Aranya Kanda

पुर नर भरत प्रीति मैं गाई। मति अनुरूप अनूप सुहाई।।

Pur nar bharat preeti main gaaee. mati anuroop anoop suhaaee

I have sung of the love between the citizens and Bharata, beautiful and matchless according to my understanding.

अब प्रभु चरित सुनहु अति पावन। करत जे बन सुर नर मुनि भावन।।

Aba prabhu charit sunahu ati paavan. karat je ban sur nar muni bhaavan

Now listen to the supremely sacred deeds of the Lord, which delight the gods, men, and sages in the forest.

एक बार चुनि कुसुम सुहाए। निज कर भूषन राम बनाए।।

Eka baar chuni kusum suhaae. nij kar bhooshan raam banaae

Once, gathering beautiful flowers, Rama made ornaments with His own hands.

सीतहि पहिराए प्रभु सादर। बैठे फटिक सिला पर सुंदर।।

Seetahi pahiraae prabhu saadar. baithe phatik silaa par sundar

The Lord lovingly adorned Sita with them and sat beautifully upon a crystal rock.

सुरपति सुत धरि बायस बेषा। सठ चाहत रघुपति बल देखा।।

Surapati sut dhari baayas beshaa. sath chaahat raghupati bal dekhaa

Indra's son, taking the form of a crow, foolishly wished to test the power of Raghupati.

जिमि पिपीलिका सागर थाहा। महा मंदमति पावन चाहा।।

Jimi pipeelikaa saagar thaahaa. mahaa mandamati paavan chaahaa

Like an ant trying to fathom the ocean's depth, the great fool sought to measure the pure one.

सीता चरन चौंच हति भागा। मूढ़ मंदमति कारन कागा।।

Seetaa charan chaunch hati bhaagaa. moodh mandamati kaaran kaagaa

The foolish crow struck Sita's feet with its beak and fled, driven by its dull understanding.

चला रुधिर रघुनायक जाना। सींक धनुष सायक संधाना।।

Chalaa rudhir raghunaayak jaanaa. seenk dhanush saayak sandhaanaa

When blood flowed, Raghunayaka knew and strung an arrow to His grass bow.

प्रेरित मंत्र ब्रह्मसर धावा। चला भाजि बायस भय पावा।।

Prerit mantr brahmasar dhaavaa. chalaa bhaaji baayas bhay paavaa

Empowered by the mantra, the Brahmastra missile sped forth. The crow fled in terror, overcome with fear.

धरि निज रुप गयउ पितु पाहीं। राम बिमुख राखा तेहि नाहीं।।

Dhari nij rup gayau pitu paaheen. raam bimukh raakhaa tehi naaheen

Taking his own form, he went to his father. But his father would not shelter one who had turned against Rama.

भा निरास उपजी मन त्रासा। जथा चक्र भय रिषि दुर्बासा।।

Bhaa niraas upajee man traasaa. jathaa chakr bhay rishi durbaasaa

He became hopeless and fear arose in his mind, just as sage Durvasa had feared the discus.

ब्रह्मधाम सिवपुर सब लोका। फिरा श्रमित ब्याकुल भय सोका।।

Brahmadhaam sivapur sab lokaa. phiraa shramit byaakul bhay sokaa

He wandered exhausted through Brahmaloka, Shivaloka and all the worlds, distressed and fearful with sorrow.

काहूँ बैठन कहा न ओही। राखि को सकइ राम कर द्रोही।।

Kaahoon baithan kahaa na ohee. raakhi ko sakai raam kar drohee

No one would give him shelter anywhere. Who can protect an enemy of Rama?

मातु मृत्यु पितु समन समाना। सुधा होइ बिष सुनु हरिजाना।।

Maatu mrityu pitu saman samaanaa. sudhaa hoi bish sunu harijaanaa

Mother becomes like death, father like Yama the destroyer. Nectar becomes poison, listen O devotee of Hari.

मित्र करइ सत रिपु कै करनी। ता कहँ बिबुधनदी बैतरनी।।

Mitr karai sat ripu kai karanee. taa kahan bibudhanadee baitaranee

Friend acts like a hundred enemies. For him the Ganga becomes like the river Vaitarani.

सब जगु ताहि अनलहु ते ताता। जो रघुबीर बिमुख सुनु भ्राता।।

Sab jagu taahi analahu te taataa. jo raghubeer bimukh sunu bhraataa

The whole world becomes hotter than fire for one who turns away from Raghuvira, listen brother.

नारद देखा बिकल जयंता। लागि दया कोमल चित संता।।

Naarad dekhaa bikal jayantaa. laagi dayaa komal chit santaa

Narada saw Jayanta in distress. The compassionate saint's tender heart was moved with pity.

पठवा तुरत राम पहिं ताही। कहेसि पुकारि प्रनत हित पाही।।

Pathavaa turat raam pahin taahee. kahesi pukaari pranat hit paahee

He immediately sent him to Rama, saying 'Go and cry out for help, seeking refuge in the protector of devotees.'

आतुर सभय गहेसि पद जाई। त्राहि त्राहि दयाल रघुराई।।

Aatur sabhay gahesi pad jaaee. traahi traahi dayaal raghuraaee

Distressed and fearful, he went and grasped Rama's feet, crying 'Save me, save me, O compassionate Lord of the Raghus!'

अतुलित बल अतुलित प्रभुताई। मैं मतिमंद जानि नहिं पाई।।

Atulit bal atulit prabhutaaee. main matimand jaani nahin paaee

Your power and majesty are immeasurable. I am foolish and could not understand this.

निज कृत कर्म जनित फल पायउँ। अब प्रभु पाहि सरन तकि आयउँ।।

Nij krit karm janit phal paayaun. aba prabhu paahi saran taki aayaun

I have received the fruit born of my own deeds. Now Lord, I have come seeking your shelter.

सुनि कृपाल अति आरत बानी। एकनयन करि तजा भवानी।।

Suni kripaal ati aarat baanee. ekanayan kari tajaa bhavaanee

Hearing his extremely distressed words, the compassionate Lord made him lose one eye and then released him.

रघुपति चित्रकूट बसि नाना। चरित किए श्रुति सुधा समाना।।

Raghupati chitrakoot basi naanaa. charit kie shruti sudhaa samaanaa

Lord Rama dwelt at Chitrakoot and performed many deeds that were like nectar to the ears of the scriptures.

बहुरि राम अस मन अनुमाना। होइहि भीर सबहिं मोहि जाना।।

Bahuri raam asa man anumaanaa. hoihi bheer sabahin mohi jaanaa

Then Rama thought in His mind that there would be crowds if everyone came to know of His presence there.

सकल मुनिन्ह सन बिदा कराई। सीता सहित चले द्वौ भाई।।

Sakal muninh san bidaa karaaee. seetaa sahit chale dvau bhaaee

Taking leave of all the sages, the two brothers departed with Sita.

अत्रि के आश्रम जब प्रभु गयऊ। सुनत महामुनि हरषित भयऊ।।

Atri ke aashram jab prabhu gayaoo. sunat mahaamuni harashit bhayaoo

When the Lord reached the hermitage of sage Atri, the great sage became overjoyed upon hearing of His arrival.

पुलकित गात अत्रि उठि धाए। देखि रामु आतुर चलि आए।।

Pulakit gaat atri uthi dhaae. dekhi raamu aatur chali aae

With hair standing on end in ecstasy, Atri rose and rushed forth, seeing Rama approaching eagerly.

करत दंडवत मुनि उर लाए। प्रेम बारि द्वौ जन अन्हवाए।।

Karat dandavat muni ura laae. prem baari dvau jan anhavaae

Bowing down, the sage embraced them to his heart and bathed both brothers with tears of love.

देखि राम छबि नयन जुड़ाने। सादर निज आश्रम तब आने।।

Dekhi raam chhabi nayan judaane. saadar nij aashram tab aane

Seeing Rama's beauty, his eyes were delighted, and then he respectfully brought them to his hermitage.

करि पूजा कहि बचन सुहाए। दिए मूल फल प्रभु मन भाए।।

Kari poojaa kahi bachan suhaae. die mool phal prabhu man bhaae

Performing worship and speaking sweet words, he offered roots and fruits that pleased the Lord's heart.

अनुसुइया के पद गहि सीता। मिली बहोरि सुसील बिनीता।।

Anusuiyaa ke pad gahi seetaa. milee bahori suseel bineetaa

Sita grasped the feet of Anasuya and met her again with gentle humility.

रिषिपतिनी मन सुख अधिकाई। आसिष देइ निकट बैठाई।।

Rishipatinee man sukh adhikaaee. aasish dei nikat baithaaee

The sage's wife felt great joy in her heart and blessed Sita, seating her nearby.

दिब्य बसन भूषन पहिराए। जे नित नूतन अमल सुहाए।।

Diby basan bhooshan pahiraae. je nit nootan amal suhaae

She adorned Sita with divine garments and ornaments that were ever-new, pure and beautiful.

कह रिषिबधू सरस मृदु बानी। नारिधर्म कछु ब्याज बखानी।।

Kah rishibadhoo saras mridu baanee. naaridharm kachhu byaaj bakhaanee

The sage's wife spoke in sweet, gentle words and explained some aspects of women's dharma.

मातु पिता भ्राता हितकारी। मितप्रद सब सुनु राजकुमारी।।

Maatu pitaa bhraataa hitakaaree. mitaprad sab sunu raajakumaaree

Listen, O princess, mother, father, and brothers are all benefactors who give measured help.

अमित दानि भर्ता बयदेही। अधम सो नारि जो सेव न तेही।।

Amit daani bhartaa bayadehee. adham so naari jo sev na tehee

But the husband is the unlimited giver, O daughter of Videha; wretched is the woman who does not serve him.

धीरज धर्म मित्र अरु नारी। आपद काल परिखिअहिं चारी।।

Dheeraj dharm mitr aru naaree. aapad kaal parikhiahin chaaree

Patience, dharma, friend, and wife - these four are tested in times of adversity.

बृद्ध रोगबस जड़ धनहीना। अधं बधिर क्रोधी अति दीना।।

Briddh rogabas jad dhanaheenaa. adhan badhir krodhee ati deenaa

Old, diseased, foolish, poor, blind, deaf, angry, and extremely wretched.

ऐसेहु पति कर किएँ अपमाना। नारि पाव जमपुर दुख नाना।।

Aisehu pati kar kien apamaanaa. naari paav jamapur dukh naanaa

Even if the husband has such faults, a woman who dishonors him suffers various torments in Yama's realm.

एकइ धर्म एक ब्रत नेमा। कायँ बचन मन पति पद प्रेमा।।

Ekai dharm eka brat nemaa. kaayan bachan man pati pad premaa

There is only one dharma, one vow, one rule - love for the husband's feet in body, speech, and mind.

जग पति ब्रता चारि बिधि अहहिं। बेद पुरान संत सब कहहिं।।

Jag pati brataa chaari bidhi ahahin. bed puraan sant sab kahahin

There are four types of devoted wives in the world, as the Vedas, Puranas, and all saints declare.

उत्तम के अस बस मन माहीं। सपनेहुँ आन पुरुष जग नाहीं।।

Uttam ke asa bas man maaheen. sapanehun aana purush jag naaheen

The highest type has such control over her mind that even in dreams no other man exists in the world for her.

मध्यम परपति देखइ कैसें। भ्राता पिता पुत्र निज जैंसें।।

Madhyam parapati dekhai kaisen. bhraataa pitaa putr nij jainsen

The middling wife looks upon other men as she would her brother, father, or son.

धर्म बिचारि समुझि कुल रहई। सो निकिष्ट त्रिय श्रुति अस कहई।।

Dharm bichaari samujhi kul rahaee. so nikisht triy shruti asa kahaee

She who considers dharma and understands family honor and remains virtuous - the scriptures call her the lowest good wife.

बिनु अवसर भय तें रह जोई। जानेहु अधम नारि जग सोई।।

Binu avasar bhay ten rah joee. jaanehu adham naari jag soee

She who restrains herself only from fear and lack of opportunity - know that such a woman is the lowest in the world.

पति बंचक परपति रति करई। रौरव नरक कल्प सत परई।।

Pati banchak parapati rati karaee. raurav narak kalp sat paraee

She who deceives her husband and loves another man falls into the terrible hell of Raurava for a hundred kalpas.

छन सुख लागि जनम सत कोटि। दुख न समुझ तेहि सम को खोटी।।

Chhan sukh laagi janam sat koti. dukh na samujh tehi sam ko khotee

For momentary pleasure, she suffers for millions of births - who is more foolish than one who does not understand this suffering?

बिनु श्रम नारि परम गति लहई। पतिब्रत धर्म छाड़ि छल गहई।।

Binu shram naari param gati lahaee. patibrat dharm chhaadi chhal gahaee

Without effort, a woman can attain the highest state, but she abandons the dharma of chastity and embraces deceit.

पति प्रतिकुल जनम जहँ जाई। बिधवा होई पाई तरुनाई।।

Pati pratikul janam jahan jaaee. bidhavaa hoee paaee tarunaaee

Wherever she goes in birth after birth opposing her husband, she becomes a widow in her youth.

सुनि जानकीं परम सुखु पावा। सादर तासु चरन सिरु नावा।।

Suni jaanakeen param sukhu paavaa. saadar taasu charan siru naavaa

Hearing this, Janaki experienced supreme joy and respectfully bowed her head at the sage's feet.

तब मुनि सन कह कृपानिधाना। आयसु होइ जाउँ बन आना।।

Tab muni san kah kripaanidhaanaa. aayasu hoi jaaun ban aanaa

Then the compassionate Lord spoke to the sage, asking for permission to go to another forest.

संतत मो पर कृपा करेहू। सेवक जानि तजेहु जनि नेहू।।

Santat mo par kripaa karehoo. sevak jaani tajehu jani nehoo

Always show kindness to me, and knowing me as your servant, do not abandon your love.

धर्म धुरंधर प्रभु कै बानी। सुनि सप्रेम बोले मुनि ग्यानी।।

Dharm dhurandhar prabhu kai baanee. suni saprem bole muni gyaanee

Hearing the words of the Lord who upholds righteousness, the wise sage spoke with love.

जासु कृपा अज सिव सनकादी। चहत सकल परमारथ बादी।।

Jaasu kripaa aja siv sanakaadee. chahat sakal paramaarath baadee

Whose grace is sought by Brahma, Shiva, Sanaka and others - all seekers of the highest truth.

ते तुम्ह राम अकाम पिआरे। दीन बंधु मृदु बचन उचारे।।

Te tumh raam akaam piaare. deen bandhu mridu bachan uchaare

You are that same Rama, beloved of the desireless, friend of the humble who speaks gentle words.

अब जानी मैं श्री चतुराई। भजी तुम्हहि सब देव बिहाई।।

Aba jaanee main shree chaturaaee. bhajee tumhahi sab dev bihaaee

Now I understand the wisdom of Lakshmi - she worshipped you, abandoning all other gods.

जेहि समान अतिसय नहिं कोई। ता कर सील कस न अस होई।।

Jehi samaan atisay nahin koee. taa kar seel kas na asa hoee

One who has no equal in excellence - how can his character not be thus noble?

केहि बिधि कहौं जाहु अब स्वामी। कहहु नाथ तुम्ह अंतरजामी।।

Kehi bidhi kahaun jaahu aba svaamee. kahahu naath tumh antarajaamee

How can I say 'go now' O Master? You tell me, Lord, for you know all hearts.

अस कहि प्रभु बिलोकि मुनि धीरा। लोचन जल बह पुलक सरीरा।।

Asa kahi prabhu biloki muni dheeraa. lochan jal bah pulak sareeraa

Saying this and gazing upon the Lord, the composed sage shed tears of joy with his body thrilling.

मुनि पद कमल नाइ करि सीसा। चले बनहि सुर नर मुनि ईसा।।

Muni pad kamal naai kari seesaa. chale banahi sur nar muni eesaa

Bowing his head at the sage's lotus feet, Rama departed for the forest, revered by gods, men, sages, and Shiva himself.

आगे राम अनुज पुनि पाछें। मुनि बर बेष बने अति काछें।।

Aage raam anuj puni paachhen. muni bar besh bane ati kaachhen

Rama walked ahead, his younger brother followed behind, both appearing most graceful in the garb of excellent sages.

उमय बीच श्री सोहइ कैसी। ब्रह्म जीव बिच माया जैसी।।

Umay beech shree sohai kaisee. brahm jeev bich maayaa jaisee

Between the two brothers, Sita appeared so beautiful, like Maya (illusion) existing between Brahman and the individual soul.

सरिता बन गिरि अवघट घाटा। पति पहिचानी देहिं बर बाटा।।

Saritaa ban giri avaghat ghaataa. pati pahichaanee dehin bar baataa

Rivers, forests, mountains, and difficult passes, recognizing their Lord, provided excellent paths for their journey.

जहँ जहँ जाहि देव रघुराया। करहिं मेध तहँ तहँ नभ छाया।।

Jahan jahan jaahi dev raghuraayaa. karahin medh tahan tahan nabh chhaayaa

Wherever the divine Raghunatha would go, clouds would gather in the sky there to provide shade.

मिला असुर बिराध मग जाता। आवतहीं रघुवीर निपाता।।

Milaa asur biraadh mag jaataa. aavataheen raghuveer nipaataa

The demon Viradha met them on the path, but as soon as he came, Raghuvira slew him.

तुरतहिं रुचिर रूप तेहिं पावा। देखि दुखी निज धाम पठावा।।

Turatahin ruchir roop tehin paavaa. dekhi dukhee nij dhaam pathaavaa

Immediately that demon attained a beautiful form, and seeing this, Rama compassionately sent him to his own divine abode.

पुनि आए जहँ मुनि सरभंगा। सुंदर अनुज जानकी संगा।।

Puni aae jahan muni sarabhangaa. sundar anuj jaanakee sangaa

Then they came to where sage Sharabhanga dwelt, accompanied by his beautiful younger brother and Janaki.

कह मुनि सुनु रघुबीर कृपाला। संकर मानस राजमराला।।

Kah muni sunu raghubeer kripaalaa. sankar maanas raajamaraalaa

The sage said, 'Listen, O compassionate hero of Raghu's line! I am Sharabhanga, dwelling in Shiva's mental realm.'

जात रहेउँ बिरंचि के धामा। सुनेउँ श्रवन बन ऐहहिं रामा।।

Jaat raheun biranchi ke dhaamaa. suneun shravan ban aihahin raamaa

I was going to Brahma's abode when I heard that Rama would come to the forest.

चितवत पंथ रहेउँ दिन राती। अब प्रभु देखि जुड़ानी छाती।।

Chitavat panth raheun din raatee. aba prabhu dekhi judaanee chhaatee

Day and night I remained watching the path, and now seeing my Lord, my heart is cooled and satisfied.

नाथ सकल साधन मैं हीना। कीन्ही कृपा जानि जन दीना।।

Naath sakal saadhan main heenaa. keenhee kripaa jaani jan deenaa

O Lord, I am devoid of all spiritual practices, but You have shown mercy knowing me to be Your humble devotee.

सो कछु देव न मोहि निहोरा। निज पन राखेउ जन मन चोरा।।

So kachhu dev na mohi nihoraa. nij pan raakheu jan man choraa

That divine grace requires no entreaty from me - You have kept Your promise, O stealer of devotees' hearts.

तब लगि रहहु दीन हित लागी। जब लगि मिलौं तुम्हहि तनु त्यागी।।

Tab lagi rahahu deen hit laagee. jab lagi milaun tumhahi tanu tyaagee

Please remain here for the welfare of the afflicted until I meet You again after leaving this body.

जोग जग्य जप तप ब्रत कीन्हा। प्रभु कहँ देइ भगति बर लीन्हा।।

Jog jagy jap tap brat keenhaa. prabhu kahan dei bhagati bar leenhaa

Having performed yoga, sacrifices, chanting, austerities and vows, I offer them to my Lord and receive the boon of devotion.

एहि बिधि सर रचि मुनि सरभंगा। बैठे हृदयँ छाड़ि सब संगा।।

Ehi bidhi sar rachi muni sarabhangaa. baithe hridayan chhaadi sab sangaa

Having prepared the funeral pyre in this manner, sage Sharabhanga sat in meditation, abandoning all attachments in his heart.

अस कहि जोग अगिनि तनु जारा। राम कृपाँ बैकुंठ सिधारा।।

Asa kahi jog agini tanu jaaraa. raam kripaan baikunth sidhaaraa

Saying this, the sage burned his body with the fire of yoga and by Rama's grace departed to Vaikuntha.

ताते मुनि हरि लीन न भयऊ। प्रथमहिं भेद भगति बर लयऊ।।

Taate muni hari leen na bhayaoo. prathamahin bhed bhagati bar layaoo

Therefore the sage did not merge into Hari but first obtained the boon of devotional love.

रिषि निकाय मुनिबर गति देखि। सुखी भए निज हृदयँ बिसेषी।।

Rishi nikaay munibar gati dekhi. sukhee bhae nij hridayan biseshee

Seeing the great sage's destiny, the assembly of sages became especially joyful in their hearts.

अस्तुति करहिं सकल मुनि बृंदा। जयति प्रनत हित करुना कंदा।।

Astuti karahin sakal muni brindaa. jayati pranat hit karunaa kandaa

All the groups of sages offer praise: 'Glory to the compassionate one who helps the devoted!'

पुनि रघुनाथ चले बन आगे। मुनिबर बृंद बिपुल सँग लागे।।

Puni raghunaath chale ban aage. munibar brind bipul sang laage

Then Raghunath proceeded further into the forest, with many groups of great sages accompanying him.

अस्थि समूह देखि रघुराया। पूछी मुनिन्ह लागि अति दाया।।

Asthi samooh dekhi raghuraayaa. poochhee muninh laagi ati daayaa

Seeing heaps of bones, Raghuraya asked the sages with great compassion.

जानतहुँ पूछिअ कस स्वामी। सबदरसी तुम्ह अंतरजामी।।

Jaanatahun poochhia kas svaamee. sabadarasee tumh antarajaamee

The sages said, 'Though you know, why do you ask, O Lord? You are the all-seeing knower of hearts.'

निसिचर निकर सकल मुनि खाए। सुनि रघुबीर नयन जल छाए।।

Nisichar nikar sakal muni khaae. suni raghubeer nayan jal chhaae

Hearing that demons had devoured all the sages, tears filled the eyes of Raghuvira.

मुनि अगस्ति कर सिष्य सुजाना। नाम सुतीछन रति भगवाना।।

Muni agasti kar sishy sujaanaa. naam suteechhan rati bhagavaanaa

There was a wise disciple of sage Agastya named Sutikshna, who was devoted to the Lord.

मन क्रम बचन राम पद सेवक। सपनेहुँ आन भरोस न देवक।।

Man kram bachan raam pad sevak. sapanehun aana bharos na devak

He served Rama's feet with mind, action, and speech, never placing trust in anyone else even in dreams.

प्रभु आगवनु श्रवन सुनि पावा। करत मनोरथ आतुर धावा।।

Prabhu aagavanu shravan suni paavaa. karat manorath aatur dhaavaa

When he heard through his ears of the Lord's arrival, he ran eagerly, making wishes in his heart.

हे बिधि दीनबंधु रघुराया। मो से सठ पर करिहहिं दाया।।

He bidhi deenabandhu raghuraayaa. mo se sath par karihahin daayaa

O Creator! Will Raghuraya, the friend of the humble, show mercy on a fool like me?

सहित अनुज मोहि राम गोसाई। मिलिहहिं निज सेवक की नाई।।

Sahit anuj mohi raam gosaaee. milihahin nij sevak kee naaee

Will Lord Rama along with His younger brother meet me like His own servant?

मोरे जियँ भरोस दृढ़ नाहीं। भगति बिरति न ग्यान मन माहीं।।

More jiyan bharos dridh naaheen. bhagati birati na gyaan man maaheen

There is no firm faith in my heart, nor devotion, detachment, or knowledge in my mind.

नहिं सतसंग जोग जप जागा। नहिं दृढ़ चरन कमल अनुरागा।।

Nahin satasang jog jap jaagaa. nahin dridh charan kamal anuraagaa

I have no company of saints, no yoga, chanting, or spiritual awakening, nor firm love for His lotus feet.

एक बानि करुनानिधान की। सो प्रिय जाकें गति न आन की।।

Eka baani karunaanidhaan kee. so priy jaaken gati na aana kee

There is one quality of the ocean of compassion - He loves those who have no other refuge.

होइहैं सुफल आजु मम लोचन। देखि बदन पंकज भव मोचन।।

Hoihain suphal aaju mam lochan. dekhi badan pankaj bhav mochan

Today my eyes will be fulfilled by seeing His lotus face that liberates from worldly existence.

निर्भर प्रेम मगन मुनि ग्यानी। कहि न जाइ सो दसा भवानी।।

Nirbhar prem magan muni gyaanee. kahi na jaai so dasaa bhavaanee

The wise sage was immersed in boundless love - that state cannot be described, O Bhavani.

दिसि अरु बिदिसि पंथ नहिं सूझा। को मैं चलेउँ कहाँ नहिं बूझा।।

Disi aru bidisi panth nahin soojhaa. ko main chaleun kahaan nahin boojhaa

He could not see the path in any direction, not knowing who he was or where he was going.

कबहुँक फिरि पाछें पुनि जाई। कबहुँक नृत्य करइ गुन गाई।।

Kabahunk phiri paachhen puni jaaee. kabahunk nrity karai gun gaaee

Sometimes he would turn back and go again, sometimes he would dance and sing praises.

अबिरल प्रेम भगति मुनि पाई। प्रभु देखैं तरु ओट लुकाई।।

Abiral prem bhagati muni paaee. prabhu dekhain taru ota lukaaee

Having attained unceasing love and devotion, the sage hid behind a tree to see the Lord.

अतिसय प्रीति देखि रघुबीरा। प्रगटे हृदयँ हरन भव भीरा।।

Atisay preeti dekhi raghubeeraa. pragate hridayan haran bhav bheeraa

Seeing his excessive love, Raghuvira appeared in his heart, the remover of worldly fear.

मुनि मग माझ अचल होइ बैसा। पुलक सरीर पनस फल जैसा।।

Muni mag maajh achal hoi baisaa. pulak sareer panas phal jaisaa

The sage sat motionless in the middle of the path, his body thrilling with joy like a jackfruit.

तब रघुनाथ निकट चलि आए। देखि दसा निज जन मन भाए।।

Tab raghunaath nikat chali aae. dekhi dasaa nij jan man bhaae

Then Raghunatha came near and was pleased in His heart seeing the condition of His devotee.

मुनिहि राम बहु भाँति जगावा। जाग न ध्यानजनित सुख पावा।।

Munihi raam bahu bhaanti jagaavaa. jaag na dhyaanajanit sukh paavaa

Rama tried to awaken the sage in many ways, but he would not wake, experiencing the bliss born of meditation.

भूप रूप तब राम दुरावा। हृदयँ चतुर्भुज रूप देखावा।।

Bhoop roop tab raam duraavaa. hridayan chaturbhuj roop dekhaavaa

Then Rama concealed His princely form and showed His four-armed divine form in the sage's heart.

मुनि अकुलाइ उठा तब कैसें। बिकल हीन मनि फनि बर जैसें।।

Muni akulaai uthaa tab kaisen. bikal heen mani phani bar jaisen

How did the sage then rise in agitation, like a great serpent distressed without its precious gem?

आगें देखि राम तन स्यामा। सीता अनुज सहित सुख धामा।।

Aagen dekhi raam tan syaamaa. seetaa anuj sahit sukh dhaamaa

Seeing before him Rama's dark form along with Sita and His younger brother, the abode of happiness.

परेउ लकुट इव चरनन्हि लागी। प्रेम मगन मुनिबर बड़भागी।।

Pareu lakut iva charananhi laagee. prem magan munibar badabhaagee

He fell like a staff at Their feet, the greatly blessed sage immersed in love.

भुज बिसाल गहि लिए उठाई। परम प्रीति राखे उर लाई।।

Bhuj bisaal gahi lie uthaaee. param preeti raakhe ura laaee

Taking him by his mighty arms, He lifted him up and embraced him to His chest with supreme love.

मुनिहि मिलत अस सोह कृपाला। कनक तरुहि जनु भेंट तमाला।।

Munihi milat asa soh kripaalaa. kanak taruhi janu bhent tamaalaa

The compassionate Lord meeting the sage appeared beautiful, like a tamala tree embracing a golden tree.

राम बदनु बिलोक मुनि ठाढ़ा। मानहुँ चित्र माझ लिखि काढ़ा।।

Raam badanu bilok muni thaadhaa. maanahun chitr maajh likhi kaadhaa

Looking at Rama's face, the sage stood still, as if drawn and painted in a picture.

कह मुनि प्रभु सुनु बिनती मोरी। अस्तुति करौं कवन बिधि तोरी।।

Kah muni prabhu sunu binatee moree. astuti karaun kavan bidhi toree

The sage said: 'O Lord, listen to my humble request. In what manner can I offer praise to You?'

महिमा अमित मोरि मति थोरी। रबि सन्मुख खद्योत अँजोरी।।

Mahimaa amit mori mati thoree. rabi sanmukh khadyot anjoree

Your glory is limitless while my understanding is small, like a firefly's light before the sun.

श्याम तामरस दाम शरीरं। जटा मुकुट परिधन मुनिचीरं।।

Shyaam taamaras daam shareeran. jataa mukut paridhan municheeran

Dark as a blue lotus garland is Your body, crowned with matted locks and clothed in sage's attire.

पाणि चाप शर कटि तूणीरं। नौमि निरंतर श्रीरघुवीरं।।

Paani chaap shar kati tooneeran. naumi nirantar shreeraghuveeran

Holding bow and arrows with a quiver at Your waist, I constantly bow to the heroic Lord of Raghu's line.

मोह विपिन घन दहन कृशानुः। संत सरोरुह कानन भानुः।।

Moh vipin ghan dahan krishaanuh. sant saroruh kaanan bhaanuh

You are the fire that burns the dense forest of delusion, the sun for the lotus garden of saints.

निशिचर करि वरूथ मृगराजः। त्रातु सदा नो भव खग बाजः।।

Nishichar kari varooth mrigaraajah. traatu sadaa no bhav khag baajah

You are the lion king among the demon hordes, the falcon of heaven - may You always protect us.

अरुण नयन राजीव सुवेशं। सीता नयन चकोर निशेशं।।

Arun nayan raajeev suveshan. seetaa nayan chakor nisheshan

With lotus-red eyes and beautiful form, You are the moon for Sita's chakora-bird eyes.

हर ह्रदि मानस बाल मरालं। नौमि राम उर बाहु विशालं।।

Har hradi maanas baal maraalan. naumi raam ura baahu vishaalan

You are the young swan in the lake of Shiva's heart; I bow to Rama with broad chest and mighty arms.

संशय सर्प ग्रसन उरगादः। शमन सुकर्कश तर्क विषादः।।

Sanshay sarp grasan uragaadah. shaman sukarkash tark vishaadah

You are Garuda who devours the serpent of doubt, the destroyer of harsh arguments and despair.

भव भंजन रंजन सुर यूथः। त्रातु सदा नो कृपा वरूथः।।

Bhav bhanjan ranjan sur yoothah. traatu sadaa no kripaa varoothah

Destroyer of worldly existence, delighter of divine hosts - may the army of Your compassion always protect us.

निर्गुण सगुण विषम सम रूपं। ज्ञान गिरा गोतीतमनूपं।।

Nirgun sagun visham sam roopan. jnyaan giraa goteetamanoopan

You are both formless and with form, beyond opposites, transcending knowledge, speech and the senses.

अमलमखिलमनवद्यमपारं। नौमि राम भंजन महि भारं।।

Amalamakhilamanavadyamapaaran. naumi raam bhanjan mahi bhaaran

Pure, complete, faultless and infinite, I bow to Rama who relieves the earth's burden.

भक्त कल्पपादप आरामः। तर्जन क्रोध लोभ मद कामः।।

Bhakt kalpapaadap aaraamah. tarjan krodh lobh mad kaamah

You are the wish-fulfilling garden for devotees, the terror of anger, greed, pride and lust.

अति नागर भव सागर सेतुः। त्रातु सदा दिनकर कुल केतुः।।

Ati naagar bhav saagar setuh. traatu sadaa dinakar kul ketuh

Most gracious bridge across the ocean of existence - may the banner of the solar dynasty always protect us.

अतुलित भुज प्रताप बल धामः। कलि मल विपुल विभंजन नामः।।

Atulit bhuj prataap bal dhaamah. kali mal vipul vibhanjan naamah

Abode of incomparable arm-strength and valor, Your very name destroys the abundant sins of Kali age.

धर्म वर्म नर्मद गुण ग्रामः। संतत शं तनोतु मम रामः।।

Dharm varm narmad gun graamah. santat shan tanotu mam raamah

Armored with righteousness, treasure-house of gentle virtues - may my Rama grant me constant peace.

जदपि बिरज ब्यापक अबिनासी। सब के हृदयँ निरंतर बासी।।

Jadapi biraj byaapak abinaasee. sab ke hridayan nirantar baasee

Though You are stainless, all-pervading and imperishable, dwelling constantly in everyone's heart,

तदपि अनुज श्री सहित खरारी। बसतु मनसि मम काननचारी।।

Tadapi anuj shree sahit kharaaree. basatu manasi mam kaananachaaree

Still may the forest-wandering slayer of Khara, along with His brother and Shri, dwell in my mind.

जे जानहिं ते जानहुँ स्वामी। सगुन अगुन उर अंतरजामी।।

Je jaanahin te jaanahun svaamee. sagun agun ura antarajaamee

Those who know You truly know, O Lord, that You are both with and without attributes, the inner witness of hearts.

जो कोसल पति राजिव नयना। करउ सो राम हृदय मम अयना।

Jo kosal pati raajiv nayanaa. karau so raam hriday mam ayanaa

May that Rama, the lotus-eyed Lord of Kosala, make my heart His dwelling place.

अस अभिमान जाइ जनि भोरे। मैं सेवक रघुपति पति मोरे।।

Asa abhimaan jaai jani bhore. main sevak raghupati pati more

Let not this pride ever delude me - 'I am the servant and the Lord of Raghu's line is my master.'

सुनि मुनि बचन राम मन भाए। बहुरि हरषि मुनिबर उर लाए।।

Suni muni bachan raam man bhaae. bahuri harashi munibar ura laae

Hearing the sage's words, Rama was pleased in His heart and joyfully embraced the noble sage.

परम प्रसन्न जानु मुनि मोही। जो बर मागहु देउ सो तोही।।

Param prasann jaanu muni mohee. jo bar maagahu deu so tohee

Know that I am supremely pleased with you, O sage; whatever boon you ask, I shall grant you that.

मुनि कह मै बर कबहुँ न जाचा। समुझि न परइ झूठ का साचा।।

Muni kah mai bar kabahun na jaachaa. samujhi na parai jhooth kaa saachaa

The sage said: 'I have never asked for any boon before; I cannot distinguish between false and true.'

तुम्हहि नीक लागै रघुराई। सो मोहि देहु दास सुखदाई।।

Tumhahi neek laagai raghuraaee. so mohi dehu daas sukhadaaee

Whatever seems good to You, O Lord of Raghu's line, grant me that, O giver of joy to Your servants.

अबिरल भगति बिरति बिग्याना। होहु सकल गुन ग्यान निधाना।।

Abiral bhagati birati bigyaanaa. hohu sakal gun gyaan nidhaanaa

May I have unwavering devotion, detachment and spiritual knowledge, and become a treasure-house of all virtues and wisdom.

प्रभु जो दीन्ह सो बरु मैं पावा। अब सो देहु मोहि जो भावा।।

Prabhu jo deenh so baru main paavaa. aba so dehu mohi jo bhaavaa

Whatever the Lord has given, that boon I have received; now grant me what pleases my heart.

एवमस्तु करि रमानिवासा। हरषि चले कुभंज रिषि पासा।।

Evamastu kari ramaanivaasaa. harashi chale kubhanj rishi paasaa

Saying 'So be it,' Rama departed from his dwelling and joyfully went to the sage Kubhanja.

बहुत दिवस गुर दरसन पाएँ। भए मोहि एहिं आश्रम आएँ।।

Bahut divas gur darasan paaen. bhae mohi ehin aashram aaen

The sage said, 'It has been many days since I had darshan of my guru, and I have been staying in this hermitage.'

अब प्रभु संग जाउँ गुर पाहीं। तुम्ह कहँ नाथ निहोरा नाहीं।।

Aba prabhu sang jaaun gur paaheen. tumh kahan naath nihoraa naaheen

Now I shall go with you, O Lord, to my guru. There is no hesitation in this request to you, O Master.

देखि कृपानिधि मुनि चतुराई। लिए संग बिहसै द्वौ भाई।।

Dekhi kripaanidhi muni chaturaaee. lie sang bihasai dvau bhaaee

Seeing the sage's wisdom and devotion, the compassionate Lord smiled and took both brothers along.

पंथ कहत निज भगति अनूपा। मुनि आश्रम पहुँचे सुरभूपा।।

Panth kahat nij bhagati anoopaa. muni aashram pahunche surabhoopaa

Speaking of his incomparable devotion along the path, the sage reached the hermitage with the Lord of gods.

तुरत सुतीछन गुर पहिं गयऊ। करि दंडवत कहत अस भयऊ।।

Turat suteechhan gur pahin gayaoo. kari dandavat kahat asa bhayaoo

Sutikshna immediately went to his guru and, bowing down, spoke thus.

नाथ कौसलाधीस कुमारा। आए मिलन जगत आधारा।।

Naath kausalaadhees kumaaraa. aae milan jagat aadhaaraa

O Master, the princes of Kosala have come to meet you - the very support of the universe.

राम अनुज समेत बैदेही। निसि दिनु देव जपत हहु जेही।।

Raam anuj samet baidehee. nisi dinu dev japat hahu jehee

Rama with his younger brother and Vaidehi, whom the gods meditate upon day and night.

सुनत अगस्ति तुरत उठि धाए। हरि बिलोकि लोचन जल छाए।।

Sunat agasti turat uthi dhaae. hari biloki lochan jal chhaae

Hearing this, Agastya immediately rose and rushed forth. Seeing Hari, his eyes filled with tears.

मुनि पद कमल परे द्वौ भाई। रिषि अति प्रीति लिए उर लाई।।

Muni pad kamal pare dvau bhaaee. rishi ati preeti lie ura laaee

Both brothers fell at the sage's lotus feet, and the sage embraced them to his heart with great love.

सादर कुसल पूछि मुनि ग्यानी। आसन बर बैठारे आनी।।

Saadar kusal poochhi muni gyaanee. aasan bar baithaare aanee

The wise sage respectfully inquired about their welfare and brought excellent seats for them to sit.

पुनि करि बहु प्रकार प्रभु पूजा। मोहि सम भाग्यवंत नहिं दूजा।।

Puni kari bahu prakaar prabhu poojaa. mohi sam bhaagyavant nahin doojaa

Then performing elaborate worship of the Lord in many ways, he said, 'There is none as fortunate as I.'

जहँ लगि रहे अपर मुनि बृंदा। हरषे सब बिलोकि सुखकंदा।।

Jahan lagi rahe apar muni brindaa. harashe sab biloki sukhakandaa

All the other groups of sages who were there rejoiced upon seeing the source of all happiness.

तब रघुबीर कहा मुनि पाहीं। तुम्ह सन प्रभु दुराव कछु नाही।।

Tab raghubeer kahaa muni paaheen. tumh san prabhu duraav kachhu naahee

Then Rama spoke to the sage, saying there was nothing hidden from him by the Lord.

तुम्ह जानहु जेहि कारन आयउँ। ताते तात न कहि समुझायउँ।।

Tumh jaanahu jehi kaaran aayaun. taate taat na kahi samujhaayaun

You know the purpose for which I have come, therefore I did not explain it to you, dear one.

अब सो मंत्र देहु प्रभु मोही। जेहि प्रकार मारौं मुनिद्रोही।।

Aba so mantr dehu prabhu mohee. jehi prakaar maaraun munidrohee

Now give me that sacred formula, O Lord, by which I may slay the enemy of sages.

मुनि मुसकाने सुनि प्रभु बानी। पूछेहु नाथ मोहि का जानी।।

Muni musakaane suni prabhu baanee. poochhehu naath mohi kaa jaanee

The sage smiled upon hearing the Lord's words and said, 'What do you ask of me, knowing me as you do?'

तुम्हरेइँ भजन प्रभाव अघारी। जानउँ महिमा कछुक तुम्हारी।।

Tumharein bhajan prabhaav aghaaree. jaanaun mahimaa kachhuk tumhaaree

By the power of devotion to You alone, I know something of Your glory and greatness.

ऊमरि तरु बिसाल तव माया। फल ब्रह्मांड अनेक निकाया।।

Oomari taru bisaal tav maayaa. phal brahmaand anek nikaayaa

Your Maya is like a vast Udumbara tree, bearing countless universes as its fruit.

जीव चराचर जंतु समाना। भीतर बसहि न जानहिं आना।।

Jeev charaachar jantu samaanaa. bheetar basahi na jaanahin aanaa

All moving and non-moving beings dwell within, yet know not their true nature.

ते फल भच्छक कठिन कराला। तव भयँ डरत सदा सोउ काला।।

Te phal bhachchhak kathin karaalaa. tav bhayan darat sadaa sou kaalaa

Those who devour these fruits are terrible and fierce, and even Death fears them always.

ते तुम्ह सकल लोकपति साईं। पूँछेहु मोहि मनुज की नाईं।।

Te tumh sakal lokapati saaeen. poonchhehu mohi manuj kee naaeen

You are the Lord of all worlds, O Master, yet You ask me as if You were human.

यह बर मागउँ कृपानिकेता। बसहु हृदयँ श्री अनुज समेता।।

Yah bar maagaun kripaaniketaa. basahu hridayan shree anuj sametaa

This boon I seek, O abode of mercy: dwell in my heart with Sita and Lakshmana.

अबिरल भगति बिरति सतसंगा। चरन सरोरुह प्रीति अभंगा।।

Abiral bhagati birati satasangaa. charan saroruh preeti abhangaa

Grant unceasing devotion, detachment, holy company, and unwavering love for Your lotus feet.

जद्यपि ब्रह्म अखंड अनंता। अनुभव गम्य भजहिं जेहि संता।।

Jadyapi brahm akhand anantaa. anubhav gamy bhajahin jehi santaa

Though Brahman is indivisible and infinite, experienced only by saints who worship Him.

अस तव रूप बखानउँ जानउँ। फिरि फिरि सगुन ब्रह्म रति मानउँ।।

Asa tav roop bakhaanaun jaanaun. phiri phiri sagun brahm rati maanaun

Though I describe and know Your formless aspect, again and again I find joy in the personal Brahman.

संतत दासन्ह देहु बड़ाई। तातें मोहि पूँछेहु रघुराई।।

Santat daasanh dehu badaaee. taaten mohi poonchhehu raghuraaee

You always honor Your devotees, therefore You ask me, O Lord Rama.

है प्रभु परम मनोहर ठाऊँ। पावन पंचबटी तेहि नाऊँ।।

Hai prabhu param manohar thaaoon. paavan panchabatee tehi naaoon

There is a supremely beautiful place, O Lord, called the sacred Panchavati.

दंडक बन पुनीत प्रभु करहू। उग्र साप मुनिबर कर हरहू।।

Dandak ban puneet prabhu karahoo. ugr saap munibar kar harahoo

Purify the Dandaka forest, O Lord, and remove the terrible curse of the great sage.

बास करहु तहँ रघुकुल राया। कीजे सकल मुनिन्ह पर दाया।।

Baas karahu tahan raghukul raayaa. keeje sakal muninh par daayaa

Dwell there, O king of Raghu's race, and show mercy to all the sages.

चले राम मुनि आयसु पाई। तुरतहिं पंचबटी निअराई।।

Chale raam muni aayasu paaee. turatahin panchabatee niaraaee

Receiving the sage's command, Rama departed and immediately approached Panchavati.

जब ते राम कीन्ह तहँ बासा। सुखी भए मुनि बीती त्रासा।।

Jab te raam keenh tahan baasaa. sukhee bhae muni beetee traasaa

Ever since Rama made his dwelling there, the sages became happy and their fears departed.

गिरि बन नदीं ताल छबि छाए। दिन दिन प्रति अति हौहिं सुहाए।।

Giri ban nadeen taal chhabi chhaae. din din prati ati hauhin suhaae

The mountains, forests, rivers and lakes were adorned with beauty, becoming more charming day by day.

खग मृग बृंद अनंदित रहहीं। मधुप मधुर गंजत छबि लहहीं।।

Khag mrig brind anandit rahaheen. madhup madhur ganjat chhabi lahaheen

Flocks of birds and herds of deer remained joyful, while bees hummed sweetly, adding to the beauty.

सो बन बरनि न सक अहिराजा। जहाँ प्रगट रघुबीर बिराजा।।

So ban barani na sak ahiraajaa. jahaan pragat raghubeer biraajaa

That forest cannot be described, O king of serpents, where the glorious Raghuvira manifested himself.

एक बार प्रभु सुख आसीना। लछिमन बचन कहे छलहीना।।

Eka baar prabhu sukh aaseenaa. lachhiman bachan kahe chhalaheenaa

Once when the Lord was seated comfortably, Lakshmana spoke words free from deceit.

सुर नर मुनि सचराचर साईं। मैं पूछउँ निज प्रभु की नाई।।

Sur nar muni sacharaachar saaeen. main poochhaun nij prabhu kee naaee

O Lord of gods, men, sages and all creation, I ask in the manner befitting my master.

मोहि समुझाइ कहहु सोइ देवा। सब तजि करौं चरन रज सेवा।।

Mohi samujhaai kahahu soi devaa. sab taji karaun charan raj sevaa

Explain to me and tell me that, O divine one, abandoning all else I may serve the dust of your feet.

कहहु ग्यान बिराग अरु माया। कहहु सो भगति करहु जेहिं दाया।।

Kahahu gyaan biraag aru maayaa. kahahu so bhagati karahu jehin daayaa

Tell me about knowledge, detachment and maya, and tell me that devotion by which you show mercy.

थोरेहि महँ सब कहउँ बुझाई। सुनहु तात मति मन चित लाई।।

Thorehi mahan sab kahaun bujhaaee. sunahu taat mati man chit laaee

I shall explain everything to you briefly. Listen, dear son, with your mind and heart focused.

मैं अरु मोर तोर तैं माया। जेहिं बस कीन्हे जीव निकाया।।

Main aru mor tor tain maayaa. jehin bas keenhe jeev nikaayaa

The illusion of 'I' and 'mine', 'you' and 'yours' is Maya, which has brought all living beings under its control.

गो गोचर जहँ लगि मन जाई। सो सब माया जानेहु भाई।।

Go gochar jahan lagi man jaaee. so sab maayaa jaanehu bhaaee

Wherever the mind goes in pursuit of sensory objects, know all of that to be Maya, O brother.

तेहि कर भेद सुनहु तुम्ह सोऊ। बिद्या अपर अबिद्या दोऊ।।

Tehi kar bhed sunahu tumh sooo. bidyaa apar abidyaa dooo

Now listen to the distinction within Maya itself - it has two aspects: knowledge and ignorance.

एक दुष्ट अतिसय दुखरूपा। जा बस जीव परा भवकूपा।।

Eka dusht atisay dukharoopaa. jaa bas jeev paraa bhavakoopaa

One is evil and extremely sorrowful in nature, by which living beings have fallen into the well of worldly existence.

एक रचइ जग गुन बस जाकें। प्रभु प्रेरित नहिं निज बल ताकें।।

Eka rachai jag gun bas jaaken. prabhu prerit nahin nij bal taaken

The other creates the world under the influence of divine qualities, inspired by the Lord and not by its own power.

ग्यान मान जहँ एकउ नाहीं। देख ब्रह्म समान सब माही।।

Gyaan maan jahan ekau naaheen. dekh brahm samaan sab maahee

Where there is neither knowledge nor ego, where one sees Brahman equally present in all beings.

कहिअ तात सो परम बिरागी। तृन सम सिद्धि तीनि गुन त्यागी।।

Kahia taat so param biraagee. trin sam siddhi teeni gun tyaagee

Such a person, dear son, is called supremely detached, who regards even the three types of spiritual powers as mere grass and has transcended the three gunas.

धर्म तें बिरति जोग तें ग्याना। ग्यान मोच्छप्रद बेद बखाना।।

Dharm ten birati jog ten gyaanaa. gyaan mochchhaprad bed bakhaanaa

From dharma comes detachment, from yoga comes knowledge. The Vedas declare that knowledge is the giver of liberation.

जातें बेगि द्रवउँ मैं भाई। सो मम भगति भगत सुखदाई।।

Jaaten begi dravaun main bhaaee. so mam bhagati bhagat sukhadaaee

That by which I am quickly moved, O brother, is My devotion which gives joy to devotees.

सो सुतंत्र अवलंब न आना। तेहि आधीन ग्यान बिग्याना।।

So sutantr avalamb na aanaa. tehi aadheen gyaan bigyaanaa

That devotion is independent and needs no other support. Knowledge and science depend upon it.

भगति तात अनुपम सुखमूला। मिलइ जो संत होइँ अनुकूला।।

Bhagati taat anupam sukhamoolaa. milai jo sant hoin anukoolaa

Devotion, dear one, is the root of incomparable bliss, which is attained when saints become favorable.

भगति कि साधन कहउँ बखानी। सुगम पंथ मोहि पावहिं प्रानी।।

Bhagati ki saadhan kahaun bakhaanee. sugam panth mohi paavahin praanee

Shall I describe the means of devotion by which beings can easily find the path to Me?

प्रथमहिं बिप्र चरन अति प्रीती। निज निज कर्म निरत श्रुति रीती।।

Prathamahin bipr charan ati preetee. nij nij karm nirat shruti reetee

First, there should be great love for the feet of Brahmins, being devoted to one's own duties according to scriptural tradition.

एहि कर फल पुनि बिषय बिरागा। तब मम धर्म उपज अनुरागा।।

Ehi kar phal puni bishay biraagaa. tab mam dharm upaj anuraagaa

The fruit of this is detachment from worldly pleasures, then love for My dharma arises.

श्रवनादिक नव भक्ति दृढ़ाहीं। मम लीला रति अति मन माहीं।।

Shravanaadik nav bhakti dridhaaheen. mam leelaa rati ati man maaheen

The nine forms of devotion become firm, and great love for My divine play fills the mind.

संत चरन पंकज अति प्रेमा। मन क्रम बचन भजन दृढ़ नेमा।।

Sant charan pankaj ati premaa. man kram bachan bhajan dridh nemaa

There is intense love for the lotus feet of saints, and firm resolve to worship with mind, action and speech.

गुरु पितु मातु बंधु पति देवा। सब मोहि कहँ जाने दृढ़ सेवा।।

Guru pitu maatu bandhu pati devaa. sab mohi kahan jaane dridh sevaa

One knows guru, father, mother, brother, husband and God - all as Me, and serves them with firm devotion.

मम गुन गावत पुलक सरीरा। गदगद गिरा नयन बह नीरा।।

Mam gun gaavat pulak sareeraa. gadagad giraa nayan bah neeraa

Singing My qualities, the body thrills with joy, speech falters and tears flow from the eyes.

काम आदि मद दंभ न जाकें। तात निरंतर बस मैं ताकें।।

Kaam aadi mad dambh na jaaken. taat nirantar bas main taaken

One who is free from lust and other vices, pride and hypocrisy - I constantly dwell in such a person, dear one.

भगति जोग सुनि अति सुख पावा। लछिमन प्रभु चरनन्हि सिरु नावा।।

Bhagati jog suni ati sukh paavaa. lachhiman prabhu charananhi siru naavaa

Hearing about devotion and yoga, Lakshmana felt great joy and bowed his head at the Lord's feet.

एहि बिधि गए कछुक दिन बीती। कहत बिराग ग्यान गुन नीती।।

Ehi bidhi gae kachhuk din beetee. kahat biraag gyaan gun neetee

In this manner some days passed, with the Lord speaking about detachment, knowledge, virtues and righteousness.

सूपनखा रावन कै बहिनी। दुष्ट हृदय दारुन जस अहिनी।।

Soopanakhaa raavan kai bahinee. dusht hriday daarun jas ahinee

Surpanakha was Ravana's sister, wicked-hearted and terrible like a female serpent.

पंचबटी सो गइ एक बारा। देखि बिकल भइ जुगल कुमारा।।

Panchabatee so gai eka baaraa. dekhi bikal bhai jugal kumaaraa

She went to Panchavati one day and became disturbed upon seeing the two handsome princes.

भ्राता पिता पुत्र उरगारी। पुरुष मनोहर निरखत नारी।।

Bhraataa pitaa putr uragaaree. purush manohar nirakhat naaree

Whether brother, father, son or enemy of serpents - when a woman beholds a charming man, she becomes agitated.

होइ बिकल सक मनहि न रोकी। जिमि रबिमनि द्रव रबिहि बिलोकी।।

Hoi bikal sak manahi na rokee. jimi rabimani drav rabihi bilokee

She became so disturbed that she could not control her mind, like a crystal melts upon seeing the sun.

रुचिर रुप धरि प्रभु पहिं जाई। बोली बचन बहुत मुसुकाई।।

Ruchir rup dhari prabhu pahin jaaee. bolee bachan bahut musukaaee

Taking a beautiful form, she went to the Lord and spoke words with much smiling.

तुम्ह सम पुरुष न मो सम नारी। यह सँजोग बिधि रचा बिचारी।।

Tumh sam purush na mo sam naaree. yah sanjog bidhi rachaa bichaaree

There is no man like you nor woman like me - Providence has thoughtfully arranged this union.

मम अनुरूप पुरुष जग माहीं। देखेउँ खोजि लोक तिहु नाहीं।।

Mam anuroop purush jag maaheen. dekheun khoji lok tihu naaheen

I have searched all three worlds but found no man suitable for me.

ताते अब लगि रहिउँ कुमारी। मनु माना कछु तुम्हहि निहारी।।

Taate aba lagi rahiun kumaaree. manu maanaa kachhu tumhahi nihaaree

Therefore I have remained unmarried until now, but my heart has been pleased upon seeing you.

सीतहि चितइ कही प्रभु बाता। अहइ कुआर मोर लघु भ्राता।।

Seetahi chitai kahee prabhu baataa. ahai kuaar mor laghu bhraataa

The Lord glanced at Sita and spoke, saying that his younger brother was unmarried.

गइ लछिमन रिपु भगिनी जानी। प्रभु बिलोकि बोले मृदु बानी।।

Gai lachhiman ripu bhaginee jaanee. prabhu biloki bole mridu baanee

Knowing her to be the enemy's sister, she went to Lakshmana, who looked at the Lord and spoke gentle words.

सुंदरि सुनु मैं उन्ह कर दासा। पराधीन नहिं तोर सुपासा।।

Sundari sunu main unh kar daasaa. paraadheen nahin tor supaasaa

Beautiful one, listen - I am his servant. Being dependent, your association is not proper for me.

प्रभु समर्थ कोसलपुर राजा। जो कछु करहिं उनहि सब छाजा।।

Prabhu samarth kosalapur raajaa. jo kachhu karahin unahi sab chhaajaa

My master is the capable king of Kosala - whatever he does brings honor to all.

सेवक सुख चह मान भिखारी। ब्यसनी धन सुभ गति बिभिचारी।।

Sevak sukh chah maan bhikhaaree. byasanee dhan subh gati bibhichaaree

A servant seeking pleasure, a beggar wanting honor, an addicted person desiring wealth, and an adulterer seeking salvation.

लोभी जसु चह चार गुमानी। नभ दुहि दूध चहत ए प्रानी।।

Lobhee jasu chah chaar gumaanee. nabh duhi doodh chahat e praanee

A greedy person wanting fame, a proud person seeking the four goals - these beings are like trying to milk the sky.

पुनि फिरि राम निकट सो आई। प्रभु लछिमन पहिं बहुरि पठाई।।

Puni phiri raam nikat so aaee. prabhu lachhiman pahin bahuri pathaaee

Then she again came near Rama, and the Lord again sent her to Lakshmana.

लछिमन कहा तोहि सो बरई। जो तृन तोरि लाज परिहरई।।

Lachhiman kahaa tohi so baraee. jo trin tori laaj pariharaee

Lakshmana said to her - who would marry you, one who breaks the blade of grass of shame?

तब खिसिआनि राम पहिं गई। रूप भयंकर प्रगटत भई।।

Tab khisiaani raam pahin gaee. roop bhayankar pragatat bhaee

Then becoming angry, she went to Rama and manifested a terrible form.

सीतहि सभय देखि रघुराई। कहा अनुज सन सयन बुझाई।।

Seetahi sabhay dekhi raghuraaee. kahaa anuj san sayan bujhaaee

Seeing Sita frightened, Raghurai spoke to his younger brother with meaningful understanding.

नाक कान बिनु भइ बिकरारा। जनु स्त्रव सैल गैरु कै धारा।।

Naak kaan binu bhai bikaraaraa. janu strav sail gairu kai dhaaraa

Without nose and ears, she became hideous, like a mountain stream flowing with red ochre.

खर दूषन पहिं गइ बिलपाता। धिग धिग तव पौरुष बल भ्राता।।

Khar dooshan pahin gai bilapaataa. dhig dhig tav paurush bal bhraataa

She went weeping to Khara and Dushana, crying 'Shame, shame on your valor and strength, O brothers!'

तेहि पूछा सब कहेसि बुझाई। जातुधान सुनि सेन बनाई।।

Tehi poochhaa sab kahesi bujhaaee. jaatudhaan suni sen banaaee

When they questioned her, she explained everything clearly. Hearing this, the demons prepared their army.

धाए निसिचर निकर बरूथा। जनु सपच्छ कज्जल गिरि जूथा।।

Dhaae nisichar nikar baroothaa. janu sapachchh kajjal giri joothaa

Hordes of demons rushed forth in troops, like flocks of winged mountains of black collyrium.

नाना बाहन नानाकारा। नानायुध धर घोर अपारा।।

Naanaa baahan naanaakaaraa. naanaayudh dhar ghor apaaraa

They had various mounts and forms, bearing diverse weapons, terrible and countless.

सुपनखा आगें करि लीनी। असुभ रूप श्रुति नासा हीनी।।

Supanakhaa aagen kari leenee. asubh roop shruti naasaa heenee

They placed Surpanakha at the front, with her inauspicious form, bereft of ears and nose.

असगुन अमित होहिं भयकारी। गनहिं न मृत्यु बिबस सब झारी।।

Asagun amit hohin bhayakaaree. ganahin na mrityu bibas sab jhaaree

Countless fearful omens occurred, but all the demons, overwhelmed by death's power, paid no heed.

गर्जहि तर्जहिं गगन उड़ाहीं। देखि कटकु भट अति हरषाहीं।।

Garjahi tarjahin gagan udaaheen. dekhi kataku bhat ati harashaaheen

They roared and threatened, flying through the sky. Seeing the army, the warriors rejoiced greatly.

कोउ कह जिअत धरहु द्वौ भाई। धरि मारहु तिय लेहु छड़ाई।।

Kou kah jiat dharahu dvau bhaaee. dhari maarahu tiy lehu chhadaaee

Some said 'Capture the two brothers alive, seize and kill them, and take the woman by force.'

धूरि पूरि नभ मंडल रहा। राम बोलाइ अनुज सन कहा।।

Dhoori poori nabh mandal rahaa. raam bolaai anuj san kahaa

Dust filled the entire sky. Rama called his younger brother and spoke to him.

लै जानकिहि जाहु गिरि कंदर। आवा निसिचर कटकु भयंकर।।

Lai jaanakihi jaahu giri kandar. aavaa nisichar kataku bhayankar

Take Janaki and go to the mountain cave. A fearsome army of demons has come.

रहेहु सजग सुनि प्रभु कै बानी। चले सहित श्री सर धनु पानी।।

Rahehu sajag suni prabhu kai baanee. chale sahit shree sar dhanu paanee

Hearing the Lord's words, Lakshmana remained alert and departed with Sita, carrying his bow and arrows.

देखि राम रिपुदल चलि आवा। बिहसि कठिन कोदंड चढ़ावा।।

Dekhi raam ripudal chali aavaa. bihasi kathin kodand chadhaavaa

Seeing the enemy army approaching, Rama smiled and strung his mighty bow.

प्रभु बिलोकि सर सकहिं न डारी। थकित भई रजनीचर धारी।।

Prabhu biloki sar sakahin na daaree. thakit bhaee rajaneechar dhaaree

Seeing the Lord, the demons could not release their arrows. The army of night-wanderers became exhausted.

सचिव बोलि बोले खर दूषन। यह कोउ नृपबालक नर भूषन।।

Sachiv boli bole khar dooshan. yah kou nripabaalak nar bhooshan

Calling his ministers, Khara and Dushana spoke: 'This is some princely youth, an ornament among men.'

नाग असुर सुर नर मुनि जेते। देखे जिते हते हम केते।।

Naag asur sur nar muni jete. dekhe jite hate ham kete

We have seen and conquered many serpents, demons, gods, men and sages in our time.

हम भरि जन्म सुनहु सब भाई। देखी नहिं असि सुंदरताई।।

Ham bhari janm sunahu sab bhaaee. dekhee nahin asi sundarataaee

Listen all brothers, in our entire lifetime we have never seen such beauty.

जद्यपि भगिनी कीन्ह कुरूपा। बध लायक नहिं पुरुष अनूपा।।

Jadyapi bhaginee keenh kuroopaa. badh laayak nahin purush anoopaa

Though he has disfigured our sister, this matchless man does not deserve death.

देहु तुरत निज नारि दुराई। जीअत भवन जाहु द्वौ भाई।।

Dehu turat nij naari duraaee. jeeat bhavan jaahu dvau bhaaee

Give up your wife immediately and hide her away. Go home alive, you two brothers.

मोर कहा तुम्ह ताहि सुनावहु। तासु बचन सुनि आतुर आवहु।।

Mor kahaa tumh taahi sunaavahu. taasu bachan suni aatur aavahu

You convey my words to him, and hearing his reply, return quickly with eagerness.

दूतन्ह कहा राम सन जाई। सुनत राम बोले मुसकाई।।

Dootanh kahaa raam san jaaee. sunat raam bole musakaaee

The messengers went and spoke to Rama. Hearing this, Rama replied with a smile.

हम छत्री मृगया बन करहीं। तुम्ह से खल मृग खौजत फिरहीं।।

Ham chhatree mrigayaa ban karaheen. tumh se khal mrig khaujat phiraheen

We are Kshatriyas who hunt in the forest. We wander seeking evil beasts like you.

रिपु बलवंत देखि नहिं डरहीं। एक बार कालहु सन लरहीं।।

Ripu balavant dekhi nahin daraheen. eka baar kaalahu san laraheen

We do not fear seeing a powerful enemy. We would fight even with Death himself once.

जद्यपि मनुज दनुज कुल घालक। मुनि पालक खल सालक बालक।।

Jadyapi manuj danuj kul ghaalak. muni paalak khal saalak baalak

Though I am human, I am the destroyer of demon clans, protector of sages, tormentor of the wicked, though young.

जौं न होइ बल घर फिरि जाहू। समर बिमुख मैं हतउँ न काहू।।

Jaun na hoi bal ghar phiri jaahoo. samar bimukh main hataun na kaahoo

If you have no strength, return home. I do not kill those who turn away from battle.

रन चढ़ि करिअ कपट चतुराई। रिपु पर कृपा परम कदराई।।

Ran chadhi karia kapat chaturaaee. ripu par kripaa param kadaraaee

To show mercy to the enemy in battle is the height of cowardice and cunning deception.

दूतन्ह जाइ तुरत सब कहेऊ। सुनि खर दूषन उर अति दहेऊ।।

Dootanh jaai turat sab kaheoo. suni khar dooshan ura ati daheoo

The messengers went and immediately told everything. Hearing this, Khara and Dushana's hearts burned with rage.

जब रघुनाथ समर रिपु जीते। सुर नर मुनि सब के भय बीते।।

Jab raghunaath samar ripu jeete. sur nar muni sab ke bhay beete

When Raghunath defeated the demons in battle, all fears of gods, men, and sages were dispelled.

तब लछिमन सीतहि लै आए। प्रभु पद परत हरषि उर लाए।

Tab lachhiman seetahi lai aae. prabhu pad parat harashi ura laae

Then Lakshmana brought Sita back, and she joyfully embraced the Lord's feet with a happy heart.

सीता चितव स्याम मृदु गाता। परम प्रेम लोचन न अघाता।।

Seetaa chitav syaam mridu gaataa. param prem lochan na aghaataa

Sita gazed upon Rama's dark and gentle form, her eyes filled with supreme love never satisfied.

पंचवटीं बसि श्रीरघुनायक। करत चरित सुर मुनि सुखदायक।।

Panchavateen basi shreeraghunaayak. karat charit sur muni sukhadaayak

The noble Raghunayak dwelt in Panchavati, performing deeds that brought joy to gods and sages.

धुआँ देखि खरदूषन केरा। जाइ सुपनखाँ रावन प्रेरा।।

Dhuaan dekhi kharadooshan keraa. jaai supanakhaan raavan preraa

Seeing the smoke from Khara and Dushana's destruction, Surpanakha went and incited Ravana.

बोलि बचन क्रोध करि भारी। देस कोस कै सुरति बिसारी।।

Boli bachan krodh kari bhaaree. des kos kai surati bisaaree

Speaking words filled with great anger, she made him forget all sense of time and place.

करसि पान सोवसि दिनु राती। सुधि नहिं तव सिर पर आराती।।

Karasi paan sovasi dinu raatee. sudhi nahin tav sir par aaraatee

You drink and sleep day and night, unaware that enemies threaten your head.

राज नीति बिनु धन बिनु धर्मा। हरिहि समर्पे बिनु सतकर्मा।।

Raaj neeti binu dhan binu dharmaa. harihi samarpe binu satakarmaa

Without righteous rule, without wealth and dharma, without surrendering to Hari through good deeds.

बिद्या बिनु बिबेक उपजाएँ। श्रम फल पढ़े किएँ अरु पाएँ।।

Bidyaa binu bibek upajaaen. shram phal padhe kien aru paaen

Without learning, how can wisdom arise? What fruit comes from study and effort without it?

संग ते जती कुमंत्र ते राजा। मान ते ग्यान पान तें लाजा।।

Sang te jatee kumantr te raajaa. maan te gyaan paan ten laajaa

Ascetics are destroyed by company, kings by bad counsel, knowledge by pride, and modesty by drink.

प्रीति प्रनय बिनु मद ते गुनी। नासहि बेगि नीति अस सुनी।।

Preeti pranay binu mad te gunee. naasahi begi neeti asa sunee

Love without affection, and the virtuous through pride - all perish quickly, such is the law I have heard.

सुनत सभासद उठे अकुलाई। समुझाई गहि बाहँ उठाई।।

Sunat sabhaasad uthe akulaaee. samujhaaee gahi baahan uthaaee

Hearing this, the courtiers rose up in distress and tried to calm her by holding her arms and lifting her up.

कह लंकेस कहसि निज बाता। केंइँ तव नासा कान निपाता।।

Kah lankes kahasi nij baataa. kenin tav naasaa kaan nipaataa

The lord of Lanka said, 'Tell me your story - who has cut off your nose and ears?'

अवध नृपति दसरथ के जाए। पुरुष सिंघ बन खेलन आए।।

Avadh nripati dasarath ke jaae. purush singh ban khelan aae

The sons of King Dasharatha of Ayodhya, lions among men, have come to sport in the forest.

समुझि परी मोहि उन्ह कै करनी। रहित निसाचर करिहहिं धरनी।।

Samujhi paree mohi unh kai karanee. rahit nisaachar karihahin dharanee

Understanding their deeds, I realize they will make the earth free from demons.

जिन्ह कर भुजबल पाइ दसानन। अभय भए बिचरत मुनि कानन।।

Jinh kar bhujabal paai dasaanan. abhay bhae bicharat muni kaanan

By whose arm-strength, O ten-headed one, the sages wander fearlessly in the forest groves.

देखत बालक काल समाना। परम धीर धन्वी गुन नाना।।

Dekhat baalak kaal samaanaa. param dheer dhanvee gun naanaa

Though appearing like young boys, they are like Death incarnate - supremely steadfast archers with countless virtues.

अतुलित बल प्रताप द्वौ भ्राता। खल बध रत सुर मुनि सुखदाता।।

Atulit bal prataap dvau bhraataa. khal badh rat sur muni sukhadaataa

The two brothers possess incomparable strength and glory, devoted to destroying the wicked and giving joy to gods and sages.

सोभाधाम राम अस नामा। तिन्ह के संग नारि एक स्यामा।।

Sobhaadhaam raam asa naamaa. tinh ke sang naari eka syaamaa

The abode of beauty is named Rama, and with them is a dark-complexioned woman.

रुप रासि बिधि नारि सँवारी। रति सत कोटि तासु बलिहारी।।

Rup raasi bidhi naari sanvaaree. rati sat koti taasu balihaaree

She is a treasure of beauty whom the Creator has adorned - millions of goddesses of love are sacrificed to her.

तासु अनुज काटे श्रुति नासा। सुनि तव भगिनि करहिं परिहासा।।

Taasu anuj kaate shruti naasaa. suni tav bhagini karahin parihaasaa

His younger brother cut off my ears and nose, hearing which your sister makes jest.

खर दूषन सुनि लगे पुकारा। छन महुँ सकल कटक उन्ह मारा।।

Khar dooshan suni lage pukaaraa. chhan mahun sakal katak unh maaraa

Hearing of Khara and Dushana, they began to shout, but in a moment he killed their entire army.

खर दूषन तिसिरा कर घाता। सुनि दससीस जरे सब गाता।।

Khar dooshan tisiraa kar ghaataa. suni dasasees jare sab gaataa

Hearing of the slaughter of Khara, Dushana and Trishira, the ten-headed one's whole body burned with rage.

सुर नर असुर नाग खग माहीं। मोरे अनुचर कहँ कोउ नाहीं।।

Sur nar asur naag khag maaheen. more anuchar kahan kou naaheen

Among gods, men, demons, serpents and birds, none are my followers or servants.

खर दूषन मोहि सम बलवंता। तिन्हहि को मारइ बिनु भगवंता।।

Khar dooshan mohi sam balavantaa. tinhahi ko maarai binu bhagavantaa

Khara and Dushana are as mighty as I am - who can slay them except the Lord himself?

सुर रंजन भंजन महि भारा। जौं भगवंत लीन्ह अवतारा।।

Sur ranjan bhanjan mahi bhaaraa. jaun bhagavant leenh avataaraa

If the Lord who delights the gods and relieves the earth's burden has taken incarnation,

तौ मै जाइ बैरु हठि करऊँ। प्रभु सर प्रान तजें भव तरऊँ।।

Tau mai jaai bairu hathi karaoon. prabhu sar praan tajen bhav taraoon

Then I shall go and stubbornly wage war with Him, and abandoning life by His arrows, cross over this worldly existence.

होइहि भजनु न तामस देहा। मन क्रम बचन मंत्र दृढ़ एहा।।

Hoihi bhajanu na taamas dehaa. man kram bachan mantr dridh ehaa

Devotion cannot arise in this demonic body - this resolve is firm in mind, deed and word.

जौं नररुप भूपसुत कोऊ। हरिहउँ नारि जीति रन दोऊ।।

Jaun nararup bhoopasut kooo. harihaun naari jeeti ran dooo

If He is merely some human prince, I shall abduct his wife and defeat both of them in battle.

चला अकेल जान चढि तहवाँ। बस मारीच सिंधु तट जहवाँ।।

Chalaa akel jaan chadhi tahavaan. bas maareech sindhu tat jahavaan

He departed alone, riding his aerial chariot to where Maricha dwelt on the ocean's shore.

इहाँ राम जसि जुगुति बनाई। सुनहु उमा सो कथा सुहाई।।

Ihaan raam jasi juguti banaaee. sunahu umaa so kathaa suhaaee

Listen, Uma, to this delightful tale of how Rama devised His strategy here.

सुनहु प्रिया ब्रत रुचिर सुसीला। मैं कछु करबि ललित नरलीला।।

Sunahu priyaa brat ruchir suseelaa. main kachhu karabi lalit naraleelaa

Listen, beloved one of beautiful vows and noble character, I shall perform some charming divine play.

तुम्ह पावक महुँ करहु निवासा। जौ लगि करौं निसाचर नासा।।

Tumh paavak mahun karahu nivaasaa. jau lagi karaun nisaachar naasaa

You dwell within the fire until I complete the destruction of the demons.

जबहिं राम सब कहा बखानी। प्रभु पद धरि हियँ अनल समानी।।

Jabahin raam sab kahaa bakhaanee. prabhu pad dhari hiyan anal samaanee

When Rama had explained everything, Sita placed the Lord's feet in her heart and entered the fire.

निज प्रतिबिंब राखि तहँ सीता। तैसइ सील रुप सुबिनीता।।

Nij pratibimb raakhi tahan seetaa. taisai seel rup subineetaa

Sita left her own reflection there, identical in virtue, beauty and gentle nature.

लछिमनहूँ यह मरमु न जाना। जो कछु चरित रचा भगवाना।।

Lachhimanahoon yah maramu na jaanaa. jo kachhu charit rachaa bhagavaanaa

Even Lakshmana did not know this secret of whatever divine play the Lord had arranged.

दसमुख गयउ जहाँ मारीचा। नाइ माथ स्वारथ रत नीचा।।

Dasamukh gayau jahaan maareechaa. naai maath svaarath rat neechaa

The ten-headed Ravana went to where Maricha was, that base one devoted to selfish interests who bowed his head.

नवनि नीच कै अति दुखदाई। जिमि अंकुस धनु उरग बिलाई।।

Navani neech kai ati dukhadaaee. jimi ankus dhanu urag bilaaee

Bowing to the wicked brings great suffering, like an elephant goad, bow, serpent or cat.

भयदायक खल कै प्रिय बानी। जिमि अकाल के कुसुम भवानी।।

Bhayadaayak khal kai priy baanee. jimi akaal ke kusum bhavaanee

The sweet words of the evil are frightening, O Bhavani, like flowers blooming in the time of famine.

दसमुख सकल कथा तेहि आगें। कही सहित अभिमान अभागें।।

Dasamukh sakal kathaa tehi aagen. kahee sahit abhimaan abhaagen

The ten-headed Ravana narrated the entire story to him, filled with pride and misfortune.

होहु कपट मृग तुम्ह छलकारी। जेहि बिधि हरि आनौ नृपनारी।।

Hohu kapat mrig tumh chhalakaaree. jehi bidhi hari aanau nripanaaree

He commanded, 'Become a deceptive deer, you master of illusion, so that you may bring away the king's wife.'

तेहिं पुनि कहा सुनहु दससीसा। ते नररुप चराचर ईसा।।

Tehin puni kahaa sunahu dasaseesaa. te nararup charaachar eesaa

Maricha then said, 'Listen, O ten-headed one! Those two are in human form but are lords of all creation.'

तासों तात बयरु नहिं कीजे। मारें मरिअ जिआएँ जीजै।।

Taason taat bayaru nahin keeje. maaren maria jiaaen jeejai

Do not make enmity with them, dear one. If they kill, one dies; if they give life, one lives.

मुनि मख राखन गयउ कुमारा। बिनु फर सर रघुपति मोहि मारा।।

Muni makh raakhan gayau kumaaraa. binu phar sar raghupati mohi maaraa

When the young prince went to protect the sage's sacrifice, Raghupati struck me with an arrow without a metal tip.

सत जोजन आयउँ छन माहीं। तिन्ह सन बयरु किएँ भल नाहीं।।

Sat jojan aayaun chhan maaheen. tinh san bayaru kien bhal naaheen

I traveled a hundred yojanas in an instant. It is not good to make enmity with them.

भइ मम कीट भृंग की नाई। जहँ तहँ मैं देखउँ दोउ भाई।।

Bhai mam keet bhring kee naaee. jahan tahan main dekhaun dou bhaaee

I have become like an insect before a bee - wherever I go, I see those two brothers.

जौं नर तात तदपि अति सूरा। तिन्हहि बिरोधि न आइहि पूरा।।

Jaun nar taat tadapi ati sooraa. tinhahi birodhi na aaihi pooraa

Even if they are human, dear one, they are exceedingly valiant. One cannot succeed in opposing them.

जाहु भवन कुल कुसल बिचारी। सुनत जरा दीन्हिसि बहु गारी।।

Jaahu bhavan kul kusal bichaaree. sunat jaraa deenhisi bahu gaaree

Go home and consider the welfare of your family. Hearing this, the old demon gave many harsh rebukes.

गुरु जिमि मूढ़ करसि मम बोधा। कहु जग मोहि समान को जोधा।।

Guru jimi moodh karasi mam bodhaa. kahu jag mohi samaan ko jodhaa

Like a teacher, you foolishly try to instruct me. Tell me, who in this world is a warrior equal to me?

तब मारीच हृदयँ अनुमाना। नवहि बिरोधें नहिं कल्याना।।

Tab maareech hridayan anumaanaa. navahi birodhen nahin kalyaanaa

Then Maricha understood in his heart that there is no welfare in opposing the Lord.

सस्त्री मर्मी प्रभु सठ धनी। बैद बंदि कबि भानस गुनी।।

Sastree marmee prabhu sath dhanee. baid bandi kabi bhaanas gunee

A wise counselor, learned master, foolish wealthy man, physician, bard, poet and skilled cook.

उभय भाँति देखा निज मरना। तब ताकिसि रघुनायक सरना।।

Ubhay bhaanti dekhaa nij maranaa. tab taakisi raghunaayak saranaa

In both ways he saw his own death approaching. Then he sought refuge at the feet of Raghunayaka.

उतरु देत मोहि बधब अभागें। कस न मरौं रघुपति सर लागें।।

Utaru det mohi badhab abhaagen. kas na maraun raghupati sar laagen

If I give a reply, this wretch will kill me. How shall I not die when struck by Raghupati's arrow?

अस जियँ जानि दसानन संगा। चला राम पद प्रेम अभंगा।।

Asa jiyan jaani dasaanan sangaa. chalaa raam pad prem abhangaa

Knowing this in his heart, he went with the ten-headed one, his love for Rama's feet unbroken.

मन अति हरष जनाव न तेही। आजु देखिहउँ परम सनेही।।

Man ati harash janaav na tehee. aaju dekhihaun param sanehee

With great joy in his mind, he did not reveal it to him. Today I shall see my supreme beloved.

तेहि बन निकट दसानन गयऊ। तब मारीच कपटमृग भयऊ।।

Tehi ban nikat dasaanan gayaoo. tab maareech kapatamrig bhayaoo

Near that forest, the ten-headed Ravana went and then Maricha became a deceptive deer.

अति बिचित्र कछु बरनि न जाई। कनक देह मनि रचित बनाई।।

Ati bichitr kachhu barani na jaaee. kanak deh mani rachit banaaee

It was extremely wondrous, beyond description, with a golden body adorned with jewels.

सीता परम रुचिर मृग देखा। अंग अंग सुमनोहर बेषा।।

Seetaa param ruchir mrig dekhaa. ang ang sumanohar beshaa

Sita saw the supremely beautiful deer, with every limb having a most charming appearance.

सुनहु देव रघुबीर कृपाला। एहि मृग कर अति सुंदर छाला।।

Sunahu dev raghubeer kripaalaa. ehi mrig kar ati sundar chhaalaa

Listen, O compassionate Lord Raghubir, this deer has an extremely beautiful hide.

सत्यसंध प्रभु बधि करि एही। आनहु चर्म कहति बैदेही।।

Satyasandh prabhu badhi kari ehee. aanahu charm kahati baidehee

O truthful Lord, please kill this deer and bring its skin, said Vaidehi.

तब रघुपति जानत सब कारन। उठे हरषि सुर काजु सँवारन।।

Tab raghupati jaanat sab kaaran. uthe harashi sur kaaju sanvaaran

Then Raghupati, knowing all the reasons, arose joyfully to accomplish the gods' purpose.

मृग बिलोकि कटि परिकर बाँधा। करतल चाप रुचिर सर साँधा।।

Mrig biloki kati parikar baandhaa. karatal chaap ruchir sar saandhaa

Looking at the deer, He girded His waist with weapons and took bow and beautiful arrows in His hands.

प्रभु लछिमनिहि कहा समुझाई। फिरत बिपिन निसिचर बहु भाई।।

Prabhu lachhimanihi kahaa samujhaaee. phirat bipin nisichar bahu bhaaee

The Lord instructed Lakshmana wisely, saying many demons roam in the forest, brother.

सीता केरि करेहु रखवारी। बुधि बिबेक बल समय बिचारी।।

Seetaa keri karehu rakhavaaree. budhi bibek bal samay bichaaree

Guard Sita well, using wisdom, discretion, strength, and proper judgment of time.

प्रभुहि बिलोकि चला मृग भाजी। धाए रामु सरासन साजी।।

Prabhuhi biloki chalaa mrig bhaajee. dhaae raamu saraasan saajee

Seeing the Lord, the deer fled, and Rama pursued with bow ready.

निगम नेति सिव ध्यान न पावा। मायामृग पाछें सो धावा।।

Nigam neti siv dhyaan na paavaa. maayaamrig paachhen so dhaavaa

He whom the Vedas cannot reach through 'not this, not this' and whom Shiva cannot attain in meditation, ran after that illusory deer.

कबहुँ निकट पुनि दूरि पराई। कबहुँक प्रगटइ कबहुँ छपाई।।

Kabahun nikat puni doori paraaee. kabahunk pragatai kabahun chhapaaee

Sometimes it came near, then fled far away; sometimes it appeared, sometimes it hid.

प्रगटत दुरत करत छल भूरी। एहि बिधि प्रभुहि गयउ लै दूरी।।

Pragatat durat karat chhal bhooree. ehi bidhi prabhuhi gayau lai dooree

Appearing and disappearing, it performed many tricks, and in this way led the Lord far away.

तब तकि राम कठिन सर मारा। धरनि परेउ करि घोर पुकारा।।

Tab taki raam kathin sar maaraa. dharani pareu kari ghor pukaaraa

Then taking aim, Rama shot a fierce arrow, and it fell to the ground crying out terribly.

लछिमन कर प्रथमहिं लै नामा। पाछें सुमिरेसि मन महुँ रामा।।

Lachhiman kar prathamahin lai naamaa. paachhen sumiresi man mahun raamaa

First taking Lakshmana's name, and then remembering Rama in his mind.

प्रान तजत प्रगटेसि निज देहा। सुमिरेसि रामु समेत सनेहा।।

Praan tajat pragatesi nij dehaa. sumiresi raamu samet sanehaa

While giving up his life, he revealed his true form and remembered Rama with love.

अंतर प्रेम तासु पहिचाना। मुनि दुर्लभ गति दीन्हि सुजाना।।

Antar prem taasu pahichaanaa. muni durlabh gati deenhi sujaanaa

The wise Lord recognized the love within him and granted him a state difficult for sages to attain.

खल बधि तुरत फिरे रघुबीरा। सोह चाप कर कटि तूनीरा।।

Khal badhi turat phire raghubeeraa. soh chaap kar kati tooneeraa

After slaying the demon, Raghubira quickly returned, his bow gleaming in hand and quiver at his waist.

आरत गिरा सुनी जब सीता। कह लछिमन सन परम सभीता।।

Aarat giraa sunee jab seetaa. kah lachhiman san param sabheetaa

When Sita heard the distressed cry, she spoke to Lakshmana with great fear.

जाहु बेगि संकट अति भ्राता। लछिमन बिहसि कहा सुनु माता।।

Jaahu begi sankat ati bhraataa. lachhiman bihasi kahaa sunu maataa

Go quickly, brother, there is great danger! Lakshmana smiled and said, Listen, Mother.

भृकुटि बिलास सृष्टि लय होई। सपनेहुँ संकट परइ कि सोई।।

Bhrikuti bilaas srishti lay hoee. sapanehun sankat parai ki soee

At whose mere frown the universe dissolves - can any danger befall him even in dreams?

मरम बचन जब सीता बोला। हरि प्रेरित लछिमन मन डोला।।

Maram bachan jab seetaa bolaa. hari prerit lachhiman man dolaa

When Sita spoke those pointed words, Lakshmana's mind was stirred by divine inspiration.

बन दिसि देव सौंपि सब काहू। चले जहाँ रावन ससि राहू।।

Ban disi dev saumpi sab kaahoo. chale jahaan raavan sasi raahoo

Entrusting the forest and all directions to the gods, he went where Ravana was like Rahu to the moon.

सून बीच दसकंधर देखा। आवा निकट जती कें बेषा।।

Soon beech dasakandhar dekhaa. aavaa nikat jatee ken beshaa

In the lonely forest, the ten-headed one appeared, approaching in the guise of an ascetic.

जाकें डर सुर असुर डेराहीं। निसि न नीद दिन अन्न न खाहीं।।

Jaaken dar sur asur deraaheen. nisi na need din ann na khaaheen

He whom gods and demons fear, who cannot sleep at night or eat food during the day.

सो दससीस स्वान की नाई। इत उत चितइ चला भड़िहाई।।

So dasasees svaan kee naaee. ita uta chitai chalaa bhadihaaee

That ten-headed one moved about like a dog, looking here and there, swaggering forward.

इमि कुपंथ पग देत खगेसा। रह न तेज बुधि बल लेसा।।

Imi kupanth pag det khagesaa. rah na tej budhi bal lesaa

Thus treading the evil path, O Garuda, not a trace of his glory, wisdom, or strength remained.

नाना बिधि करि कथा सुहाई। राजनीति भय प्रीति देखाई।।

Naanaa bidhi kari kathaa suhaaee. raajaneeti bhay preeti dekhaaee

In various ways he told pleasant stories, displaying statecraft, fear, and affection.

कह सीता सुनु जती गोसाईं। बोलेहु बचन दुष्ट की नाईं।।

Kah seetaa sunu jatee gosaaeen. bolehu bachan dusht kee naaeen

Sita said, Listen, ascetic lord, you have spoken words like those of the wicked.

तब रावन निज रूप देखावा। भई सभय जब नाम सुनावा।।

Tab raavan nij roop dekhaavaa. bhaee sabhay jab naam sunaavaa

Then Ravana revealed his true form, and she became frightened when she heard his name.

कह सीता धरि धीरजु गाढ़ा। आइ गयउ प्रभु रहु खल ठाढ़ा।।

Kah seetaa dhari dheeraju gaadhaa. aai gayau prabhu rahu khal thaadhaa

Sita said, gathering firm courage, My Lord has come, stand still, O wicked one!

जिमि हरिबधुहि छुद्र सस चाहा। भएसि कालबस निसिचर नाहा।।

Jimi haribadhuhi chhudr sas chaahaa. bhaesi kaalabas nisichar naahaa

Just as a base creature desires Vishnu's consort, you have become death's victim, O demon king.

सुनत बचन दससीस रिसाना। मन महुँ चरन बंदि सुख माना।।

Sunat bachan dasasees risaanaa. man mahun charan bandi sukh maanaa

Hearing these words, the ten-headed one became angry, but in his heart he bowed to her feet and felt joy.

हा जग एक बीर रघुराया। केहिं अपराध बिसारेहु दाया।।

Haa jag eka beer raghuraayaa. kehin aparaadh bisaarehu daayaa

Alas, O unique hero Raghuraya! For what offense have You forgotten Your compassion?

आरति हरन सरन सुखदायक। हा रघुकुल सरोज दिननायक।।

Aarati haran saran sukhadaayak. haa raghukul saroj dinanaayak

O remover of distress, giver of joy to those who seek refuge! O sun to the lotus of Raghu's dynasty!

हा लछिमन तुम्हार नहिं दोसा। सो फलु पायउँ कीन्हेउँ रोसा।।

Haa lachhiman tumhaar nahin dosaa. so phalu paayaun keenheun rosaa

O Lakshmana, you are not at fault. I am reaping the fruit of my anger.

बिबिध बिलाप करति बैदेही। भूरि कृपा प्रभु दूरि सनेही।।

Bibidh bilaap karati baidehee. bhoori kripaa prabhu doori sanehee

Vaidehi lamented in various ways, though the Lord of abundant mercy was far from His beloved.

बिपति मोरि को प्रभुहि सुनावा। पुरोडास चह रासभ खावा।।

Bipati mori ko prabhuhi sunaavaa. purodaas chah raasabh khaavaa

Who will tell the Lord of my calamity? A donkey wishes to eat the sacrificial offering.

सीता कै बिलाप सुनि भारी। भए चराचर जीव दुखारी।।

Seetaa kai bilaap suni bhaaree. bhae charaachar jeev dukhaaree

Hearing Sita's heavy lamentation, all moving and non-moving beings became sorrowful.

गीधराज सुनि आरत बानी। रघुकुलतिलक नारि पहिचानी।।

Geedharaaj suni aarat baanee. raghukulatilak naari pahichaanee

The king of vultures, hearing the distressed voice, recognized the lady who was the ornament of Raghu's dynasty.

अधम निसाचर लीन्हे जाई। जिमि मलेछ बस कपिला गाई।।

Adham nisaachar leenhe jaaee. jimi malechh bas kapilaa gaaee

The vile demon has taken her away, like a barbarian seizing a sacred cow.

सीते पुत्रि करसि जनि त्रासा। करिहउँ जातुधान कर नासा।।

Seete putri karasi jani traasaa. karihaun jaatudhaan kar naasaa

O daughter Sita, do not be afraid. I shall destroy this demon.

धावा क्रोधवंत खग कैसें। छूटइ पबि परबत कहुँ जैसे।।

Dhaavaa krodhavant khag kaisen. chhootai pabi parabat kahun jaise

The enraged bird rushed forth like wind released from a mountain.

रे रे दुष्ट ठाढ़ किन होही। निर्भय चलेसि न जानेहि मोही।।

Re re dusht thaadh kin hohee. nirbhay chalesi na jaanehi mohee

Stop, stop, you wretch! Why do you stand? You move fearlessly, not knowing me.

आवत देखि कृतांत समाना। फिरि दसकंधर कर अनुमाना।।

Aavat dekhi kritaant samaanaa. phiri dasakandhar kar anumaanaa

Seeing him approaching like Death itself, the ten-headed one turned and pondered.

की मैनाक कि खगपति होई। मम बल जान सहित पति सोई।।

Kee mainaak ki khagapati hoee. mam bal jaan sahit pati soee

Is this Mount Mainaka or the king of birds? He knows my strength along with his master.

जाना जरठ जटायू एहा। मम कर तीरथ छाँड़िहि देहा।।

Jaanaa jarath jataayoo ehaa. mam kar teerath chhaandihi dehaa

I know this is the aged Jatayu. His body shall become a sacred place for my hand.

सुनत गीध क्रोधातुर धावा। कह सुनु रावन मोर सिखावा।।

Sunat geedh krodhaatur dhaavaa. kah sunu raavan mor sikhaavaa

Hearing this, the vulture rushed in fury and said, 'Listen, Ravana, to my counsel.'

तजि जानकिहि कुसल गृह जाहू। नाहिं त अस होइहि बहुबाहू।।

Taji jaanakihi kusal grih jaahoo. naahin ta asa hoihi bahubaahoo

Leave Janaki and go safely home, otherwise this will happen to you, O many-armed one.

राम रोष पावक अति घोरा। होइहि सकल सलभ कुल तोरा।।

Raam rosh paavak ati ghoraa. hoihi sakal salabh kul toraa

Rama's wrath is a terrible fire that will consume your entire clan like moths.

उतरु न देत दसानन जोधा। तबहिं गीध धावा करि क्रोधा।।

Utaru na det dasaanan jodhaa. tabahin geedh dhaavaa kari krodhaa

The ten-faced warrior gave no reply, then the vulture charged in anger.

धरि कच बिरथ कीन्ह महि गिरा। सीतहि राखि गीध पुनि फिरा।।

Dhari kach birath keenh mahi giraa. seetahi raakhi geedh puni phiraa

Seizing his hair, he made him fall to the ground, then the vulture turned back to protect Sita.

चौचन्ह मारि बिदारेसि देही। दंड एक भइ मुरुछा तेही।।

Chauchanh maari bidaaresi dehee. dand eka bhai muruchhaa tehee

Striking with claws, he tore his body. For a moment, he fell unconscious from the blow.

तब सक्रोध निसिचर खिसिआना। काढ़ेसि परम कराल कृपाना।।

Tab sakrodh nisichar khisiaanaa. kaadhesi param karaal kripaanaa

Then the enraged demon, becoming furious, drew out his supremely terrible sword.

काटेसि पंख परा खग धरनी। सुमिरि राम करि अदभुत करनी।।

Kaatesi pankh paraa khag dharanee. sumiri raam kari adabhut karanee

He cut off the bird's wings and it fell to the earth, remembering Rama and performing a wondrous deed.

सीतहि जानि चढ़ाइ बहोरी। चला उताइल त्रास न थोरी।।

Seetahi jaani chadhaai bahoree. chalaa utaail traas na thoree

Knowing Sita, he lifted her again and departed hastily with no small fear.

करति बिलाप जाति नभ सीता। ब्याध बिबस जनु मृगी सभीता।।

Karati bilaap jaati nabh seetaa. byaadh bibas janu mrigee sabheetaa

Sita lamented as she was carried through the sky, like a frightened doe wounded by a hunter.

गिरि पर बैठे कपिन्ह निहारी। कहि हरि नाम दीन्ह पट डारी।।

Giri par baithe kapinh nihaaree. kahi hari naam deenh pat daaree

Seeing the monkeys sitting on the mountain, she called out Hari's name and dropped her cloth.

एहि बिधि सीतहि सो लै गयऊ। बन असोक महँ राखत भयऊ।।

Ehi bidhi seetahi so lai gayaoo. ban asok mahan raakhat bhayaoo

In this way, he took Sita away and kept her in the Ashoka grove.

रघुपति अनुजहि आवत देखी। बाहिज चिंता कीन्हि बिसेषी।।

Raghupati anujahi aavat dekhee. baahij chintaa keenhi biseshee

Seeing his younger brother approaching, Raghupati felt great anxiety and worry.

जनकसुता परिहरिहु अकेली। आयहु तात बचन मम पेली।।

Janakasutaa pariharihu akelee. aayahu taat bachan mam pelee

He said, 'You have left Janaka's daughter alone and come here, dear brother, following my words.'

निसिचर निकर फिरहिं बन माहीं। मम मन सीता आश्रम नाहीं।।

Nisichar nikar phirahin ban maaheen. mam man seetaa aashram naaheen

Hosts of demons roam in this forest; my mind is not at peace about Sita in the hermitage.

गहि पद कमल अनुज कर जोरी। कहेउ नाथ कछु मोहि न खोरी।।

Gahi pad kamal anuj kar joree. kaheu naath kachhu mohi na khoree

Grasping his lotus feet with folded hands, his younger brother said, 'Lord, I am not at fault in anything.'

अनुज समेत गए प्रभु तहवाँ। गोदावरि तट आश्रम जहवाँ।।

Anuj samet gae prabhu tahavaan. godaavari tat aashram jahavaan

The Lord went there with his younger brother, to the hermitage on the banks of Godavari.

आश्रम देखि जानकी हीना। भए बिकल जस प्राकृत दीना।।

Aashram dekhi jaanakee heenaa. bhae bikal jas praakrit deenaa

Seeing the hermitage without Janaki, they became distressed like ordinary mortals.

हा गुन खानि जानकी सीता। रूप सील ब्रत नेम पुनीता।।

Haa gun khaani jaanakee seetaa. roop seel brat nem puneetaa

Alas! Sita, the treasure house of virtues, pure in beauty, character, vows and conduct!

लछिमन समुझाए बहु भाँती। पूछत चले लता तरु पाँती।।

Lachhiman samujhaae bahu bhaantee. poochhat chale lataa taru paantee

Lakshmana consoled him in many ways as they went asking the rows of creepers and trees.

हे खग मृग हे मधुकर श्रेनी। तुम्ह देखी सीता मृगनैनी।।

He khag mrig he madhukar shrenee. tumh dekhee seetaa mriganainee

O birds, beasts, and swarms of bees! Have you seen deer-eyed Sita?

खंजन सुक कपोत मृग मीना। मधुप निकर कोकिला प्रबीना।।

Khanjan suk kapot mrig meenaa. madhup nikar kokilaa prabeenaa

O wagtail, parrot, dove, deer, fish, swarms of bees, and skilled cuckoo!

कुंद कली दाड़िम दामिनी। कमल सरद ससि अहिभामिनी।।

Kund kalee daadim daaminee. kamal sarad sasi ahibhaaminee

O jasmine bud, pomegranate, lightning, lotus, autumn moon, and serpent's bride!

बरुन पास मनोज धनु हंसा। गज केहरि निज सुनत प्रसंसा।।

Barun paas manoj dhanu hansaa. gaj kehari nij sunat prasansaa

O Varuna's noose, Cupid's bow, swan, elephant, and lion - hearing their own praise!

श्रीफल कनक कदलि हरषाहीं। नेकु न संक सकुच मन माहीं।।

Shreephal kanak kadali harashaaheen. neku na sank sakuch man maaheen

O golden fruit, gold, and banana tree - you rejoice without any doubt or shame in your mind!

सुनु जानकी तोहि बिनु आजू। हरषे सकल पाइ जनु राजू।।

Sunu jaanakee tohi binu aajoo. harashe sakal paai janu raajoo

Listen, Janaki! Without you today, all these have rejoiced as if gaining a kingdom.

किमि सहि जात अनख तोहि पाहीं । प्रिया बेगि प्रगटसि कस नाहीं।।

Kimi sahi jaat anakh tohi paaheen . priyaa begi pragatasi kas naaheen

How can they bear this joy before you? Beloved, why do you not appear quickly?

एहि बिधि खौजत बिलपत स्वामी। मनहुँ महा बिरही अति कामी।।

Ehi bidhi khaujat bilapat svaamee. manahun mahaa birahee ati kaamee

In this manner the Lord searched and lamented, like an extremely passionate lover.

पूरनकाम राम सुख रासी। मनुज चरित कर अज अबिनासी।।

Pooranakaam raam sukh raasee. manuj charit kar aja abinaasee

Though Rama is fulfilled in all desires and an ocean of bliss, the unborn and imperishable One enacts human deeds.

आगे परा गीधपति देखा। सुमिरत राम चरन जिन्ह रेखा।।

Aage paraa geedhapati dekhaa. sumirat raam charan jinh rekhaa

Ahead they saw the king of vultures lying, who remembered the marks on Rama's feet.

तब कह गीध बचन धरि धीरा । सुनहु राम भंजन भव भीरा।।

Tab kah geedh bachan dhari dheeraa . sunahu raam bhanjan bhav bheeraa

Then the vulture spoke with steadfast courage, saying, 'Listen, O Rama, destroyer of worldly fears.'

नाथ दसानन यह गति कीन्ही। तेहि खल जनकसुता हरि लीन्ही।।

Naath dasaanan yah gati keenhee. tehi khal janakasutaa hari leenhee

O Lord, the ten-headed demon has done this deed - that wicked one has carried away Janaka's daughter.

लै दच्छिन दिसि गयउ गोसाई। बिलपति अति कुररी की नाई।।

Lai dachchhin disi gayau gosaaee. bilapati ati kuraree kee naaee

Taking her toward the southern direction he went, O Lord, while she wailed like a female curlew.

दरस लागी प्रभु राखेंउँ प्राना। चलन चहत अब कृपानिधाना।।

Daras laagee prabhu raakhenun praanaa. chalan chahat aba kripaanidhaanaa

I kept my life only for Your divine sight, O treasure of mercy, and now wish to depart.

राम कहा तनु राखहु ताता। मुख मुसकाइ कही तेहिं बाता।।

Raam kahaa tanu raakhahu taataa. mukh musakaai kahee tehin baataa

Rama said, 'Keep your body, dear father,' but he replied with a smile on his face.

जा कर नाम मरत मुख आवा। अधमउ मुकुत होई श्रुति गावा।।

Jaa kar naam marat mukh aavaa. adhamau mukut hoee shruti gaavaa

He whose name coming to the mouth at death liberates even the lowest - so the scriptures sing.

सो मम लोचन गोचर आगें। राखौं देह नाथ केहि खाँगें।।

So mam lochan gochar aagen. raakhaun deh naath kehi khaangen

He is before my eyes, O Lord - for what reason should I keep this body?

जल भरि नयन कहहिं रघुराई। तात कर्म निज ते गतिं पाई।।

Jal bhari nayan kahahin raghuraaee. taat karm nij te gatin paaee

With eyes filled with tears, Raghurai said, 'Father, each soul attains destiny according to their own deeds.'

परहित बस जिन्ह के मन माहीं। तिन्ह कहुँ जग दुर्लभ कछु नाहीं।।

Parahit bas jinh ke man maaheen. tinh kahun jag durlabh kachhu naaheen

Those in whose hearts dwells only the welfare of others - for them nothing in this world is unattainable.

तनु तजि तात जाहु मम धामा। देउँ काह तुम्ह पूरनकामा।।

Tanu taji taat jaahu mam dhaamaa. deun kaah tumh pooranakaamaa

Leaving your body, dear father, go to My divine abode - what can I give you who are already fulfilled in all desires?

गीध देह तजि धरि हरि रुपा। भूषन बहु पट पीत अनूपा।।

Geedh deh taji dhari hari rupaa. bhooshan bahu pat peet anoopaa

The vulture abandoned his bird form and assumed the divine form of Vishnu, adorned with many ornaments and beautiful yellow garments.

स्याम गात बिसाल भुज चारी। अस्तुति करत नयन भरि बारी।।

Syaam gaat bisaal bhuj chaaree. astuti karat nayan bhari baaree

With dark complexion and four mighty arms, he offered praise with eyes filled with tears of devotion.

कोमल चित अति दीनदयाला। कारन बिनु रघुनाथ कृपाला।।

Komal chit ati deenadayaalaa. kaaran binu raghunaath kripaalaa

Raghunath is tender-hearted and extremely compassionate to the afflicted, showing mercy without any cause or reason.

गीध अधम खग आमिष भोगी। गति दीन्हि जो जाचत जोगी।।

Geedh adham khag aamish bhogee. gati deenhi jo jaachat jogee

He granted liberation to a lowly vulture who was a meat-eating bird, giving the salvation that even yogis seek.

सुनहु उमा ते लोग अभागी। हरि तजि होहिं बिषय अनुरागी।।

Sunahu umaa te log abhaagee. hari taji hohin bishay anuraagee

Listen Uma, those people are truly unfortunate who abandon Hari and become attached to worldly pleasures.

पुनि सीतहि खोजत द्वौ भाई। चले बिलोकत बन बहुताई।।

Puni seetahi khojat dvau bhaaee. chale bilokat ban bahutaaee

Then the two brothers continued searching for Sita, wandering through the vast expanse of the forest.

संकुल लता बिटप घन कानन। बहु खग मृग तहँ गज पंचानन।।

Sankul lataa bitap ghan kaanan. bahu khag mrig tahan gaj panchaanan

The dense forest was thick with creepers and trees, where many birds, deer, elephants and lions dwelt.

आवत पंथ कबंध निपाता। तेहिं सब कही साप कै बाता।।

Aavat panth kabandh nipaataa. tehin sab kahee saap kai baataa

On their path they encountered and slew Kabandh, who then told them the complete story of his curse.

दुरबासा मोहि दीन्ही सापा। प्रभु पद पेखि मिटा सो पापा।।

Durabaasaa mohi deenhee saapaa. prabhu pad pekhi mitaa so paapaa

Durvasa had given me this curse, but seeing the Lord's feet, that sin was erased.

सुनु गंधर्ब कहउँ मै तोही। मोहि न सोहाइ ब्रह्मकुल द्रोही।।

Sunu gandharb kahaun mai tohee. mohi na sohaai brahmakul drohee

Listen Gandharva, I tell you truly - I do not approve of enmity toward the Brahmin race.

सापत ताड़त परुष कहंता। बिप्र पूज्य अस गावहिं संता।।

Saapat taadat parush kahantaa. bipr poojy asa gaavahin santaa

Even when cursing, beating, or speaking harshly, a Brahmin is worthy of worship, as the saints sing.

पूजिअ बिप्र सील गुन हीना। सूद्र न गुन गन ग्यान प्रबीना।।

Poojia bipr seel gun heenaa. soodr na gun gan gyaan prabeenaa

A Brahmin should be worshipped even if devoid of character and virtue, but a Shudra should not be honored even if endowed with virtues and knowledge.

कहि निज धर्म ताहि समुझावा। निज पद प्रीति देखि मन भावा।।

Kahi nij dharm taahi samujhaavaa. nij pad preeti dekhi man bhaavaa

Having explained his own dharma to him, Rama was pleased to see the devotion in his heart.

रघुपति चरन कमल सिरु नाई। गयउ गगन आपनि गति पाई।।

Raghupati charan kamal siru naaee. gayau gagan aapani gati paaee

Bowing his head to Raghupati's lotus feet, he departed to heaven, attaining his destined state.

ताहि देइ गति राम उदारा। सबरी कें आश्रम पगु धारा।।

Taahi dei gati raam udaaraa. sabaree ken aashram pagu dhaaraa

After granting him liberation, the generous Rama proceeded to Shabari's ashram.

सबरी देखि राम गृहँ आए। मुनि के बचन समुझि जियँ भाए।।

Sabaree dekhi raam grihan aae. muni ke bachan samujhi jiyan bhaae

Seeing Rama arrive at her dwelling, Shabari was delighted, remembering the sage's words.

सरसिज लोचन बाहु बिसाला। जटा मुकुट सिर उर बनमाला।।

Sarasij lochan baahu bisaalaa. jataa mukut sir ura banamaalaa

With lotus eyes and mighty arms, matted hair crowned his head, and a garland of forest flowers adorned his chest.

स्याम गौर सुंदर दोउ भाई। सबरी परी चरन लपटाई।।

Syaam gaur sundar dou bhaaee. sabaree paree charan lapataaee

The two beautiful brothers, one dark and one fair, appeared before Shabari, who fell clasping their feet.

प्रेम मगन मुख बचन न आवा। पुनि पुनि पद सरोज सिर नावा।।

Prem magan mukh bachan na aavaa. puni puni pad saroj sir naavaa

Overwhelmed with love, she could not speak, and repeatedly bowed her head to their lotus feet.

सादर जल लै चरन पखारे। पुनि सुंदर आसन बैठारे।।

Saadar jal lai charan pakhaare. puni sundar aasan baithaare

With reverence she brought water and washed their feet, then seated them on beautiful seats.

पानि जोरि आगें भइ ठाढ़ी। प्रभुहि बिलोकि प्रीति अति बाढ़ी।।

Paani jori aagen bhai thaadhee. prabhuhi biloki preeti ati baadhee

She stood before Him with folded hands, and upon beholding the Lord, her love increased greatly.

केहि बिधि अस्तुति करौ तुम्हारी। अधम जाति मैं जड़मति भारी।।

Kehi bidhi astuti karau tumhaaree. adham jaati main jadamati bhaaree

How can I praise You properly? I am of lowly birth and possess heavy ignorance.

अधम ते अधम अधम अति नारी। तिन्ह महँ मैं मतिमंद अघारी।।

Adham te adham adham ati naaree. tinh mahan main matimand aghaaree

Lower than the low, most inferior are women, and among them I am the most foolish and sinful.

कह रघुपति सुनु भामिनि बाता। मानउँ एक भगति कर नाता।।

Kah raghupati sunu bhaamini baataa. maanaun eka bhagati kar naataa

The Lord of Raghus said, 'Listen, O woman, to My words. I recognize only the relationship of devotion.'

जाति पाँति कुल धर्म बड़ाई। धन बल परिजन गुन चतुराई।।

Jaati paanti kul dharm badaaee. dhan bal parijan gun chaturaaee

Caste, lineage, family, religious greatness, wealth, strength, relatives, virtues and cleverness—

भगति हीन नर सोहइ कैसा। बिनु जल बारिद देखिअ जैसा।।

Bhagati heen nar sohai kaisaa. binu jal baarid dekhia jaisaa

How can a person without devotion appear beautiful? Like a cloud without water.

नवधा भगति कहउँ तोहि पाहीं। सावधान सुनु धरु मन माहीं।।

Navadhaa bhagati kahaun tohi paaheen. saavadhaan sunu dharu man maaheen

I shall tell you the ninefold devotion. Listen carefully and hold it in your mind.

प्रथम भगति संतन्ह कर संगा। दूसरि रति मम कथा प्रसंगा।।

Pratham bhagati santanh kar sangaa. doosari rati mam kathaa prasangaa

First devotion is the company of saints; second is love for My stories and discourses.

मंत्र जाप मम दृढ़ बिस्वासा। पंचम भजन सो बेद प्रकासा।।

Mantr jaap mam dridh bisvaasaa. pancham bhajan so bed prakaasaa

The fifth form of devotion is chanting mantras with firm faith in Me, as revealed in the Vedas.

छठ दम सील बिरति बहु करमा। निरत निरंतर सज्जन धरमा।।

Chhath dam seel birati bahu karamaa. nirat nirantar sajjan dharamaa

The sixth is self-control, good conduct, detachment, and many virtuous deeds, constantly engaged in righteous dharma.

सातवँ सम मोहि मय जग देखा। मोतें संत अधिक करि लेखा।।

Saatavan sam mohi may jag dekhaa. moten sant adhik kari lekhaa

The seventh is seeing the world as pervaded by Me equally, regarding saints as superior to oneself.

आठवँ जथालाभ संतोषा। सपनेहुँ नहिं देखइ परदोषा।।

Aathavan jathaalaabh santoshaa. sapanehun nahin dekhai paradoshaa

The eighth is contentment with whatever comes naturally, never seeing others' faults even in dreams.

नवम सरल सब सन छलहीना। मम भरोस हियँ हरष न दीना।।

Navam saral sab san chhalaheenaa. mam bharos hiyan harash na deenaa

The ninth is being simple and guileless with all, having trust in Me without pride or dejection in the heart.

नव महुँ एकउ जिन्ह के होई। नारि पुरुष सचराचर कोई।।

Nav mahun ekau jinh ke hoee. naari purush sacharaachar koee

Anyone among all beings - woman, man, moving or unmoving - who possesses even one of these nine qualities,

सोइ अतिसय प्रिय भामिनि मोरे। सकल प्रकार भगति दृढ़ तोरें।।

Soi atisay priy bhaamini more. sakal prakaar bhagati dridh toren

That person is extremely dear to Me, O beautiful one, and your devotion is firm in all respects.

जोगि बृंद दुरलभ गति जोई। तो कहुँ आजु सुलभ भइ सोई।।

Jogi brind duralabh gati joee. to kahun aaju sulabh bhai soee

The supreme state that is difficult for even great yogis to attain has today become easily accessible to you.

मम दरसन फल परम अनूपा। जीव पाव निज सहज सरूपा।।

Mam darasan phal param anoopaa. jeev paav nij sahaj saroopaa

The supreme fruit of My darshan is that the soul attains its own natural divine form.

जनकसुता कइ सुधि भामिनी। जानहि कहु करिबरगामिनी।।

Janakasutaa kai sudhi bhaaminee. jaanahi kahu karibaragaaminee

O beautiful lady with the graceful gait of an elephant, do you know any news of Janaka's daughter?

पंपा सरहि जाहु रघुराई। तहँ होइहि सुग्रीव मिताई।।

Pampaa sarahi jaahu raghuraaee. tahan hoihi sugreev mitaaee

Go to Lake Pampa, O Raghurai, where you will make friendship with Sugriva.

सो सब कहिहि देव रघुबीरा। जानतहूँ पूछहु मतिधीरा।।

So sab kahihi dev raghubeeraa. jaanatahoon poochhahu matidheeraa

He will tell you everything, O Lord Raghubira, though you already know, you ask with steady wisdom.

बार बार प्रभु पद सिरु नाई। प्रेम सहित सब कथा सुनाई।।

Baar baar prabhu pad siru naaee. prem sahit sab kathaa sunaaee

Bowing her head repeatedly at the Lord's feet, she lovingly narrated the entire story.

चले राम त्यागा बन सोऊ। अतुलित बल नर केहरि दोऊ।।

Chale raam tyaagaa ban sooo. atulit bal nar kehari dooo

Rama departed, leaving that forest behind. Both brothers possessed incomparable strength like lions among men.

बिरही इव प्रभु करत बिषादा। कहत कथा अनेक संबादा।।

Birahee iva prabhu karat bishaadaa. kahat kathaa anek sambaadaa

Like one separated from his beloved, the Lord expressed sorrow, speaking many tales and conversations.

लछिमन देखु बिपिन कइ सोभा। देखत केहि कर मन नहिं छोभा।।

Lachhiman dekhu bipin kai sobhaa. dekhat kehi kar man nahin chhobhaa

Lakshmana, behold the beauty of this forest. Whose mind would not be stirred upon seeing it?

नारि सहित सब खग मृग बृंदा। मानहुँ मोरि करत हहिं निंदा।।

Naari sahit sab khag mrig brindaa. maanahun mori karat hahin nindaa

All the birds and deer with their mates seem to be reproaching me.

हमहि देखि मृग निकर पराहीं। मृगीं कहहिं तुम्ह कहँ भय नाहीं।।

Hamahi dekhi mrig nikar paraaheen. mrigeen kahahin tumh kahan bhay naaheen

Seeing me, the herds of deer flee away. The female deer say there is no fear for you.

तुम्ह आनंद करहु मृग जाए। कंचन मृग खोजन ए आए।।

Tumh aanand karahu mrig jaae. kanchan mrig khojan e aae

You may rejoice, the deer have gone. These have come searching for the golden deer.

संग लाइ करिनीं करि लेहीं। मानहुँ मोहि सिखावनु देहीं।।

Sang laai karineen kari leheen. maanahun mohi sikhaavanu deheen

The female elephants take their mates along, as if giving me instruction.

सास्त्र सुचिंतित पुनि पुनि देखिअ। भूप सुसेवित बस नहिं लेखिअ।।

Saastr suchintit puni puni dekhia. bhoop susevit bas nahin lekhia

The scriptures, though repeatedly studied and contemplated, cannot be controlled even by well-served kings.

राखिअ नारि जदपि उर माहीं। जुबती सास्त्र नृपति बस नाहीं।।

Raakhia naari jadapi ura maaheen. jubatee saastr nripati bas naaheen

Though a woman may be kept close to the heart, young women, scriptures, and kings are not under anyone's control.

देखहु तात बसंत सुहावा। प्रिया हीन मोहि भय उपजावा।।

Dekhahu taat basant suhaavaa. priyaa heen mohi bhay upajaavaa

Behold, dear brother, this beautiful spring season. Without my beloved, it fills me with dread.

बिटप बिसाल लता अरुझानी। बिबिध बितान दिए जनु तानी।।

Bitap bisaal lataa arujhaanee. bibidh bitaan die janu taanee

Vast trees with creepers entangled around them appeared like magnificent pavilions spread out everywhere.

कदलि ताल बर धुजा पताका। दैखि न मोह धीर मन जाका।।

Kadali taal bar dhujaa pataakaa. daikhi na moh dheer man jaakaa

Banana and palm trees stood like excellent flags and banners, whose sight could enchant even the steadiest mind.

बिबिध भाँति फूले तरु नाना। जनु बानैत बने बहु बाना।।

Bibidh bhaanti phoole taru naanaa. janu baanait bane bahu baanaa

Various trees bloomed with diverse flowers, as if skilled archers had prepared many different arrows.

कहुँ कहुँ सुन्दर बिटप सुहाए। जनु भट बिलग बिलग होइ छाए।।

Kahun kahun sundar bitap suhaae. janu bhat bilag bilag hoi chhaae

Here and there beautiful trees stood gracefully, like individual warriors positioned separately in formation.

कूजत पिक मानहुँ गज माते। ढेक महोख ऊँट बिसराते।।

Koojat pik maanahun gaj maate. dhek mahokh oont bisaraate

Cuckoos cooed like intoxicated elephants, while frogs and peacocks seemed like camels in the distance.

मोर चकोर कीर बर बाजी। पारावत मराल सब ताजी।।

Mor chakor keer bar baajee. paaraavat maraal sab taajee

Peacocks, partridges, and excellent parrots were like fine horses, while doves and swans were like swift steeds.

तीतिर लावक पदचर जूथा। बरनि न जाइ मनोज बरुथा।।

Teetir laavak padachar joothaa. barani na jaai manoj baruthaa

Partridges, quails and flocks of foot-soldiers could not be described - they were like Cupid's army formations.

रथ गिरि सिला दुंदुभी झरना। चातक बंदी गुन गन बरना।।

Rath giri silaa dundubhee jharanaa. chaatak bandee gun gan baranaa

Mountain rocks were like chariots, waterfalls like war drums, and chatak birds like bards singing praises.

मधुकर मुखर भेरि सहनाई। त्रिबिध बयारि बसीठीं आई।।

Madhukar mukhar bheri sahanaaee. tribidh bayaari baseetheen aaee

Buzzing bees were like trumpets and horns, while the three types of breezes came like flute players.

चतुरंगिनी सेन सँग लीन्हें। बिचरत सबहि चुनौती दीन्हें।।

Chaturanginee sen sang leenhen. bicharat sabahi chunautee deenhen

Taking along this four-fold army, Cupid wandered about challenging everyone to battle.

लछिमन देखत काम अनीका। रहहिं धीर तिन्ह कै जग लीका।।

Lachhiman dekhat kaam aneekaa. rahahin dheer tinh kai jag leekaa

Lakshmana beheld Cupid's forces - only those remain steady in the world who are his match.

एहि कें एक परम बल नारी। तेहि तें उबर सुभट सोइ भारी।।

Ehi ken eka param bal naaree. tehi ten ubar subhat soi bhaaree

This one has woman as his supreme weapon - only that great warrior can escape who overcomes her.

गुनातीत सचराचर स्वामी। राम उमा सब अंतरजामी।।

Gunaateet sacharaachar svaamee. raam umaa sab antarajaamee

Rama is beyond all qualities, the master of all moving and non-moving beings, and Uma, He is the knower of all hearts.

कामिन्ह कै दीनता देखाई। धीरन्ह कें मन बिरति दृढ़ाई।।

Kaaminh kai deenataa dekhaaee. dheeranh ken man birati dridhaaee

He shows humility to the lustful and strengthens detachment in the hearts of the steadfast.

क्रोध मनोज लोभ मद माया। छूटहिं सकल राम कीं दाया।।

Krodh manoj lobh mad maayaa. chhootahin sakal raam keen daayaa

Anger, desire, greed, pride and delusion - all these leave through Rama's grace.

सो नर इंद्रजाल नहिं भूला। जा पर होइ सो नट अनुकूला।।

So nar indrajaal nahin bhoolaa. jaa par hoi so nat anukoolaa

That person is not deceived by worldly illusions upon whom that divine actor shows His favor.

उमा कहउँ मैं अनुभव अपना। सत हरि भजनु जगत सब सपना।।

Umaa kahaun main anubhav apanaa. sat hari bhajanu jagat sab sapanaa

Uma, I speak from my own experience - true is the worship of Hari, all the world is but a dream.

पुनि प्रभु गए सरोबर तीरा। पंपा नाम सुभग गंभीरा।।

Puni prabhu gae sarobar teeraa. pampaa naam subhag gambheeraa

Then the Lord went to the shore of a lake called Pampa, which was beautiful and deep.

संत हृदय जस निर्मल बारी। बाँधे घाट मनोहर चारी।।

Sant hriday jas nirmal baaree. baandhe ghaat manohar chaaree

Its water was pure like a saint's heart, with charming ghats built on all four sides.

जहँ तहँ पिअहिं बिबिध मृग नीरा। जनु उदार गृह जाचक भीरा।।

Jahan tahan piahin bibidh mrig neeraa. janu udaar grih jaachak bheeraa

Here and there various deer drank water, like crowds of supplicants at a generous household.

बिकसे सरसिज नाना रंगा। मधुर मुखर गुंजत बहु भृंगा।।

Bikase sarasij naanaa rangaa. madhur mukhar gunjat bahu bhringaa

Lotuses of many colors bloomed in the water, while numerous bees hummed sweetly around them.

बोलत जलकुक्कुट कलहंसा। प्रभु बिलोकि जनु करत प्रसंसा।।

Bolat jalakukkut kalahansaa. prabhu biloki janu karat prasansaa

Water-fowl and swans called out melodiously, as if praising the Lord upon seeing Him.

चक्रवाक बक खग समुदाई। देखत बनइ बरनि नहिं जाई।।

Chakravaak bak khag samudaaee. dekhat banai barani nahin jaaee

Flocks of chakravak birds, herons and other birds created a sight so beautiful it cannot be described.

सुन्दर खग गन गिरा सुहाई। जात पथिक जनु लेत बोलाई।।

Sundar khag gan giraa suhaaee. jaat pathik janu let bolaaee

The beautiful birds sang so sweetly that they seemed to be calling out to passing travelers.

ताल समीप मुनिन्ह गृह छाए। चहु दिसि कानन बिटप सुहाए।।

Taal sameep muninh grih chhaae. chahu disi kaanan bitap suhaae

Near the lake were the hermitages of sages, surrounded on all sides by beautiful forest trees.

चंपक बकुल कदंब तमाला। पाटल पनस परास रसाला।।

Champak bakul kadamb tamaalaa. paatal panas paraas rasaalaa

There were champak, bakul, kadamba, tamala, coral trees, jackfruit, and mango trees.

नव पल्लव कुसुमित तरु नाना। चंचरीक पटली कर गाना।।

Nav pallav kusumit taru naanaa. chanchareek patalee kar gaanaa

Various trees bore new leaves and flowers, while birds like bee-eaters and orioles sang melodiously.

सीतल मंद सुगंध सुभाऊ। संतत बहइ मनोहर बाऊ।।

Seetal mand sugandh subhaaoo. santat bahai manohar baaoo

A cool, gentle, fragrant breeze of pleasant nature blew continuously.

कुहू कुहू कोकिल धुनि करहीं। सुनि रव सरस ध्यान मुनि टरहीं।।

Kuhoo kuhoo kokil dhuni karaheen. suni rav saras dhyaan muni taraheen

Cuckoos sang 'kuhu kuhu' so sweetly that hearing their melodious voice, even sages were distracted from meditation.

देखि राम अति रुचिर तलावा। मज्जनु कीन्ह परम सुख पावा।।

Dekhi raam ati ruchir talaavaa. majjanu keenh param sukh paavaa

Seeing the most beautiful lake, Rama bathed in it and experienced supreme joy.

देखी सुंदर तरुबर छाया। बैठे अनुज सहित रघुराया।।

Dekhee sundar tarubar chhaayaa. baithe anuj sahit raghuraayaa

Seeing the lovely shade of the trees, Raghurai sat there with his younger brother.

तहँ पुनि सकल देव मुनि आए। अस्तुति करि निज धाम सिधाए।।

Tahan puni sakal dev muni aae. astuti kari nij dhaam sidhaae

There all the gods and sages came, offered their praise, and departed to their respective abodes.

बैठे परम प्रसन्न कृपाला। कहत अनुज सन कथा रसाला।।

Baithe param prasann kripaalaa. kahat anuj san kathaa rasaalaa

The supremely gracious Lord sat there in great joy, narrating delightful stories to his younger brother.

बिरहवंत भगवंतहि देखी। नारद मन भा सोच बिसेषी।।

Birahavant bhagavantahi dekhee. naarad man bhaa soch biseshee

Seeing the Lord of the universe in separation from Sita, Narada felt great concern in his heart.

मोर साप करि अंगीकारा। सहत राम नाना दुख भारा।।

Mor saap kari angeekaaraa. sahat raam naanaa dukh bhaaraa

Having accepted my curse, Rama is enduring various heavy sorrows.

ऐसे प्रभुहि बिलोकउँ जाई। पुनि न बनिहि अस अवसरु आई।।

Aise prabhuhi bilokaun jaaee. puni na banihi asa avasaru aaee

Let me go and behold such a Lord; such an opportunity will not come again.

यह बिचारि नारद कर बीना। गए जहाँ प्रभु सुख आसीना।।

Yah bichaari naarad kar beenaa. gae jahaan prabhu sukh aaseenaa

Thinking thus, Narada took his veena and went where the Lord was seated in comfort.

गावत राम चरित मृदु बानी। प्रेम सहित बहु भाँति बखानी।।

Gaavat raam charit mridu baanee. prem sahit bahu bhaanti bakhaanee

Singing Rama's story in sweet voice, he narrated it with love in many ways.

करत दंडवत लिए उठाई। राखे बहुत बार उर लाई।।

Karat dandavat lie uthaaee. raakhe bahut baar ura laaee

As Narada bowed down, Rama lifted him up and embraced him to his heart for a long time.

स्वागत पूँछि निकट बैठारे। लछिमन सादर चरन पखारे।।

Svaagat poonchhi nikat baithaare. lachhiman saadar charan pakhaare

After welcoming him and inquiring about his welfare, Rama seated him nearby while Lakshmana respectfully washed his feet.

सुनहु उदार सहज रघुनायक। सुंदर अगम सुगम बर दायक।।

Sunahu udaar sahaj raghunaayak. sundar agam sugam bar daayak

Listen, O noble and naturally gracious Lord of the Raghus, beautiful one who grants boons that are both difficult to obtain and easily accessible.

देहु एक बर मागउँ स्वामी। जद्यपि जानत अंतरजामी।।

Dehu eka bar maagaun svaamee. jadyapi jaanat antarajaamee

Grant me one boon that I ask, O Master, though You already know as the knower of all hearts.

जानहु मुनि तुम्ह मोर सुभाऊ। जन सन कबहुँ कि करउँ दुराऊ।।

Jaanahu muni tumh mor subhaaoo. jan san kabahun ki karaun duraaoo

O sage, you know my nature well - when would I ever hide anything from my devotees?

कवन बस्तु असि प्रिय मोहि लागी। जो मुनिबर न सकहु तुम्ह मागी।।

Kavan bastu asi priy mohi laagee. jo munibar na sakahu tumh maagee

What thing is so dear to me that you, O best of sages, could not ask for it?

जन कहुँ कछु अदेय नहिं मोरें। अस बिस्वास तजहु जनि भोरें।।

Jan kahun kachhu adey nahin moren. asa bisvaas tajahu jani bhoren

Nothing is ungiveable by me to my devotees - do not abandon this firm belief, even in error.

तब नारद बोले हरषाई । अस बर मागउँ करउँ ढिठाई।।

Tab naarad bole harashaaee . asa bar maagaun karaun dhithaaee

Then Narada spoke with joy, saying 'I make bold to ask for such a boon.'

जद्यपि प्रभु के नाम अनेका। श्रुति कह अधिक एक तें एका।।

Jadyapi prabhu ke naam anekaa. shruti kah adhik eka ten ekaa

Though the Lord has countless names, and the Vedas say each one surpasses the other,

राम सकल नामन्ह ते अधिका। होउ नाथ अघ खग गन बधिका।।

Raam sakal naamanh te adhikaa. hou naath agha khag gan badhikaa

May 'Rama' be superior to all other names, O Lord, and be the destroyer of sins for flocks of devotees.

अति प्रसन्न रघुनाथहि जानी। पुनि नारद बोले मृदु बानी।।

Ati prasann raghunaathahi jaanee. puni naarad bole mridu baanee

Seeing Raghunath extremely pleased, Narada again spoke in gentle words.

राम जबहिं प्रेरेउ निज माया। मोहेहु मोहि सुनहु रघुराया।।

Raam jabahin prereu nij maayaa. mohehu mohi sunahu raghuraayaa

O Raghuraya, when Rama sent forth His maya, it deluded even me - please listen.

तब बिबाह मैं चाहउँ कीन्हा। प्रभु केहि कारन करै न दीन्हा।।

Tab bibaah main chaahaun keenhaa. prabhu kehi kaaran karai na deenhaa

Then I desired to marry, but why did the Lord not grant this to me?

सुनु मुनि तोहि कहउँ सहरोसा। भजहिं जे मोहि तजि सकल भरोसा।।

Sunu muni tohi kahaun saharosaa. bhajahin je mohi taji sakal bharosaa

Listen, O sage, I tell you with emphasis - those who worship Me abandoning all other support,

करउँ सदा तिन्ह कै रखवारी। जिमि बालक राखइ महतारी।।

Karaun sadaa tinh kai rakhavaaree. jimi baalak raakhai mahataaree

I always protect them, just as a mother protects her child.

गह सिसु बच्छ अनल अहि धाई। तहँ राखइ जननी अरगाई।।

Gah sisu bachchh anal ahi dhaaee. tahan raakhai jananee aragaaee

When a child runs toward fire or serpent, the mother protects him by holding him back.

प्रौढ़ भएँ तेहि सुत पर माता। प्रीति करइ नहिं पाछिलि बाता।।

Praudh bhaen tehi sut par maataa. preeti karai nahin paachhili baataa

When the son becomes mature, the mother does not show the same protective love as before.

मोरे प्रौढ़ तनय सम ग्यानी। बालक सुत सम दास अमानी।।

More praudh tanay sam gyaanee. baalak sut sam daas amaanee

My wise devotees are like mature sons, while the egoless servants are like young children.

जनहि मोर बल निज बल ताही। दुहु कहँ काम क्रोध रिपु आही।।

Janahi mor bal nij bal taahee. duhu kahan kaam krodh ripu aahee

One relies on My strength, the other on his own strength - both face the enemies of lust and anger.

यह बिचारि पंडित मोहि भजहीं। पाएहुँ ग्यान भगति नहिं तजहीं।।

Yah bichaari pandit mohi bhajaheen. paaehun gyaan bhagati nahin tajaheen

Considering this, the wise worship Me - even gaining knowledge, they do not abandon devotion.

सुनि मुनि कह पुरान श्रुति संता। मोह बिपिन कहुँ नारि बसंता।।

Suni muni kah puraan shruti santaa. moh bipin kahun naari basantaa

Hearing this, the sage spoke from the Puranas and Vedas, saying that woman is like spring to the forest of delusion.

जप तप नेम जलाश्रय झारी। होइ ग्रीषम सोषइ सब नारी।।

Jap tap nem jalaashray jhaaree. hoi greesham soshai sab naaree

Austerities, penances, vows and sacred pools are like streams that woman as summer dries up completely.

काम क्रोध मद मत्सर भेका। इन्हहि हरषप्रद बरषा एका।।

Kaam krodh mad matsar bhekaa. inhahi harashaprad barashaa ekaa

Lust, anger, pride and jealousy are like frogs that find joy only in the one rain of woman.

दुर्बासना कुमुद समुदाई। तिन्ह कहँ सरद सदा सुखदाई।।

Durbaasanaa kumud samudaaee. tinh kahan sarad sadaa sukhadaaee

Evil desires are like clusters of night-blooming lotuses for whom autumn is always pleasant.

धर्म सकल सरसीरुह बृंदा। होइ हिम तिन्हहि दहइ सुख मंदा।।

Dharm sakal saraseeruh brindaa. hoi him tinhahi dahai sukh mandaa

All virtues are like groups of day-blooming lotuses that winter destroys, bringing them sorrow.

पुनि ममता जवास बहुताई। पलुहइ नारि सिसिर रितु पाई।।

Puni mamataa javaas bahutaaee. paluhai naari sisir ritu paaee

Then attachment grows abundantly like grass that flourishes upon receiving the winter season.

पाप उलूक निकर सुखकारी। नारि निबिड़ रजनी अँधिआरी।।

Paap ulook nikar sukhakaaree. naari nibid rajanee andhiaaree

Sins are like owls that find happiness in woman, who is like the dense darkness of night.

बुधि बल सील सत्य सब मीना। बनसी सम त्रिय कहहिं प्रबीना।।

Budhi bal seel saty sab meenaa. banasee sam triy kahahin prabeenaa

Wisdom, strength, virtue and truth are all like fish that the wise say woman destroys like a fisherwoman.

सुनि रघुपति के बचन सुहाए। मुनि तन पुलक नयन भरि आए।।

Suni raghupati ke bachan suhaae. muni tan pulak nayan bhari aae

Hearing the sweet words of Raghupati, the sage's body thrilled with joy and his eyes filled with tears.

कहहु कवन प्रभु कै असि रीती। सेवक पर ममता अरु प्रीती।।

Kahahu kavan prabhu kai asi reetee. sevak par mamataa aru preetee

Tell me, O Lord, what is this nature of yours - such tender love and affection for your devotees?

जे न भजहिं अस प्रभु भ्रम त्यागी। ग्यान रंक नर मंद अभागी।।

Je na bhajahin asa prabhu bhram tyaagee. gyaan rank nar mand abhaagee

Those who do not worship such a Lord, abandoning delusion, are ignorant, poor in wisdom, dull and unfortunate.

पुनि सादर बोले मुनि नारद। सुनहु राम बिग्यान बिसारद।।

Puni saadar bole muni naarad. sunahu raam bigyaan bisaarad

Then sage Narada spoke respectfully: Listen, O Rama, master of all knowledge.

संतन्ह के लच्छन रघुबीरा। कहहु नाथ भव भंजन भीरा।।

Santanh ke lachchhan raghubeeraa. kahahu naath bhav bhanjan bheeraa

O Raghubira, destroyer of worldly fears, please tell the characteristics of saints, O Lord.

सुनु मुनि संतन्ह के गुन कहऊँ। जिन्ह ते मैं उन्ह कें बस रहऊँ।।

Sunu muni santanh ke gun kahaoon. jinh te main unh ken bas rahaoon

Listen, sage, I shall tell the qualities of saints, by which I remain under their control.

षट बिकार जित अनघ अकामा। अचल अकिंचन सुचि सुखधामा।।

Shat bikaar jit anagh akaamaa. achal akinchan suchi sukhadhaamaa

They have conquered the six vices, are sinless and desireless, steadfast, possessionless, pure and abodes of bliss.

अमितबोध अनीह मितभोगी। सत्यसार कबि कोबिद जोगी।।

Amitabodh aneeh mitabhogee. satyasaar kabi kobid jogee

They possess boundless wisdom, are without desires, moderate in enjoyment, truthful in essence, learned poets and wise yogis.

सावधान मानद मदहीना। धीर धर्म गति परम प्रबीना।।

Saavadhaan maanad madaheenaa. dheer dharm gati param prabeenaa

They are vigilant, respectful to others, free from pride, patient, skilled in the supreme path of righteousness.