Adhyaya 68

The chapter concludes the Rāma-Aśvamedha narrative: though divine presence is abundant, the rite is brought to proper closure through final oblations, gifts to brāhmaṇas, and the avabhṛtha bath in the Sarayū. Guided by Vasiṣṭha, the concluding acts and public benediction are performed; Rāma, with Sītā, sages, kings, and celebrants, bathes and is acclaimed amid festival splendor. It then turns to phalaśruti: hearing or reciting the auspicious Rāma-kathā destroys even grievous sins (especially brahma-hatyā), bestows prosperity—sons, wealth, health, and release—and leads to the supreme abode. Prescribed dāna and honoring of the guru—cows, garments, food, and gifting golden images of Rāma and Sītā—seal and complete the chapter’s economy of merit.