Shloka 2.55.18
चित्रकूटमार्गोपदेशः — Instructions for the Chitrakuta Route and the Yamuna Crossing
आरोप्य प्रथमं सीतां सङ्घाटं परिगृह्य तौ।तत प्रतेरतुर्यत्तौ वीरौ दशरथात्मजौ।।।।
teṣāṃ caiva svastyayanaṃ maharṣiḥ sa cakāra ha | prasthitāṃś caiva tān prekṣya pitā putrān ivānvagāt ||
The great sage then pronounced blessings for their safe passage; and seeing them set out, he too followed after them—like a father following his own sons.
Those valiant sons of Dasaratha held the float (firmly) to help Sita step on to it. Then they crossed the river carefully.
Dharma is expressed as protective care and auspicious guardianship: the sage does not merely instruct from afar but blesses and accompanies them, embodying responsible guidance.
As Rāma’s party sets out, a great sage offers a ritual benediction for their safe passage and follows them with paternal concern.
Compassionate responsibility (anugraha) and guardianship—care that acts, not only advises.