Rāma gazed at Sītā with deep affection and admiration. “O Sītā,” he said, “your resolve is truly fitting—not only for me, but also for the noble lineage from which you come. Your decision fills me with the highest regard. Now, O woman of auspicious hips, begin preparing for life in the forest. Without you, Sītā, even the pleasures of heaven would hold no joy for me.” He continued, “Give away our jewels to the Brahmins, and offer food to the mendicants. Grant whatever is asked of you, and do not delay—let us be swift in these duties. All the precious ornaments, the fine garments, and every delightful item we have for play—let these be given away. The beds, the vehicles, and all the other possessions that belong to me—after giving to the Brahmins, distribute them among our servants.” Hearing her husband’s words and understanding the time for departure had come, Sītā, the queen, felt both joyful and eager. Without hesitation, she began to give away gifts. Her heart was fulfilled as she listened to Rāma’s instructions, and she, the noble-minded and illustrious lady among the righteous, distributed wealth and jewels to the Brahmins and the needy. At this juncture, Lakṣmaṇa arrived, having overheard the conversation. His face was overwhelmed with tears, for sorrow pressed heavily upon his heart. Unable to restrain his grief, he approached and pressed Rāma’s feet firmly in reverence. Then, with devotion, he spoke to both Sītā and Rāma, the great vow-holder: “If you are resolved to go to the forest, filled with deer and elephants, I will go ahead of you, bearing my bow. With me by your side, you shall wander through the delightful woods, alive with the songs of birds and the presence of wild creatures. I do not seek the realm of the gods, nor immortality, nor even the sovereignty of the worlds, if it means being apart from you.” Thus spoke Saumitri, resolute in his wish to dwell in the forest. Though Rāma tried to gently dissuade him with many kind words, Lakṣmaṇa would not be restrained. He pressed further, “You have already permitted me to go before, so why now do you restrain me? For what reason am I, who wishes to accompany you, being prohibited? Please, O blameless one, tell me, for I am uncertain and eager to understand.” Rāma, mighty and steadfast, replied to Lakṣmaṇa, who stood before him with joined palms, seeking his blessing. “Affectionate, devoted to righteousness, steadfast in virtue, dearer to me than life, obedient, victorious, and my true friend—if you, Saumitri, leave with me for the forest, who will care for Kausalyā or the illustrious Sumitrā? The mighty king, bound by the fetters of desire, may not be able to ensure their happiness. Kaikeyī, having gained the kingdom for her son, is unlikely to bring joy to her sorrowful co-wives. Bharata, established as king and influenced by Kaikeyī, may not support Kausalyā or the deeply distressed Sumitrā. “So, Saumitri, remain here and support that noble lady yourself, or do so with the king’s favor. Fulfill this spoken duty for Kausalyā. In doing this, your devotion to me will shine forth, along with your great and incomparable righteousness in honoring our elders who know dharma. Do this for my sake, O delight of the Raghu lineage—let not happiness be lacking for our mother, bereft of us.” Hearing these gentle words, Lakṣmaṇa, skilled in speech and knowing how to reply, addressed Rāma: “By your own radiance, O hero, Bharata will surely honor both Kausalyā and Sumitrā with devotion—of this I have no doubt. But if, once crowned, Bharata does not rule justly, and acts with a troubled or prideful mind, I will certainly slay that wicked, cruel-minded one, and all those on his side, even if they be as numerous as the three worlds. “Kausalyā herself could support a thousand such as I, for she has received a thousand villages with their dependents. She is fully capable of providing for herself, my mother, and those like me—she is a woman of great resolve. Therefore, make me your companion; there is no unrighteousness in this. I will be fulfilled, and your purpose will also be accomplished. “With my bow strung and slung, carrying a spade and a basket at my side, I will walk ahead of you, showing you the path. I will always gather roots and fruits for you, and other forest foods suitable for ascetics. You, together with Vaidehī, shall delight on the mountain slopes, while I do everything for you, whether you are awake or asleep.” Rāma, greatly pleased by these words, replied, “Go, Saumitri, and take leave of all your friends.” He then spoke of the two divine bows, fierce in appearance, which the great-souled Varuṇa had given to King Janaka at his great sacrifice. Along with these were impenetrable, divine armor, two inexhaustible quivers, and two swords shining like the sun, adorned with gold. Lakṣmaṇa, resolved on dwelling in the forest, took leave of his friends. He then approached the family preceptor of the Ikṣvāku dynasty and received those excellent weapons. With reverence, Saumitri displayed to Rāma all the divine arms, honored and adorned with garlands, ready to serve his brother on their journey into the forest.