The Sacred Bond: Propriety and Devotion in the Relationship of Sita and Lakshmana in the Bhavartha Ramayana
The Sacred Bond of Purity and Devotion - Sita Lakshmana Relationship
The Bhavartha Ramayana, composed by the saint-poet Eknath, offers deep moral, spiritual, and devotional insights into the story of Lord Rama. One of the most profound episodes in the Aranya Kanda highlights the propriety and sanctity of the relationship between Sita and Lakshmana. The episode not only demonstrates the ideal of chastity and respect but also reveals the spiritual depth of Rama Bhakti—devotion to Lord Rama as the Supreme Ideal.
The Tale of Unwavering Devotion
In this episode, Rama leaves the hermitage for a short while. Lakshmana, absorbed in meditation, remains within the hut where Sita is resting. As Sita sleeps, her garments accidentally fall out of order, exposing her body. Yet Lakshmana, immersed in deep devotion and meditation upon Lord Rama, is entirely unaware of it. When Rama returns and sees the scene, He marvels, saying, “Who can remain so steadfast in meditation while in the presence of such beauty?” Lakshmana humbly replies, “A true devotee of Rama will never be moved by such sights, for his eyes are fixed only upon his Lord.”
This brief yet profound exchange carries layers of moral and spiritual meaning. It underscores the sanctity of the brother-in-law and sister-in-law relationship and reflects the discipline of Brahmacharya and unwavering focus on the divine.
Symbolism and Significance
The scene symbolizes the triumph of Bhakti and Dharma over human weakness and temptation. Lakshmana, representing the ideal devotee, embodies the teaching of the Bhagavad Gita (6.26):
“From wherever the mind wanders, being unsteady and restless, one should bring it back under the control of the Self.”
Lakshmana’s mind is thus anchored not in the external world but in the eternal image of Rama, symbolizing the highest spiritual steadiness. His behavior reflects the ideal conduct (Maryada) expected in a family, especially in the sacred household of Dharma personified—Rama and Sita.
Moral and Spiritual Dimensions
This episode reflects the moral refinement of medieval Hindu thought, where spiritual purity and ethical propriety were equally celebrated. The relationship between Sita and Lakshmana is portrayed with utmost care, emphasizing respect, humility, and self-restraint. Lakshmana’s devotion to both his brother and Sita stands as a model of service, duty, and faith. He sees Sita not as a woman but as the divine consort of his Lord—the Mother of the Universe.
The story also highlights the spiritual evolution of Rama Bhakti during the Bhakti movement era. Devotion here is not mere ritual or emotion—it is the complete surrender of the senses, mind, and ego to God. Lakshmana’s meditation symbolizes the single-minded devotion that transcends all worldly distractions.
The Eternal Message
The Aranya Kanda episode in the Bhavartha Ramayana teaches that true devotion purifies the heart and mind, creating a state where worldly allure cannot disturb spiritual focus. It also reinforces the dignity of relationships sanctified by Dharma. In a world where human emotions often waver, Lakshmana’s conduct stands as a timeless lesson: spirituality is not withdrawal from life but purity within it.
Thus, through this seemingly simple story, the Bhavartha Ramayana upholds the eternal values of chastity, propriety, devotion, and inner purity—the very foundations of the Rama tradition and of Hindu moral philosophy.