राम
Contemplative Interlude

Lakshmi Walks through Mithila in a Woman's Form

Bala Kanda, Doha 289

Doha 289 · Movement 2 of 2

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The secret of Mithila's abundance is stated with devotional intimacy. Lakshmi herself dwells in the city, veiled in the beautiful form of a woman.

Prosperity is not merely stored in treasuries or displayed upon wedding pillars. It walks through courtyards, participates in household life, and hides divine radiance within familiar human grace.

How can Saraswati describe such a city, or Shesha support its praise through his many mouths? Both hesitate before beginning. The splendour exceeds language because its deepest source is concealed. Those who see only jewels witness wealth; those who recognize the indwelling goddess behold Mithila as Lakshmi's own embodied play, prepared to receive the Lord of her heart.

Lakshmi moves veiled among Mithila's women, and even divine speech hesitates before the city she adorns.

Read the passage from the Manas

बसइ नगर जेहि लच्छ करि कपट नारि बर बेषु।। तेहि पुर कै सोभा कहत सकुचहिं सारद सेषु।।289।।

In this city dwells Lakshmi herself, veiled in the lovely form of a woman. Of the splendor of that city, even Saraswati and Shesha hesitate to speak.