When King Dasaratha asked his son Rama to go to forest, citizens of Ayodhya bemoaned, asking why the king should make this order to Rama, who was treading the path of righteousness. Sri Muralidhar Swamigal said in a discourse that Rama told Lakshmana that He could obtain anything in the universe but would not get it through unrighteous ways. Rama said He was satisfied with whatever came by following dharma. Rama said He feared two things: seeing unrighteousness and the fear of answering in the eternal world for His deeds.
Sri Adi Sankara says in Bhaja Govindam that there can be no arguments in the court of Yama, the God of death, who would extend punishments straightaway.
In the hermitage of sage Athri, Sita introduced Rama to Anasuya, the sage’s wife, and said, “He possesses all pious qualities, compassion towards all beings, and is the conqueror of worldly pleasures.”
All the Rishis in the forest pleaded with Rama to protect them from the clutches of Rakshasas by slaying them. Why can’t the Rishis kill the Rakshasas by themselves through the power of their penance? As sages, it is not their duty. But Rama’s duty as the King of Ayodhya is to protect the good people. The sages said He is the one who follows dharma and protects the same.
Rama is also known for showing gratitude. He wished to hear Sri Ramayana in its entirety, not because He wanted to know His achievements, but to recall the various incidents through the people who helped Him. Listening to the recitation by Lava and Kusa, His heart melted, and He revered all those people.
All the truth a person speaks will become a promise in reality. Rama braved against all odds to uphold dharma and was steadfast that any sorrow or difficulties would not derail His resolve to tread dharma.
Published – April 29, 2025 05:00 am IST