Lanka Kaanda
184 - Ravana's swoon; destruction of his sacrificial performance; combat between Sri Rama and Ravana
Chaupais
Description
Hanuman sank on his knees but did not fall to the ground. Recovering himself, he rose in exceeding wrath and struck Ravana a blow with his fist; the demon fell like a mountain struck by lightning. When the spell of his swoon was over and consciousness returned to him, he began to admire the monkey's enormous strength. "Shame on my valour and shame on myself, if you are still alive, you enemy of gods!" So saying, Hanuman carried Laksmana off to Sri Rama : the ten-headed monster was amazed at this sight. Said the Hero of Raghu's line, "Bear in mind, brother, that you are the devourer of Death and the saviour of the gods." Immediately, on hearing these words the gracious prince (Laksmana) arose and sat up, while the fierce lance vanished into the heavens. Taking his bow and arrows again he darted and came post-haste in front of the enemy.