When Hanuman Defended Vibhishan

When Hanuman first leapt across the ocean in search of Sita, he had no idea that in Lanka he would find a soul so different from the rest of Ravana’s clan. The city teemed with rakshasas proud of their king’s power, but hidden among them was one who stood for righteousness — Vibhishan, Ravana’s youngest brother.

Their First Meeting in Lanka

After Hanuman discovered Sita in the Ashoka grove and delivered Rama’s message of hope, he allowed himself to be captured so he might meet Ravana directly. Dragged into the court, mocked by demons, and threatened with death, Hanuman stood fearless. Ravana’s ministers urged execution — but suddenly a calm, firm voice rose in the assembly.

It was Vibhishan.

“Brother,” Vibhishan said to Ravana, “an envoy is sacred. To kill him would be against dharma and against the laws of war. Even if Hanuman is our enemy, he must be respected as Rama’s messenger.”

Hanuman watched keenly. In that chamber filled with rage and cruelty, here was a man who dared to speak for justice, even when it angered his own king. Because of Vibhishan’s counsel, Hanuman’s life was spared. Instead of death, Ravana ordered his tail to be set aflame. Hanuman bore it, then used it to burn Lanka before returning to Rama with the news of Sita.

In his heart, Hanuman carried a memory: Among demons, one stood with dharma. That was Vibhishan.

Vibhishan’s Arrival at Rama’s Camp

Not long after, the tide of destiny turned. Cast out of Ravana’s court for pleading that Sita be returned, Vibhishan crossed the ocean with four companions and descended above Rama’s encampment.

The vanaras shouted in alarm. “Ravana’s brother has come! Surely this is a trick.” Sugriva warned Rama, “We must not trust him. He may be a spy. Let us kill him before he brings harm.”

Stones and trees were lifted. Angada and Jambavan voiced suspicion. The camp bristled with fear and anger.

Hanuman Speaks

In that tense moment, Hanuman stepped forward. He folded his hands to Rama and spoke:

“My Lord, let me speak of what I saw in Lanka. When I stood before Ravana, it was Vibhishan who defended me. He rose in that hostile court and reminded Ravana of dharma. I also saw his heart. He is not like the others. He grieved at Ravana’s arrogance and longed for righteousness. If he has left his brother, it is not for trickery but for truth. Just as I know Sita’s purity by sight, I know Vibhishan’s sincerity by his words and deeds. My Lord, I believe he comes to you with a clean heart.”

The vanaras fell silent. Sugriva still frowned, but Rama’s eyes softened as he listened.

Rama’s Decision

Rama then spoke words that echoed across the ages:

“If one seeks refuge in me, even if he was my enemy yesterday, I cannot refuse him. Whoever comes and says, ‘I am yours,’ to him I grant shelter and fearlessness. That is my vow.”

With that, Rama welcomed Vibhishan. The prince descended, laid down his weapons, and bowed low. Rama lifted him up and embraced him.

The Bond of Trust

From that day, Hanuman and Vibhishan were bound by a special thread. Vibhishan had once defended Hanuman’s life in the enemy’s court; now Hanuman defended Vibhishan’s honor before Rama’s army. Trust had flowed both ways, each standing for the other at the moment of doubt.

Together they served Rama in the great war — Hanuman with his strength and devotion, Vibhishan with his counsel and knowledge of Lanka. And when Ravana was finally defeated, Rama fulfilled his promise and crowned Vibhishan king.