A collection of quotes from Uttara Ramayana
Just as, carried by the air, the fragrance of the flowers enters the nostrils, even so, the heart engaged in the practice of the devotion to Me (Bhagvan Sri Ram) becomes one with Me. Failing to recognize this, the fools remain extrovert.
Just as, carried by the air, the fragrance of the flowers enters the nostrils, even so, the heart engaged in the practice of the devotion to Me (Bhagvan Sri Ram) becomes one with Me. Failing to recognize this, the fools remain extrovert.
Dry rituals fail to please Me.
Good for nothing is the worship unto My Murti by the people
who insult, hurt, harm or injure other living beings.
My Murti need to be worshipped till the realization of My
presence in all living beings including oneself.
He who finds no difference between his soul and the Supreme
Soul is never afraid of death.
A wise devotee should respect all animate and inanimate, as
the same soul is embodied in all.
Wise devotee should not find distinction between individual
soul and supreme soul.
Here are 30 more quotes and teachings from the Uttara Kanda of the Ramayana, often referred to as the Uttara Ramayana. These focus on ethical principles, dharma (righteousness), and life lessons derived from Lord Rama's post-war journey and challenges. These quotes highlight essential values like loyalty, duty, devotion, and self-realization.
1. On the Impermanence of Life
- "All creatures are subject to birth and death. As a fruit falls when it ripens, so does the body perish after it grows old."
- Lesson: Accept the inevitability of death and the impermanence of life.
2. On Truth and Dharma
- "Truth is the essence of dharma, and righteousness rests on truth."
- Lesson: Truth is the foundation of all righteous actions.
3. On Duty to the Kingdom
- "A king's first and foremost duty is the protection and well-being of his people."
- Lesson: Leadership requires sacrifice and responsibility towards one’s subjects.
4. On Compassion
- "Even towards an enemy, one should exercise compassion and empathy."
- Lesson: Compassion should be extended universally, even towards foes.
5. On Selfless Service
- "Service performed without selfish motives is the highest form of worship."
- Lesson: True devotion is demonstrated through selfless service to others.
6. On Patience
- "A man should endure suffering with patience, for in time, every sorrow passes."
- Lesson: Patience is key in facing life’s difficulties, as they are temporary.
7. On Karma
- "One cannot escape the consequences of their karma, whether good or bad."
- Lesson: Every action has a corresponding result; live righteously.
8. On Sacrifice
- "Sacrificing personal desires for the greater good brings true honor and peace."
- Lesson: Personal sacrifice for the welfare of others leads to long-lasting fulfillment.
9. On Detachment
- "He who has overcome desire is truly free."
- Lesson: Detachment from worldly desires leads to spiritual liberation.
10. On Sita’s Loyalty
- "Sita's purity and devotion are beyond question, for she is like the flame untouched by smoke."
- Lesson: True devotion remains steadfast even in the face of trials.
11. On Suffering
- "Suffering cleanses the soul and prepares one for the higher truths of existence."
- Lesson: Suffering has a deeper spiritual purpose, leading to growth and wisdom.
12. On Leadership
- "A ruler must be both feared and loved; fear instills order, love ensures loyalty."
- Lesson: Balanced leadership combines discipline with compassion.
13. On Grief and Loss
- "Grief is the shadow of love; where there is deep love, there too will be deep sorrow."
- Lesson: Grief is natural when there is love, but one must also learn to move on.
14. On Listening to Advisors
- "A wise king listens to the counsel of his trusted advisors, for they offer perspectives he may not see."
- Lesson: Leaders should be open to advice and different viewpoints.
15. On Renunciation
- "Renunciation does not mean abandoning the world but giving up attachment to it."
- Lesson: True renunciation lies in mental detachment, not physical abandonment.
16. On Righteousness of a King
- "A righteous king shines like the sun, giving life and light to all his subjects."
- Lesson: The king’s dharma is to be a source of prosperity and justice.
17. On Self-Control
- "A man who can control his senses and mind is stronger than a warrior who conquers armies."
- Lesson: Mastery over the self is the greatest form of power.
18. On Forgiveness
- "Forgiveness is the virtue of the strong; to hold a grudge is the weakness of the mind."
- Lesson: True strength lies in the ability to forgive.
19. On Faithfulness
- "Faithfulness to one's spouse is the greatest virtue, and in it lies the strength of society."
- Lesson: Loyalty in relationships is a pillar of strong and stable communities.
20. On Enduring Criticism
- "The wise do not fear criticism, for they know that no good deed goes unchallenged."
- Lesson: Do not be discouraged by criticism if you are following a righteous path.
21. On Simplicity
- "Simple living and high thinking elevate a person beyond material concerns."
- Lesson: A life of simplicity leads to spiritual clarity.
22. On Penance and Austerity
- "Austerities practiced with a pure heart burn away the impurities of the soul."
- Lesson: Penance and discipline help in the purification of the soul.
23. On Humility
- "Even the most learned man must remain humble, for knowledge thrives in humility."
- Lesson: True wisdom is accompanied by humility.
24. On Love for All Beings
- "The heart that feels compassion for all living beings is truly blessed."
- Lesson: Universal love and compassion are the highest forms of spirituality.
25. On Judgment and Punishment
- "Justice must be served, but with a heart filled with compassion."
- Lesson: While punishment may be necessary, it should be tempered with empathy.
26. On the Role of Women
- "Women are the embodiments of sacrifice and strength; they are the backbone of dharma."
- Lesson: Respect and honor towards women uphold dharma in society.
27. On Learning
- "Knowledge is endless, and learning must continue throughout life, for there is always more to understand."
- Lesson: Lifelong learning is key to personal and spiritual growth.
28. On Family and Relationships
- "Family is the foundation of society; respect and loyalty towards family uphold societal order."
- Lesson: The family unit is sacred and should be maintained with love and respect.
29. On Contentment
- "Contentment is the highest wealth, for he who is content lacks nothing."
- Lesson: True wealth lies in being satisfied with what one has.
30. On the Nature of Time
- "Time is the ultimate force, and none can escape its reach. All must bow to its will."
- Lesson: Time governs all existence; one must act within the limits of time, with awareness and righteousness.
These teachings from the Uttara Ramayana emphasize timeless values such as duty, morality, leadership, and spiritual understanding. They inspire individuals to live a life of integrity, wisdom, and compassion.