The Jewel of Raghu Sleeps on Leaves
Ayodhya Kanda, Doha 89
Doha 89 · Movement 2 of 2
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The forest meal is plain: roots lifted from the earth, tubers, and gathered fruit. Sita, Ram, Lakshmana, and Sumantra share what has been set before them beneath the shinsupa tree. Night draws closer, erasing the last colors from the riverbank.
Then the Jewel of Raghu's line lies down upon the bed of grass and leaves. The title carries the brilliance of a dynasty, yet the body that bears it accepts the ground without complaint. Royal dignity has not vanished. It has become visible in freedom from every royal necessity.
Lakshmana remains at his brother's feet and presses them with loving hands. Born a prince, he chooses the glad labor of a servant while Ram passes into sleep. Around them are dark trees, still water, and an unfamiliar road. At the center is a devotion so complete that the wilderness feels protected by it.
Beneath a forest canopy, the crown of the night is Lakshmana's quiet service at his sleeping brother's feet.
Read the passage from the Manas
सिय सुमंत्र भ्राता सहित कंद मूल फल खाइ। सयन कीन्ह रघुबंसमनि पाय पलोटत भाइ।।89।।
With Sita, Sumantra, and his brother, Rama ate roots, tubers, and fruits. Then the Jewel of the Raghu line lay down to sleep, while his brother lovingly pressed his feet.