In the sacred sanctuary of a venerable sage, Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita found peaceful repose, their hearts overflowing with joy at the warmth and care bestowed upon them. They rose at dawn’s first light, bathed in a lotus-filled pond that shimmered with the golden touch of morning rays. Clad in serenity, they entered the sacred fire chamber, performed their austere rites, and offered prayers to the rising sun. Then, approaching the sage Suteekshna, Rama spoke with reverence:
“Venerable sage, your affectionate hospitality has been a blessing. Permit us now to take our leave. We wish to visit the hermitages scattered across this wilderness, meet the ascetics, sages, and scholars, partake in their holy merit, and address any troubles they may encounter. Grant us your blessing, for we seek to walk the path of duty.”
With folded hands, they bowed before the sage, who blessed them, saying, “O Rama, journey safely with Sita and Lakshmana, and tread the path of righteousness.” Armed and vigilant, Rama and Lakshmana prepared to navigate the depths of the Dandaka Forest, while Sita spoke with gentle wisdom:
“O valiant Rama, observe the ascetics, whose purity and austerity radiate virtue. Their hermitages are untouched sanctuaries, filled with nature’s bounty—fruits, roots, and tubers abound, sustaining life in harmony. Behold the innocent herds of animals and the flocks of birds nurturing their young with tender care. The forest thrives in balance, a testament to the divine design.
Rama, virtue is subtle and demands vigilance. Lust, the root of destruction, spawns three evils: falsehood, obsession with fleeting pleasures, and unwarranted enmity. You, my noble lord, embody truth, virtue, and self-control. Yet, I am troubled by your newfound aggression against innocent creatures. Nature’s beings, ferocious or gentle, are created to live in their ordained ways. Who are we to interfere?
Let me share the tale of Sage Khanda, who, tempted by a weapon entrusted to him, strayed from his path of austerity. Once pure and steadfast, his association with arms corrupted his mind, leading him to abandon his virtuous practices. This story warns of the corrupting power of weapons, a danger even to the most resolute.
Rama, your vow is to live as an ascetic, renouncing royal grandeur and embracing the forest’s simplicity. Arms and violence are alien to the dharma of an ascetic. Protecting sages from demons is noble, but it must not overshadow the principles of non-violence and restraint. Balance your duties, uphold your oath, and harmonize with nature’s order.
Consider my words not as lessons but as reminders. Reflect deeply, consult with Lakshmana, and choose wisely. Let your path be one of purity and compassion, for the cosmic order unfolds through subtle and profound ways, guiding all towards the ultimate truth.”
Thus spoke Sita, her wisdom a beacon of clarity amidst the shadows of doubt. Rama listened, his heart stirred by her words, as they continued their journey through the sacred wilderness, ever mindful of the delicate balance between duty and harmony.
