In this world, it is almost impossible for an individual to lead a perfect, blemish-free life. In the Ramayana, we find that even Lord Rama, an incarnation of dharma and righteousness, and the divine Mother Sita, the very personification of devotion and purity, were and still are, not spared. However, there is one character whose actions are beyond reproach — Lord Hanuman, one of the greatest devotees of Lord Rama. We do not find a single incident wherein he has committed any mistake or incurred blame and censure. He is the very embodiment of devotion, wisdom and service. The first thing that attracts us is Sri Hanuman’s immeasurable and incomparable physical strength coupled with brilliance. He possesses the rare quality of using his strength, not to scare ordinary or weak people, but to destroy those who afflict saintly persons. In addition, Sri Hanuman is an embodiment of knowledge, foremost among the wise and a repository of good and noble qualities. His thoughts and words are always pure. Above all, he is the beloved devotee of Lord Rama.
The most admirable virtue of Sri Hanuman is his humility. Just as the wind remains with us 24 hours of the day, serving all beings without any desire for recognition and appreciation, Sri Hanuman served all without a trace of pride in his heart. Sri Hanuman crossed the boundless ocean, entered Lanka — Ravana’s impregnable, well-guarded stronghold — found Mother Sita, killed many demons and burnt the city of Lanka. Thus, he served Lord Rama in numerous ways. Lord Rama, Himself, overwhelmed by Sri Hanuman’s service was filled with extreme love and gratitude for him. When the Lord expressed His feelings and praised him, Sri Hanuman fell at the feet of the Lord and disclaimed any recognition for his valorous feats giving all the credit to the Lord alone. He declared that nothing was unattainable or impossible for a person on whom the Lord showered His Grace.
In the Ramayana, we see that Sri Hanuman always has the name of the Lord on his lips and His image enshrined in his heart. It is this firm devotion that enabled him to overcome insurmountable obstacles and perform unimaginable feats, such as carrying an entire mountain and singlehandedly entering and burning down a well-fortified Lanka. What a noble an inspiring ideal of service coupled with utmost humility! Sri Hanuman is considered the favourite devotee of Lord Rama. When one has supreme and true love for the Lord, He too embraces such a devotee in a thousand ways. Not only is Hanumanji an exemplary devotee, but he also leads others to his Master so that, they too are blessed by the Lord.
(April 11 is Hanuman Jayanti)
