Sexual Life in Ancient India: A Study in the Comparative History of Indian Culture v2.c17.24

v2.c17.24

Hanumant, who, up till now hidden in a tree, has been a witness to all, discovers himself to her, and gives news of Rāma, and how he is on his way to rescue her. At first she is filled with fear, will not believe the messenger, and holds him for a phantom shape of Rāvaṇa ; he calms and convinces her, and tells her of Rāma’s sorrow and love. Then she believes, falls into joy beyond words, and sheds tears of bliss. But now she has many questions to put to him : how it is with Rāma and his brother, whether her loved one is not sad, does not torment himself, or whether he has lost his love for her, who for her sake has gone through so much suffering, whether he no longer thinks of her, and has no wish at all to set her free. Hanumant assures her : “ No sleep comes to Rāma, and if he once goes really to sleep, then he wakes up again with the word : ‘ Sītā ! ’ If he sees a fruit or a flower or aught else that delights the heart of women, then he sighs long and says : ‘ Woe is me, Sītā ! ’ ” (cp. ii, 55.26 ff.). She makes answer : “ Nectar mingled with poison are thy words—Rāma thinks of no other, and he is overwhelmed with care.” Hanumant wants to carry her on his back at once to Rāma, and persuades her that he is strong enough. But she finds this to be dangerous for herself and him, and through this Rāma’s honour would suffer ; he must overcome the evil-doer in battle, and bring her home ; this alone, she said, is worthy of him (39.29-30 ; cp. MBh., iii, 150.18 ff.) ; and she will and may touch no man’s body but her husband’s. Over and over again she charges the messenger that Rāma must set her free in a month ; longer she cannot live. As credential she gives him a precious stone that Rāma had bestowed on her, the sight of which has consoled her up till now in her wretchedness, just as though she had seen the beloved giver himself.