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Source: thThe Hindu

(http://www.hinduonnet.com/2002/05/30/stories/2002053000080800.htm)

 

Miscellaneous

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Religion

 

 

Ramayana contains Vedic directives

 

 

 

 

CHENNAI

MAY 30

 

.. To be generous while extending help to the needy is indeed an enviable noble

quality, but at times, a person should be careful not to be too hasty or

overzealous in promising to give what is demanded because he may have to feel

sorry later as the object wanted may be very dear to him or which he cherishes

most. Also, the person who seeks such a help should approach the philanthropist

judging his mood and whether he is in the midst of others and if so who they

are. This message that one should not regret after agreeing to part with

something is one of the many interspersed in the Ramayana, which essentially, is

a work bringing out in story form the directives of the Vedas to enable a

sincere man to develop an integrated personality and attain perfection.

 

The epic refers to Emperor Dasaratha summoning a full court to moot a proposal

to arrange for Rama's marriage. That very moment Sage Viswamitra arrived there

to obtain a favour. The sage was pleased with the warm welcome accorded to him

and made enquiries about the welfare of the people, his prosperity and

maintenance of peace. The emperor replied that the sage's visit made him feel

like one who has found a goblet of nectar; like one whose partner, after long

sterility, was to give birth to a child; like a poor man suddenly discovering a

large treasure trove and like those who experience refreshing heavy showers

after prolonged drought. The sage explained why he was there to take Rama

with him to protect a rite he was performing. The emperor, who earlier was ready

to employ all his resources in fulfilling Viswamitra's wish, was upset at the

sage's unexpected words and arguing that Rama was too young, showed hesitancy to

send his son (at the first instance), but later !

on persuasion by the family priest, deputed Him along with Lakshmana. In his

discourse, Sri R. Aravamudan referred to the several interpretations by the

great commentator, Periyavachanpillai, for the verse disclosing the real

identity of Rama that He is God in human form. Sage Viswamithra was

surprised that his (once) rival, Vasishta, paid compliments to him that it was

only out of his desire to do good to Rama that he sought the emperor's favour

and that under his protective wing, there was nothing to cause anxiety and

Rama's interests were safe. Viswamithra's visit ultimately resulted in a grand

wedding after the arrival of Dasaratha.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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