Introduction
Shri Ram is one of the most revered and worshipped deities in the Hindu pantheon. He is considered the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, the Preserver, and is the main protagonist of the epic Ramayana. Shri Ram is not only worshipped by Hindus but also by people from other religions who admire his character and teachings. In this article, we will delve deeper into the life and teachings of Shri Ram.
Early Life
Shri Ram was born to King Dasharatha and Queen Kaushalya in Ayodhya, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. His birth is celebrated as the festival of Ram Navami. According to legend, Shri Ram was born to destroy the evil king Ravana, who had become invincible due to his boons from the gods.
Education and Marriage
Shri Ram was educated in the ashram of sage Vishwamitra, where he learned various skills and weaponry. He also met his future wife, Sita, in the ashram. Sita was the daughter of King Janaka of Mithila, and Shri Ram won her hand in marriage by breaking the bow of Lord Shiva, which had been given as a challenge to all the suitors.
Exile and Return
After King Dasharatha was tricked by his wife Kaikeyi into sending Shri Ram into exile for 14 years, he spent most of his time in the forest with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshman. During this period, they encountered many obstacles, including the demon king Ravana, who abducted Sita. Shri Ram and his army of monkeys defeated Ravana and rescued Sita. After completing their exile, Shri Ram returned to Ayodhya, where he was crowned king.
Teachings
Shri Ram’s life is an embodiment of righteousness and compassion. His teachings are a source of inspiration and guidance for people all over the world. He believed in treating everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their social status or background. He also emphasized the importance of fulfilling one’s duties and responsibilities, and upholding truth and justice. His teachings can be summarized in the following quote from the Ramayana, “Speak the truth, abide by dharma, do not neglect your duty, and do not harm others.”
Conclusion
Shri Ram is not just a deity, but a role model and inspiration for people of all ages and backgrounds. His life and teachings have been passed down through generations and continue to be relevant in today’s world. We can learn a lot from his example of righteousness, compassion, and devotion. As we celebrate his life and legacy, let us strive to incorporate his teachings into our lives and make the world a better place.
- “Ramayana.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 11 May 2023. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ramayana.
- “Shri Ram.” Hinduism Today. Hinduism Today, n.d. Web. 11 May 2023. https://www.hinduismtoday.com/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=4767.