The story of Sri Goshti Purna and Sri Ramanuja is a tale of spiritual learning, generosity, and selflessness.
In the village of Tirukottiyur, Sri Goshti Purna, a renowned
scholar, held the knowledge of the sacred Thirumantra (Ashtaksharimantra). Sri
Ramanuja, guided by his Guru Sri Periya Nambi, sought to learn this mantra from
Goshti Purna. However, despite repeated visits, Goshti Purna showed no interest
in imparting the knowledge to Ramanuja, turning him away each time.
Undeterred, Ramanuja persisted, making seventeen futile
attempts to acquire the sacred mantra. Disheartened by his failures, he
continued his efforts, driven by a deep desire to learn and share the mantra
for the welfare of humanity.
On his eighteenth visit, Goshti Purna relented and agreed to
teach Ramanuja the Thirumantra. But he sternly warned Ramanuja not to disclose
it to anyone else. However, upon receiving the mantra, Ramanuja realized that
the welfare of others outweighed personal selfishness.
With noble intentions, Ramanuja ascended the temple gopuram
and proclaimed the powerful Ashtaksharimantra, "Om Namo Narayanaya,"
to the gathered people, disregarding Goshti Purna's instructions.
Enraged by Ramanuja's actions, Goshti Purna admonished him,
warning of dire consequences and impending damnation. In response, Ramanuja
expressed his willingness to face damnation if it meant helping others attain
salvation through the mantra.
Realizing his error, Goshti Purna acknowledged Ramanuja's
selflessness and generosity. Overcome with remorse and admiration, he embraced
Ramanuja joyfully and bestowed upon him the title of 'Emperumanar,' recognizing
his unique sacrifice and devotion to the welfare of humanity.
Thus, the story of Sri Goshti Purna and Sri Ramanuja
highlights the transformative power of selfless acts and the profound impact of
compassion and generosity on spiritual enlightenment and communal well-being.