Uttar Kaanda
214 - Kakabhusundi approaches the sage Lomasa, who first pronounces a curse on him but later on showers his grace and bestows a boon on him
Chaupais
Description
Listen, O lord of the winged creatures : the sage was in no way at fault; it is Sri Rama (the Ornament of Raghu's race) who prompts all hearts. The All-merciful put my devotion to the test by clouding the sage's reason. When He came to know that I was His devoted servant in thought, word and deed, the Lord disabused the saint again. The sage was amazed at my extraordinary forbearance and the unique faith in Sri Rama's feet and, repenting again and again politely called me back. He consoled me in everyway and then gladly imparted to me the formula sacred to Sri Rama. The gracious sage also taught me how to meditate on Sri Rama as a child. The form which I was thus taught to fix my thoughts upon, charming and delightful as it was, pleased me much; I have already told you the same. The sage detained me in his hermitage for sometime and then recited the "Ramacaritamanasa" (the Manasa lake of Sri Rama's exploits). Having reverently repeated the story the sage then addressed me in the following gracious words : "I discovered this secret and charming lake of Sri Rama's exploits, dear son, by the grace of Lord Sambhu. I have come to know that you are a beloved devotee of Sri Rama; hence I recited it to you in full. Never repeat it, dear child, in the presence of those whose heart is void of devotion to Sri Rama." The sage admonished me in various ways and I lovingly bowed my head at his feet. The great sage touched my head with his lotus palm and gladly gave me his blessing : "Henceforth, by my grace, devotion to Sri Rama shall ever abide in your heart and know no interruption.