Ramayana_VOLUME V with index

Ramayana: A Divine Drama – Vol. V
kill a big serpent. Similarly, the mistake may minor, but it can be disastrous.
The seed may be small, but it has the potentiality of growing into gigantic
tree. The seed has the capacity to grow up into a tree, to yield fruits and thorns
as well. Hence, caution should be exercised to sow only a seed that yields
fruits and not thorns. Similarly, a flaw should be eliminated in the initial stage
itself, since it is difficult to exterminate it when it assumes gigantic
proportions. That is why Upanishads laid down: “Tasmai Namah Karmane” –
salutations to the work. Why should we salute Karma We should make our
actions pure, sacred and pleasing to the Lord. The Vedas also laid down that
all must be performed only for the pleasure of the Lord. Actions performed
for the pleasure of the Lord will protect us one day or the other. (SSB 1996
p.81-82)
Only by suppressing desires does a man manifest his humanness. A man, who
is unable to put an end to his desires, puts an end to himself. (SSS Vol.30
p.91)
Practice the knowledge acquired:
The ten heads of Ravana symbolized four Vedas and six Sastras. In the
decisive battle, Rama severed Ravana’s heads since he did not put into
practice the knowledge he had acquired. Mere learning of sacred texts and
chanting of Vedas will not bring about any transformation. In order to drive
home this message, Rama cut off with his arrows Ravana’s ten heads. It is
only right in the end. Just before his spirit left his body Ravana did recognise
his faults and repented for them and became sacred thereby. All that God
preaches is for the benefit and welfare of humanity. Therefore, it is enough if
one puts into practice at least one of the teachings of the Vedas. It should be a
natural trait for everyone to put practice the divine teachings. (SSS Vol.37
p.214)
Ravana constantly worshipped Iswara (God). It is not enough if you worship
God, you should put His words into practice. You should give up all wicked
qualities. When Ravana was about to breath his last, Rama summoned
Lakshmana and told him, “The one of great penance and wisdom is going to
die. Go and listen to his last words.” Obeying the command of his brother,
Lakshmana went close to Ravana and listened to his words carefully. Ravana
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