Shloka 6.1.17
प्रथमः सर्गः — Rama Praises Hanuman; Anxiety over Crossing the Ocean
कथं नाम समुद्रस्य दुष्पारस्य महाम्भसः ।हरयो दक्षिणं पारं गमिष्यन्ति समागताः ।।।।
sarvathā sukṛtaṃ tāvat sītāyāḥ parimārgaṇam |
sāgaraṃ tu samāsādya punar naṣṭaṃ mano mama ||
“In every way, the search for Sītā has been well accomplished. Yet, on reaching the ocean, my mind falters again—troubled by what lies ahead.”
"How will all the monkeys together be able to cross to the southern shore of the vast ocean? It is difficult to cross."
Dharma involves steadfastness despite inner turmoil. Rāma acknowledges success truthfully, yet admits fear—showing that righteousness includes honest self-assessment while continuing the duty.
After learning Sītā’s location, the army faces the practical barrier of the ocean separating them from Laṅkā.
Truthfulness (satya) about one’s mental state, paired with resolve to proceed; Rāma does not conceal difficulty from allies.