Shloka 5.56.20
षट्पञ्चाशः सर्गः — वैदेही-आश्वासनम् तथा अरिष्टारोहणम् (Consoling Sita and Ascending Mount Arishta)
लतापादपसङ्घातं सिंहाध्युषितकन्दरम्।व्याघ्रसङ्घसमाकीर्णं स्वादुमूलफलद्रुमम्।।।।
latā-pādapa-saṅghātaṃ siṃhādhyuṣita-kandaram |
vyāghra-saṅgha-samākīrṇaṃ svādu-mūla-phala-drumam ||
It was dense with clusters of creepers and trees; its caves were inhabited by lions; it was thronged with bands of tigers; and it abounded in trees bearing sweet roots and fruits.
The clusters of creepers, and trees bearing tasty fruits and roots were uprooted. There were caves inhabited by lions. Herds of tigers were scattered all over (by the impetus of Hanuman's pressure on the mountain).
The verse underscores the Dharmic need for discernment and courage: the world holds both nourishment (sweet fruits/roots) and danger (lions/tigers), and righteous action requires steadiness amid both.
The narration continues describing a formidable mountain ecosystem—lush, resource-rich, yet inhabited by powerful predators.
Courage with prudence (śaurya + viveka): facing peril without losing the capacity to choose what is right and necessary.