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Adherence to truth religion

CHENNAI : One of the founding principles of Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism) is adherence to truth (Satya), the other being Dharma and hence upholding them in day-to-day life is given paramount importance. The Ramayana portrays Rama as the very personificati on of Dharma and describes His virtuous qualities at every opportunity the storyline offers. Dasaratha who was childless for long was overjoyed when he was blessed with four noble sons who excelled each other in virtues; Rama was His pride and joy. He was an emperor renowned for his just rule, and was principled in thought and action.

In their discourse, Damal Sri Ramakrishnan and Srimathi Perundevi Seshadri said it was when Dasaratha was deliberating about the marriage of the princes with his family priests and relations that Sage Viswamitra arrived at his palace gates. It was not as if the king was worried about Rama’s wedding but his concern was that he should be able to find one who would be a match for Him in virtues. There was a reason for the sage’s appearance at this juncture. He was instrumental in separating King Harischandra and his wife Chandramati in this lineage and he had been waiting for such an opportunity to atone for his sin. Instead of one there were four princes to be married and so without wasting time he rushed to Ayodhya. But, he could not directly tell this to the king and hence employed the ruse of seeking his help by asking him to send Rama along with him to protect his sacrifice. Even before he could express the reason for his visit, Dasaratha extended a ceremonial welcome and offered to fulfil his wish.

The moment Viswamitra asked him to send Rama with him Dasaratha swooned for Rama was his very life. His attachment made him see Rama as his son and a young boy. The sage flew into a rage for the king who was the epitome of Dharma was now going back on his word. Vasishta then intervened and made him see reason by pointing out that he who was celebrated in all the three worlds for his character should not forsake truth. He also explained to him that Rama would only stand to gain by going with Viswamitra who was adept in learning and asceticism.

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