Ramayana_VOLUME V with index

Stories told by Viswamitra
Churning of the Ocean Milk:
They came upon a vast city full of beautiful buildings. Rama
turned to Viswamitra, and asked him, “Master! We are seeing
from here in this exquisite forest a vast city. To what kingdom
does it belong” The sage replied, “Rama! It appears to be near,
but in fact, it will take quite some time for us to reach it!
Perhaps, we may arrive there in the evening hours. I shall tell
you the story of that city’s origin and fortunes when we actually
reach it. Meanwhile, let us proceed.” Rama heard these words
which the sage spoke with a twinkle in the eye and a smile on the
lips. He grasped the meaning of his directive and walked on
without a word in reply.
When they descended into the valley there was no sign of any
city or human habitation; but, on rising to the heights, the city
could be seen very near! Moving forward like this, they found
that though evening drew near they could not reach the City. As
Viswamitra had already indicated the City was still far away! As
evening fell they halted; and after bath, they performed the
evening rituals as laid down in the Sastras. While resting, Rama
returned to the question he had already asked. “Master! Will you
kindly tell us about the city” At this, Viswamitra said, “Rama! I
too was just now thinking about that matter! 165 The very moment
the thought flashes in my mind that you had forgotten to ask
about the story of the City, you questioned me about it. No
further proof is wanted to show that you are the All-knowing!
165
See Endnote - No.5 - Maya
433