Let every thought and word and deed be applied to devising some ways of accomplishing Rama’s purpose. One must wait on the sun with one’s back turned towards it and on fire with the breast facing it; but a master must be served with one’s whole being, without any subterfuges.

One must turn from things illusory (mine-ness and attachment) and be devoted to things spiritual, so shall all the cares connected with birth and death be destroyed. The consummation of human birth, brothers, lies in forsaking all worldly desires and worshipping Rama only.

He only is truly discriminative and greatly blessed who is devoted to Raghunatha’s feet.’ Taking leave of Sugriva and bowing their heads at his feet, the monkeys set out rejoicing with their thought fixed on Raghunatha.

The last to make obeisance was Hanuman (the Son of the Wind). The Lord, knowing that his work was going to be accomplished by him, called him to himself. He touched his head with his lotus hands and recognizing him to be his devotee, gave him the ring from his finger and said,

‘Do what you can to comfort Sita; tell her of my might and the agony I endure in her absence and return with all speed.’ Upon hearing this, Hanuman considered his life blest and set out with the image of the All-merciful enshrined in his heart.

Although the Lord knew everything, yet as protector of the gods he respected the recognized principles of statecraft.

All the monkeys went forth, ransacking woods and streams and lakes and hills and ravine with their minds so wholly absorbed in Rama’s concerns that they forgot all about their own bodily needs,