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## The Forty-Eighth Chapter
**297** Some said, "What is the use of these pointless arguments? Why isn't a solution for the welfare of the world and the sake of peace being devised?" **225** "Therefore, let Sita be brought back, and let Ravana be appeased. I will give her to Raghava. What is the purpose of war?" **226** "In the battle, Taraka, the mighty Meruka, and the sons of Kritavirya, along with their vast armies, have been destroyed." **227** "These were the lords of the three continents, great and powerful. Many other kings, vassals and others, have been destroyed in the battle." **228** "Thus, all the wise men, skilled in the use of knowledge, consulted each other and, with humility and respect, came together to Rama." **229** "Sugriva and others, seated around Rama, who brought joy to their eyes, shone like the gods around Indra." **230** "Then, Padma-Nabha said, 'What are we waiting for? Without me, Sita must be suffering in the other island.'" **231** "Let us abandon procrastination and, without delay, all of us go to Trikuta. Why is there no effort being made?" **232** "The wise old ministers replied, 'O Lord, what is the doubt here? Tell us with certainty.' **233** "Do you desire Sita, or do you want to fight the Rakshasas? Victory will be hard-won, for this war is not between equals." **234** "For Ravana is the undisputed lord of the three continents, renowned in the islands and the oceans. He is the only one who has no rival." **235** "Even the island of Dhataki, which is feared even by the celestial beings, is afraid of him. He has attained supreme glory in Jambudvipa, and is the lord of the celestial beings." **236** "He is a thorn in the side of the entire world, and has performed many wondrous deeds. How can such a Rakshasa be conquered by you, O Rama?" **237** "Therefore, O Lord, abandon your warlike thoughts and do what we are saying. Be pleased and act for peace." **238** "Let not the world be filled with fear by his anger. Let not the armies be destroyed, and let not all the stars be extinguished."
**What happened, because with the power of knowledge, who can be surprised by his actions?** **224**