The Mind Enters Rama's Suvela Tableau as the Moon Rises
Lanka Kanda, Doha 12
Doha 12 · Movement 2 of 2
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Rama remains seated upon the summit as the embodiment of compassion, beauty, and every virtue. Sugriva, Hanuman, Angada, Vibhishana, and Lakshmana hold their places around him, each relationship becoming part of the form offered to meditation.
Blessed are those who remain absorbed in this vision. The battlefield has not yet opened, but contemplation already gathers the whole camp into stillness around the Lord's body.
Rama looks toward the east. From beyond the mountain line the moon begins to rise, fearless as a lion among deer. He calls the companions to behold it. The sacred tableau opens into conversation, and the warriors who will soon face Lanka turn together toward a pale light climbing through the night.
Before looking south toward Ravana, Rama invites every warrior to look east and share the moon.
Read the passage from the Manas
एहि बिधि कृपा रूप गुन धाम रामु आसीन। धन्य ते नर एहिं ध्यान जे रहत सदा लयलीन।।11(क)।। पूरब दिसा बिलोकि प्रभु देखा उदित मंयक। कहत सबहि देखहु ससिहि मृगपति सरिस असंक।।11(ख)।।
Thus seated is Rama, the abode of compassion, beauty, and virtue. Blessed are those who remain always absorbed in this meditation. Looking to the east, the Lord saw the moon rising. He said to all: 'Behold the moon, fearless as a lion among deer.'