1.28: Viswamithra's Lessons

As I, Rama, the noble descendant of the Kakustha clan, walked alongside the sage Viswamithra, a sense of purification filled my being. With a radiant smile, I turned to the sage and spoke with genuine curiosity.

"Sir, I am grateful for the arrows you have bestowed upon me. With these divine weapons, it would be difficult for even the gods to challenge us. However, I also seek the knowledge of wielding the power to exterminate," I expressed my desire.

Viswamithra, the great sage, listened attentively to my words and proceeded to impart the knowledge I sought. He shared the secrets of extermination with me, knowing my heart was resolute and pure.

"Rama, receive from me the shining armament sons of Krishaasva," Viswamithra declared. He listed their names one by one, their very utterance carrying an air of power and mystique. "Satyavanta, Satya Keerti, Dhristha, Rabhasa, Pratihaaratara, Paraan Mukha, Avaan Mukha, Lakshya, Alakshya, Dhridhanaabha, Sunaabha, Dasha Aksha, Shata Vaktra, Dasha Sheersha, Shatodara, Padmanaabha, Mahaanaabha, Dundunaabha, Svanaabha, Jyotisha, Shakuna, Nairaashya, Vimala, Yungandhara, Vinidra, Daitya, Pramadhana, Suchibaahu, Mahaabaahu, Nishkali, Virucha, Saarchirmaali, Dhritimaali, Vrittiman, Ruchira, Pitrya, Saumansa, and the two Vidhoota and Makara. Also, Karaveerakara, Dhana, Dhaanya, Kaamaroopa, Kaamaruchira, Moha, Aavarana, Jrimbhaka, Sarvanaabha, and Varana."

As I received each name, my heart filled with joy. These arrows, possessing lustrous bodies and enchanting forms, held the promise of protection and a pleasant life. Some resembled fire, others smoke, and a few even mirrored the radiant sun and moon. With folded hands or palms held out in readiness, they spoke to me in a melodious voice.

"O Rama, O tiger among men, we are here to serve you. Command us, and we shall fulfill your every order," they pledged their loyalty.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, I replied, "Remain stored within my memory until the time of need, and come to my aid when called upon."

With that agreement made, the arrows encircled me before departing, their presence fading away like a fleeting dream.

Having received the knowledge and the divine armament, I turned to Viswamithra with a new query, my words dripping with sweetness and humility.

"Sage, I have noticed a cloud-like formation above the mountain, adorned with shimmering trees and surrounded by an array of majestic animals. The air is filled with the melodies of countless beautiful birds. Pray, tell me about this wondrous sight," I inquired.

Viswamithra, his wisdom shining brightly, replied, "O noble Rama, through the serene beauty of that place, you have rightly discerned that we have emerged from the dreadful forest of Thataka. Allow me to reveal the hermitage we are now approaching, filled with tranquility and grace."

My thirst for knowledge remained unquenched as I posed another question, my voice gentle and eager.

"Sage, O revered one, where do those wicked individuals who harm the Brahmins dwell? From which direction do they emerge to disrupt sacred rituals? Where must I provide protection to ensure the successful completion of the Yagna? And which Rakshasas must I vanquish? I yearn to hear your guidance on these matters," I expressed my earnest desire.