Shloka 5.18.7
अष्टादशः सर्गः (Sarga 18): रावणस्य प्रमदावनप्रवेशः — Ravana’s entry into the women’s grove
वृतां पुष्करिणीभिश्च नानापुष्पोपशोभिताम्।सदा मदैश्च विहगैर्विचित्रां परमाद्भुताम्।।5.18.7।।
sa tathāpy ugratejāḥ san nirdhūtas tasya tejasā |
patraguhyāntare sakto hanumān saṃvṛto 'bhavat ||5.18.31||
Yet even Hanumān—fierce in energy—was startled by the force of his (Rāvaṇa’s) radiance, and remained concealed, covered within the hidden recess of the leaves.
Ponds covered with a variety of beautiful flowers and colourful birds always cheerful looked very wonderful.
Dharma includes prudent action in service of a righteous mission: Hanumān restrains impulse and preserves secrecy to protect Sītā and fulfill Rāma’s purpose.
As Rāvaṇa approaches, Hanumān stays hidden among leaves, momentarily shaken by Rāvaṇa’s intimidating presence.
Disciplined courage: fear is acknowledged, but governed by intelligence and duty (kartavya).