Rama Defends Viswamitra's Sacrifice from Maricha

Rama and Lakshmana defend Viswamitra's sacrifice from demons Maricha and Subahu. Rama wields divine weapons, fulfilling his duty and earning sage's praise.
Rama Protects Viswamitra's Sacrifice (Shlokas 1.30.1 - 1.30.25)

The Princes Offer Protection (Shlokas 1.30.1 - 1.30.5)

Rama and Lakshmana, aware of the appropriate time and place to speak, addressed Sage Viswamitra (also known as Kaushika). The princes, eager to protect the sacrifice from demons, said:

"O venerable Brahmarshi (great sage), please tell us when the demons (rakshasas) are likely to appear. We want to be prepared to protect the sacrifice at the right moment."

The sages present were pleased with the princes' eagerness and praised them. They provided the following instructions:

1. Guard the sacrifice for six nights, starting today.

2. During this time, Viswamitra will observe silence as part of the initiation ceremony.

Hearing these words, Rama and Lakshmana, the illustrious princes, prepared to protect the hermitage (tapovana) for six days and nights without sleep.

The Sacrifice Begins (Shlokas 1.30.6 - 1.30.10)

As the ritual commenced:

• Rama and Lakshmana, skilled archers and destroyers of enemies, stood ready to protect Sage Viswamitra.

• The sacrificial altar burst into flames, surrounded by priests and spiritual guides.

• The altar was complete with sacred items:

  • Kusa grass

  • Ladles and vessels

  • Bundles of sticks

  • Flowers

As the sixth day approached, Rama cautioned Lakshmana to remain vigilant. The sacrifice proceeded according to proper rituals and mantras. Suddenly, a terrifying sound emerged from the sky.

The Demons Attack (Shlokas 1.30.11 - 1.30.14)

Two demons, Maricha and Subahu, appeared with their followers. Their attack unfolded as follows:

1. They used their powers of illusion to cover the sky like rainclouds.

2. They rained streams of blood onto the sacrificial altar.

3. The altar, drenched in blood, blazed even more intensely.

Rama, his eyes wide like lotus petals, rushed forward. He gazed at the demons in the sky and then turned to address Lakshmana.

Rama Confronts the Demons (Shlokas 1.30.15 - 1.30.22)

Rama spoke to Lakshmana: "Look at these wicked, flesh-eating demons. I will scatter them with the Manava weapon, just as the wind scatters clouds."

Rama's actions followed swiftly:

1. He hurled the powerful and radiant Manava weapon at Maricha's chest.

2. Struck by this mighty weapon, Maricha was thrown a hundred yojanas (a great distance) into the surging sea.

3. Rama explained to Lakshmana how the righteous Manava weapon renders its target unconscious without taking their life.

Rama then prepared to slay the remaining demons, describing them as:

• Merciless

• Wicked

• Destroyers of sacrifices

He employed two divine weapons:

1. The Agneya (fire) weapon: Struck Subahu in the chest, causing him to fall to the ground.

2. The Vayavya (wind) weapon: Killed the remaining demons.

These actions delighted the assembled ascetics.

The Sacrifice Concludes (Shlokas 1.30.23 - 1.30.25)

After slaying all the demons who had obstructed the sacrifice, Rama was honored by the sages. This honor was similar to the praise god Indra received for his past victories.

With the sacrifice complete, Sage Viswamitra looked around at the peaceful surroundings. He then addressed Rama:

"O mighty-armed one, I have achieved my spiritual goal. You have fulfilled your father's commands. O illustrious Rama, you have made Siddhaashrama (the hermitage) truly live up to its name."

Thus ends the thirtieth sarga (chapter) of Balakanda (The Book of Youth) of the holy Ramayana, the first epic composed by sage Valmiki.