Miscellaneous - Religion   

Epitome of virtue

CHENNAI : It is human nature to emulate eminent men from different walks of life. Hence it becomes necessary for those who occupy leadership positions to set an example for others. Similarly, preceptors play an important role in moulding young minds. It is imperative then that they should exemplify what they teach. The Ramayana highlights this truth. Valmiki portrays Rama as a paradigm for humanity, and as the embodiment of Dharma at every possible juncture in the epic. The purpose of the Lord's incarnation as Rama was to re-establish Dharma in the world and thus He had to vanquish all those who posed a threat to it by being an exemplar of Dharma.

In his discourse, Sri N.Veezhinathan said the stage was set for Ravana's defeat when Sage Viswamitra took Rama and Lakshmana with him to protect his sacrifice. This was only a pretext the sage used to request Dasaratha to send Rama with him for he had the important role of aiding in the Lord's mission by imparting Him the use of incantations and missiles. When they halted for the day, the sage first instructed Rama and Lakshmana in the use of the Mantras, Bala and Atibala, which would make them invincible. Viswamitra's observation in this context is insightful. That he was privy to Rama's divine nature is evident for the sage told Him, "Even though all the manifold virtues already exist in You, the two spells will grow many times more efficacious when duly grasped by You, who are asceticism personified."

That he took his role of teaching them seriously can be seen in the way he woke up the brothers next morning with the words, "Kausalya is blessed with a worthy son in You, Rama. The morning twilight has set in. Get up, O tiger among men! Contemplation on the deity and the daily routine of duties must be done." The sage then explained the sanctity of the hermitage at the confluence of the rivers, Sarayu and Ganga.

The place, which was known as Anga then, was actually the spot where Lord Siva performed austerities when Sati, who was reborn as Parvati, also engaged in penance to marry Him. Manmatha (Kama) who foolishly disturbed Siva's penance lost his body (Ananga) when He opened His third eye. They accepted the hospitality of the sages living there and performed austerities at this hallowed place.

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