermitage of Soma frequented by gods and Gandharvas, you shall proceed to that great-plateaued mountain named Kāla."

4.42.15 "On its great peaks, in its rifts and caves, thoroughly search for the glorious, illustrious wife of Rāma."

4.42.16 "Having passed that king of mountains, the great golden Hemavarga range, you should then proceed to the mountain named Sudarśana."

4.42.17 "In its forest groves, rifts, and caves, Rāvaṇa together with the princess of Videha must be sought here and there."

4.42.18 "Having passed it, there is a void sky of a hundred yojanas on all sides, without mountain, river, or tree, devoid of all living beings."

4.42.19 "But having swiftly passed that hair-raising wilderness, upon reaching the white mountain Kailāsa you shall be filled with joy."

4.42.20 "There is the divine palace of Kubera, fashioned by Viśvakarman, white as a cloud, adorned with Jāmbūnada gold."

4.42.21 "There is the vast lotus pond, rich in lotuses and blue water-lilies, thronged with haṃsa and kāraṇḍava birds, frequented by bands of Apsarases."

4.42.22 "There the glorious Vaiśravaṇa, king of yakṣas, the lord of wealth honored by all beings, disports himself together with the Guhyakas."

4.42.23 "On those moonlit mountains and in their caves, Rāvaṇa together with the princess of Videha must be sought here and there."

4.42.24 "Upon reaching mount Krauñca, its cave most difficult of access must be entered with utmost vigilance, for that passage is known to be hard to enter."

4.42.25 "For there dwell great-souled great sages, radiant as the sun, duly worshipped even by the gods, divine in form."

4.42.26 "The other caves of Krauñca too, its plateaus, peaks, rifts, and slopes — all must be searched here and there."

4.42.27 "Having surveyed Krauñca's peak as well, here and there, then proceed to the treeless Kāmaśaila and to Mānasa, the abode of birds."

4.42.28 "No beings — gods, Dānavas, or Rākṣasas — have passage there; yet it must be searched by all of you, with its slopes, plateaus, and mountain heights."

4.42.29 "Having passed mount Krauñca, there is a mountain named Maināka; there is the self-built dwelling of the Dānava Maya."

4.42.30 "Maināka must be searched along with its slopes, plateaus, and gorges; and there here and there are the abodes of horse-faced women."

4.42.31 "Having fully passed that region, there is a hermitage frequented by Siddhas; there the Siddhas, the Vaikhānasas, and the Vālakhilya ascetics dwell."

4.42.32 "Those ascetics perfected through austerities, free from all blemish, must be reverenced; and with all humility they must be asked for news of Sītā."

4.42.33 "There is the Vaikhānasa lake, covered with golden lotuses, roamed by auspicious haṃsas radiant as the young sun."

4.42.34 "Kubera's riding elephant, known as Sarvabhauma, continually roams that region together with the she-elephants."

4.42.35 "Having fully passed that lake, there is a sky where moon and sun are lost, without a host of stars, cloudless, without beginning."

4.42.36 "Yet that region is illuminated as if by the sun's own rays by the self-luminous ones, god-like beings perfected in austerity who rest there."

4.42.37 "Having passed that region, there is a river named Śailodā, on both banks of which grow bamboos called Kīcaka."

4.42.38 "Those bamboos carry the Siddhas to the far shore and bring them back again; the Uttara Kurus are there, dwelling in the reward of their accumulated merit."

4.42.39 "Then thousands of rivers there have their waters set with golden lotuses, their leaves rich in blue vaidūrya gems."

4.42.40 "And the water bodies there, adorned with groves of red water-lilies and made of gold, blaze like the young sun."

4.42.41 "With leaves of most precious gems, with filaments of golden luster, with varied groves of blue lotus — that region is enclosed on all sides."

4.42.42 "With incomparable pearls and gems of great worth, the rivers there have banks rising up, and golden sandbars."

4.42.43 "Those best of mountains, made of all jewels and variegated, plunge deep into the waters, and golden ones blazing like fire as well."

4.42.44 "And here the trees always bear flowers and fruits, thronged with birds, divine in fragrance and taste and touch, and stream forth all desires."

4.42.45 "Other foremost trees yield garments of various kinds, and ornaments variegated with pearls and vaidūrya likewise."

4.42.46 "Other foremost trees yield what is fitting for women and for men alike — things pleasant to enjoy in every season."

4.42.47 "Other foremost trees produce beds of great worth, variegated and golden, with their variously spread coverings."

4.42.48 "Other trees here bear garlands delightful to the mind, and most precious drinks, and various foods as well."

4.42.49 "And women endowed with virtues, marked by beauty and youth — Gandharvas, Kiṃnaras, Siddhas, Nāgas, and Vidyādharas as well, blazing as the sun, disport themselves there together with those women."

4.42.50 "All of them have performed meritorious deeds, all are devoted to pleasure, all dwell with their women together with love and prosperity."

4.42.51 "The sound of song and music mingled with loud laughter is continually heard there, captivating the minds of all beings."

4.42.52 "There no one is joyless, no one has an unwelcome beloved; the charming virtues there increase day by day."

4.42.53 "Having fully passed that region, there is the northern treasury of waters; in its midst stands the great golden mountain named Somagiri."

4.42.54 "Both those gods who have gone to Indra's realm and those who have gone to Brahmā's realm gaze upon that king of mountains, which has reached the sky."

4.42.55 "That region, though sunless, is illuminated by its own radiance; it is recognizable by the splendor of the sun — as if by the austerity-light of the sun-god himself."

4.42.56 "There too dwells the blessed Śambhu, the soul of the universe, of eleven forms, Brahmā the lord of gods, surrounded by Brahmarṣis."

4.42.57 "In no way must you proceed to the north of the Kurus; the passage of other beings too does not transgress beyond."

4.42.58 "For Somagiri is difficult of access even to the gods; having beheld it, you should swiftly turn back from there."

4.42.59 "Thus far, O foremost of monkeys, it is possible for monkeys to go; beyond this, sunless and boundless, we have no knowledge."

4.42.60 "All that I have described must be searched; and what has not been mentioned — let your minds apply themselves to that as well."

4.42.61 "Then a great favor to the son of Daśaratha will have been accomplished, and a still greater one to me will have been done by that act of finding her — the daughter of Videha, unrivaled as the wind."

4.42.62 "Then, having accomplished your purpose, assembled with your kinsmen, honored by me, charming with all virtues, with your enemies pacified, with your beloved ones, O leaping ones who uphold existence, you shall roam the earth."

4.43.1 Sugrīva spoke in particular on behalf of Hanūmān, for he was resolved in his purpose upon that foremost of monkeys as the one to accomplish the task.

4.43.2 "I see no obstacle to your movement, O bull among monkeys — not on earth, nor in the atmosphere, nor in the sky, nor in the abode of the gods, nor in the waters."

4.43.3 "All the worlds are known to you — together with the asuras, the gandharvas, the nāgas, the humans, and the gods, along with the oceans and the mountains."

4.43.4 "Your speed of movement, your swiftness, your energy, and your agility are equal to those of your father, the mighty-vigoured Māruta, O great monkey, O hero."

4.43.5 "There exists no being on earth equal to you in splendour. Therefore, demonstrate in truth how Sītā may be found."

4.43.6 "In you alone, O Hanūmān, O learned in statecraft, reside strength, wisdom, valour, and the policy of conforming to the demands of place and time."

4.43.7 Then Rāghava, understanding the urgency of the task to be accomplished by Hanūmān, and knowing Hanūmān's nature, reflected within himself.

4.43.8 "The lord of the monkeys is wholly resolved upon Hanūmān for this purpose, and Hanūmān himself is even more firmly resolved in the accomplishment of the task."

4.43.9 "For one thus dispatched, thoroughly known by his deeds, and taken up by his lord — the fruit of the task is certain to arise."

4.43.10 Seeing that monkey of supreme determination, the great-splendoured one felt as if his purpose were already accomplished, his senses and mind filled with joy.

4.43.11 Then the scorcher of foes, filled with affection, gave him his signet ring adorned with his own name inscribed upon it, as a token of recognition for the princess.

4.43.12 "By this token, O foremost of monkeys, the daughter of Janaka will look upon you as come from my presence, and will be reassured."

4.43.13 "Your resolution, O hero, and your valour combined with fortitude, together with the message of Sugrīva, seem to declare success to me."

4.43.14 Taking that ring, the foremost of monkeys placed it upon his head, bowed with joined palms, paid reverence to Rāma's feet, and set forth — that best of leapers.

4.43.15 Urging onward the great army of monkeys, the heroic son of the Wind became like the moon with its clear disc in a sky cleared of clouds, adorned by the host of stars.

4.43.16 "Relying on your exceedingly mighty strength and the many feats of valour befitting the foremost of monkeys, O son of the Wind, do whatever is necessary so that the daughter of Janaka may be reached, O Hanūmān."

4.44.1 Understanding the stern command of their lord, those foremost of monkeys set forth, covering the earth like locusts.

4.44.2 Rāma resided there on mount Prasravaṇa together with Lakṣmaṇa, awaiting that month which had been appointed for the finding of Sītā.

4.44.3 The heroic monkey Śatabali then swiftly set out toward the northern quarter, beautiful and encompassed by the king of mountains.

4.44.4 Vinatā, the leader of the monkey troop, marched toward the eastern quarter.

4.44.5 The son of the Wind, that leaping monkey who leads the monkey host, set out toward the southern quarter — the region traversed by Agastya — accompanied by Tārā, Aṅgada, and others.

4.44.6 Suṣeṇa, the lord of leaping monkeys, that tiger among monkeys, set forth toward the formidable western quarter, guarded exceedingly by Varuṇa.

4.44.7 Then the king, having dispatched in due order the chief leaders of the monkey army to all the quarters, rejoiced in full contentment.

4.44.8 Thus urged by the king, all the leaders of the monkey bands set out swiftly, each heading toward his own assigned quarter.

4.44.9 Shouting and roaring and thundering, the leaping monkeys — those best of leapers — went on, bounding and running, crying: "We shall bring back Sītā and slay Rāvaṇa!"

4.44.10 "I alone will slay Rāvaṇa when I encounter him in battle, and then I shall swiftly seize and bring away the daughter of Janaka."

4.44.11 "Let those of you trembling with fatigue stay where you are — I alone shall bring back Jānakī even from Pātāla itself."

4.44.12 "I shall tear up trees, I shall split open mountains, I shall cleave the earth asunder, I shall churn the oceans into turmoil."

4.44.13 "I am capable of leaping a hundred yojanas in count — nay, more than a hundred yojanas — of this there is no doubt."

4.44.14 "Whether on the surface of the earth, in the ocean, upon the mountains, in the forests, or even in the depths of Pātāla — my movement cannot be arrested."

4.44.15 Thus each of them, one by one, spoke their boastful words in the presence of the king of monkeys, intoxicated with the pride of their strength.

4.45.1 When the monkey lords had departed, Rāma said to Sugrīva: "How did you, without any battle, come to know the entire orb of the earth?"

4.45.2 Sugrīva then spoke to Rāma with a humble heart: "Hear, O bull among men — I shall recount everything in full detail."

4.45.3 "When Vālī was pursuing the dānava named Dundubhi, who had taken the form of a great buffalo, in the direction of Mount Malaya —"

4.45.4 "— then the buffalo entered a cave of Mount Malaya, and Vālī too entered there into Malaya, intent on killing him."

4.45.5 "I was left posted at that cave, like a water-vessel set at a gate, and Vālī did not emerge — a full year having passed."

4.45.6 "Then that cave became filled with a torrent of blood; seeing this I was overcome with amazement and tormented by grief for my brother."

4.45.7 "Then, having resolved that my elder brother had surely been slain, I placed at the mouth of the cave a boulder resembling a mountain, so that the buffalo, unable to emerge, would perish within."

4.45.8 "Then I came to Kiṣkindhā, despairing of his life. A great kingdom fell to me, and together with Tārā, with Rumā, and with allies, I dwelt there, freed from anxiety."

4.45.9 "Then Vālī returned, having slain that bull among dānavas, and I surrendered the kingdom to him out of deference, constrained by fear."

4.45.10 "That wicked-souled Vālī, his senses disturbed, wishing to slay me, pursued me in anger together with his ministers as I fled."

4.45.11 "Then I was chased by Vālī together with his retinue, beholding various rivers, forests, and cities as I fled."

4.45.12 "Then the earth appeared to me like the surface of a mirror, resembling a whirling firebrand, and in my speed it seemed no larger than a cow's hoofprint."

4.45.13 "Then I first went east, then took refuge in the south, and again turned to the west, trembling with fear; and as I was heading north, Hanūmān spoke to me."

4.45.14 "Now I recall, O king, how Vālī, that lord of monkeys, was formerly cursed by the sage Mataṅga within this hermitage precinct."

4.45.15 "If Vālī should enter here, his head would shatter into a hundred pieces; our dwelling there would be easy and free from fear."

4.45.16 "Then, reaching Mount Ṛśyamūka, O son of a king, Vālī did not enter it then — out of fear of the curse of Mataṅga."

4.45.17 "Thus, O king, the entire orb of the earth was directly observed by me at that time, and then I came to take refuge in this cave."

4.46.1 For the sake of finding Vaidehī, the leaders of the monkey troops, dispatched by the monkey-king as instructed, set forth swiftly in all directions.

4.46.2 They searched all around through lakes, rivers, thickets, the sky, and cities, through river-fastnesses and mountains on every side.

4.46.3 All the leaders of the monkey troops thoroughly searched the regions named by Sugrīva, along with their mountains, forests, and woodlands.

4.46.4 Having searched throughout the day, all the monkeys, resolute in finding Sītā, would return to the earth when night came.

4.46.5 In regions bearing fruit in every season, the monkeys would come to fruit-laden trees and make their nightly resting places, day after day.

4.46.6 Having completed the first appointed day, the leaders of the monkey troops returned to Prasravaṇa at the end of the month and met with the monkey-king, having found nothing.

4.46.7 Having searched the eastern direction as instructed, along with his ministers, mighty Vinatā returned without having seen Sītā.

4.46.8 And that great monkey, the valiant Śatabali, having searched the entire northern direction, returned together with his army.

4.46.9 Suṣeṇa, having searched the western quarter together with the monkeys, approached Sugrīva when the full month was spent.

4.46.10 Approaching Sugrīva, who was seated on the summit of Prasravaṇa together with Rāma, they saluted him and spoke these words.

4.46.11 "All the mountains have been searched, and all the forests and cities, the rivers reaching to the ocean, and all the inhabited lands.

4.46.12 All the caves named by you have been searched, and the great thickets overgrown and interlaced with creepers have been searched as well.

4.46.13 In dense, inaccessible, and rugged regions, creatures of immense size have been searched out and slain; and those dense places have been searched again and again.

4.46.14 That great-souled foremost of monkeys, born of noble spirit, will behold Maithilī; for Hanūmān, son of the Wind, has taken the very direction in which Sītā went."

4.47.1 Then that monkey Hanūmān, going together with Tārā and Aṅgada, approached the region indicated by Sugrīva.

4.47.2 Having gone far, together with all those best of monkeys, he searched the caves and dense forests of the Vindhya range.

4.47.3 The summits of mountains, river-fastnesses, lakes, vast trees, diverse groves of trees, and mountains thick with foliage—

4.47.4 —all those valiant monkeys, searching in every direction, did not find Sītā, the daughter of Janaka, Maithilī.

4.47.5 Eating roots and various fruits as they searched, those formidable ones dwelt here and there; for that region was vast, hard to search, full of caves and dense forest.

4.47.6 Leaving that region then, all the leaders of the monkey troops, fearless and undaunted, entered another forbidding land.

4.47.7 Where the trees bore no fruit, were flowerless and stripped of leaves; where the rivers were waterless, and roots were extremely scarce—

4.47.8 —where there were no buffaloes, no deer, no elephants, no tigers, no birds, nor any other forest-dwelling creatures—

4.47.9 —where on dry land there were lotus-pools with gleaming, full-blown lotuses, beautiful and fragrant, yet forsaken even by bees—

4.47.10 —there lived a great sage named Kaṇḍu, most glorious, truth-speaking, rich in austerities, utterly intolerant, and unapproachable through his self-discipline—

4.47.11 —whose son, a boy of ten years, was lost to death in that very forest; the great sage, enraged, cursed that place—

4.47.12 —by that righteous-souled one the entire great forest was cursed: desolate, forbidding, devoid of beasts and birds.

4.47.13 The borders of that forest, the ravines of the mountains, and the headwaters of rivers they searched with careful attention.

4.47.14 And there too those great-souled ones, devoted to Sugrīva's good, did not see the daughter of Janaka, nor Rāvaṇa, her abductor.

4.47.15 Entering that terrible region overgrown with creepers and thickets, they saw a demon of cruel deeds, fearless even of the gods.

4.47.16 Seeing that terrible one standing there like another mountain, all the monkeys drew closely together upon beholding that mountain-like figure.

4.47.17 That powerful one said to all the monkeys, "You are finished!" and, raising his clenched fist, charged at them in great fury.

4.47.18 As he rushed forward, Aṅgada, son of Vālin, recognizing him as Rāvaṇa, struck him on the spot with the flat of his palm.

4.47.19 Struck by the son of Vālin and vomiting blood from his mouth, that demon fell to the ground like a mountain toppled over.

4.47.20 While he lay breathless, the monkeys, exulting in victory, searched most of that mountain-gorge region all around.

4.47.21 Having searched that forest, all of them then entered yet another terrible mountain-cavern.

4.47.22 Searching again, exhausted, they leapt out and came together, sitting down at the foot of a solitary tree with downcast hearts.

4.48.1 Then Aṅgada, most wise, exhausted, gently composing himself, spoke these words to all the monkeys.

4.48.2 "Forests, mountains, rivers, fastnesses, dense thickets, cliffs, and mountain-caves — all have been searched by us on every side.

4.48.3 Everywhere, even among us, Jānakī cannot be seen — Sītā, equal to the daughter of the gods, carried off by some demon.

4.48.4 A great time has already passed for us, and Sugrīva is fierce in his commands; therefore let all of you together continue to search on every side.

4.48.5 Abandoning sloth, grief, and the sleep that has come upon you, search so that we may find Sītā, the daughter of Janaka.

4.48.6 Perseverance, skill, and the unconquered spirit of the mind — these are said to bring success in one's tasks; therefore I say this to you.

4.48.7 Even today let the forest-dwellers search this inaccessible forest; abandoning weariness, let this entire forest be searched once more.

4.48.8 The fruit of an action diligently performed is surely seen; enough of despondency — for dejection is not fitting for us.

4.48.9 Sugrīva, O monkeys, is a wrathful king, swift to punish; one must always be wary of him, and of the great-souled Rāma as well.

4.48.10 This has been said for your own good; act on it if it pleases you, or else say, O monkeys, what is proper for all of us together."

4.48.11 Having heard Aṅgada's words, Gandhamādana spoke in a faint voice, weakened by thirst and fatigue.

4.48.12 "Indeed, what Aṅgada has said is worthy of you — it is both beneficial and agreeable; let what he has said be done."

4.48.13 "Let us search once more: mountains, ravines, and cliffs as well, the empty woodlands and the mountain-springs."

4.48.14 "Let all search everywhere through the forest and the mountain-fastnesses, exactly as all of them were indicated by great-souled Sugrīva."

4.48.15 Then those mighty monkeys rose up again and roamed the southern direction, which was interspersed with Vindhya forests.

4.48.16 Those monkeys climbed the glorious Silver Mountain, resembling an autumn cloud, full of peaks and caves.

4.48.17 There the best of monkeys, eager to behold Sītā, searched through the charming lodhra-forests and the saptaparṇa-groves.

4.48.18 Climbing to its summit, those great-striding ones, though exhausted, did not see Vaidehī, the beloved queen of Rāma.

4.48.19 Having surveyed that mountain of many caverns to the full extent of their sight, the monkeys descended, looking all around.

4.48.20 Having descended to the ground, exhausted and dispirited, they rested for a moment and then took shelter at the foot of a tree.

4.48.21 Having recovered for a moment, somewhat relieved of exhaustion, they rose once more, determined to search the entire southern direction.

4.48.22 Those best of leaping monkeys, with Hanūmān at their head, set forth and ranged all around the Vindhya from its very beginning.

4.49.1 Together with Tārā and Aṅgada, Hanūmān the monkey searched through the caves and thickets of the Vindhya.

4.49.2 They searched all around through caves frequented by lions and tigers, and through the great cascading waterfalls in the rough terrain of that lord of mountains.

4.49.3 As they remained searching there, the allotted time passed away.

4.49.4 That region was hard to explore, vast and filled with caves and dense thickets; yet there Vāyu's son searched every part of the mountain.

4.49.5 Separated from one another yet not far from each other, Gaja, Gavākṣa, Gavaya, Śarabha, and Gandhamādana searched.

4.49.6 Mainda and Dvivida, and likewise Hanūmān and Jāmbavān, and the crown prince Aṅgada, and Tāra who roams the forest.

4.49.7 Having searched the southern quarter through regions covered with mountain ranges, overcome by hunger and thirst, exhausted and in need of water, they caught sight of a great cave overgrown with creepers and trees.

4.49.8 Then cranes and geese and sārasas were flying out of it, and wet cakravākas with their limbs reddened by lotus pollen.

4.49.9 Then, having approached that cave which was fragrant and impassable, those bull-like monkeys became minds filled with wonder and eagerness.

4.49.10 Seized by curiosity, those foremost among the leaping monkeys, glowing with energy and possessed of great strength, approached that cave with great excitement.

4.49.11 Then Hanūmān, son of the Wind-god, resembling a mountain peak and skilled in wilderness and forests, addressed all the monkeys.

4.49.12 "Having searched the southern quarter through regions covered with mountain ranges, we are all exhausted, and I do not see the Maithilī."

4.49.13 "And from this cave, geese and cranes together with sārasas, and water-wet cakravākas, fly out on all sides."

4.49.14 "Surely there is water here, whether a well or a pool; and likewise these trees standing at the cave entrance are fresh and lush."

4.49.15 Spoken to thus, all the monkeys entered that cave enveloped in darkness, without moon or sun, a sight that made the hair stand on end.

4.49.16 Then in that cave, difficult to traverse and filled with many kinds of trees, clasping one another mutually, they advanced a distance of a yojana.

4.49.17 Losing their senses, thirsty, bewildered, and desperately seeking water, they wandered about within that cave for some time without rest.

4.49.18 Those leaping ones, now gaunt, with wretched faces, thoroughly exhausted—those heroes then saw a light ahead, at that point despairing of their lives.

4.49.19 Then, arriving at that place, they saw a pleasant forest free from darkness—golden trees blazing with the radiance of the kindled fire Vaiśvānara.

4.49.20 Śala trees, palms, puṃnāgas, kakubhas, vañjulas, dhavas, campankas, nāga trees, and karṇikāras in full bloom.

4.49.21 Resembling the young sun in color, with altars made of vaidūrya gems, and lotus ponds the hue of blue vaidūrya, thronged with birds.

4.49.22 Encircled by great golden trees resembling the young sun, and with great fish made of pure gold and tortoises in the waters.

4.49.23 There they saw lotus ponds filled with clear water, and likewise aerial palaces of gold and of silver.

4.49.24 With windows of refined gold and covered with lattices of pearls, the floors laid with gold and silver and inset with vaidūrya gems.

4.49.25 The monkeys saw there on all sides the finest of dwellings, and trees with flowers and fruit, resembling coral and precious gems.

4.49.26 And golden bees on every side, and honeycombs, and beds and seats marvellous with gems and gold.

4.49.27 They saw on all sides vehicles of great worth, and accumulations of vessels made of gold, silver, and bronze.

4.49.28 And stores of divine aloe wood and sandalwood, and pure edible roots and fruits.

4.49.29 And precious drinks and rich honeys, and stores of divine garments of great worth, and heaps of variegated blankets and of skins.

4.49.30 Searching here and there in that cave, those radiant and heroic monkeys saw, not far away, a certain woman.

4.49.31 Seeing her, they were greatly startled—a female ascetic clad in bark garment and black antelope skin, of regulated diet, blazing as it were with her own splendor.

4.49.32 Then Hanūmān, resembling a mountain, with hands joined in reverence, greeted that venerable woman and asked: "Who are you? Tell us whose is this dwelling, this cave, and these treasures."

4.50.1 Having spoken thus, Hanūmān there again addressed that illustrious female ascetic clad in black antelope skin, that one devoted to dharma.

4.50.2 "We have entered suddenly into this cave enveloped in darkness, overcome by hunger and thirst, thoroughly exhausted and distressed in every way."

4.50.3 "Thirsty, we entered this great golden cavity; and having seen these various conditions of such astonishing kind, we are disturbed, bewildered, and have lost our wits."

4.50.4 "Whose are these golden trees resembling the young sun, and the pure edible roots and fruits?"

4.50.5 "Whose are these aerial palaces of gold and the houses of silver, with windows of refined gold and covered with lattices of gems?"

4.50.6 "These trees in flower and fruit, holy and fragrant—these trees made of jāmbūnada gold—by whose power do they exist?"

4.50.7 "And golden lotuses grown in the clear water—how is it that golden fish move about together with tortoises?"

4.50.8 "The self, the greatness, and the ascetic power—whose is all this? Since all of us do not know, you ought to explain everything to us."

4.50.9 Addressed thus by Hanūmān, the female ascetic devoted to dharma, delighting in the welfare of all beings, replied to Hanūmān.

4.50.10 "Maya by name—a great-spirited dānava of powerful illusion, the foremost among dānavas—by him all this golden forest was fashioned through māyā."

4.50.11 "Formerly, he was the Viśvakarman among the foremost of dānavas; by him this divine golden mansion of supreme excellence was fashioned."

4.50.12 "He performed austerities for thousands of years in the great forest and obtained from the Pitāmaha a boon—all the wealth of Uśanas."

4.50.13 "Having created everything, that powerful one, master of all desires, dwelt happily for some time in this great forest."

4.50.14 "That bull among dānavas, having become attached to the apsarā Hemā, was slain by the lord Purandara, who took up his thunderbolt and struck him by force."

4.50.15 "And this supreme forest was given by Brahmā to Hemā, along with the eternal enjoyment of desires and this golden dwelling."

4.50.16 "I am Svayaṃprabhā, the daughter of Merusāvarṇi, her attendant; I guard this dwelling of Hemā, O best of monkeys."

4.50.17 "Hemā is my dear friend, skilled in dance and song; given the boon by her, I guard this supreme dwelling."

4.50.18 "What is your purpose, and for what reason do you traverse the wildernesses? And how was this difficult-to-find forest discovered by you?"

4.50.19 "After eating these edible things, the roots and fruits, and drinking the water, you ought to tell me everything."

4.51.1 Then with single-pointed concentration, the female ascetic devoted to dharma spoke these words to all those troop-leaders among the monkeys who had rested.

4.51.2 "O monkeys, if your fatigue has passed from eating the fruits, and if this is something I should hear, I wish to hear it—let it be told."

4.51.3 Hearing those words of hers, Hanūmān, son of the Wind-god, began to relate truthfully and straightforwardly exactly what had occurred.

4.51.4 "The glorious Rāma Dāśarathi, king of all the world, comparable to Mahendra and Varuṇa, entered the Daṇḍaka forest."

4.51.5 "Together with his brother Lakṣmaṇa and his wife the Vaidehī; his wife was carried off by force from Janasthāna by Rāvaṇa."

4.51.6 "That hero's friend, that king's companion, is a monkey named Sugrīva, king of the foremost monkeys; it is by him that we were dispatched."

4.51.7 "The southern quarter—traversed by Agastya, guarded by Yama—we, together with these foremost monkeys led by Aṅgada."

4.51.8 "Were charged altogether: 'Search for Rāvaṇa, that rākṣasa who can assume any form at will, together with Sītā the Vaidehī.'"

4.51.9 "Having searched the whole of the southern quarter, all of us, hungry and exhausted, took shelter at the foot of a tree."

4.51.10 "All with pallid faces, all absorbed in thought, we could find no end, sunken as we were in the great ocean of worry."

4.51.11 "Then casting our eyes about, we saw the great cave, covered over with creepers and trees, enveloped in darkness."

4.51.12 "Geese wet with water, their wings beaded with water droplets, ospreys and sārasas flying out from it—I said to the leaping ones, 'Come, let us enter here.'"

4.51.13 "And for all of them too the reasoning prevailed: 'Let us go in and enter'—urged on as they were by eagerness for their master's business."

4.51.14 "Then, having fallen into close formation, grasping one another's hands, we suddenly entered this cave enveloped in darkness."

4.51.15 "This is our situation; it is with this purpose that we came here; and it is to you that all of us have come, exhausted and famished."

4.51.16 "The roots and fruits given by the law of hospitality—these have been consumed by us, who were tormented by hunger."

4.51.17 "Since all of us were saved by you when dying of hunger, tell us—for the sake of return service—what the monkeys may do for you."

4.51.18 Thus addressed by those monkeys, the all-knowing Svayaṃprabhā then replied to all those leaders of monkey troops.

4.51.19 "I am fully satisfied with all these swift monkeys; while I practise my dharma, there is no service here to be done for me by anyone."

4.52.1 Thus addressed by the auspicious, dharma-laden words of the female ascetic, Hanūmān spoke his words to that woman of blameless conduct.

4.52.2 "We have all taken refuge in you, O lady of righteous conduct. The time-limit set for us by the great-souled Sugrīva has passed, and we have been dwelling inside the cave."

4.52.3 "You yourself should rescue us from this dreadful cave."

4.52.4 "Therefore please save all of us, who have overstepped Sugrīva's command, whose lives are as good as forfeit, and who are filled with dread of Sugrīva."

4.52.5 "There is also a great task that must be accomplished by us, O righteous lady, and that task too has not been done by us who have been dwelling here."

4.52.6 Thus addressed by Hanūmān, the female ascetic spoke: "I think it is exceedingly difficult for any living being who has entered here to turn back."

4.52.7 "But by the power of my austerities and by virtue of the self-discipline I have acquired, I shall draw all these monkeys out of this cave."

4.52.8 "Close your eyes, all you bull-like monkeys. For it is not possible to emerge with eyes open."

4.52.9 Then all of them, eager and desirous of departing, instantly covered their eyes with their soft-fingered hands and shut them tight.

4.52.10 Those high-souled monkeys, their faces covered by their hands, were lifted out of the cave by her in the mere twinkling of an eye.

4.52.11 Then the virtuous female ascetic, having brought all those monkeys forth from that treacherous place, reassured them and spoke thus.

4.52.12 "This is the glorious Vindhya mountain, covered with many trees and creepers. This is the Prasavaṇa peak. And this is the ocean, the great sea."

4.52.13 "May good fortune attend you; I will return to my abode, O bull-like monkeys." Having said this, Svayaṃprabhā entered that beautiful cave once more.

4.52.14 Then they beheld the dreadful ocean, abode of Varuṇa, boundless and roaring loudly, churned by terrible waves.

4.52.15 While they had been searching through that mountain stronghold fashioned by Maya's magic, the month set as the time-limit by the king had passed.

4.52.16 Sitting at the foot of the Vindhya mountain, beneath fully flowering trees, those great and fortunate ones then fell into anxious thought.

4.52.17 Then, seeing the springtime trees laden with blossoms at their crowns and encircled by hundreds of creepers, they became filled with fearful apprehension.

4.52.18 Informing one another that spring had arrived, and recognizing that the time and purpose of their mission were lost, they sank down upon the ground.

4.52.19 Then Aṅgada, the crown prince, that great wise monkey with the shoulders of a lion and bull, with broad long arms, spoke.

4.52.20 "We all set out under the command of the monkey-king; a full month has passed while we were dwelling in the cave — do the monkeys not perceive this?"

4.52.21 "Now that the time-limit set by Sugrīva himself has expired, it is fitting for all of us forest-dwellers to undertake a fast unto death."

4.52.22 "Sugrīva is by nature harsh, and he is firm in his role as master; he will not pardon all of us who have transgressed and return before him."

4.52.23 "And without news of Sītā, he will surely do evil. Therefore it is proper for us to undertake a fast unto death right here today."

4.52.24 "Before the king slaughters all of us who have returned from here — having abandoned sons, wives, wealth, and homes — with a punishment beyond fitting, death here itself is better for us."

4.52.25 "Moreover, I was not consecrated as crown prince by Sugrīva; it was by Rāma, the lord of men, whose deeds are effortless, that I was consecrated."

4.52.26 "That king who bore enmity toward me before, seeing my transgression, will put me to death with a sharp punishment, his resolve fixed."

4.52.27 "What use are my friends witnessing my calamity at the moment of death? I shall sit here in fast unto death on this sacred shore of the ocean."

4.52.28 Having heard these words spoken by the young crown prince, all those foremost monkeys spoke pitifully in reply.

4.52.29 "Sugrīva is by nature harsh, and Rāghava is ardently attached to his beloved; with Vaidehī not found, and seeing us return together —"

4.52.30 "— for Rāghava's sake and to please him, he will undoubtedly have us killed. And it is not proper for those who have transgressed to go before their master."

4.52.31 Then Tāra, hearing the words of the terror-stricken monkeys, spoke thus: "Enough of despair. Let us all enter the cave and dwell there, if you agree."

4.52.32 "For this cave wrought by Maya's magic is most inaccessible; it has abundant trees, water, food, and drink. Here we need fear neither Indra, nor Rāghava, nor the monkey-king."

4.52.33 Hearing even Aṅgada's favorable response, all the monkeys, encouraged, said: "Let a plan by which we shall not be slain be devised for us without delay, this very day."

4.53.1 While Tāra, who shone with the splendor of the lord of stars, spoke thus, Hanūmān perceived that the kingdom was being seized by Aṅgada.

4.53.2 Hanūmān judged Vālin's son to be endowed with the eight qualities of intellect, possessed of the fourfold strength, and graced with fourteen royal virtues.

4.53.3 He saw him ever increasing in splendor, strength, and valor, growing in royal majesty like the moon waxing from the first night of the bright fortnight.

4.53.4 He was Bṛhaspati's equal in intellect, his father's equal in valor, and was attending upon Tāra as Śukra attends upon Indra.

4.53.5 Then Hanūmān, perceiving him exhausted in his master's cause and skilled in all the sciences, began to address Aṅgada with persuasive words.

4.53.6 Describing the third of the four political means — dissension — he split apart all those monkeys with the excellence of his speech.

4.53.7 When all those monkeys had been thus divided, he then alarmed Aṅgada with many frightening words, employing the means of intimidation with anger.

4.53.8 "You, O son of Tārā, are more capable than your father in battle; you are able to bear the burden firmly and rule the monkey kingdom just as your father did."

4.53.9 "For monkeys are by nature fickle-minded, O bull among monkeys; without you they will not endure being commanded, apart from their sons and wives."

4.53.10 "These very ones — Jāmbavān, Nīla, and the great monkey Suhotra — would follow you; I tell you this plainly."

4.53.11 "Neither I nor all these others can be drawn away from Sugrīva by conciliation, gifts, or any other means — nor by force — except by you."

4.53.12 "They say that even taking a position in defiance of a stronger power is self-preserving for the weak; therefore the weak should not enter into conflict."

4.53.13 "And this cave that you regard as a protective refuge — it is said that Lakṣmaṇa's arrows would make short work of tearing it open."

4.53.14 "Indra once accomplished little by hurling his thunderbolt; Lakṣmaṇa would split it apart with his sharp arrows as though slicing a leaf-cup, and Lakṣmaṇa has many iron-shafted arrows of that kind."

4.53.15 "The very moment you, O afflictoer of enemies, sit down in the fast unto death, all the monkeys, their resolve firm, will abandon you."

4.53.16 "Remembering their sons and wives, ever anxious, hungry, worn out by uncomfortable beds, they will put you behind them."

4.53.17 "You, bereft of friends and of kinsmen who wish you well, will be fearful even of a trembling blade of grass."

4.53.18 "And Lakṣmaṇa's dreadful arrows, swift and irresistible, intent on killing the fugitive, will certainly pierce you."

4.53.19 "But if you come with us, presenting yourself humbly, Sugrīva will in due course establish you in the kingdom."

4.53.20 "Your uncle is devoted to dharma, steadfast in his vows, pure, and true to his promises; he will never seek to harm you."

4.53.21 "He also desires your mother's well-being, and his very life exists for her sake; he has no other offspring. Therefore, Aṅgada, let us go."

4.54.1 Hearing Hanūmān's words — modest, filled with dharma, and accompanied by due honor to his master — Aṅgada replied.

4.54.2 "Steadfastness, complete purity of soul, compassion, uprightness, valor, and courage — none of these are to be found in Sugrīva."

4.54.3 "He who, while his elder brother yet lives, takes for himself that brother's cherished queen-wife — she who should rightfully be regarded as a mother — is contemptible."

4.54.4 "How can he know dharma — that evil-souled one who, while his brother was engaged in battle, blocked the mouth of the cave?"

4.54.5 "He who has forgotten Rāghava — who took his hand in truth, who has done him service, who is of great renown — whose good deed would such a one remember?"

4.54.6 "He who, not through fear of adharma but through fear of Lakṣmaṇa alone, commanded us to search for Sītā — how can there be dharma in such a one?"

4.54.7 "Who among the noble, who is well-born and desires to live, would ever trust that sinner, that ingrate, that forgetful and unstable soul?"

4.54.8 "Having established his own son in the kingdom — whether that son be virtuous or not — how will Sugrīva allow me to live, born of an enemy's line?"

4.54.9 "With my counsel betrayed, myself in transgression, and my power diminished, how could I reach Kiṣkindhā and live there, helpless and weak like an orphan?"

4.54.10 "That deceitful, cruel, and pitiless Sugrīva would have me punished in secret and put in bonds, for the sake of securing his kingdom."

4.54.11 "A fast unto death is better for me than imprisonment and degradation. Grant me leave, all of you; let the monkeys go to their homes."

4.54.12 "I declare to you: I will not go to the city. I shall sit here in fast unto death; death itself is better for me."

4.54.13 "And my younger uncle Sugrīva, lord of the monkeys, should first be given my respectful salutation and then asked about his welfare."

4.54.14 "Ask about the good health and welfare of Rumā as well, my mother. And you should please console my mother Tārā."

4.54.15 "She is by nature devoted to her son, compassionate, a woman of many austerities; upon hearing that I have perished here, she will surely abandon her life."

4.54.16 Having said this much and having also bowed to the elders, Aṅgada lay down upon the ground on the darbha grass, weeping and downcast in spirit.

4.54.17 As he lay there, the bull-like monkeys, weeping, stricken with grief, shed hot tears from their eyes.

4.54.18 Blaming Sugrīva and extolling Vālin, they all surrounded Aṅgada and resolved to undertake the fast unto death.

4.54.19 Knowing the intention of Vālin's son, those bull-like monkeys — all having touched water, facing east, seated on southward-tipped darbha grass, on the bank of the ocean — settled down together.

4.54.20 That mountain, as many monkeys massive as great mountain peaks lay down upon it —

4.54.21 — resounded through its ravines and cascades, as though with the violent tumult of roaring rain-clouds.

4.55.1 While all those monkeys sat fasting at the mountain place prepared for death, the king of vultures approached that very spot.

4.55.2 That long-lived bird was named Saṃpāti, splendid and renowned for his strength and valor — the elder brother of Jaṭāyu.

4.55.3 Emerging from a cave of the great Vindhya mountain and seeing the monkeys seated there, he spoke with a delighted heart.

4.55.4 "Fate in this world surely follows its own ordinance — how fitting that this destined prey has come to me at last after so long."

4.55.5 "I shall devour these monkeys one by one as they die, each in turn" — so the bird spoke, gazing upon those leaping creatures.

4.55.6 Hearing the words of that bird hungry for prey, Aṅgada, greatly distressed, then spoke to Hanūmān.

4.55.7 "Look — under the pretext of Sītā, Yama, the son of Vivasvān himself, has come to this place for the destruction of us monkeys."

4.55.8 "Rāma's task has not been accomplished, the king's command has not been fulfilled — this unforeseen calamity has suddenly come upon the monkeys."

4.55.9 "The deed done by Jaṭāyu, the king of vultures, out of love for Vaidehī — all of that you have already heard in full."

4.55.10 "Even so, all beings — even those born into animal wombs — do Rāma's bidding, abandoning their lives just as we ourselves do."

4.55.11 "Exhausted in the service of Rāghava, we have given up our lives; we entered the wilderness — yet we have not found the princess of Mithilā."

4.55.12 "That king of vultures is fortunate — slain in battle by Rāvaṇa, he was freed from all fear of Sugrīva and has attained the highest state."

4.55.13 "By the destruction of Jaṭāyu, by the death of King Daśaratha, and by the abduction of Vaidehī, the monkeys have fallen into peril."

4.55.14 "The forest-dwelling of Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa together with Sītā, and likewise the slaying of Vālin by Rāghava's arrow —"

4.55.15 "And the total destruction of the rākṣasas through Rāma's wrath — all this calamity has been wrought by the boon granted to Kaikeyī."

4.55.16 Upon hearing those words uttered from Aṅgada's mouth, the vulture with his sharp beak spoke in a loud voice.

4.55.17 "Who is this who proclaims with his voice the slaying of my brother Jaṭāyu, dearer to me than life itself, making my heart tremble?"

4.55.18 "How did the battle between the rākṣasa and the vulture take place at Janasthāna? After so long, I hear today this name of my brother."

4.55.19 "I wish to hear the end of my younger brother — he who knew virtue and was praiseworthy for his valor. Tell me, O best of monkeys."

4.55.20 "My brother Jaṭāyu dwelt at Janasthāna, and Daśaratha was that very brother's dear friend — he whose beloved eldest son Rāma is devoted to his elders. How did this come to pass?"

4.55.21 "Since my wings were burned by the rays of the sun, I cannot spread them; I wish to descend from this mountain, O destroyers of enemies."

4.56.1 Though the leaders of the monkey troops heard those words — his voice broken by grief — they did not trust them at all, suspicious of his intentions.

4.56.2 Those monkeys, seated in their fast unto death, saw the vulture and formed this terrible thought: "He will devour all of us."

4.56.3 "If he eats us while we sit here fasting in any case, we shall have achieved our purpose — swiftly obtaining release from this place."

4.56.4 After all those foremost monkeys formed this resolve, Aṅgada then addressed the vulture who had descended from the mountain peak.

4.56.5 "There was a powerful lord of monkeys named Kṣaraja — he was my noble king, O bird, and righteous were both of his sons."

4.56.6 "Sugrīva and Vālin — both sons endowed with torrential strength. King Vālin, renowned throughout the world for his deeds, was my father."

4.56.7 "Rāma the son of Daśaratha, the great warrior and splendid king of the entire world among the Ikṣvākus, entered the Daṇḍaka forest."

4.56.8 "Together with his brother Lakṣmaṇa and his wife Vaidehī, devoted to his father's command and treading the righteous path — his wife was forcibly abducted from Janasthāna by Rāvaṇa."

4.56.9 "Jaṭāyu the vulture-lord, a friend of Rāma's father, saw Sītā Vaidehī being carried away through the sky."

4.56.10 "He made Rāvaṇa chariotless and caused Maithilī to be set down — but exhausted and old, he was slain in battle by Rāvaṇa."

4.56.11 "Thus that vulture, slain by the mighty Rāvaṇa, was duly cremated by Rāma and attained the highest destination."

4.56.12 "Then Rāghava formed a friendship with Sugrīva, my great-souled paternal uncle — and he slew my father Vālin."

4.56.13 "For Sugrīva, estranged from my father, together with his ministers — after slaying Vālin, Rāma then consecrated Sugrīva as king."

4.56.14 "That Sugrīva, lord of monkeys, was installed in the kingdom by Rāma as king of the foremost monkeys — and it is he who dispatched us."

4.56.15 "Thus sent forth by Rāma, searching here and there, we have not found Vaidehī — like seeking the sun's radiance in the night."

4.56.16 "We searched the Daṇḍaka forest carefully — and then, unknowingly, we entered a cave that had opened in the earth."

4.56.17 "That cave was fashioned by Maya's magic, and while we searched within it, the month that the king had fixed as our deadline passed."

4.56.18 "We, who are all subject to the monkey-king's command, have exceeded the appointed time — and so out of fear we undertake this fast unto death."

4.56.19 "With Kākutstha Rāma angry, and Sugrīva together with Lakṣmaṇa wrathful, there is no life for us even if we were to return — so we have resolved to die here."

4.57.1 Thus addressed with piteous words by the monkeys who had abandoned hope of life, the vulture, with tears in his eyes, replied to the monkeys in a great voice.

4.57.2 "That younger brother of mine named Jaṭāyu, whom you have told me was slain in battle by the powerful Rāvaṇa —"

4.57.3 "On account of old age and my winglessness, even hearing this I must endure it — for I have no strength today to avenge my brother's enemy."

4.57.4 "Long ago, when the slaying of Vṛtra had occurred, both he and I, eager for victory, flew up toward the blazing sun wreathed in rays."

4.57.5 "Covering the path through the sky with great speed we flew — but when the sun reached its zenith, Jaṭāyu began to sink."

4.57.6 "Seeing that brother of mine tormented by the sun's rays and utterly overwhelmed, out of affection I shielded him with my wings."

4.57.7 "My wings scorched and burned, I fell upon the Vindhya, O best of monkeys — and dwelling here, I have had no news of my brother."

4.57.8 When Saṃpāti had spoken thus of Jaṭāyu, the crown prince Aṅgada of great wisdom then replied.

4.57.9 "If you are truly the brother of Jaṭāyu, you have heard what I have told you — now tell us, if you know, the abode of that rākṣasa."

4.57.10 "That Rāvaṇa, lord of rākṣasas, who is lacking in foresight — whether nearby or far, if you know, inform us."

4.57.11 Then the elder brother of Jaṭāyu, blazing with great energy, spoke words befitting his own nature, filling the monkeys with joy.

4.57.12 "Though I am a vulture with scorched wings and diminished strength, O leaping ones, I will render supreme aid to Rāma — at least by means of speech."

4.57.13 "I know the worlds of Varuṇa and the three strides of Viṣṇu as well; I know the battles of gods and asuras, and the churning of the nectar."

4.57.14 "As for this task of Rāma's, it should have been done first by me — but old age has stolen my vigor and my life-breath is weakened."

4.57.15 "I saw a young woman of perfect beauty, adorned with all ornaments, being carried off by Rāvaṇa, that wicked-souled one."

4.57.16 "She was crying out 'Rāma! Rāma!' and 'Lakṣmaṇa!' — that radiant woman, flinging off her ornaments and writhing her limbs."

4.57.17 "Her finest silk garment, like the sun's glow atop a mountain, shone against that dark rākṣasa as lightning blazes against a rain cloud."

4.57.18 "By the mention of Rāma's name, I believe that woman is Sītā. Now hear from me as I describe the dwelling of that rākṣasa."

4.57.19 "The rākṣasa named Rāvaṇa — the own son of Viśravas and brother of Vaiśravaṇa — dwells in the city of Laṅkā."

4.57.20 "From here, a full hundred yojanas across the ocean on an island, the lovely city of Laṅkā was built by Viśvakarman."

4.57.21 "In that city dwells Vaidehī, wretched, wearing silk, confined in Rāvaṇa's inner quarters and closely guarded by rākṣasī women."

4.57.22 "You will behold that Maithilī, the daughter of King Janaka, there in Laṅkā — protected on all sides by the ocean."

4.57.23 "Reaching the ocean's far shore, a full hundred yojanas away, and arriving at the southern bank, you will there behold Rāvaṇa."

4.57.24 "Make haste there at once and strive with valor, O leaping ones! I truly see this with my inner sight — having found her, you will return."

4.57.25 "The first path belongs to the sparrows and those other birds that live on grain; the second to the crows and those that eat tree-fruits."

4.57.26 "The bhāsa birds travel the third path, and the krauñcas together with the kurara birds; hawks travel the fourth, and vultures travel the fifth."

4.57.27 "The sixth path belongs to the swans endowed with strength, valor, beauty, and youth — and beyond that is the way of Vainateya Garuḍa. From Vainateya descends the lineage of all of us, O best of monkeys."

4.57.28 "A reprehensible deed was done by which we became flesh-eaters — yet even standing here, I behold Rāvaṇa and Jānakī with my sight."

4.57.29 "We too possess a divine golden power of vision — and so by the power of our sustenance and by our very nature, O monkeys, we always see as far as a full hundred yojanas and more."

4.57.30 "Our livelihood is ordained by nature to be found at a distance; the livelihood of those who fight on foot is ordained to be found at their very feet."

4.57.31 "Let some means be found for crossing the salt ocean — having reached Vaidehī, you will return with your purpose fulfilled."

4.57.32 "I wish to go with you to the ocean, abode of Varuṇa — I will offer water for my great-souled brother who has gone to heaven."

4.57.33 Then those mighty monkeys of great valor, having carried Saṃpāti — his wings burned away — to the shore of the lord of rivers and streams,

4.57.34 brought back that lord of birds to that very place; and the monkeys became filled with joy, having obtained this news to act upon.

4.58.1 Then, having heard those words of the king of vultures — words sweet as nectar — those foremost of monkeys were filled with joy as he spoke.

4.58.2 Jāmbavān, the foremost of monkeys, together with all the leaping ones, suddenly rose from the ground and addressed the king of vultures.

4.58.3 "Where is Sītā? By whom was she seen? Or who has carried off the daughter of Mithilā? Tell us all of this, sir — be a guide to us forest-dwellers."

4.58.4 "Who would not regard the valor of the arrows of Daśaratha's son — falling with the speed of the thunderbolt — and of Lakṣmaṇa himself, who has been spoken of?"

4.58.5 He, pleased, reassuring those monkeys who were filled with affection and attentive to hear of Sītā, spoke these words again.

4.58.6 "Hear now how the abduction of the Vaidehī was heard by me, by whom it was reported to me, and where the wide-eyed one is."

4.58.7 "I, old and my vital strength and prowess diminished, fell long ago upon this difficult mountain extending many yojanas."

4.58.8 "My son, named Supārśva, foremost among birds, sustains me in this condition with food at the proper time."

4.58.9 "Gandharvas are sharp in their desires, serpents sharp in their anger, beasts sharp in their fears — and we birds are sharp in our hunger."

4.58.10 "Once, when the sun had set and I was afflicted by hunger and longing for food, my son came bringing no flesh."

4.58.11 "That youth, foremost among birds, was rebuked by me — overcome by hunger and thirst, and on account of old age and anger."

4.58.12 "He, the joy-increaser, distressed by my withholding of food, paid his respects and then spoke these words truthfully."

4.58.13 "'Father, at the proper time I took to the sky in search of flesh, and stationed myself blocking the gateway of Mount Mahendra."

4.58.14 "'There, facing downward, I alone set myself to obstruct the path of the thousands of creatures that roam the far reaches of the ocean."

4.58.15 "'There I saw someone resembling a heap of broken collyrium, carrying a woman blazing like the rising sun, and going away."

4.58.16 "'I, bent on seizing food, had made my resolve upon seeing them, but I was entreated concerning the path by him with gentle conciliation."

4.58.17 "'Indeed, nowhere is there anyone who would strike those who approach with conciliation — not even some person of low birth, much less one like me."

4.58.18 "'He went through the sky with his brilliance, compressing it as it were with his speed. Then I was approached and honored by the aerial beings."

4.58.19 "'"By good fortune you live, father," said the great seers to me. "He who passed with his wife has gone well — there is no doubt."""

4.58.20 "'Thus addressed by those supremely splendid perfected sages, I was informed that he was Rāvaṇa, king of the rākṣasas."

4.58.21 "'He was carrying off the wife of Daśaratha's son Rāma — Janaka's daughter — her ornaments fallen, clad in silk, overcome by the force of grief."

4.58.22 "'She was crying out the names of Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa, her hair loosened. "This is a waste of time" — so said Supārśva, the foremost among those skilled in speech.'

4.58.23 "Supārśva reported all this matter in full to me. Yet even upon hearing this, my mind had no inclination toward any heroic action."

4.58.24 "For how can a bird without wings undertake any deed? Yet what can be done by me — proceeding by the power of speech and intelligence —"

4.58.25 "Hear what I shall declare, relying on your valor. Through speech and thought I shall accomplish what is dear to all of you, for whatever is the task of Daśaratha's son is indeed mine — of this there is no doubt."

4.58.26 "You are supreme in wisdom, powerful, high-minded, united with the king of monkeys — unapproachable even by the gods."

4.58.27 "And the sharpened arrows of Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa, feathered with heron-plumes, suffice for protecting and subduing all three worlds."

4.58.28 "Indeed Daśagrīva is endowed with brilliance and strength — yet for you who are capable, nothing whatsoever is difficult."

4.58.29 "Therefore, enough with the delay of time — let a firm resolve of the mind be made. For the wise, such as yourselves, do not hesitate in undertakings."

4.59.1 Then the leaders of the monkey troops seated themselves on the difficult mountain all around that vulture who had bathed and performed his water-rites.

4.59.2 Saṃpāti, his trust established, spoke again with joy to Aṅgada seated there, surrounded by all those monkeys.

4.59.3 "Let the monkeys fall silent and listen with one-pointed attention. I shall declare truthfully, as I know it, where the daughter of Mithilā is."

4.59.4 "I fell long ago upon the summit of this Vindhya in the forest, my limbs overcome by the heat of the sun, burnt by the rays of the sun."

4.59.5 "Regaining consciousness only after six nights, helpless and bewildered as it were, scanning all directions, I knew nothing at all."

4.59.6 "Then, surveying the oceans, mountains, all rivers and lakes, forests and wilderness regions, my understanding returned."

4.59.7 "Filled with flocks of joyful birds, having peaks and cave-interiors, on the shore of the southern ocean — I concluded: 'This is the Vindhya.'"

4.59.8 "And here there was a holy hermitage, honored even by the gods, in which the sage named Niśākara practiced severe austerities."

4.59.9 "Eight thousand years I dwelt here, O knowers of dharma, without that sage — for Niśākara had gone to heaven."

4.59.10 "Descending with difficulty and slowly from the uneven summit of the Vindhya, I returned with hardship to the earth sharp with kuśa-grass."

4.59.11 "Desirous of seeing that sage, I came with great difficulty; for that sage had been visited many times by Jaṭāyu and by me."

4.59.12 "Near the site of his hermitage, sweet-scented winds blew; no tree was seen that was not flowering or not bearing fruit."

4.59.13 "And having arrived at the holy hermitage and taken shelter at the foot of a tree, desiring to see him, I waited for the blessed Niśākara."

4.59.14 "Then I saw the sage not far off — blazing with energy, having completed his ablutions, irresistible, turned face northward."

4.59.15 "Bears, deer, tigers, lions, elephants, and serpents came surrounding him, as living beings approach a benefactor."

4.59.16 "Then, knowing the sage had arrived, those creatures departed, as all the ministers and forces withdraw when the king has entered."

4.59.17 "But the sage, seeing me, was pleased, entered the hermitage again, and after just a moment came out and asked about my purpose."

4.59.18 "'Gentle one, seeing the loss of your feathers I do not comprehend — these two wings of yours are burnt by fire, and your skin too is wounded."

4.59.19 "'Two vultures have been seen by me before, equal to the wind in speed, kings of vultures, brothers who could assume any form at will."

4.59.20 "'You are Saṃpāti the elder, and Jaṭāyu is your younger brother. Assuming a human form, let them both grasp my feet."

4.59.21 "'What is the origin of your affliction? How did the fall of your wings come about? Or has this punishment been imposed by someone? Tell me all, as I ask.'"

4.60.1 Then Saṃpāti narrated to the sage in full that terrible deed done rashly and with difficulty — and likewise the pursuit of the sun.

4.60.2 "Blessed one, on account of my wounds and with senses disturbed by shame, I am exhausted and cannot speak at length."

4.60.3 "Both I and Jaṭāyu, deluded by pride through rivalry, being heroes, soared into the sky wishing to surpass each other's valor."

4.60.4 "Having made a wager on the summit of Kailāsa before the sages, the sun was to be followed until it reached the great western mountain of setting."

4.60.5 "Then we two, arriving simultaneously, looked down at the earth's surface and saw separate cities the size of chariot wheels."

4.60.6 "Somewhere we heard the sounds of musical instruments and the sounds of Vedic recitation, and we saw many women singing, clothed in red garments."

4.60.7 "Swiftly soaring and taking the path of the sun, we two looked back and saw that forest carpeted in green grass."

4.60.8 "The earth appeared covered as if by smooth stones — by masses of rock, and the earth was wrapped with rivers as if by threads."

4.60.9 "The Himavat and the Vindhya and the very great mountain Meru appeared on the earth's surface like serpents in a lake."

4.60.10 "Intense perspiration and distress and fear beset us both then; confusion overcame us, and from confusion a terrible swooning."

4.60.11 "The southern direction could not be distinguished, nor the northeastern, nor the western — the world was fixed as at the end of an age, stricken, as if consumed by fire."

4.60.12 "With great effort the sun was perceived once more — the maker of light appeared to us as equal in extent to the entire earth."

4.60.13 "Jaṭāyu, without asking me, plunged down to the earth. Seeing him, I swiftly released myself from the sky."

4.60.14 "Shielded by my wings, Jaṭāyu was not burnt; but through my own negligence I was completely burnt there, falling from the wind-path."

4.60.15 "I suspect that Jaṭāyu fell in Janasthāna; but I fell on the Vindhya, with burnt wings, rendered motionless."

4.60.16 "Bereft of my kingdom, of my brother, of both wings and of my valor, wishing in every way only to die, I shall fall from the mountain peak."

4.61.1 Having spoken thus to that foremost of sages, I wept, greatly afflicted by grief. Then the blessed one, having reflected for a moment, spoke these words.

4.61.2 "Your wings and secondary feathers shall grow anew; and likewise your eyes, your vitality, your valour, and your strength shall be restored to you."

4.61.3 "For I have heard of a great deed yet to come, spoken of in ancient times; I have perceived it through my austerities, and it is known to me from what I have heard."

4.61.4 "There is a king named Daśaratha, a scion of the Ikṣvāku dynasty; his son, of immense splendour, shall be named Rāma."

4.61.5 "He, whose valour is true, being engaged in that task by his father, shall go to the forest along with his brother Lakṣmaṇa."

4.61.6 "Rāvaṇa, lord of the Rākṣasas, a demon by birth, invincible to gods and Dānavas, shall steal his wife from Janasthāna."

4.61.7 "Though tempted with pleasures and with foods to eat and drink, the glorious Maithilī, that illustrious one, sunk in sorrow, shall not partake of them."

4.61.8 "But Vāsava, knowing Vaidehī's plight, shall give her food of the highest excellence — food akin to ambrosia and rare even among the gods."

4.61.9 "Receiving that food and recognising it as coming from Indra, Maithilī shall take a portion from the top and scatter it on the ground as an offering to Rāma."

4.61.10 "Saying, 'If my lord, the master, still lives together with Lakṣmaṇa — or even if they have attained divinity — let this food be theirs.'"

4.61.11 "Leaping monkeys, serving as Rāma's messengers, shall come searching for her. You, O bird, must declare to them that she is Rāma's queen."

4.61.12 "In any case you must not go anywhere — where would one in your condition go? Wait for the right place and time; you shall regain your wings."

4.61.13 "I could restore your wings to you even today, but remaining here you shall accomplish a task beneficial to all the worlds."

4.61.14 "Indeed that task must be done by you — it is the task of those two princes, of the Brāhmaṇas, of the gods, of the sages, and of Vāsava himself."

4.61.15 "I too wish to behold the brothers Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa; I do not wish to hold on to life much longer — I shall abandon this body."

4.62.1 With these and many other words, that master of speech, having praised me and granted me leave, entered his own hermitage.

4.62.2 Creeping out of the cave of that mountain, slowly and gradually, I climbed the Vindhya and have been awaiting you here.

4.62.3 And now more than a full hundred years of that time have passed; keeping the sage's words in my heart, I have been waiting for the right place and moment.

4.62.4 After Niśākara undertook his great final journey and passed to heaven, grief consumes me, beset as I am by many apprehensions.

4.62.5 The resolve toward death that arises in me I turn back by means of the sage's words; the counsel he gave me for the preservation of my life dispels my sorrow as a blazing tongue of flame dispels darkness.

4.62.6 And knowing the might of evil-souled Rāvaṇa, his son was only threatened with words — why then was Maithilī not rescued?

4.62.7 Having heard her lament, and seeing those two bereft of Sītā, the son born out of Daśaratha's love for me did not perform what was dear to me.

4.62.8 And while Saṃpāti was speaking thus in the company of the monkeys, his two wings suddenly sprouted forth before the eyes of those forest-dwellers.

4.62.9 Seeing his own body adorned with wings spread out and feathered with a reddish hue, he experienced incomparable joy and spoke these words to the monkeys.

4.62.10 "By the power of the great sage Niśākara, of immeasurable soul, my wings, scorched by the rays of the sun, have grown again."

4.62.11 "The valour I possessed in my youth — that very strength and manliness I perceive in myself today."

4.62.12 "Strive by all means — you shall attain Sītā. This regaining of my wings is for you a token of certain success."

4.62.13 Having spoken thus to all those monkeys, Saṃpāti, foremost of fliers, leapt from the summit of the mountain, eager to test his movement through the sky.

4.62.14 Hearing his words, those tiger-like monkeys were overjoyed and delighted in their hearts, and turned their faces toward the rising of their prowess.

4.62.15 Then those best of leapers, with the swiftness of the wind, their manliness recovered, set out in the direction of Abhijit, eager to search for the daughter of Janaka.

4.63.1 Having been told by the king of vultures, the leaping monkeys sprang up together, filled with joy, and roared with the valour of lions.

4.63.2 Having heard Saṃpāti's words regarding the destruction of Rāvaṇa, the joyful monkeys, eager to find Sītā, came to the ocean.

4.63.3 Approaching that place, those monkeys of awesome valour beheld it — standing as if it were a reflection of the entire great world.

4.63.4 Having reached the northern shore of the southern ocean, those foremost of monkeys then encamped together.

4.63.5 They saw the ocean thronged with immense and monstrous creatures of various kinds sporting in the water, with gaping mouths and enormous bodies, and filled with surging waves.

4.63.6 In some places it seemed as if asleep, in other places as if at play, and here and there it was surrounded by masses of water as vast as mountains.

4.63.7 Seeing it crowded with great Dānava lords dwelling in the depths of Pātāla, a sight that made the hair stand on end, those elephant-like monkeys fell into despondency.

4.63.8 Gazing at the ocean, which seemed as uncrossable as the sky itself, all the monkeys suddenly fell into despair, saying, "How shall the task be accomplished?"

4.63.9 Seeing the army thus cast into despondency by the sight of the ocean, the foremost of monkeys consoled those monkeys who were afflicted by fear.

4.63.10 "We have no need of despair; despondency is the greater fault. Despondency destroys a person as an enraged serpent destroys a child."

4.63.11 "This despondency overpowers one when the moment for valiant action arrives; stripped of its energy, the purpose of man cannot be achieved."

4.63.12 When that night had passed, Aṅgada convened another counsel together with the monkeys, assembling with the elder leaders of the monkey host.

4.63.13 That army of monkeys, surrounding Aṅgada, stood resplendent — even as the host of Maruts stands surrounding Vāsava.

4.63.14 "Who else would be capable of steadying that monkey army other than the son of Vālin and other than Hanūmat?"

4.63.15 Then the glorious Aṅgada, the subduer of foes, having paid his respects to those elder monkeys and to the army, spoke words full of purpose.

4.63.16 "Who among you, O mighty one, shall now leap over the ocean? Who shall fulfil the purpose of Sugrīva, true to his pledge and the subduer of enemies?"

4.63.17 "What hero, O best of leapers, could vault a hundred yojanas? Who could deliver all these troop leaders from this great peril?"

4.63.18 "By whose grace, having turned back from here with our purpose accomplished, might we joyfully see again our wives, our children, and our homes?"

4.63.19 "By whose grace might we joyfully approach Rāma and the mighty Lakṣmaṇa, and the mighty Sugrīva?"

4.63.20 "If any monkey among you is capable of crossing the ocean, let him quickly grant us here the auspicious gift of fearlessness."

4.63.21 Having heard Aṅgada's words, not one of them said anything; that entire monkey army stood there motionless as if frozen.

4.63.22 Again Aṅgada, foremost of monkeys, addressed those monkeys: "You are all the foremost of the powerful, of steadfast valour."

4.63.23 "You are born in distinguished lineages and are honoured repeatedly; there is no obstacle for any of you, at any time, in going across."

4.63.24 "Declare, O best of leapers, whatever capacity each of you has for making the crossing."

4.64.1 Then, having heard the words of Aṅgada, all those foremost of monkeys declared, each in turn, their own eagerness and capacity for the journey.

4.64.2 Gaja, Gavākṣa, Gavaya, Śarabha, Gandhamādana, Mainda and Dvivida, Suṣeṇa, and likewise Jāmbavān—

4.64.3 Gaja spoke up there: "I can leap ten yojanas." Gavākṣa declared he would travel twenty yojanas.

4.64.4 The monkey Gavaya then said to those monkeys: "I shall travel thirty yojanas, O leapers."

4.64.5 The monkey Śarabha then said to those monkeys: "I shall travel forty yojanas—there is no doubt."

4.64.6 The greatly resplendent Gandhamādana said to those monkeys: "I shall travel fifty yojanas—there is no doubt."

4.64.7 The monkey Mainda then said to those monkeys: "I am capable of leaping fully sixty yojanas."

4.64.8 Then the greatly resplendent Dvivida replied there: "I shall travel seventy yojanas—there is no doubt."

4.64.9 Suṣeṇa, foremost among monkeys, declared to those best of monkeys: "I can leap eighty yojanas, O bulls among leapers."

4.64.10 While they were speaking thus, honoring them all, then Jāmbavān, the eldest among them, spoke in reply.

4.64.11 "Formerly we too had some prowess in speed and movement; but now we have reached the far shore of old age."

4.64.12 "Yet in this situation it is not possible to neglect this task for which the king of monkeys and Rāma are both firmly resolved."

4.64.13 "Know now the movement that is available to me, given the changes of time: I shall travel ninety yojanas—there is no doubt."

4.64.14 And Jāmbavān addressed all those foremost monkeys again: "Indeed my prowess in movement was not merely this much—

4.64.15 "In the past, Viṣṇu the eternal, of great might, striding with his three steps at the sacrifice, was circumambulated by me."

4.64.16 "Now I am old and slow in my leaping; yet in youth at that time my strength was unmatched by any foe."

4.64.17 "Now I reckon my capacity for travel to be this much; yet by this alone the full accomplishment of this task will not come about."

4.64.18 Then the greatly wise Aṅgada, honoring Jāmbavān the great monkey, spoke words of noble import in reply:

4.64.19 "I shall travel this great distance of one hundred yojanas; but whether I have the strength to return is not certain."

4.64.20 The foremost of monkeys, Jāmbavān, skilled in speech, said to him: "Your capacity for the going is well known, O best of monkeys and bears—

4.64.21 "A hundred thousand yojanas even you are capable of traveling and returning—this is not the point that is spoken of here.

4.64.22 "A master who sends others forth should never himself be sent on a mission; all this company is meant to be sent by you, O best of leapers.

4.64.23 "You stand established as our protector in the position of master; a master is the companion of the army—this is the accepted way, O scorcher of foes.

4.64.24 "Therefore, dear one, you must always be guarded like a companion; and moreover, O destroyer of enemies, you are the very root of this enterprise.

4.64.25 "The root of an enterprise must be protected—such is the policy of those skilled in affairs; for when the root endures, its qualities flourish like flowers and fruit.

4.64.26 "Therefore you, of true valor, endowed with the strength of both intelligence and might, O scorcher of foes, are the cause in the accomplishment of this enterprise.

4.64.27 "For you are both elder and the son of an elder to us, O foremost of monkeys; relying on you, we are capable of accomplishing the task."

4.64.28 Then Aṅgada, son of Vālin, the great monkey, replied with these words to the greatly wise Jāmbavān who had spoken:

4.64.29 "If I shall not go, and no other bull among monkeys will either, then surely what remains for us is once again to sit in fasting unto death.

4.64.30 "For without fulfilling the command of that wise lord of monkeys, I see no preservation of life even if we were to go there.

4.64.31 "For that monkey lord is supreme in both grace and in wrath; by transgressing his command, destruction would come upon our going.

4.64.32 "Therefore, so that this enterprise does not go otherwise, you who see the purpose clearly are the one who ought to consider this."

4.64.33 Then that heroic bull among leapers, Jāmbavān, having been answered by Aṅgada, spoke these further words to Aṅgada:

4.64.34 "O hero, nothing of this enterprise of yours shall be lacking; I am about to spur on the one who will accomplish it."

4.64.35 Then that hero among monkeys, approaching the foremost among leapers—renowned, sitting apart at ease—urged on that very hero among monkeys, Hanūmān himself.

4.65.1 Beholding thus the monkey host of many hundreds of thousands, dejected, Jāmbavān then spoke to Hanūmān:

4.65.2 "O hero, O best among all who know the scriptures, O Hanūmān—sitting apart in silence, why do you not speak?"

4.65.3 "Hanūmān, you are the equal of the monkey king Sugrīva, and of Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa as well, in splendor and in strength.

4.65.4 "The son of Vinatā, the mighty Garuḍa—renowned as the son of Ariṣṭanemi, foremost of all birds—

4.65.5 "—that great-armed bird of great speed and great renown, I have witnessed many times at the ocean, lifting up serpents with his wings.

4.65.6 "Whatever strength he has in his wings, that same strength is yours in your arms; nor does your prowess and speed fall short of his.

4.65.7 "Strength, wisdom, splendor, and courage, O best of monkeys—you are distinguished above all beings; why do you not know yourself?

4.65.8 "The foremost of apsarās among apsarases, renowned as Puñjikasthalā, known as Añjanā—she became the wife of the monkey Kesarī—

4.65.9 "—by reason of a curse, dear one, she became a monkey-woman able to take any form, the daughter of Kuñjara, the great-souled lord of monkeys.

4.65.10 "While in her monkey nature, lovely in all her limbs, possessed of the power to change form at will, she once took on a human form, adorned with the glory of supreme youth.

4.65.11 "She roamed upon the summit of a mountain like a rain-cloud of the monsoon season, adorned with varied garlands and ornaments, clothed in the finest linen.

4.65.12 "From that wide-eyed one, standing on the mountain's peak, the wind gently carried away her golden garment trimmed in red, fair to behold.

4.65.13 "Then he saw her rounded, well-formed thighs, her full and close-set breasts, and her well-formed, beautiful face.

4.65.14 "Beholding her with broad and ample hips, slender-waisted, of good renown, beautiful in every limb, the Wind God was overcome by desire.

4.65.15 "Pervaded through every limb by the god of love, his mind undone, Māruta embraced that blameless one with his two mighty arms.

4.65.16 "But she, confused and virtuous, spoke these words right there: 'Who wishes to destroy this my vow of fidelity to one husband?'

4.65.17 "Having heard the words of Añjanā, Māruta replied: 'I do not violate you, O fair-hipped one—let there be no fear for you, O fortunate one.

4.65.18 "'It is only in mind that I have gone to you; by embracing you, O renowned one, a son endowed with valor and wisdom shall be born to you.'

4.65.19 "Then as a child, beholding the risen sun in the great forest and wishing to seize it thinking it a fruit, you leaped up and flew toward the sky.

4.65.20 "Having traveled three hundred yojanas, O great monkey, scorched by the sun's radiance, yet you fell into no despair.

4.65.21 "Even as you were rushing swiftly through the atmosphere, O great monkey, the wise Indra, seized with rage, hurled his thunderbolt at you.

4.65.22 "Thereupon the left side of your jaw broke against a mountain's rocky peak—and from that very circumstance your name is celebrated as 'Hanūmān.'

4.65.23 "Then, seeing you struck down, the Wind God Vāyu himself, the bearer of fragrance, became greatly enraged and ceased to blow in all three worlds.

4.65.24 "And all the gods, dismayed, the lords of the worlds, when the three worlds were thrown into confusion, sought to appease the enraged Māruta.

4.65.25 "When the Wind was appeased, Brahmā granted you a boon: that in battle, O dear one, O man of true valor, you would be invulnerable to any weapon.

4.65.26 "And seeing you unharmed by the fall of his thunderbolt, the thousand-eyed Indra, gladdened in his heart, granted you an excellent boon:

4.65.27 "'May death come to you only at your own free will,' he declared, O lord. You are the son of Kesarī, born of the field, of terrible valor—

4.65.28 "—the legitimate son of Māruta and equal to him in splendor; you are indeed the son of Vāyu, dear one, and his equal in leaping as well.

4.65.29 "We today are as if our life-force is gone; you at this time among us are endowed with skill and valor—like another king of birds.

4.65.30 "At the time of Viṣṇu's three strides, dear one, I myself circumambulated the earth with its mountains, forests, and groves, twenty-one times in circumambulation.

4.65.31 "At that time we gathered medicinal herbs by divine command, from which the nectar was produced—and by that our great strength was born.

4.65.32 "Now I am old, my prowess diminished; at this present time you are the one among us endowed with all virtues.

4.65.33 "Therefore, O heroic one, rouse yourself—for you are the greatest among leapers; this entire monkey army desires to witness your valor.

4.65.34 "Rise, O tiger among monkeys; leap across the great ocean! For your course, O Hanūmān, is beyond that of all beings.

4.65.35 "All the monkeys are dejected—O Hanūmān, why do you disregard them? Exert your prowess, O greatly swift one, as Viṣṇu exerted his three strides!"

4.65.36 Then, spurred on by Jāmbavān, the son of the Wind God, the monkey of renowned speed, gladdening that army of monkey heroes, assumed a great form of his own.

4.66.1 As Hanūmān was being praised, the mighty one grew in stature; whirling his tail in joy, he attained his full strength.

4.66.2 While he was being extolled by all the bull-like monkeys, filling with his own splendor, his form became matchless.

4.66.3 As a lion fully grown stretches himself in a mountain cave, so now did the true son of Māruta stretch himself.

4.66.4 The face of that wise one as he stretched shone forth—blazing like a sacrificial vessel, like a smokeless fire.

4.66.5 Rising from the midst of the monkeys, his body hair standing up in joy, Hanūmān bowed to the elder monkeys and spoke these words:

4.66.6 "Anila, companion of fire, who splinters mountain peaks, the powerful and immeasurable Wind moving through the sky—

4.66.7 "—I am the true son of that swift-moving, swiftly going, great-souled Māruta; in leaping there is none equal to me.

4.66.8 "I am capable of circling Mount Meru—that vast mountain that seems to scratch the sky—thousands of times without obstruction.

4.66.9 "By the force of my arms' speed I am capable of flooding the entire world—mountains, rivers, and pools—with the sea.

4.66.10 "By the speed of my thighs and legs, the ocean—abode of Varuṇa—will rise up, its great sea monsters thrown into confusion.

4.66.11 "I am capable of circling Vainateyā—the devourer of serpents, flying through the sky, lord of birds—thousands of times.

4.66.12 "I am eager even to reach the blazing, ray-garlanded sun as it departs from its rising, before it has set.

4.66.13 "And then I am capable of returning without touching the earth, by that very great and terrible speed, O bulls among leapers.

4.66.14 "I am capable of surpassing all beings that move through the sky; I shall churn the ocean and split the earth asunder.

4.66.15 "As I leap, O leapers, I shall shake the mountains; and leaping with great speed I shall sweep across the great ocean.

4.66.16 "The blossoms of creepers, plants, and trees of every kind shall follow after me today as I leap through the sky; my path shall be like the path of Svāti through the heavens.

4.66.17 "O monkeys, all beings will watch me moving through the terrible sky, soaring upward, and descending.

4.66.18 "Behold me, O leapers, resembling the great Meru, covering the heavens as I go, as though swallowing the sky.

4.66.19 "I shall scatter the clouds, I shall shake the mountains, I shall churn the ocean as I leap, composed and intent.

4.66.20 "Whether the power of Vainateyā or my own or that of the mighty Māruta—apart from Suparṇa king of birds or the greatly powerful Wind, I see no being who could follow me once I have leaped.

4.66.21 "In the mere twinkling of an eye I shall suddenly fall upon the supportless sky, like lightning rising from a cloud.

4.66.22 "As I leap across the ocean, my form shall be like that of Viṣṇu as he strode out his three great strides.

4.66.23 "I see it clearly in my mind, and my mind's movement accords with it: I shall behold Vaidehī—rejoice, O leapers!

4.66.24 "Equal to Māruta in speed, equal to Garuḍa in swiftness—my resolve is to travel ten thousand yojanas.

4.66.25 "I could suddenly seize the nectar from the hand of Vāsava with his thunderbolt, or from Brahmā the self-born, and bring it here; or I could lift up Laṅkā itself and carry it away—such is my resolve.

4.66.26 To that foremost of monkeys, roaring thus, of immeasurable might, the best of monkeys, Jāmbavān, spoke with great joy:

4.66.27 "O hero, O son of Kesarī, O swift one, O son of Māruta—by you, dear one, the great grief of your kinsmen has been destroyed.

4.66.28 "The foremost monkeys, devoted to your welfare, have assembled; intent, they will perform auspicious rites for the accomplishment of the task.

4.66.29 "By the grace of the sages, by the counsel of the elder monkeys, and by the grace of your teachers—leap now across the great ocean.

4.66.30 "We shall stand on one foot awaiting your return; the very lives of all the forest-dwellers are bound up in you.

4.66.31 Then that tiger among monkeys said to those forest-dwellers: "This earth will not bear the speed of my leaping—

4.66.32 "—but these peaks of this mountain Mahendra, dense with rocks, firm and great,

4.66.33 "—these shall bear the pressure of my feet as I launch forward, O best ones, and I shall leap a hundred yojanas from this place."

4.66.34 Then that monkey, resembling the Wind, the son of the Wind God, the destroyer of enemies, ascended the finest of mountains, Mahendra.

4.66.35 It was covered with trees of many kinds, its meadows frequented by deer, dense with flowering creepers, its trees always in flower and fruit.

4.66.36 It was roamed by lions and tigers, frequented by frenzied elephants, resounding with flocks of excited birds, filled with gushing waters.

4.66.37 Mahendra, raised up with great towering peaks—through it that mighty one, foremost of monkeys, whose prowess matched Mahendra's own, ranged about.

4.66.38 Pressed down by his two feet, the great mountain, by that great-souled one, roared like a mighty bull elephant struck by a lion.

4.66.39 It released gushing streams of water, its rocks scattered and tumbled, the deer and elephants upon it frightened, its great trees shaking.

4.66.40 Pairs of Gandharvas of many kinds, birds rough from intoxication, flocks of Vidyādharas—all took flight,

4.66.41 —as the great mountain's broad plateaus were abandoned, its great serpents lay coiled in hiding, its rocky mountain-peaks and boulders heaved up—such became that great hill.

4.66.42 With those serpents half-emerged and hissing, that bearer of the earth then appeared as if adorned with banners.

4.66.43 That rocky height, abandoned by terror-stricken sages who fled in alarm, seemed like a traveler collapsed in a great wilderness, bereft of his caravan.

4.66.44 That swift-moving hero among monkeys, his spirit gathered into his speed, slayer of enemy heroes, the great-souled and resolute one—composing his mind, he went toward Laṅkā in his heart.