निकुम्भिला-यज्ञविघ्नः — Vibhishana’s Counsel and Lakshmana’s March to Nikumbhila
तस्यान्तरिक्षेचरतःसरथस्यमहायशः ।न गतिर्ज्ञायतेवीरसूर्यस्येवाभ्रसम्ल्पवे ।।6.85.19।।
sa hi brahmāstravit prājño mahāmāyo mahābalaḥ |
karoty asaṃjñān saṅgrāme devān savaruṇān api ||6.85.18||
For he is skilled in the Brahmā-weapon, wise, mighty in māyā, and of great strength; in battle he can even render unconscious the gods—Varuṇa and the rest.
When he moves in his chariot in the sky like the Sun coursing through clouds is difficult to know.
Dharma here is prudence: recognizing an adversary’s power truthfully (satya) so that one acts responsibly and protects allies rather than underestimating danger.
A warning is being given about the enemy’s extraordinary martial and illusory capabilities, emphasizing the seriousness of the coming engagement.
Strategic wisdom (prajñā) in leadership—accurate appraisal of threats before action.