Miscellaneous - Religion   

Embodiment of dharma

CHENNAI: The Ramayana illustrates that the unpredictable quality of life brings forth upheavals and also shows the ways to cope with the challenges. Valmiki's detailed descriptions of Lord Rama's character, nature and actions are meant to inspire and instil high values of life in mankind. Lord Rama exemplifies the ideal way of human life, embodying the best of virtues and good qualities while also displaying the intricate aspects of dharma inhering in them.

The Lord's respect for scriptural injunctions that is manifest in several instances when He engages in the performance of daily rituals of worship or of the specific rites for the departed, etc., serves to drive home the point that sincere and scrupulous practice alone can foster virtuous living, said Sri Ravi Sarma in a lecture. Dharma is the basis of life and has to be protected and upheld at all times and at all costs.

While each virtue assumes grace and dignity, what stands out in the Lord is the unique combination of valour, courage, adherence to truth and skills in archery along with family values and virtues such as respect and love for elders, etc.

There is no trace of prejudice in His calm and cheerful demeanour that greets all. His ability to view everything and everyone with an unbiased eye (Samadrishti) is amazing. This can happen only to those who have their minds under control. The Lord displays the same compassion towards all, be it a friend or a foe. He confronts Ravana with great patience. There was no ill will towards him, though he had abducted His beloved wife Sita. The Lord's compassion surfaces when He wishes to give further chance to Ravana hoping he would repent and hand over Sita so that He could avoid killing him. Lord Rama respected Ravana's virtues such as his valour, steadfast devotion to Siva, etc. He was keen that no one should follow the path of Adharma. While it is the general tendency to perceive only the faults in others, Lord Rama saw only good in everything and everyone. Lord Rama protected the sacrifices of the sages and also reaffirmed His promise of succour and liberation to those who seek Him.

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