Rama and Shiva's bow
At Janaka's court, an extraordinary bow becomes central to Rama and Sita's marriage.
Valmiki Ramayana · Bala Kanda 67
जनकस्य वचः श्रुत्वा विश्वामित्रो महामुनिः |
धनुर्दर्शय रामाय इति होवाच पार्थिवम् || १-६७-१
The following is an original editorial summary, not a literal translation. Details may differ across Ramayana traditions.
Janaka has the divine bow associated with Shiva brought out. Janaka asks his ministers to bring the bow. Vishvamitra asks Janaka to show Rama the bow.
The bow breaks with a tremendous sound as Rama draws it. After proposing Sita's marriage to Rama, Janaka sends messengers to Ayodhya.
Read the Sanskrit source and context
Try five questions
Whose bow is brought before Rama?
- Hanuman's
- Shiva's
- Bharata's
Janaka has the divine bow associated with Shiva brought out.
Which king orders the bow to be brought?
- Dasharatha
- Ravana
- Janaka
Janaka asks his ministers to bring the bow.
Who asks that Rama be shown the bow?
- Vishvamitra
- Sugriva
- Bharata
Vishvamitra asks Janaka to show Rama the bow.
What happens as Rama draws the bow?
- It becomes a bridge
- It breaks
- It disappears
The bow breaks with a tremendous sound as Rama draws it.
Where does Janaka send messengers?
- Lanka
- Kishkindha
- Ayodhya
After proposing Sita's marriage to Rama, Janaka sends messengers to Ayodhya.