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Ravana Is Alive - Symbolism In Hinduism

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Is Ravana still alive? Yes very much. Ravana is still alive this is the reason why there is so much of pain, anger and troubles on earth. Lack of peace is the result of Ravana among human beings. Stories in Hinduism are symbolic. They are universal. Evil continues to grow on earth only through human beings in numerous forms.

Ravana symbolically represents
  1. Ego
  2. Pride
  3. Anger
  4. Greed
  5. Infatuation
  6. Lust
  7. Hatred
  8. Jealousy
  9. Selfishness
  10. Attachment
When Rama’s arrows peeled off the negative qualities, Ravana attained moksha.

Similarly, modern man is afflicted by lot of negativities. We have to peel them off through the devotion of Lord Rama.
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n Hinduism, Ravana is one of the most complex and fascinating characters, often depicted as the epitome of evil in the epic Ramayana. However, as with many mythological figures, Ravana’s story and symbolism are layered with deeper meanings that transcend the literal narrative.

Symbolism of Ravana in Hinduism

Ravana, the ten-headed demon king of Lanka, represents not just an external antagonist but also the internal demons that reside within each individual. His ten heads symbolize the ten negative qualities that plague human existence:

  1. Ego (Ahamkara): The sense of self-importance that blinds one to the truth.
  2. Pride (Dambha): The excessive belief in one’s own abilities or achievements.
  3. Anger (Krodha): The uncontrolled emotion that leads to destruction.
  4. Greed (Lobha): The insatiable desire for more, leading to dissatisfaction.
  5. Infatuation (Moha): The state of being obsessed or overly attached to something or someone.
  6. Lust (Kama): The overpowering desire for sensual pleasures.
  7. Hatred (Dvesha): The intense dislike or ill will towards others.
  8. Jealousy (Matsarya): The envy of others' achievements or possessions.
  9. Selfishness (Swartha): The prioritization of one’s own needs above others.
  10. Attachment (Mamata): The strong emotional bond that ties one to material possessions or relationships.

These qualities are not just ancient concepts but are still prevalent in modern society, manifesting in various forms and causing pain, conflict, and a lack of peace.

The Story of Ravana's Moksha

Despite being the villain in the Ramayana, Ravana was a great scholar, a devout follower of Shiva, and a capable ruler. However, his virtues were overshadowed by his negative qualities, which ultimately led to his downfall. When Lord Rama, an avatar of Vishnu and the embodiment of dharma (righteousness), defeated Ravana, it wasn’t just a physical victory. Symbolically, it was the triumph of virtue over vice, of dharma over adharma.

According to some interpretations, when Rama's arrows (symbolizing virtues like truth, righteousness, and devotion) struck Ravana, they peeled away his negative qualities one by one. In the moment of his death, free from these vices, Ravana is said to have attained moksha (liberation), indicating that even the most sinful beings can attain liberation if they rid themselves of their inner demons.

Quotes from Hindu Scriptures

  1. Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 16, Verses 4-5):

    • "Pride, arrogance, conceit, anger, harshness, and ignorance – these qualities belong to those of demonic nature, O son of Pritha."
    • "The divine qualities lead to liberation, the demonic qualities are the cause of bondage."

  2. Ramayana:

    • “The ten heads of Ravana represent the ten senses or the ten negative qualities. Rama's arrows represent the divine power to conquer these senses."

Importance and Modern-Day Relevance

The story of Ravana is more than just a tale from ancient texts; it is a timeless allegory that teaches about the human condition. In today’s world, where stress, anger, greed, and selfishness often dominate, the symbolism of Ravana is ever more relevant. The story encourages self-reflection and the constant effort to overcome these internal demons.

Lesser-Known Facts

  • Ravana’s Devotion to Shiva: Despite being portrayed as a villain, Ravana was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. He is said to have composed the Shiva Tandava Stotram, a hymn that praises Shiva’s cosmic dance.

  • Ravana as a Scholar: Ravana was a master of the Vedas and a brilliant scholar in many fields. His knowledge was so vast that he is often referred to as a Brahmarakshasa – a learned being who used his knowledge for evil purposes.

Ravana’s story is a reminder that the battle between good and evil is not just external but also internal. The qualities that Ravana embodies are present in all humans, and the story of Rama’s victory over Ravana serves as a metaphor for the victory of self-discipline, devotion, and righteousness over the darker aspects of human nature. By following the teachings of Lord Rama, individuals can strive to overcome these negative qualities and attain a state of peace and fulfillment, just as Ravana attained moksha by shedding his vices.

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Few Other Quotes

Because we think we are the body We imagine that Heaven exists Somewhere afar. The pure, bright world Of Siva is not a place to go to.Nowhere but in your heart alone It is. (The Garland of Guru’s Sayings, Muruganar. v.197, p.37. 1996.)

What does one gain, you well may ask, By giving up the wealth immense Of worldly pleasure and seeking only Mere Awareness? The benefit of true Awareness Is the unbroken prevalence Of peace within the heart, the bliss Of one’s own natural being.  (The Garland of Guru’s Sayings, Muruganar. v.77, p.15. 1996.)

If towards the Lord you take One single step, then with much more Than a mother’s love He takes Nine steps towards you to accept you. Such is the Guru’s grace. (The Garland of Guru’s Sayings, Muruganar. v.965, p.185. 1996)

When ego ends, then one becomes a true devotee. When ego ends, One becomes a knower too. When ego ends, one becomes supreme being. When ego ends, grace fills all space. (The Garland of Guru’s Sayings, Muruganar. v.161, p.31. 1996.)