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Source: The Hindu (http://www.the-hindu.com)

 

God's traits endear Him to His devotee

 

CHENNAI, OCT. 30. The sages who have composed the epics and the

Puranas do not tire of praising the glory of the Supreme Being,

who is the abode of infinite auspicious qualities, while

describing His manifestations in the world. There is nothing to

wonder about this as a devotee can easily vouch for the spell

that the Lord has over His devotees.

 

If a devotee far removed from the time of the Lord's incarnations

is not satiated while engaging in devotional activities like

listening to the exposition of His glory, then what can be said

of sages like Valmiki who had the singular fortune of living

during His advent? One can then imagine Dasaratha's state of mind

blessed as he was with the Lord as his son in flesh and blood. He

delighted in Rama's company and never tired of beholding Him.

Valmiki never misses an opportunity to describe Rama's endearing

qualities.

 

In his discourse, Sri B. Sundar Kumar said that a person's

longevity, fame, intelligence and strength increased when he

showed due reverence to elders, especially to parents and

teacher. Rama was an examplar of this virtue and His fame

increased because of His conduct.

 

Though as the sovereign monarch Dasaratha had the right to name

his successor, he did not do so, but in the best tradition of

democracy conferred with the citizens of Ayodhya on the matter,

expressing his wish that he would like to crown Rama as the

prince-regent. The unanimous approval only confirmed beyond any

doubt that Rama had won the hearts of one and all by His

exemplary behaviour.

 

Another interesting insight can be gained from this episode in

the Ramayana into the manner in which rulers adhered to

righteousness without in any way giving into personal

considerations. As the sole beneficiary of the whole exercise to

appoint a successor to the throne, Rama was the last to be

informed of the matter. When Dasaratha sent for Him Rama

approached him with joined palms and as a mark of respect fell

prostrate at his feet.

 

The king informed Him, ``Since all these assembled people have

been gratified by You through Your excellences, therefore accept

the office of prince-regent tomorrow. You have been adjudged to

be abundantly rich in excellences by Your very disposition.''

Dasaratha further advised Rama about how He should conduct

Himself as a ruler.

 

According to the Ramayana a ruler's duty is to satisfy his

subjects without deviating from Dharma. Populist measures were

not to be resorted to for personal gain. Further he should have

the foresight to consider the long-term effect of his decisions

while providing for welfare measures.

 

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