Shloka 3.67.8
जटायुवृत्तान्तः — Jatāyu’s Testimony and Rāma’s Grief
इत्युक्तस्तद्वनं सर्वं विचचार सलक्ष्मणः।।।।क्रुद्धो रामश्शरं घोरं सन्धाय धनुषि क्षुरम्।
ity evam uktvā bahuśo rāghavaḥ saha-lakṣmaṇaḥ | jaṭāyuṣaṁ ca pasparśa pitṛ-snehaṁ vidarśayan ||
Having spoken thus again and again, Rāghava, with Lakṣmaṇa beside him, gently touched Jaṭāyu, openly showing him the affection one bears a father.
Thus advised, the angry Rama fixed a sharp arrow to his bow and roamed in the forest accompanied by Lakshmana.
Dharma includes honoring protectors and elders: Rāma responds to Jaṭāyu’s sacrifice with reverence and tenderness, not mere utility.
After learning from the wounded Jaṭāyu, Rāma repeatedly speaks to him and consoles him through affectionate touch.
Kṛtajñatā (gratitude) and karuṇā (compassion)—Rāma treats Jaṭāyu like a father for his dharmic intervention.