Week 4 Story: Vibhishana's Advice

Following the meeting with his brothers and army commanders, Ravana was left with a lot to think about. Gather the forces and attack now or sit back and destroy them when they get near? They are only mere humans and Ravana is, well, Ravana. Maybe he should just forget about them entirely so he can focus all of his efforts on Sita.

As Ravana contemplated this, another thought slowly crept into his mind. Although he completely dismissed what his brother, Vibhishana, had said, he couldn't forget it. And it began to eat at him constantly. Why would his own brother say that? Is he scared of Rama? Does he think Rama is more powerful than Ravana? He did see Ravana shake Mount Kailas and bring the gods to their knees after all. He certainly knows Ravana's power. What else could it be?

Ravana thought back to what his uncle, Mareecha, had said. He too, advised Ravana to stay away from Rama and to change his wicked ways. For a second, Ravana actually missed his uncle and felt remorse for sending him to his end. He quickly shook that thought once he remembered why. But even the thought of Sita couldn't take his mind away from the meeting. Even his commander-in-chief had questioned Ravana's decision to capture Rama's wife while Rama was away, although his solution was to find and finish Rama and his army.

The day turned to night and Ravana had a decision to make. If he was going to attack Rama, preparation would have to start immediately. Even if they were just going to wait until Rama made his way to Lanka, a plan would still need to be made as soon as possible. He decided to sleep on it and would let his advisers know the course of action the following morning.

Ravana was restless as he tried to sleep. He had a lot on his mind and he was very unsure of what to do, a new experience for him. Before falling asleep, he sent many prayers to Shiva for guidance. He finally fell asleep and began to dream a terrible dream. His city was crumbling and he had no answer for Rama or his army. Rama eventually ended his life. After his death, he came before Vishnu. Vishnu then begins reading a list of all the atrocities Ravana had committed over his time. This dream troubled Ravana greatly.

Ravana's Nightmare

Image Author: Sahib Din

Image Source: British Library

The next morning, Ravana called another meeting with his advisers and brothers. He ordered the immediate release of Sita and called for a messenger to request a meeting with Rama. His brothers and advisers were baffled, but none dare question his orders. His youngest brother, Vibhishana, was smiling on the inside.

Author's Note
In the original story, Ravana holds a council with his brothers and advisers, asking how a monkey was able to burn the city down. The conversation turns to whether they should attack Rama's army, wait for them to approach, or not worry about them at all. Ravana's youngest brother, Vibhishana suggests that there are many signs pointing to Ravana's impending doom and he should release Sita and change his ways. Ravana laughs him off and eventually banishes Vibhishana, who eventually joins Rama's side.
In my story, Ravana actually heeds Vibhishana's advice after having a nightmare where there is another bad sign, Vishnu being his judge.

Bibliography. The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic by Kamban / R. K. Narayan. Web Source: p. 135. Ravana's Council.