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

 

Law of Virtue is inviolable

 

CHENNAI, FEB. 17. One of the distinguishing features of Hinduism

is the practical application of the directives in their lives by

those who obey them. On those who strictly adhere to the several

commands given in the scriptural texts, Divine grace will be

conferred. The idea is that mere propaganda and preaching will

not serve any purpose but what is laid down in the books, as well

as those prescribed by sages and saints, following their

experience in their day-to-day life, ought to be upheld by

others. They have established certain traditions which were

continued by men of equal purity in succeeding years.

 

Even if the scriptural rules appear difficult to be adopted, no

deviation is to be allowed to suit one's convenience. That the

Law of Virtue is inviolable is what the Ramayana says and proves.

The wishes of His father, whether correct or improper, had no

relevance, and were implicitly carried out by Rama. His

coronation was ``settled'' and He, as the eldest, was entitled to

the throne and He could have contested His banishment but He

never questioned what His father commanded, though not directly

at His face. The Lord respected the law and spent 14 years in

forest. His act was an example of extreme sacrifice to implement

the law.

 

The Ramayana illustrates how Rama did not express any regret when

He was ordered to leave the kingdom. He welcomed the choice of

His brother to rule the country and offered His prostration even

to His stepmother who was behind the move for His exile.

Throughout the epic, no one can come across even a trace of

hatred shown by Rama towards any other character nor find any

fault with His conduct.

 

In the like manner, even now people can emulate Him and adopt the

ideals He had established, unmindful of what others say or feel.

For instance, no one need feel shy to prostrate before God (in

idol form) in the temples, no matter about some raising their

eyebrows.

 

In his discourse, Sri N. Babu Dikshidar referred to the generous

gesture of Lakshmana's mother in commanding her son to be at the

constant service to Rama without being conscious of the fact that

he was His brother.

 

Rama's assurance to His father before His departure are of deep

import. ``My mind is set not on the things that the world desires

most nor one following my own private inclinations but on obeying

your command, which is acceptable to the righteous. Your pledge

should be fulfilled in letter and spirit''. Hearing Him speak

this, overwhelmed by calamity, his mind tormented by grief,

Dasaratha fell into a dead faint.

 

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