Shloka 2
निमित्तदर्शनम्
Portents Before the March to Laṅkā
निमित्तानिपरिगृह्योदकंशीतंवनानिफलवन्तिच ।बलौघंसंविभज्येमंव्यूह्यतिष्ठेमलक्ष्मण ।।6.23.2।।
nimittāni parigṛhya udakaṁ śītaṁ vanāni phalavanti ca | balaughaṁ saṁvibhajya imaṁ vyūhya tiṣṭhema lakṣmaṇa ||
«Lakṣmaṇa, tenant compte de ces présages, établis une position où se trouvent de l’eau fraîche et des forêts riches en fruits. Puis divise cette multitude de troupes, range-les en ordre de bataille, et tenons-nous prêts.»
"Lakshmana! the stars devoid of brightness are indicating as though it is the time of dissolution of the universe?"
FAQs
Dharma here is responsible leadership: Rama reads the situation carefully (omens and logistics) and protects his forces by ordering water, food, and disciplined formation rather than reckless advance.
On the eve of major conflict near Laṅkā, Rama notices ominous signs and instructs Lakṣmaṇa to secure resources and arrange the army in a proper battle order.
Rama’s prudence and command—strategic foresight joined with care for the wellbeing and order of his troops.