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Spiritual excellence

CHENNAI: Ethical values when caught are imbibed better than when taught. This is evident from the way generations have been influenced by the strong message of Dharma that the Puranas and the Itihasas convey in many direct and subtle ways.

In a lecture, Srimati Jaya Srinivasan drew attention to numerous opportunities to get acquainted with the nuances of spiritual and worldly excellences that the Ramayana offers through the wide spectrum of characters and the exigencies they face. For instance, Hanuman’s proficiency and wisdom is revealed in his accurate reading of Vibhishana’s nature.

When Vibhishana sought Lord Rama’s refuge, the Lord solicited the views of Sugriva and others. The very fact that Vibhishana had deserted Ravana’s camp was room enough to be suspicious about his intents.

While all the voices in Rama’s camp raised objections against accepting Vibhishana, when it was Hanuman’s turn to give his opinion, he spoke with tremendous resourcefulness and clarity. Hanuman had met Vibhishana in Lanka and understood his commitment to Dharma and his Bhakti towards Rama. He tells the assembly that he will speak the truth and not just for argument’s sake. He is not biased in Vibhishana’s favour either.

Hanuman knew that Vibhishana was not a traitor. He pointed out the striking transparency in Vibhishana’s character that others failed to see. Vibhishana must have warned Ravana in all sincerity knowing Rama’s supremacy. Ravana’s espousal of wickedness and refusal to mend his ways had left him with no other choice except to seek surrender at Rama’s feet.

Hanuman gives his advice and requests Rama to examine the points in detail and objectively and do whatever He deems right.

Imbibing spiritual knowledge is a prime requisite for every individual but it is also important that one examines and assesses this knowledge in an objective manner to accept it with faith.

In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna tells Arjuna that He has imparted the wisdom which is the secret of secrets and asks him to ponder it carefully and act as he thinks best.

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