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Unassuming devotee

CHENNAI: The essence of true devotion is total humility. Humility takes root in one's consciousness only with the growing awareness of God's absolute supremacy and His infinite mercy. This makes a true Bhakta see himself in a proper perspective with regard to the world and God. Though difficult to cultivate and attain, humility adds lustre to one's personality. In its pure form it not only frees one from the harmful effects of ego, the sense of "I" and "mine", but also gives one the strength to disregard the worldly pulls and temptations. It shows that the path of devotion is a sure route to salvation.

This is exemplified in the case of Hanuman who is rightfully extolled as the epitome of humility, his extraordinary prowess notwithstanding, said Sri Raghuveera Bhattachariar in a lecture. Hanuman is regarded as the greatest of devotees, one who completely surrendered to Lord Rama.

Hanuman fully understood the compassion of the Lord and implicitly believed that He alone was responsible for all his achievements. Since he acknowledged that his intelligence, physical strength, fame, courage, fearlessness and power were a result of God's grace, he never took pride or credit for any of these. Such was his unassuming nature.

A Jambavan was needed to make Hanuman aware of his own inherent strengths. Lord Rama singled out Hanuman and handed over His signet ring to be given to Sita, for He knew if at all anyone could accomplish the formidable task of locating Sita, it was Hanuman.

It was no mean task to cross the ocean and initiate the search for Sita. With shrewdness, tact, strategic planning and resourcefulness Hanuman was able to overcome the difficulties that came his way. Many a time he was disheartened when he was not able to see Sita. He bowed in all humility and prayed to Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and other celestials to help him identify Sita's whereabouts.

When he actually saw her, Sita was in a state of despair and ready to forsake her life, for Ravana had met her with threats to overpower her shortly. Knowing the power of Rama Nama, Hanuman very cautiously sang the story of Lord Rama and convinced her of his identity.

He then displayed Lord Rama's signet ring in his palm for Sita to take and recall the joyous moments of their cherished privacy. He tested the enemy's strength as well when he got an opportunity.

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