Rama Protects the Sacrifice

1. Tataka rushed through the forest, raising dust and frightening every creature. Rama stood calmly between her and the sages.
2. Vishvamitra asked Rama to end the danger that had emptied the forest. Rama called to Tataka and gave her a chance to turn away.
3. When Tataka attacked again, Rama released a powerful arrow and ended her harmful life. The forest became quiet at once.
4. Birds returned to the branches and deer stepped from their hiding places. The sages thanked Rama for making the path safe.
5. Vishvamitra entrusted Rama with divine weapons and taught Him how to call them back. Rama received the gift with care and promised to use it only to protect others.
6. The travellers arrived at Siddhashrama, where many sages welcomed them. This was the place of the threatened sacrifice.
7. Rama and Lakshmana guarded the ceremony day and night. They stayed alert while the sages chanted and offered gifts into the sacred fire.
8. On the final day, Maricha and Subahu appeared above the altar with a noisy band of rakshasas. They tried to throw impure things upon the sacrifice.
9. Rama used a measured celestial weapon that carried Maricha far across the sea without killing him. The Lord knew exactly how much force was needed.
10. Subahu continued the attack, so Rama stopped him with another arrow. Lakshmana drove away the remaining rakshasas.
11. The sacred fire shone brightly and the sages finished their prayers without fear. Joyful voices blessed the two princes.
12. Rama did not boast about His victory. He bowed to Vishvamitra and asked, “How may I serve next?”
13. Vishvamitra spoke of King Janaka's sacrifice in the kingdom of Mithila. He also described a wondrous bow once carried by Lord Shiva.
14. Janaka had promised that the person strong enough to string the bow could marry his daughter Sita. Vishvamitra invited the brothers to see it.
15. Rama and Lakshmana followed their guru toward Mithila. Without knowing it, Rama was walking toward His eternal beloved.

Authoritative sources

• Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 9.10
• Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 9.11