Shloka 4.12.19
द्वादशः सर्गः — Rama’s Proof of Power, the First Duel, and the Identification Mark (Kishkindha Kanda, Sarga 12)
ततो रामो धनुष्पाणिस्तावुभौ समुदीक्ष्यतु।अन्योन्यसदृशौ वीरावुभौ देवाविवाश्विनौ4.12.19।।
sa gṛhītvā dhanur ghoraṃ śaram ekaṃ ca mānadaḥ | sālam uddiśya cikṣepa jyāsvanaiḥ pūrayan diśaḥ || 4.12.2 ||
Rāma—the humbler of hostile pride—took up his fearsome bow and a single arrow; aiming at the śāla tree, he released it, and the twang of the bowstring filled the quarters.
Bow in hand, Rama watched both the heroes who resembled the twin Aswini Kumaras.
Dharma here is disciplined power: strength is displayed with control and purpose, as Rāma demonstrates capability before acting in a morally weighty conflict.
Rāma demonstrates his archery by shooting at a śāla tree—an act connected to establishing confidence and readiness in the unfolding Vāli–Sugrīva episode.
Vīrya (valor/competence) combined with restraint—skill shown as measured proof rather than reckless violence.