The Politics of Refuge: Vibheeshan Joins Ram's Camp

Monkey King Sugreev did not believe Vibheeshan's words. He informed Ram about Vibheeshan's arrival and warned Ram that Ravan might have sent his younger brother to learn all their secrets. Sugreev advised Ram to be cautious about Vibheeshan. After listening to Sugreev, Ram discussed the matter with his other brave companions. Everyone gave their opinions without hesitation.

First, Angad suggested that Vibheeshan's loyalty should be tested. Angad considered Vibheeshan his enemy and expressed doubts about him. He noted that often, an evil person dons a sadhu's attire to deceive others, making initial trust difficult. Angad said that Vibheeshan would be included in the group of monkeys only if he proved to be truthful.

The monkeys decided to spy on Vibheeshan to discern his true allegiance. Jambavan, who was well-versed in politics, pointed out that the only grounds for suspicion about Vibheeshan was that he was their arch-enemy Ravan's younger brother. Some monkeys suggested asking Vibheeshan about Ravan's plans and strategy. However, Hanuman, who knew Vibheeshan had a serene mind, felt differently, trusting Vibheeshan's sincerity despite the suggestions to test him.

"The idea of spying upon Vibheeshan is inappropriate," said Hanuman. "I don't think Vibheeshan came here to spy on us. He saw that in the same way that Ravan had chosen the path of evil, Ram had chosen the path of righteousness. So, he deliberately decided to come here. The idea of interrogating him is also unnatural. If an intelligent person is questioned like this, he will not like it. He will never become our friend. We can never learn an individual's true feelings by asking him questions. Besides, his conversation will never reveal lies or deceit. His behavior and countenance appear friendly. We must trust him. He is familiar with our virtues and Ravan's faults. So, it would be appropriate to offer him refuge. After considering all these facts, let's treat him like a friend."

Ram listened to Hanuman with great attention. "I also have something to say about Vibheeshan," said Ram. "Listen carefully to what I have to say. Even if a person's emotion is inappropriate, he should be offered refuge when he asks for it. A refugee should never be rejected. A virtuous individual will never cheat anyone."

Sugreev was happy to hear Ram's words. His respect for Ram grew. He agreed that Vibheeshan should be regarded as a friend and given a position in their team. In this way, Vibheeshan was included in Ram's team. Now, the biggest challenge before the monkey army was crossing the ocean. Sugreev asked Vibheeshan how they could cross the vast expanse of water. Vibheeshan answered that Ram should seek the help of the ocean god. Vibheeshan's idea was easy and practical. Ram liked Vibheeshan's suggestion. He sat on the ocean bank and prayed to the ocean god for three days and nights. But the Ocean god did not answer his prayers. The Ocean god's behavior angered Ram.