Shloka 4.50.8
ऋक्षबिलप्रवेशः — Entry into the Rikshabilam Cave
क्षुत्पिपासापरीताश्च श्रान्ताश्च सलिलार्थिनः।।।।अवकीर्णं लतावृक्षैर्ददृशुस्ते महाबिलम्।
kṣutpipāsāparītāś ca śrāntāś ca salilārthinaḥ |
avakīrṇaṃ latāvṛkṣair dadṛśus te mahābilam ||
Overcome by hunger and thirst, and worn out, those monkeys—seeking water—caught sight of a vast cave, overgrown and strewn with creepers and trees.
Overcome with hunger and thirst, the exhausted monkeys noticed a huge cave covered with creepers and bushes, while they were looking around for water.
The verse highlights endurance and disciplined effort in the face of hardship—qualities aligned with dharma—since the search party continues its duty (seeking Sita and resources like water) despite hunger, thirst, and fatigue.
Satya is reflected in faithful adherence to a pledged mission: the monkeys’ continued search, even when distressed, supports the truthful commitment made to Rama’s cause and the honest reporting of what they encounter.