Here are some of the lessons one can learn from reading Ramayana:
(1) Relationship between Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha
Human life is consumed in chasing materialism (Artha) and sense pleasures (Kama). Ramayana makes it clear that these two pursuits should never be at the cost of Dharma (righteousness). In withholding dharma, both artha and Kama can be and must be sacrificed. The ultimate goal of life is Moksha (liberation) and it can be attained only by relinquishing Artha and Kama and by strictly following a life of Dharma.
(2) The importance of one man being wedded to only one wife
During Ramayana period, polygamy was quite prevalent and it was quite an acceptable social norm for kings to marry many women. Rama's own father Dasaratha was wedded to 3 wives (queens) and he had innumerable concubines at his palace. In a stark contrast to his father, Rama remained wedded and staunchly loyal to his only wife Sita. With this qualification, he held his head high as the greatest king ever ruled in Bharat (India). He set example for future generations of men as to what constitutes a sterling quality for the respectability of a man in society.
(3) Adherence to truth and the need to honor one's word
When Rama was a young boy, the love and affection his father Dasarata had on him was immense. He would never like to be separated from his son. But when he had promised to offer whatever help that the visiting Sage Viswamitra asked for and when the sage requested for Rama's help to fight the demons at the forest, Dasarata was terribly shocked. But still, he agreed to part with Rama, to honor his promise.
Later in time, when his third wife Kaikeyi wanted the throne of Ayodhya for her own son Bharata and wanted Rama to be sent in exile to the forest, it was nothing short of a deathly blow to Dasarata. But still, he could never use his kingly authority to veto her request, because of the promise he had made long ago to Kaikeyi, to grant her two boons whenever she chose to ask.
(4) Respecting father's word of Honor
Just on the previous night to Rama's crowning ceremony, Kaikeyi made use of her boons not only to deny Rama his rightful ascend to the kingdom, but also to send him in exile to the forest. Rama, as a kshatriya (a person belonging to ruler/ warrior class), had every right to question such an injustice meted out to him and he was in not really duty-bound to honor his father's unjust promises. But true to his greatness, Rama, with utter detachment and without even a trace of disappointment reflecting on his face, conceded to both the demands. For him, "pitru vakya paripalanam" (honoring his father's words) was one of the highest dharmas.
(5) The futility of listening to vicious counseling:
Kaikeyi, an essentially good natured woman, meekly allowed her very loyal maid servant Mandara to brain-wash her into demanding these two atrocious boons from Dasarata. Though she was not enthusiastic in the beginning, she gradually allowed Mandara's venomous words to poison her mind. Did she gain anything finally by asking these boons? No. She lost her beloved husband Dasarata who died very soon, on account of the shock and the pain of separation from his beloved son Rama. Bharata, Kaikeyi's son, for whom she obtained the very kingdom, reprimanded her for her atrocious act and he never ever took charge of the kingdom as a King.
Now see a contrast: Upon hearing the developments, Lakshmana, the most beloved brother of Rama, who was by nature short tempered, like a true Kshatriya, got instantly flared up. He could not just tolerate the injustice meted out to Rama. He wanted Rama to fight for his rights; he wanted to proceed and fight with his father and imprison Kaikeyi. But the ever sober Rama, never heeded to his counsel. He pacified Lakshmana with soothing words, pointing out the need for adhering to dharma. The effect of Rama's counseling not only pacified Lakshmana, but also gave him a steely resolution to relinquish his own comforts of the palace to accompany Rama to the forest, despite the latter's objections to it.
(6) Not accepting any booty coming in unjust way
Bharata, the son of Kaikeyi, is another sterling character in Ramayana, who just could not tolerate the very idea of bequeathing the throne that rightfully belong to his elder brother Rama but wrongly acquired for his sake by his mother. He was full of wrath towards his mother on this issue. He went to the forest in search of his brother and requested him earnestly to return to the country and take up its rule. As Rama refused to concede, he took Rama's pair of footwear and carried it on his head; he placed them on the throne of Ayodhya and took care of administration of the country as a representative.
(7) The futility of getting swayed by dubious attractions
Sita, in the forest, got madly attracted by a beautiful golden deer. She refused to heed to her husband's counsel that such a deer could not be a natural one and it could be a demon in disguise. It is her incessant pestering to acquire the deer to be her play-mate that forced Rama to go behind it. It paved the way for her getting separated from him and she got forcibly abducted by Ravana, the demon.
(8) The importance of being watchful about one's utterances
When Rama killed the demon Maricha who came disguised as the golden deer, the demon called out "Lakshmana! Sita!" in Rama's mimicked voice and died. Sita, upon hearing it, urged Lakshmana, who was standing guard to her, to go and help Rama, who seemed to be in trouble. Lakshmana's patient counseling against it could not convince her. In a fit of rage without any control of her words, she accused Lakshmana of nurturing an evil idea of having an illicit relationship with her in the absence of Rama. Lakshmana, shell shocked by hearing such an abominable accusation, had to leave immediately, leaving her alone. Ravana utilized this opportunity to abduct her.
Some interpreters of Ramayana would say that Sita was forced to prove her chastity by the test of fire by Rama (after she was freed from the clutches of Ravana) only because of her intemperate and terrible accusation against the saintly and devout Lakshmana.
(9) The importance of fighting atrocity against woman
Jatayu, the aged and once powerful bird, who noticed Ravana abducting Sita forcefully and flying with her in his vehicle towards his country Lanka, fought valiantly to obstruct Ravana and release Sita, but could not succeed in its effort. The bird sacrificed its very life on such a noble effort. Before breathing its last, Jatayu managed to convey the news to Rama, who, moved to tears by the gallantry of the old bird, did its last rites and funeral, as though he was the son of the bird.
(10) Divinely love transcends all barriers of caste and creed
The lowly fisherman Guha, who was full of devotion to Rama, who helped Rama, Lakshmana and Sita to cross the river Ganges in a boat, was accepted as a brother by the King Rama. Likewise, Sabari, an old hunter woman of low caste, became a staunch devotee of Rama, just by hearing about Rama's greatness.
When Rama was wandering the forests in search of Sita, Rama happened to visit Sabari's hut and the old lady, overwhelmed with love for Rama reportedly offered to him fruits after nibbling each a bit to make sure that she did not offer sour fruits to her beloved Rama. Rama treated Sabari as though she was his own mother and showered his grace on her.
(11) The importance of humility as a great virtue
Hanuman, the minister of the estranged Vanar king Sugriva was one of the greatest characters of Ramayana. Hanuman was physically very powerful, was a great diplomat, was very erudite in spoken words and was full of wisdom. Yet his humility was unsurpassed. The moment he met Rama, he was bowled over by Rama's divinity and charm and he committed himself to be the life-long servant of Rama. The great feats he did in the service of Rama subsequently were unparalleled and the humility he displayed despite his greatness was unfathomable.
(12) The greatness of true friendship
Rama befriended the estranged Vanar King Sugriva (who's brother Vali forcefully took Sugriva's wife and also denied his share of Vanar kingdom) with a mutual promise of help - Rama to eliminate the immensely powerful Vali and Sugriva in turn to help Rama to seek and locate Sita and wage war against Ravana to retrive Sita. Both did a commendable job in honoring their words.
(13) Showing mercy even to the enemy
Ravana's younger brother Vibhishan was an extremely righteous person who was bold enough to warn and advice Ravana against his act of immorality in abducting the wife of another person to satisfying his carnal desires. When the furious Ravana showed the doors to his brother, Vibhishana came and surrendered to Rama. Despite reservations from Sugriva and others, Rama accepted Vibhishana into his fold.
On the first fiery combat between Rama and Ravana, Rama destroyed all the weapons and armor of Ravana; Ravana stood on the war field, unprotected. Rama, who could have easily killed Ravana at that moment, in one of the greatest acts of graciousness, asked Ravana to retire for the day and return to the war field the next day, fully re-armed, as it was against dharma to kill an un-armed person.
(14) The need for the highest standards in a King
After annihilating Ravana and freeing Sita from confinement, Rama did one of the most controversial and oft criticized demand by asking Sita to jump into the fire to prove her chastity. Sita did it and came out unscathed. Rama took her into his loving fold once again.
But later, when he became King of Ayodhya, he came to know of a washer man talking ill of Rama for having accepted his wife Sita who had stayed in the confinement of his enemy for months. Rama, whose love for Sita was unfathomable, took the most painful decision of relinquishing her, just because he had to maintain a very high order of personal probity as the ruler of Ayodhya.
One can go on discussing any more number of lessons of morality and dharma by reading Ramayana in depth. It is no wonder that Ramayana as a source book of a wonderful story for the children and elders alike, as a wondrous piece of literature and as a source book of guidance on righteous living has stood the tests of time. It continues to inspire millions of people cutting across religion and linguistic barriers across the globe.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Here are some of the lessons one can learn from reading Ramayana:
Here are some of the lessons one can learn from reading Ramayana:
(1) Relationship between Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha
Human life is consumed in chasing materialism (Artha) and sense pleasures (Kama). Ramayana makes it clear that these two pursuits should never be at the cost of Dharma (righteousness). In withholding dharma, both artha and Kama can be and must be sacrificed. The ultimate goal of life is Moksha (liberation) and it can be attained only by relinquishing Artha and Kama and by strictly following a life of Dharma.
(2) The importance of one man being wedded to only one wife
During Ramayana period, polygamy was quite prevalent and it was quite an acceptable social norm for kings to marry many women. Rama's own father Dasaratha was wedded to 3 wives (queens) and he had innumerable concubines at his palace. In a stark contrast to his father, Rama remained wedded and staunchly loyal to his only wife Sita. With this qualification, he held his head high as the greatest king ever ruled in Bharat (India). He set example for future generations of men as to what constitutes a sterling quality for the respectability of a man in society.
(3) Adherence to truth and the need to honor one's word
When Rama was a young boy, the love and affection his father Dasarata had on him was immense. He would never like to be separated from his son. But when he had promised to offer whatever help that the visiting Sage Viswamitra asked for and when the sage requested for Rama's help to fight the demons at the forest, Dasarata was terribly shocked. But still, he agreed to part with Rama, to honor his promise.
Later in time, when his third wife Kaikeyi wanted the throne of Ayodhya for her own son Bharata and wanted Rama to be sent in exile to the forest, it was nothing short of a deathly blow to Dasarata. But still, he could never use his kingly authority to veto her request, because of the promise he had made long ago to Kaikeyi, to grant her two boons whenever she chose to ask.
(4) Respecting father's word of Honor
Just on the previous night to Rama's crowning ceremony, Kaikeyi made use of her boons not only to deny Rama his rightful ascend to the kingdom, but also to send him in exile to the forest. Rama, as a kshatriya (a person belonging to ruler/ warrior class), had every right to question such an injustice meted out to him and he was in not really duty-bound to honor his father's unjust promises. But true to his greatness, Rama, with utter detachment and without even a trace of disappointment reflecting on his face, conceded to both the demands. For him, "pitru vakya paripalanam" (honoring his father's words) was one of the highest dharmas.
(5) The futility of listening to vicious counseling:
Kaikeyi, an essentially good natured woman, meekly allowed her very loyal maid servant Mandara to brain-wash her into demanding these two atrocious boons from Dasarata. Though she was not enthusiastic in the beginning, she gradually allowed Mandara's venomous words to poison her mind. Did she gain anything finally by asking these boons? No. She lost her beloved husband Dasarata who died very soon, on account of the shock and the pain of separation from his beloved son Rama. Bharata, Kaikeyi's son, for whom she obtained the very kingdom, reprimanded her for her atrocious act and he never ever took charge of the kingdom as a King.
Now see a contrast: Upon hearing the developments, Lakshmana, the most beloved brother of Rama, who was by nature short tempered, like a true Kshatriya, got instantly flared up. He could not just tolerate the injustice meted out to Rama. He wanted Rama to fight for his rights; he wanted to proceed and fight with his father and imprison Kaikeyi. But the ever sober Rama, never heeded to his counsel. He pacified Lakshmana with soothing words, pointing out the need for adhering to dharma. The effect of Rama's counseling not only pacified Lakshmana, but also gave him a steely resolution to relinquish his own comforts of the palace to accompany Rama to the forest, despite the latter's objections to it.
(6) Not accepting any booty coming in unjust way
Bharata, the son of Kaikeyi, is another sterling character in Ramayana, who just could not tolerate the very idea of bequeathing the throne that rightfully belong to his elder brother Rama but wrongly acquired for his sake by his mother. He was full of wrath towards his mother on this issue. He went to the forest in search of his brother and requested him earnestly to return to the country and take up its rule. As Rama refused to concede, he took Rama's pair of footwear and carried it on his head; he placed them on the throne of Ayodhya and took care of administration of the country as a representative.
(7) The futility of getting swayed by dubious attractions
Sita, in the forest, got madly attracted by a beautiful golden deer. She refused to heed to her husband's counsel that such a deer could not be a natural one and it could be a demon in disguise. It is her incessant pestering to acquire the deer to be her play-mate that forced Rama to go behind it. It paved the way for her getting separated from him and she got forcibly abducted by Ravana, the demon.
(8) The importance of being watchful about one's utterances
When Rama killed the demon Maricha who came disguised as the golden deer, the demon called out "Lakshmana! Sita!" in Rama's mimicked voice and died. Sita, upon hearing it, urged Lakshmana, who was standing guard to her, to go and help Rama, who seemed to be in trouble. Lakshmana's patient counseling against it could not convince her. In a fit of rage without any control of her words, she accused Lakshmana of nurturing an evil idea of having an illicit relationship with her in the absence of Rama. Lakshmana, shell shocked by hearing such an abominable accusation, had to leave immediately, leaving her alone. Ravana utilized this opportunity to abduct her.
Some interpreters of Ramayana would say that Sita was forced to prove her chastity by the test of fire by Rama (after she was freed from the clutches of Ravana) only because of her intemperate and terrible accusation against the saintly and devout Lakshmana.
(9) The importance of fighting atrocity against woman
Jatayu, the aged and once powerful bird, who noticed Ravana abducting Sita forcefully and flying with her in his vehicle towards his country Lanka, fought valiantly to obstruct Ravana and release Sita, but could not succeed in its effort. The bird sacrificed its very life on such a noble effort. Before breathing its last, Jatayu managed to convey the news to Rama, who, moved to tears by the gallantry of the old bird, did its last rites and funeral, as though he was the son of the bird.
(10) Divinely love transcends all barriers of caste and creed
The lowly fisherman Guha, who was full of devotion to Rama, who helped Rama, Lakshmana and Sita to cross the river Ganges in a boat, was accepted as a brother by the King Rama. Likewise, Sabari, an old hunter woman of low caste, became a staunch devotee of Rama, just by hearing about Rama's greatness.
When Rama was wandering the forests in search of Sita, Rama happened to visit Sabari's hut and the old lady, overwhelmed with love for Rama reportedly offered to him fruits after nibbling each a bit to make sure that she did not offer sour fruits to her beloved Rama. Rama treated Sabari as though she was his own mother and showered his grace on her.
(11) The importance of humility as a great virtue
Hanuman, the minister of the estranged Vanar king Sugriva was one of the greatest characters of Ramayana. Hanuman was physically very powerful, was a great diplomat, was very erudite in spoken words and was full of wisdom. Yet his humility was unsurpassed. The moment he met Rama, he was bowled over by Rama's divinity and charm and he committed himself to be the life-long servant of Rama. The great feats he did in the service of Rama subsequently were unparalleled and the humility he displayed despite his greatness was unfathomable.
(12) The greatness of true friendship
Rama befriended the estranged Vanar King Sugriva (who's brother Vali forcefully took Sugriva's wife and also denied his share of Vanar kingdom) with a mutual promise of help - Rama to eliminate the immensely powerful Vali and Sugriva in turn to help Rama to seek and locate Sita and wage war against Ravana to retrive Sita. Both did a commendable job in honoring their words.
(13) Showing mercy even to the enemy
Ravana's younger brother Vibhishan was an extremely righteous person who was bold enough to warn and advice Ravana against his act of immorality in abducting the wife of another person to satisfying his carnal desires. When the furious Ravana showed the doors to his brother, Vibhishana came and surrendered to Rama. Despite reservations from Sugriva and others, Rama accepted Vibhishana into his fold.
On the first fiery combat between Rama and Ravana, Rama destroyed all the weapons and armor of Ravana; Ravana stood on the war field, unprotected. Rama, who could have easily killed Ravana at that moment, in one of the greatest acts of graciousness, asked Ravana to retire for the day and return to the war field the next day, fully re-armed, as it was against dharma to kill an un-armed person.
(14) The need for the highest standards in a King
After annihilating Ravana and freeing Sita from confinement, Rama did one of the most controversial and oft criticized demand by asking Sita to jump into the fire to prove her chastity. Sita did it and came out unscathed. Rama took her into his loving fold once again.
But later, when he became King of Ayodhya, he came to know of a washer man talking ill of Rama for having accepted his wife Sita who had stayed in the confinement of his enemy for months. Rama, whose love for Sita was unfathomable, took the most painful decision of relinquishing her, just because he had to maintain a very high order of personal probity as the ruler of Ayodhya.
One can go on discussing any more number of lessons of morality and dharma by reading Ramayana in depth. It is no wonder that Ramayana as a source book of a wonderful story for the children and elders alike, as a wondrous piece of literature and as a source book of guidance on righteous living has stood the tests of time. It continues to inspire millions of people cutting across religion and linguistic barriers across the globe.
(1) Relationship between Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha
Human life is consumed in chasing materialism (Artha) and sense pleasures (Kama). Ramayana makes it clear that these two pursuits should never be at the cost of Dharma (righteousness). In withholding dharma, both artha and Kama can be and must be sacrificed. The ultimate goal of life is Moksha (liberation) and it can be attained only by relinquishing Artha and Kama and by strictly following a life of Dharma.
(2) The importance of one man being wedded to only one wife
During Ramayana period, polygamy was quite prevalent and it was quite an acceptable social norm for kings to marry many women. Rama's own father Dasaratha was wedded to 3 wives (queens) and he had innumerable concubines at his palace. In a stark contrast to his father, Rama remained wedded and staunchly loyal to his only wife Sita. With this qualification, he held his head high as the greatest king ever ruled in Bharat (India). He set example for future generations of men as to what constitutes a sterling quality for the respectability of a man in society.
(3) Adherence to truth and the need to honor one's word
When Rama was a young boy, the love and affection his father Dasarata had on him was immense. He would never like to be separated from his son. But when he had promised to offer whatever help that the visiting Sage Viswamitra asked for and when the sage requested for Rama's help to fight the demons at the forest, Dasarata was terribly shocked. But still, he agreed to part with Rama, to honor his promise.
Later in time, when his third wife Kaikeyi wanted the throne of Ayodhya for her own son Bharata and wanted Rama to be sent in exile to the forest, it was nothing short of a deathly blow to Dasarata. But still, he could never use his kingly authority to veto her request, because of the promise he had made long ago to Kaikeyi, to grant her two boons whenever she chose to ask.
(4) Respecting father's word of Honor
Just on the previous night to Rama's crowning ceremony, Kaikeyi made use of her boons not only to deny Rama his rightful ascend to the kingdom, but also to send him in exile to the forest. Rama, as a kshatriya (a person belonging to ruler/ warrior class), had every right to question such an injustice meted out to him and he was in not really duty-bound to honor his father's unjust promises. But true to his greatness, Rama, with utter detachment and without even a trace of disappointment reflecting on his face, conceded to both the demands. For him, "pitru vakya paripalanam" (honoring his father's words) was one of the highest dharmas.
(5) The futility of listening to vicious counseling:
Kaikeyi, an essentially good natured woman, meekly allowed her very loyal maid servant Mandara to brain-wash her into demanding these two atrocious boons from Dasarata. Though she was not enthusiastic in the beginning, she gradually allowed Mandara's venomous words to poison her mind. Did she gain anything finally by asking these boons? No. She lost her beloved husband Dasarata who died very soon, on account of the shock and the pain of separation from his beloved son Rama. Bharata, Kaikeyi's son, for whom she obtained the very kingdom, reprimanded her for her atrocious act and he never ever took charge of the kingdom as a King.
Now see a contrast: Upon hearing the developments, Lakshmana, the most beloved brother of Rama, who was by nature short tempered, like a true Kshatriya, got instantly flared up. He could not just tolerate the injustice meted out to Rama. He wanted Rama to fight for his rights; he wanted to proceed and fight with his father and imprison Kaikeyi. But the ever sober Rama, never heeded to his counsel. He pacified Lakshmana with soothing words, pointing out the need for adhering to dharma. The effect of Rama's counseling not only pacified Lakshmana, but also gave him a steely resolution to relinquish his own comforts of the palace to accompany Rama to the forest, despite the latter's objections to it.
(6) Not accepting any booty coming in unjust way
Bharata, the son of Kaikeyi, is another sterling character in Ramayana, who just could not tolerate the very idea of bequeathing the throne that rightfully belong to his elder brother Rama but wrongly acquired for his sake by his mother. He was full of wrath towards his mother on this issue. He went to the forest in search of his brother and requested him earnestly to return to the country and take up its rule. As Rama refused to concede, he took Rama's pair of footwear and carried it on his head; he placed them on the throne of Ayodhya and took care of administration of the country as a representative.
(7) The futility of getting swayed by dubious attractions
Sita, in the forest, got madly attracted by a beautiful golden deer. She refused to heed to her husband's counsel that such a deer could not be a natural one and it could be a demon in disguise. It is her incessant pestering to acquire the deer to be her play-mate that forced Rama to go behind it. It paved the way for her getting separated from him and she got forcibly abducted by Ravana, the demon.
(8) The importance of being watchful about one's utterances
When Rama killed the demon Maricha who came disguised as the golden deer, the demon called out "Lakshmana! Sita!" in Rama's mimicked voice and died. Sita, upon hearing it, urged Lakshmana, who was standing guard to her, to go and help Rama, who seemed to be in trouble. Lakshmana's patient counseling against it could not convince her. In a fit of rage without any control of her words, she accused Lakshmana of nurturing an evil idea of having an illicit relationship with her in the absence of Rama. Lakshmana, shell shocked by hearing such an abominable accusation, had to leave immediately, leaving her alone. Ravana utilized this opportunity to abduct her.
Some interpreters of Ramayana would say that Sita was forced to prove her chastity by the test of fire by Rama (after she was freed from the clutches of Ravana) only because of her intemperate and terrible accusation against the saintly and devout Lakshmana.
(9) The importance of fighting atrocity against woman
Jatayu, the aged and once powerful bird, who noticed Ravana abducting Sita forcefully and flying with her in his vehicle towards his country Lanka, fought valiantly to obstruct Ravana and release Sita, but could not succeed in its effort. The bird sacrificed its very life on such a noble effort. Before breathing its last, Jatayu managed to convey the news to Rama, who, moved to tears by the gallantry of the old bird, did its last rites and funeral, as though he was the son of the bird.
(10) Divinely love transcends all barriers of caste and creed
The lowly fisherman Guha, who was full of devotion to Rama, who helped Rama, Lakshmana and Sita to cross the river Ganges in a boat, was accepted as a brother by the King Rama. Likewise, Sabari, an old hunter woman of low caste, became a staunch devotee of Rama, just by hearing about Rama's greatness.
When Rama was wandering the forests in search of Sita, Rama happened to visit Sabari's hut and the old lady, overwhelmed with love for Rama reportedly offered to him fruits after nibbling each a bit to make sure that she did not offer sour fruits to her beloved Rama. Rama treated Sabari as though she was his own mother and showered his grace on her.
(11) The importance of humility as a great virtue
Hanuman, the minister of the estranged Vanar king Sugriva was one of the greatest characters of Ramayana. Hanuman was physically very powerful, was a great diplomat, was very erudite in spoken words and was full of wisdom. Yet his humility was unsurpassed. The moment he met Rama, he was bowled over by Rama's divinity and charm and he committed himself to be the life-long servant of Rama. The great feats he did in the service of Rama subsequently were unparalleled and the humility he displayed despite his greatness was unfathomable.
(12) The greatness of true friendship
Rama befriended the estranged Vanar King Sugriva (who's brother Vali forcefully took Sugriva's wife and also denied his share of Vanar kingdom) with a mutual promise of help - Rama to eliminate the immensely powerful Vali and Sugriva in turn to help Rama to seek and locate Sita and wage war against Ravana to retrive Sita. Both did a commendable job in honoring their words.
(13) Showing mercy even to the enemy
Ravana's younger brother Vibhishan was an extremely righteous person who was bold enough to warn and advice Ravana against his act of immorality in abducting the wife of another person to satisfying his carnal desires. When the furious Ravana showed the doors to his brother, Vibhishana came and surrendered to Rama. Despite reservations from Sugriva and others, Rama accepted Vibhishana into his fold.
On the first fiery combat between Rama and Ravana, Rama destroyed all the weapons and armor of Ravana; Ravana stood on the war field, unprotected. Rama, who could have easily killed Ravana at that moment, in one of the greatest acts of graciousness, asked Ravana to retire for the day and return to the war field the next day, fully re-armed, as it was against dharma to kill an un-armed person.
(14) The need for the highest standards in a King
After annihilating Ravana and freeing Sita from confinement, Rama did one of the most controversial and oft criticized demand by asking Sita to jump into the fire to prove her chastity. Sita did it and came out unscathed. Rama took her into his loving fold once again.
But later, when he became King of Ayodhya, he came to know of a washer man talking ill of Rama for having accepted his wife Sita who had stayed in the confinement of his enemy for months. Rama, whose love for Sita was unfathomable, took the most painful decision of relinquishing her, just because he had to maintain a very high order of personal probity as the ruler of Ayodhya.
One can go on discussing any more number of lessons of morality and dharma by reading Ramayana in depth. It is no wonder that Ramayana as a source book of a wonderful story for the children and elders alike, as a wondrous piece of literature and as a source book of guidance on righteous living has stood the tests of time. It continues to inspire millions of people cutting across religion and linguistic barriers across the globe.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Chidambaram
list chief architect Viduvelvidugu Perumtaccan as directing an early renovation of the shrine. A major shrine of Shiva worship since the classical period, there have been several renovations and offerings to Chidambaram by the Pallava, Chola, Pandya, Vijayanagara and Chera royals in the ancient and pre-medieval periods. The temple as it stands now is mainly of the 12th and 13th centuries, with later additions in similar style. Its bronze statues and stone sculptures depicting various deities and the famous Thillai trees (Excoecaria agallocha) of the surrounding forest reflect the highpoints of early Chola and Pallava art while its famed gold plated gopuram towers are medieval structural additions by the royals Aditya I, Parantaka Chola I, Kopperunchinga I, Krishnadevaraya and Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan. King Kocengannan Chola was born following prayers his parents offered at the temple and later in his life he refined its structure. The shrine gave the town its name.
The deity that presides here is கூத்தன் - Thillai Koothan (Thillai Nataraja - Shiva, Lord of Dance). Chidambaram is the birthplace of the sculpture and bronze image representation of Shiva as the cosmic dancer, a Tamilian concept and motif in Chola art that has since become notable as a symbol of Hinduism. The shrine is the only Shiva temple to have its main deity represented in this anthropomorphic form, as the supreme being who performs all cosmic activities. The consort deity here is Sivakami Amman (form of Amman - mother goddess and female energy). Two other forms of Shiva are represented close to this in the vimana (inner sanctum) of the temple - as a crystallised lingam - the most common representation of Shiva in temples, and as the aether space classical element, represented with empty space and a garland of fifty one hanging golden vilvam leaves (Aegle marmelos). Shiva is captured in pose as Nataraja performing the Ananda Tandava ("Dance of Delight") in the golden hall of the shrine Pon Ambalam (பொன் அம்பலம்). The sculptures of Chidambaram inspired the postures of Bharatha Natyam. The Chidambaram complex is admired for its five famous halls (ambalam or sabhai), several grand smaller shrines to the Hindu deities Ganesh, Murugan, Vishnu and Sivakami Amman which contain Pandyan and Nayak architectural styles, and for its endowment from many water tanks, one of which links it to the Thillai Kali temple.
Chidambaram is one of the five Pancha Bootha Sthalams, the holiest Shiva temples each representing one of the five classical elements; Chidambaram represents akasha (aether). Chidambaram is glorified in Tirumular's Tirumandhiram and was visited by Patañjali and Pulikaal Munivar.[8] It is the primary shrine of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams - Shiva Sthalams glorified in the early medieval Tevaram poems by Tamil Saivite Nayanar saints Tirunavukkarasar, Thirugnana Sambandar and Sundarar. Hailed in the Tiruvacakam series by Manikkavacakar, these very volumes of the Tirumurai literature canon were themselves found in secret chambers of the temple. The Periya Puranam, a biography of these Nayanar saints by Sekkizhar commissioned by emperor Kulothunga Chola II, was written in the shrine's Thousand Pillared Hall. In Kanda Puranam, the epic authored by Kachiyappa Sivachariar of Kanchipuram, the Chidambaram shrine is venerated as one of the three foremost Shiva abodes in the world, alongside Koneswaram temple of Trincomalee and Mount Kailash.
The deity that presides here is கூத்தன் - Thillai Koothan (Thillai Nataraja - Shiva, Lord of Dance). Chidambaram is the birthplace of the sculpture and bronze image representation of Shiva as the cosmic dancer, a Tamilian concept and motif in Chola art that has since become notable as a symbol of Hinduism. The shrine is the only Shiva temple to have its main deity represented in this anthropomorphic form, as the supreme being who performs all cosmic activities. The consort deity here is Sivakami Amman (form of Amman - mother goddess and female energy). Two other forms of Shiva are represented close to this in the vimana (inner sanctum) of the temple - as a crystallised lingam - the most common representation of Shiva in temples, and as the aether space classical element, represented with empty space and a garland of fifty one hanging golden vilvam leaves (Aegle marmelos). Shiva is captured in pose as Nataraja performing the Ananda Tandava ("Dance of Delight") in the golden hall of the shrine Pon Ambalam (பொன் அம்பலம்). The sculptures of Chidambaram inspired the postures of Bharatha Natyam. The Chidambaram complex is admired for its five famous halls (ambalam or sabhai), several grand smaller shrines to the Hindu deities Ganesh, Murugan, Vishnu and Sivakami Amman which contain Pandyan and Nayak architectural styles, and for its endowment from many water tanks, one of which links it to the Thillai Kali temple.
Chidambaram is one of the five Pancha Bootha Sthalams, the holiest Shiva temples each representing one of the five classical elements; Chidambaram represents akasha (aether). Chidambaram is glorified in Tirumular's Tirumandhiram and was visited by Patañjali and Pulikaal Munivar.[8] It is the primary shrine of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams - Shiva Sthalams glorified in the early medieval Tevaram poems by Tamil Saivite Nayanar saints Tirunavukkarasar, Thirugnana Sambandar and Sundarar. Hailed in the Tiruvacakam series by Manikkavacakar, these very volumes of the Tirumurai literature canon were themselves found in secret chambers of the temple. The Periya Puranam, a biography of these Nayanar saints by Sekkizhar commissioned by emperor Kulothunga Chola II, was written in the shrine's Thousand Pillared Hall. In Kanda Puranam, the epic authored by Kachiyappa Sivachariar of Kanchipuram, the Chidambaram shrine is venerated as one of the three foremost Shiva abodes in the world, alongside Koneswaram temple of Trincomalee and Mount Kailash.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Glorious mantras of Lord shiva
mantras are very rich in their meaning. While doing japa one can meditate on the mantra - its meaning. As the mind dwell more and more into that, the mantra conditions the mind and takes up to the higher states and forms the path to the great liberation - eternal bliss !
What makes mantras so special as compared to the normal words ? mantras are not human composed. One may wonder how can that be possible. Especially given that there are sages associated with the mantras ! The point to be noted is that these sages are not composers of these mantras, as we normaly compose the sentences; they are not the inventors, but they are the discoverers of the mantra. They get to know the mantras in a state in which these words do not emanate from their thoughts, but they are just passive audience to it. Those who go deep in meditation and realize God may be able to get a feel of this situation.
To be such a discoverer, even though they are just passive hearers, needs great amount of qualification. Only the perfect one can unchangedly reproduce the mantra heard. The only one that is absolutely perfect is God. All other discoverers reproduce that mantra only as pure as their closeness to perfection.
veda samhitAs are full of mantras and hence have been preserved for ages in their pure form by utilizing the various techniques like patha, krama, jaTa, gaNa pATas, that ensure that the chanter clearly gets the correct letters and even the correct level of sound for each letter (svara). The chanters are advised to chant the mantras only after getting the right pronunciation of it, so that the mantras are presered against deterioration with time. There would be gurus who initiate the disciple in a mantra. guru ensures that the disciple got the mantra right, so that the person can chant independently as well as initiate others in that mantra. Ensuring this preservation vedas were passed only through the tradition of guru and disciples and was never written down till very recent past. (It is really amazing to note that without being written down the vedas have been preserved in pure form across the land by these techniques. Though the texts arem across the land by these techniques. Though the texts are freely available now for anybody to read, it would be important to ensure that these mantras are properly learnt and then chanted. This way the treasure that as been preserved so carefully over multiple milleniums do not deteriorate due to indifference.)
It is to be noted that many of the hymns of thirumuRai(1) are known to have great powers of mantras that are practiced even today.
While there are plenty of mantras available, there are a few that are chanted with high esteem by the shaivas. Definitely those are highly powerful ones that can lead the chanter on the great path to mukti (liberation). praNava, paNJchAkashra, gAyatri to name a few. For shaivites the Holy Five Syllables (paNJchAkshara) with or without combined with the praNava is the ultimate mantra.
Maasil Veenaiyum Maalai Madhiyamum
Veesu thendralum veengila veynilum
Moosu vandarai poygayum ponradhee
Eesan endhai inayadi neezhalee.
Translation:The shelter under the parallel feet of the God, my boss, is like the nice melody of Veena (Musical Instrument), the early evening moon, pleasant breeze, the Spring, a pond where bees are in making sound.
Finally the king decided to throw Thirunaanukkarasar into the sea tieing him to a big stone. He was taken in a boat to the deeper portion of the sea with the body tied to a stone. He was thrown in the sea. He was unruffled. That time he recited with great love and confidence on Lord Shiva this hymn. To the surprise of all others the stone became the boat and Thirunaavukkarasar got down in a village near Thiruppadhiripuliyoor (Kadaloor).
Sotrunai veedhiyan soodhi vaanavan
Potrunai thirundhadi porundha kai thozha
Katrunai pootiyoor kadalir paaichchinum
Natrunai aavadhu NAMASHIVAYAvee
Translation:The reciter of the Vedas, the flame like God, if we pray with folded hands to his gold like glittering feet, even if we were tied to a big stone and thrown in the sea there is a savior - that is the NAMASHIVAYA. ( The Holy five letter)
Thirunaavukkarasar wanted the bad statement that he once went to Jainism to be suppressed by identifying him as a Shivanadiyaar (Devotee). For that he wanted the holy symbols of the Lord, namely the Holy Bull and Thrisuula, to be marked on his body. For that he sang this song to the Lord of Thiruth thuungaanai maadam. Immediately Siva ganas came and put those marks on his shoulders and disappeared.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Girivalam
Girivalam
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Full Moon pulls people and swells the crowd
Earthlings enjoy every full moon night. On every full moon day, the temple wears a festive look and draws devotees from all parts of the land as the nectar of the floral disc attracts bees with an osmotic pull of an astounding force. The full moon not only swells oceans and seas but also the crowd of devotees who throng about the temple. The moon shows its whole disc illuminated and this illumination exerts an influence upon earnest adherents by imperceptible means. While the waning phases of moon bring in depression its waning phases waken up soul of men to winsome elation; and the lovely luminous (full) moon brings in the devotees a magical sense of spiritual awakening. A glow with aspirations the adherents find a promise of new life, new spring in the severe summer of the earthly life.
Malaivalam (Girivalam)
A monthly ritual, a token of devotion working a stage in spiritual developments. The illumination of the entire disc of moon, is a monthly feature devotees drawn from different parts of the land visit the temple and phallic symbol placed in the sanctum sanctorum, and the mother Goddess 'UMA' and dextrally move in a circle in large numbers keeping the hill as the centre covering in a complete round a distance of nearly fifteen kilometers.
Viewing the vicissitudes of the vesture by which the nature covers the vertical monument.
Observing on all sides from the ground floor to the heavenly peak the changing moods of the hill.
Worshipping all along the way the hundred and odd lingams the masculine means of majesty, the phallic symbols used extensively in the cult of worship of 'Siva' and erected at regular intervals the procreative force (lingam).
Having a sense of detachment
Felling their oneness with the nature as they are
On joyous journey as
Go round the world, the universe, the constellations, all of which are his myth and manifestations.
Seeking spiritual union with the savior of all and for sometime the aspirants of higher aims are away from the harassing material world.
Devotees Glow in Health and return home refreshed
This monthly malaivalam, circuiting the sublime hill gives devotees spiritual power and relief from tension allays their suffering and alleviate their pain, calms their agitations and composes their feelings comforts them to a state to rest and joy offers an additional brightness of cheerfulness. This circumbulation issues a vital glow to the devotees who gain marvelous strength. All these one has to personally acquire and enjoy. The devotees return home refreshed and rejuvenated and refined regaining their lost hope and vigor with their psychic energy of primitive impulses converted into socially acceptable channels of endeavor.
One who thinks Arunachalam and desire to go around by water covering 15km the Arunachala hill and forwarding one foot will get equal benefit of Yagam and for second foot he will achieve the benefit of Raja suya Yagam and with clear mind of third foot will achieve Aswameda Yagam and who continues further will get beneficial of all Yagams.
Siddhas and devotees from various part of the World walk around on all days. In the full moon day of every month, lakhs of devotees go around the hill regularly.
Every angular sight of this holy hill - also known as Annamalai in the divine parameters of the upper worlds-offers various types of Godly visions of the mountain on your every footsteps and each such angular vision carries behind it thousand fold munificence and divine beneficence of the almighty all the 72000 cores of human physiology - are divinely activated and blissfully stream lined when you perform Girivalam here. the spiritual splendor of this holy mountain is enjoyed by physical circumambulation, under the divine guidelines of Sathguru who reveals its divine splendor .
The Siddhas tell going around the hill once destroys the karma of ten million births. That means nothing is as effective as MALAI VALAM. And siddhas like Sathguru Maharishi Venkatramana preaches devotees to walk around hill at least once in their life.
How to Make MalaiValam
Everyone should walk around the hill barefoot.
Mutter the name "Om Arunachala".
view the peak of the Arunachala hill during the circumambulation.
It should be undertaken during night.
There are 8 lingams, 360 holy tanks, mandapas and ashrams. There are eight lingams around the Arunachala hill one in each direction.
 | Indra Lingam:(East)This is the first lingam while the hill circumambulation, worshipping this lingam yields healthy and wealthy life. |
Agni Lingam:(South East)This is the second lingam, It placed near The Lotus tank, This is the only lingam placed on right side of the circumambulation path, all other lingams are placed on left side, It occupies the South East direction, worshipping here retrieves us from all diseases and to face challenges of life. |  |
 | Yema Lingam : (South)This is the third lingam, and next to Agni lingam and 3 kilometer away from the Rajagopuram, and it occupies the South direction, it also has a holy tank called "Simma Theertha", it is believed that, worship of this solves economical problems. |
Niruthi Lingam : (South West)This is the fourth lingam, while we see the peak of the holy hill Arunachala, it views accompanying of two parts of mountain and shows 'Sivan' and 'Sakthi' together. It placed in south west of Arunachala. It also has a holy tank nearby, called "Sani Theertha", worshipping here relieves us from our difficulties. |  |
 | Varuna Lingam : (West)This temple placed West of the hill Arunachala, this is the fifth lingam. It is 8 kilometers away from the Rajagopuram. One of the holy tank called "Varuna theertha" is here. Workship of this temple retrieves from crucial diseases and promotes ones social status. |
Vayu Lingam : (North West)The whole world is made up of Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Sky. no living creature can survive without Air. While reaching this temple we feel the pleasantness of spring and get peace of mind. it is placed in Northwest direction. Worshipping here is of confers boon on ladies and children. |  |
 | Kubera Lingam : (North)This is the seventh lingam. Almost all of the devotees , who comes for circumambulation, worship here by soaring coins and currencies on this lingam. Worship of this lingam grants economical growth, and promotes peace of mind. It is placed in North direction. |
Esanya Lingam : (North East)
This is the eighth and last lingam. Here gets peace of mind ability to concentrate mind on God works out his way to heaven.
Friday, July 2, 2010
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