Dharma Leads To Ananda
Ananda requires control over the senses, and Dharma is what provides that control. The root word of Dharma is Dhar, which literally means "to hold." Rama is Dharma personified.
In his adolescence, Rama perfected Atma Gyan (self-knowledge) through self-inquiry under the guidance of Sage Vashishta—an impossible feat without steady control of the senses. Rama attained the state of perfect Ananda through complete restraint of the senses.
When Sage Vishwamitra sought young Rama’s help to counter powerful demons, he readily obliged. Why would a prince, risk his life to protect a few sages? Such selflessness is impossible without Dharma!
When Rama learned that his father was bound by a promise to send him to the forest for 14 years—despite being against it—Rama willingly chose exile to honor his father’s word. Such commitment is impossible without Dharma!
When Rama’s wife, Sita, was abducted by the mighty King Ravana, the young prince traversed the length of India, from north to south, barefoot. Along the way, he met Sugreeva, whose wife had been taken by his elder brother, King Bali. Upon learning of Sugreeva’s plight, Rama not only assured him of help but also restored Sugreeva’s honor by crowning him king after defeating Bali. Such compassion and righteousness are impossible without Dharma!
Rama then forged an alliance with an army of untrained warriors to challenge the might of Ravana. Rama was a young prince leading an unskilled force, while Ravana was a powerful warrior king supported by seasoned allies. The odds were overwhelmingly against Rama. Who would endure such hardship for the sake of their wife? Especially a prince? Such dedication is impossible without Dharma!
Dharma leads to Ananda, while Adharma leads only to temporary gratification of the senses at best. If not Dharma, what else is worth following?
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