Ram Speaks Lakshmana's Unspoken Wish
Bala Kanda, Chaupai 215
Doha 218 · Movement 1 of 2
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Lakshmana longs to see Janakpur, but reverence keeps him silent before Vishwamitra. He hides the wish behind inward smiles, unwilling to ask for his own pleasure while serving guru and elder brother.
Ram understands the younger brother's mind and rejoices in his devotee's modest love. With humility, he asks the sage for permission and gives voice to what Lakshmana cannot: he wishes to see the city, and they will return immediately.
Vishwamitra answers with affection. How could Ram fail to uphold dharma? He is guardian of its bridge and giver of happiness to love overwhelmed devotees. The simple city walk becomes an act of protecting another's shy desire.
Before Lakshmana speaks, Ram carries his hidden wish gently to the guru.
Read the passage from the Manas
लखन हृदयँ लालसा बिसेषी। जाइ जनकपुर आइअ देखी।। प्रभु भय बहुरि मुनिहि सकुचाहीं। प्रगट न कहहिं मनहिं मुसुकाहीं।। राम अनुज मन की गति जानी। भगत बछलता हिंयँ हुलसानी।। परम बिनीत सकुचि मुसुकाई। बोले गुर अनुसासन पाई।। नाथ लखनु पुरु देखन चहहीं। प्रभु सकोच डर प्रगट न कहहीं।। जौं राउर आयसु मैं पावौं। नगर देखाइ तुरत लै आवौ।। सुनि मुनीसु कह बचन सप्रीती। कस न राम तुम्ह राखहु नीती।। धरम सेतु पालक तुम्ह ताता। प्रेम बिबस सेवक सुखदाता।।
In Lakshmana's heart there arose a special longing: "Let us go and see the splendor of Janakpur!" He held deep reverence for his Lord, yet felt no great hesitation in voicing his wish.