When Sugriva's Heart Gives Way, Rama's Arrow Enters Vali's Heart
Kishkindha Kanda, Doha 8
Doha 8 · Movement 2 of 2
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Sugriva fights with every resource he possesses. Strength surges through him from Rama's touch, and many devices answer Vali's assault. Yet the brother before him remains terrible, seasoned by power and battle.
At last Sugriva's heart loses its hold. Fear enters where confidence had stood, and the combat reaches the moment beyond which his own effort cannot carry him.
From the shelter of the trees, Rama draws the bow. The promise made beside the fire now takes the form of a shaft stretched upon the string. He releases it into the center of Vali's heart. One arrow crosses the field at the precise instant the friend's strength is exhausted.
Where Sugriva's courage ends, Rama's promised arrow completes the battle.
Read the passage from the Manas
बहु छल बल सुग्रीव कर हियँ हारा भय मानि। मारा बालि राम तब हृदय माझ सर तानि।।8।।
Sugriva tried many tricks and displayed great strength, but at last his heart gave way and fear overcame him. Then Rama drew his bow and drove the arrow straight into Bali's heart.