Shloka 6.100.39
रावण–रामयुद्धप्रारम्भः (The Intensification of the Rama–Ravana Duel)
तेभित्त्वाबाणरूपाणिपञ्चशीर्षाइवोरगाः ।।6.100.39।।श्वसन्तोविविशुर्भूमिंरावणप्रतिकूलिताः ।
te bhittvā bāṇa-rūpāṇi pañcaśīrṣā ivoragāḥ | śvasanto viviśur bhūmiṃ rāvaṇa-pratikūlitāḥ ||6.100.39||
Those shafts—like five-headed serpents—after piercing, were turned back by Rāvaṇa; hissing, they plunged into the earth.
The five headed serpent like arrows released by Rama penetrated and having been repelled by Ravana they entered the earth hissing.
Dharma underscores resilience: even when rightful effort is deflected, one does not abandon truth-driven purpose; obstacles are met with renewed discernment.
Rāma’s powerful arrows are countered by Rāvaṇa and, as if alive, they hiss and sink into the ground.
For Rāma, persistence in contest; for Rāvaṇa, defensive prowess—setting the stage for the continued escalation toward dharma’s final victory.