________________
The Ethical Excellence of Ravan
225
he also installed on the fortifications some magical and monstrous machines which sent out fiery fulminations. He got ready for a war and was hiding himself in his fort with a large army. The Rakshasa army under the command of Kumbhakarna laid a siege to the fort; but he burst forth angrily seeing that Durlangpur was protected by a fort of fire.
"Vibhishan !"
"Yes, brother !”
"Nalkuber seems to be a cunning fellow. He is a mischievous rogue ! I am unable to think of any way by means of which we can cross this fire and enter the city; and occupy it”.
“Brother! Already I told you about such a possibility. Today, our intelligence is put to the test;" Vibhishan said, making a joke.
"Please keep quiet! This is not a time for jokes". He was greatly irritated. At once, he sent for the great heroes like Sugriv and Khar; and held discussions with them regarding the way by which they could gain entry into the city. They carried out their discussion for a long time but they could not think of any method. Kumbhakarna began to fret in anger. But nobody could think of any method by which they could enter the city. Vibhishan wore a clean dress and sat in his tent meditating deeply on the Paramatma. Kumbhakarna was enraged. He went in search of Vibhishan and when he found him sitting in meditation his anger shot up like a flame. He said in a thundering voice.
"I say! You great devotee! Have you come here to fight a war or to practise your hypocrisy. Ah! What shall I say ?”
“What is the matter brother ?" Vibhishan said with a smiling face.
"My head is breaking into pieces with worry and here you have become a devotee. Please tell me if there is a way".
"You are the supreme commander of the army. You must find out the way".
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
