Then, the lord of the earth, King Dasharatha, summoned the entire royal assembly. Standing before the gathered multitude, he spoke words that were well-known for their wisdom—words meant to uplift and benefit all who heard them. With a voice full of feeling, graced by royal dignity and charm, the king addressed the assembled rulers. “You all know,” he began, “how this excellent kingdom of mine has been protected by my royal ancestors, as lovingly as one would protect a son. I, too, wish to dedicate this entire world—so well-governed by the kings of the Ikṣvāku line—to the highest good and happiness of all. “Following the path set by my forefathers, I have always protected my people to the best of my ability, ever vigilant, never allowing myself rest. Yet, as I have pursued the welfare of the entire world, I have grown old under the white royal umbrella. Having lived for many thousands of years, my body is now worn out, and I desire rest. “I am weary from bearing the heavy burden of righteousness, a burden fit for kings, yet difficult to sustain for those who have not mastered their senses. Therefore, I wish to step aside, after consulting these eminent Brahmins gathered here, and install my son for the welfare of the people. “For my son, Rama—superior to me in every virtue—has been born. He is the conqueror of enemy cities, equal to Indra in strength. Joined with the constellation Puṣya, like the moon itself, Rama stands foremost among upholders of righteousness and is the best among men. Tomorrow morning, I shall appoint him as crown prince. “He, the elder brother of Lakshmana, adorned with fortune, is a fitting lord for you all; under his rule, even the three worlds would be better protected. By this excellent act, I shall unite the earth with prosperity at once, and, having entrusted it to my son, I shall become free from toil. “If this plan of mine, well considered and fitting, pleases you, let it be approved by all. Or, if you see another way, tell me how else I should act. Even if this is my desire, let us consider any other beneficial course; for impartial deliberation in the midst of discussion brings greater clarity.” As the king finished speaking, the assembled kings responded joyfully, their voices rising like peacocks calling to a rain-filled cloud. A gentle, approving sound arose from the multitude, filled with happiness, echoing among the people as if shaking the very earth. Understanding the king’s intent, the Brahmins, chiefs of the army, citizens, and country folk—all gathered with unified minds—deliberated and then spoke to the aged Dasharatha: “O king, you are advanced in years, having passed many thousands of years; therefore, anoint Rama as crown prince, O ruler of the earth. We wish to see the mighty-armed, heroic, and powerful Rama, riding a great elephant, his face shaded by the royal parasol.” Hearing these words, so pleasing to their hearts, the king, as if unaware and wishing to know more, addressed them again: “Hearing your wish to have Raghava as your lord, I, the king, have this doubt. Speak truly: why, while I still rule the earth righteously, do you desire to see the mighty prince as crown prince?” The great souls, together with the citizens and country folk, replied, “O king, your son possesses many auspicious qualities. We shall recount the virtues—dear, delightful, and complete—of your son, who is virtuous, godlike, and wise; listen to them. “Rama, equal to Indra in divine qualities and steadfast in truth and valor, surpasses all the Ikṣvākus, O lord of the people. He is a noble man, devoted to truth and righteousness; indeed, Dharma itself, along with prosperity, has arisen directly from Rama. “In bringing happiness to his subjects, he is like the moon; in patience, like the earth; in wisdom, equal to Bṛhaspati; and in strength, like Indra himself. He knows Dharma, is true to his word, virtuous, free from malice, patient, gentle in speech, grateful, and master of his senses. “He is gentle, steadfast in mind, always worthy, without envy; Rāghava speaks kindly to all beings and speaks only the truth. He serves learned elders and Brahmins; thus, his unmatched fame, honor, and brilliance grow ever greater. “Skilled in all weapons among gods, demons, and humans, properly initiated in knowledge and vows, he is thoroughly versed in the Vedas and their branches. The elder brother of Bharata is foremost in the Gandharva arts on earth; of noble lineage, virtuous, undistressed in spirit, and of great intellect. “He has been trained by distinguished Brahmins, experts in Dharma and Artha; whenever he goes to battle for the sake of a village or city, having gone with Saumitri, he never returns without victory—whether on an elephant or in a chariot. “He always inquires about the welfare of the citizens as if they were his own kin, asking about their sons, fires, wives, servants, and students. He asks in detail and in order, like a father about his own sons: ‘Do your students serve you? Are you well protected by armor?’ “Thus, Rama, the tiger among men, always addresses you; and in the misfortunes of people, he is deeply afflicted. In all celebrations, he rejoices like a father; he speaks truth, is a mighty archer, serves elders, and has mastered his senses.” Thus did the assembly extol the virtues of Rama, making clear their love and unwavering support for his anointment as crown prince.