Shloka 5.10.21
रावणान्तःपुरे शयनदर्शनम् (Hanumān Observes Rāvaṇa’s Inner Apartments and Sleeping Court)
ददर्श स कपिस्तत्र बाहू शयनसंस्थितौ।मन्दरस्यांतरे सुप्तौ महाही रुषिताविव।।।।
dadarśa sa kapis tatra bāhū śayanasaṃsthitau |
mandarasyāntare suptau mahāhī ruṣitāv iva ||
There the monkey-warrior saw the two arms resting upon the bed, like two mighty serpents asleep within a cave of Mount Mandara, as though still fierce.
The vanara, gazed at the arms of Ravana placed on the couch that appeared like two angry snakes asleep in a cave on (the lap) of mount Mandara.
Dharma includes prudent assessment of danger. The imagery teaches that a righteous agent does not act rashly; he observes, measures risk, and proceeds with disciplined intelligence.
Hanumān visually examines Rāvaṇa’s limbs as the demon-king sleeps, noting their terrifying appearance through vivid similes.
Strategic caution combined with courage—Hanumān’s capacity to stay composed in the enemy’s inner sanctum.