Wife of Rama; brought up by King Janaka who found her in a box in the earth. (Glossary for the Vahinis)
Extract taken from Sita: The Embodiment of Purity
Sita is the daughter of Goddess Earth – Bhudevi. She is therefore also called Bhujata. (SSB 2002, p.112)
The name of Sita should not be taken to mean Sri Rama’s wife only, in a limited sense. Sita was in fact, Bhujata (daughter of Mother Earth). The same Mother Earth who was responsible for the birth of Sita is responsible for the birth of all the human beings. In a way, all are sons and daughters of Mother Earth. The nature of Prakriti is dvaita (duality). It is also called ‘Maya’, who comes between Jiva and Deva (God) and prevents him from realising God. Sita represents Prakriti or Maya stands in between the Jivatma and Paramatma, that is Sri Rama, who was an incarnation of Vishnu. That is the reason why all human beings are not able to realise Him as Paramatma. (Beacons of Divine Wisdom Part 1, p.109)
Sita had another name Vaidehi, meaning one who has no body attachment. King Janaka was her foster father. He lovingly brought her up and gave her in marriage to Rama. (SSS Vol.41, p.115)
Sita was no ordinary woman. She was the embodiment of Maha Maya (supreme divine illusion). Rama acquired Maha Maya as his mate. Sita, for her part, sought oneness with the Atma principle represented by Rama. The marriage of Rama and Sita represents the association of the Atma and the Maya. It is in this combined form of Atma and Maya that Rama entered Ayodhya. ‘Ayodhya’ means ‘invincible’. (SSS Vol.20, pp. 48-49)
Here you must understand the past life story of Sita. In her earlier life, the name of Sita was Vedavati. She was performing Tapas (penance) with the desire to marry Vishnu murti (Lord Vishnu). One-day Ravana had seen her, wanted her to accompany him to Lanka. She rejected this. He caught hold of her plaited hair and tried to drag her. Instantly she created a yogic fire (pyre). “In my next birth, shall marry Vishnu murti, come to Lanka and destroy your family. Whatever portion of the hair is left in your hand, that many Rakshasas will be destroyed,” so saying she immolated herself in the fire. Her hair remained in the hands of Ravana. That very Vedavati born as Sita went to Lanka. The other name of Sita was Vaidehi, meaning one without body attachment. There are many such subtle secrets in the story of Ramayana. (DD on 28.6.2008)
Sita was born out of the womb of the earth. When King Janaka was ploughing a field in the process of the performance of a Yajna, he found a box in it. When the box was opened, a small baby was found in it. Considering this as the boon of God, he took the baby home and brought it up with great care and affection. This baby was given the name Sita. Since she was the daughter of the King of Videha, she was also called Vaidehi. This name had great significance since it meant one who transcended the illusion caused by body attachment. (SSS Vol.40, pp.104-105)
Once, Sita was playing a game of ball with her companions in her house. There was a big box in the house of Janaka, which contained a huge bow. As her playmates were playing with the ball, the ball went under the box. It was not possible for anyone to move this box. Sita went there and put it aside with her left hand. Seeing that act of Sita, King Janaka decided that very day that Sita’s power should be made known to the world. Thereafter he organised a Yajna and made a declaration: “Whoever strings the bow of Lord Siva, I will give my daughter Sita in marriage to him.” (SSS Vol.40, p.105)
Swayamvara
Kings of many countries came there. All of them thought it was a great good fortune to marry Sita and to become the son-in-law of King Janaka. They came one after the other and tried to lift the bow but all of them failed in their attempt. In that assembly, Rama and Lakshmana were also present, accompanied by Sage Vishwamitra. As per the direction of the sage, Rama went forward. Rama walked with great humility to the delight of one and all. His speech, His actions and His demeanour were full of sweetness. He went near the bow, lifted it with His left hand and bent it. It broke with a thundering sound. Everybody expressed their happiness with a loud applause. People thought it would be very difficult to lift the bow; but what is difficult for Rama? His mere sankalpa (Will) could do any stupendous task. Vishwamitra went near Rama and said, “Rama, today You have demonstrated Your divine power. Certainly, it is not a human power. It is indeed divine.”
Everyone praised Rama and started garlanding Him. Then King Janaka brought his daughter Sita. As she came, Rama did not even look in the direction from where she was coming. Why? He did not want to look at her without the command of His parents. King Janaka conveyed the good news to King Dasharatha at Ayodhya. He requested all of them to come after deciding the muhurtam (auspicious time) of the marriage. He said, “Your son has achieved success in the competition organised by me. Therefore, all of you are requested to come prepared to celebrate the marriage of Sita with Rama.” (SSS Vol.40, pp.105-106)
The Wedding:
Dasharatha along with his queens and his sons Bharata and Shatrughna and his ministers arrived in Mithila with great enthusiasm. It appeared as though the entire Ayodhya had come to Mithila. King Janaka extended a royal welcome to them with great honour.
The name of the second daughter of King Janaka was Urmila. His younger brother had two daughters, namely, Mandavi and Shrutakirti. It was decided to give Urmila to Lakshmana, Mandavi to Bharata and Shrutakirti to Shatrughna in marriage. Everyone was happy that all the four pairs were going to be married at the same time.
When everyone was seated in their respective places, the marriage ceremony started. Sita, Urmila, Mandavi and Shrutakirti stood in front of Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata and Shatrughna respectively. First Sita put the garland around the neck of Rama. Thereafter, the other three brides garlanded their respective bridegrooms. All the people joyfully hailed the occasion. (SSS Vol.40, p.107)
Revelation of Divinity - Her hesitation to wash Rama’s feet
A servant maid then brought a vessel filled with the water of the Sarayu river for Sita to wash the feet of Rama. Sita was hesitant to do so, for she thought that the golden wristlets that she wore might turn into women, as did the petrified Ahalya rise as a full-blooded woman, on contacting the feet of Rama! Lakshmana who read the thoughts of Sita, wiped the feet of Rama with a towel. He then asked Sita to wash the feet of Rama with the waters of the Sarayu River. Sita did so and sprinkled the water on her head. (SSB 1996, p.33)
Her mind was not in peace at the time of Rama Lifting Siva’s bow
Moon is the presiding deity of the mind. Before Rama lifted the bow of Shiva in the court of King Janaka, Sita’s mind was not at peace. (SSB 2002, p.8)
When Sita went to Ayodhya after her marriage with Rama, one day she confided to Him how the moon of her mind was clouded before Rama lifted the Siva bow. Rama then told Sita that at the time of His birth, thick clouds covered the moon; so, it could not have His Darshan at the time of His birth. Rama then promised to the moon that He would add Chandra (moon) to His name to make it happy. Rama further told that in His next incarnation in Dwapara Yuga, the moon would be the first to have the Darshan of the Lord and to pay salutations to Him. True to the words spoken by Lord Ramachandra, the moon had the good fortune of having the first Darshan of Sri Krishna when His father Vasudeva was carrying Him across the river Yamuna. Thus, the moon was the first to do Namaskar to the Lord in His incarnation as Krishna. (SSB 2002 p.8-9)
Her Joy
When Lord Rama lifted Siva s bow, Sita s joy knew no bounds. Her prayers were answered. Rama, being the embodiment of love and righteousness, had the power to lift, not just one bow of Lord Siva, but ten such bows. (DD 2004, p.77)
There are several inner and subtle meanings in the story of Ramayana. In fact, Sita was not the sister of Rama, as has been portrayed in some texts. If she were to be the sister of Rama, how could King Janaka offer her as bride to Rama? Unfortunately, people do not realise these inner meanings (SSS Vol.41, p.115)
The main characteristics of Sita are chastity, tranquillity and good character. When necessity arises she is also able to teach Rama the path of Dharma (SSB 1972, p.195)
Sita was the daughter of Mother Earth. She was the daughter of the Universal Mother who supports the chara (moving) achara (unmoving). She was gem among women who demonstrated by her own example, the principle that a married woman shall walk in the footsteps of her husband. (Beacons of Divine Wisdom Part 1, p.108)
Meaning of the name, Sita:
The name Sita consists of four sounds or letters ‘Sa’ stands for the Brahma Tattva; ‘E’ for Srishti Tattva; ‘Ta’ for Preethi (delight and ‘Aa’ for smahara (destruction). The inner meaning of the word ‘Sita’ is Supreme power that is associated with the creation, sustenance and destruction. Sita was not merely ‘Bhujata’ (daughter of Mother Earth), but ‘Para Shakti’ (Supreme Power) associated with Srishti (creation), Srishti paripalana sustenance) and dusta samhara (Destruction of evil-minded). That is the reason why the epic Ramayana has been extolled as “Sitayascharitam mahath” (It is life history of Sita, that is glorious). In fact, it is Sita who was responsible for one of the chapters in Ramayana being named “Sundara Kanda”. All the demons in Lanka right from the King Ravana down to an ordinary citizen were queer in form, nature and thoughts as well. The chapter ‘Sundara Kanda” contains details as to how Sita who was divinely beautiful in form, nature and thoughts cleansed the queerness of those ugly demons. That is the reason why the chapter was named “Sundara Kanda”. (Beacons of Divine Wisdom Part 1, p.109)
Sita’s Other Name ‘Raamaa’
Sita has another name, ‘Raamaa’. It is natural to find variations in form, attributes, thinking and behaviour in case of a wife and husband. However, in the case of Sri Rama and Sita there is absolutely no difference in their names and, attributes, thoughts and feelings as also their behaviour. Once, Hanuman had an opportunity to have the darshan of Mother Sita during the absence of Sri Rama Himself took on the form of Sita, a lady. There was absolutely no difference in their forms, especially in the eyes, ears, nose, teeth and lip movment. That was the manifestation of the “Raamaa Rama” form ( a form in which both Sita and Rama were included). (Beacons of Divine Wisdom Part 1 p.110)
The Story of Sita
Sita is an ideal woman possessing all the qualities that an Indian woman should possess, such as chastity, purity and so on. Because the Ramayana describes all these qualities perfectly, it is called “The Story of Sita”. Sita is the embodiment of all the dharmas that are found in the world. She is called Bhujata, daughter of the Goddess of earth and she has the qualities of her mother. The main characteristics of Sita are chastity, patience and virtue. When necessity arises, she is also able to teach Rama the path of Dharma. As an illustration of this, we may consider the situation when Rama said to Sita: “You are very delicate and cannot face the conditions in the forest. I shall return soon and I request you to stay in Ayodhya and take care of your mother-in-law and father-in-law.” Prior to that, Rama went to his mother and told her that he was going into the forest for fourteen years to vindicate the promises of his father and asked her to give him her blessings. The mother then said that she could not leave him for a moment and she too would follow him into the forest. Rama taught some principles of Dharma even to his mother saying, “Mother, father is old. Stay and serve him. I am going into the forest for his sake and will be back after fourteen years. Serve my father who is like a God to us. To you, your husband is greater than everyone else and must be looked after. While I am away, look after his health.” Recalling this, Sita said, “You have taught some principles of Dharma to your mother and you have asked her to stay and look after her husband. Does not the same apply to me, your wife? Should I not follow you and serve my husband? Looking after one’s husband is as important to Kausalya as it is to me. Husband is God to a wife. I consider you as God and I must follow you to the forest.” Rama tried then to pacify her in another way. He said, “You may be able to bear all the conditions in the forest but if you come with us, you will be a great responsibility on our shoulders because the forest is full of wild animals and we will have to protect you as well as ourselves. Stay at home and do not cause us trouble.” Sita replied, “You say that there are many cruel animals in the forest and the most cruel animal amongst them is the lion, the king of beasts.
When the lion of my husband is with me, how can other animals harm me?” He said, “Even if there are no animals that may harm you, I will have to leave you at times to go and get something to eat. If at that time, some harm comes to you, it will be very difficult for me or my brother to protect you.” At once, Sita replied, “Rama, you are a great warrior, a great hero and a very capable person. This fact was proved when you broke the bow of God Siva. I know your abilities fully. The words you spoke to me just now are not befitting your dignity. If Rama is not able to protect one person, how will he protect the whole world? Even to protect you from such infamy, I should follow you into the forest.”
Rama could not say much more. He quietly said to her, “My mother will be stricken with grief at my going away. It would be better if you stay behind and console her.” Sita then said, “You are Rama and I am Sita. You are the moon and I am the moonlight. If the moon is in the forest how can moonlight be in Ayodhya? Where there is moon, moonlight will always be there.” Rama could not reply. Rama tried to tell her to stay in Ayodhya but Sita did not listen to those words. She said pitiably, “Rama, I am very young. You will be away for fourteen years while your brothers enjoy the company of their wives, and the maids of the palace enjoy the company of their husbands. Seeing this, I will get jealous and bad ideas will form in my mind. To rid me of such thoughts, take me with you.” There is no possibility of such bad thoughts ever entering Sita’s mind. Rama said, “Your heart is pure, your character is perfect and I know that such bad ideas will never enter your heart.” She then fell at his feet and said: “You are going into the forest where there will be many thorns on the way. Because my mother is the goddess of the earth, she will be very kind to me. I can request her to let you go happily on your way. At least for this take me with you.” I have narrated this sequence of incidents leading to Sita falling at the feet of Rama because Rama’s heart melted only when she fell at his feet. (SSB 1972 P.195-197)
Sita is the daughter of the king of Mithilapura whose name was Videha. Videha means one who has no body or one who has no consciousness of his human body. Sita can be identified with wisdom, and Sita marries Rama or becomes one with Rama who is Dharma.
When wisdom comes together with Dharma, in the ordinary course, such a good event will meet with some obstacles. It is customary and quite natural that every good thing is met with by some obstacles. Sita is the embodiment of wisdom and she had been taken away by Ravana, who symbolises selfishness and ego.
If one wants his little wisdom to disappear, all that one has to do is to promote his selfishness, jealousy and ego. Ravana symbolises selfishness, jealousy and ego. To make a search for Sita, who had been taken away by the bad qualities, selfishness, jealousy and ego, Rama, in the form of Dharma, along with the other Purusharthas, i.e., artha, kama and moksha, makes a journey. (SSB 1977, p.81-82)
During the course of their journey, Rama and Lakshmana had to inflict much violence on the demons. Though Sita had tried to restrain them, eventually she herself became a victim of the evil ways of the demons. Sita had rightly said to Rama that the three evils, namely, untruth, lust, and violence, are the causes of all the evils in the world. Sita, the symbol of Prakriti and the embodiment of truth and righteousness, possessed noble conduct. Her example is worthy of emulation by every woman of India. That is why the Ramayana is also described as the story of Sita. (SSB 1996, p.47)
Husband is the only refuge
She said; ‘Oh lord of my life! You are the treasure house of everything good and auspicious. When I am separated from you, even heaven is horrible hell. Parents, brothers, sisters, parents-in-law, sons, preceptors, kinsmen – all these might be resplendent repositories of goodness; but for a woman, her husband is the only source of strength, joy and fortune. He alone can grant her happiness and delight. Except the husband, she has none to guide her and guard her. He is her refuge, her only resort. Lord! When the husband is away from her, the wife will find the body, the home, the city, the kingdom, the wealth heaped around her, everything as source of grief and sorrow. They cannot confer joy on her stricken mind. Sweetness will turn bitter when the Lord is away. Delight will be curdled into disease. (RKRV Part I, p.316)
Serving the Mothers-in-law
Sita was engaged in serving the mothers-in- law, anticipating their needs and overeager to serve. She consoled and comforted them. She told them how she was spending her days happily in the forest, lacking nothing, and she madethem wonder at her fortitude and skill. They were rendered happy at the thought that she was able to derive so much joy under such adverse conditions. They bore their own sorrow with greater ease, when they saw how Sita was braving her own. (RKRV Part I, p.448)
Insisted on accompanying Rama to forest
Sita too, insisted on accompanying her husband to the forest, since the true wife can keep alive in the company of the husband; she had never before exposed herself to sun and rain; but she spent her days in terror-striking forest, as in duty bound, and unsullied joy. (Bhag Vahini, p. 179). She renounced everything that she thought would give her comfort in the palace of her father –in- law and preferred to follow Rama into the forest. She secured the Proximity and Presence of the Lord. (SSS Vol.9, p.204) What is the reason? Sita thought, believed and put into practice the ideal that to a wife, her husband is of utmost importance. This is the essence of the culture of our land. (SSB 1973, p.231)
Cautioning her daughter about the dangers of the forest, Janaka asked Sita, ‘Sita! You are going to forest with Rama. Many fierce animals roam about in the forest and frightening sounds are also heard there. Can you bear all this without getting frightened?’ Sita replied, ‘Where is the scope for any fear of animals when Rama, a lion in the human form is there with me?
Rama is Lord Narayana Himself. Therefore, I have nothing to fear.’ In this manner, Sita, Rama and Lakshmana put at rest the fears of everyone and proceeded to the forest. In the forest, Lakshmana protected Rama and Sita with great care and engaged himself in their service.
After killing Ravana, when Rama returned to Ayodhya along with Sita, the people of Ayodhya welcomed them enthusiastically hailing their return with great festivity, ‘Rama has come. Mother Sita has come. Ayodhya is shining in the effulgence of their glory. This is a great day for Ayodhya.’ There were many great celebrations on their return to Ayodhya and the people were overjoyed to see Rama and Sita whom they revered as Lord Narayana and Lakshmi.
Sita counselled Rama, ‘Transform this kingdom into a kingdom of joy where everybody can lead their life happily. Even today people in every village, every house and every hut of Bharat worship Rama. It is a common practice among the people of Bharat to name their children as Rama and Sita. There is no change in the name of Rama and Sita even after the passage of thousands of years. The glory of these names is eternal and immutable. There have been wars in many countries, but not in Bharat. People may fight with each other due to their personal differences, but no war was fought in this country. Not only that, there will never be any war in Bharat. It is Rama Rajya. It is the land of peace. It is the land of love. (DD on 27.3.2007, p. 7)
Sita’s Dream
Even before the hour of dawn that day, Rama had risen from sleep. He communicated to Sita that his father was coming into his consciousness more often than on other days. At this, Sita said, ‘Lord! You know that I do not get dreams, any day. But this night I had a very wonderful dream! I can even say it was not really a dream. I dreamt that Bharata and Shatrughna had become frail and weak, as a result of separation from you. I dreamt that, finding it impossible to be in Ayodhya without you for a single moment, they are coming to us, with not only the people of Ayodhya, but also the Queens, Kausalya, Sumitra and Kaikeyi,’ Tears gathered in her eyes while she was describing the experience.
Rama called Lakshmana near and told him, ‘Brother, you heard, didn’t you, the account of Sita’s dream. This does not indicate good tidings; for Sita saw all the others and I saw in my dream only father, father alone, with no association or relation with the rest of them. This strikes me as a bad omen. Come! It is best we take a bath,’ Accordingly, the three of them went to the river for the bath.
Just then, birds flew across the sky in flocks. The northern region was darkened by a thick cloud of dust. Many animals and birds were scared into wild. Taking note of this unusual occurrence, Lakshmana climbed a tree to find out the reason. He saw an army on the move, with infantry, cavalry, chariotry and elephantry advancing to where they were. He inferred that a king was at their head. He informed Rama accordingly. Rama told him that it was the dream of Sita coming true! He advised that the best course would be to return to the thatch hut - ‘the Parnasala’.
Meanwhile, the Bhils, Kiratas and other tribesmen of the jungle ran into the presence of Rama and gasped out the news that a regular military force was advancing towards the spot and that the chariot of the royal leader of the army had a flag with the sign of the banyan tree upon it. Sita, Rama and Lakshmana were confirmed in their inference that it was no other than Bharat who was coming towards them. They had no more doubt on the point. (RKRV Part I, pp.441-443)
Dasharatha death was a thunderbolt
Coming to know that Emperor Dasharatha had left his body, Sita prostrated before the Queens again and again, saying, ‘Alas! What misfortune is ours! The Emperor gave up his life because he could not bear the separation from us!’ Sita felt that the news of Dasharatha’s departure was a thunderbolt on her heart. She and the Queens wept for long at the turn of events had taken. Everyone that day could not take either food or drink. They had no mind for either. The entire day and night were spent in sorrow. (RKRV Part I, p. 446)
Desires Keep One Away From Divinity
Sita, who was wanting to be close to Rama, was willing to sacrifice all her ornaments, sacrifice all her wealth and every one of her possessions. Because of this supreme sacrifice, it is possible for her to go close to Rama. (SSB 1977 20) However, the enticement of Maya at times is irresistible. If you want Rama to be with you, Kama has to be given up. If you have worldly desires, then Rama will not be near you. You have to choose between Rama or Kama, that is, either you cling to God or to his Maya (SSB 1973 p.231-232) When desire for evanescent overcomes man, he is doomed; he becomes distant from the goal. But, alas, when she saw the false golden Deer, she yearned for it, and sent both Rama and Lakshmana after it, so that she might fondle it and feed it and have it as a pet. What was the result of this fatal desire? She was forced to live far away from the Lord and pine for Him in great anguish. (SSS Vol.9, p.204)
When Sita thus developed a desire for a worldly object, the very next moment she was separated from Rama, the Divinity. It is common knowledge that the more you develop desires for worldly things, the greater you become distant from Divinity. Less luggage more comfort, makes travel a pleasure. Therefore, we have to reduce our luggage of desires. Sita had all along reduced her desires in order to be in close proximity to Rama. But the moment she developed a desire for golden deer, Rama moved away from her. In the first place when she removed Kama (the desire for possessions) she became one with Rama. The meaning of this episode is, so long as you are tied to Kama, you cannot hope to get Rama or God. (SSS Vol.27, p.108)
She could not bear the agony of that separation. (SSS Vol.40, pp.183-184) If our worldly desires and worldly attachments become stronger, we move further away from God. If we cut out the worldly desires more and more, we get closer and closer to Paramatma. (SSB 1977, 20-21)
Today’s man likewise is bound by desire. When you give up desire, you can attain God. Na Karmana Na Prajaya Dhanena Tyagenaikena Amrutatva Manasu (Immortality can be attained only through sacrifice; neither wealth nor progeny nor good deeds can confer it).
You can attain Rama only through sacrifice. From the Ramayana, you have to learn the lesson of sacrifice. You have to install the principle of Rama in your heart. Rama practised Satya and Dharma all His life. You should firmly adhere to these principles in your life. (SSS Vol.33, p.134)
Law of Karma:
But Sita’s words at that time exceeded all reason. It looked as if she was not thinking clearly at all. She started uttering very harsh words. Lakshmana could no longer bear those harsh words. Therefore, he unwillingly left the place because he had no alternative. The words that Sita uttered while urging Lakshmana to go were such an innocent person like Lakshmana did not deserve them at all. Sita was not an ordinary woman. She was the consort of Narayana Himself. She was the incarnation of Lakshmi Devi. In spite of all that, the inevitable law by which one has to experience the results of one’ own Karma was to be demonstrated here in that situation.
After the death of Ravana, when Sita was asked to go through the ordeal of having to walk into fire to prove her purity, Rama uttered several harsh words because He wanted to test her and set an example to the world. For ten months, Sita had been waiting for the vision of Rama and when Rama appeared, He never showed any compassion, but was even using very harsh words. When Sita was in tears, Rama would show no kindness and no compassion. On the other hand, He was so harsh so harsh that he said, “Sita, I will not show any grace to you. You can choose to remain and live with Lakshmana or Bharata.” Sita was not an ordinary person, the moment she heard such words from Rama, she realised that this was the result of the harsh words she had used when talking to Lakshmana. The result of one’s own Karma is so invincible that one can never escape it This situation in Ramayana illustrates the law of Karma very well and sets an example to human beings. It teaches human beings always to be good, to do good and see good. (SSB 1977, p.30)
The source of joy
During her separation from Rama and her captivity in the Asoka gardens, Sita was feeling despondent. Ravana had decorated the gardens in a most pleasing manner, in the foolish hope that by seeing these decorations, Sita would accept him. Sita did not succumb to this worthless and temporal beauty around her. However, when a small monkey sat on the branches and sang the glory of Rama:
Rama, Rama, Rama, Sita;
Having taken birth in the Solar race and earning
the love of Sita,
Releasing Ahalya from the Rishi’s curse and
blessing His devotees
This is Lord Sri Rama...
Rama, Rama, Rama, Sita.
Sita heard it with great delight. She was anxious to know who was singing the glory of her Lord in this land of Rakshasas (demons). She lifted her head and looked around. Is a monkey a pleasing sight? Does it have any beauty? It has a funny appearance. But at that time, the monkey looked most beautiful to Sita.
Sita was interned by the cruel King Ravana in the most beautifully laid-out garden in Lanka called Ashoka vana, the forest of No-sorrow. The flowerbeds, lawns, trees and creepers, bowers and groves were most pleasing to the eye and refreshing to the mind. But, Sita derived no joy there from! She found therein only empty vanity, lust for power and foul pleasure. She felt real Ananda when an ugly monkey started repeating the name of Rama from the branch of the tree under which she sat! That name was for her the source of unfailing Ananda.(SSS Vol.6 p. 40-41)
That beauty lay in the singing of the name of Lord Rama. When she heard the name of her beloved, she was delighted. That is why it is said that ‘Beauty is joy.’ That joy lends substance to life. Beauty without joy is of no use. In this way, the Ramayana teaches the value of beauty and joy.
What was it that gave Sita and Rama enormous joy? It was nothing but the happiness of the people that gave extreme joy to them. The practice of Truth and Righteousness by the people gave joy to Sita and Rama. They never asked anything else from the people. They were always giving away to people several things and looking after them with much love. It was always down the ages; this has been the feature of all Avatars. (SSB 1996, pp.106-107)
Great Pativrata:
Rama also exemplified the ideal relationship between husband and wife in a family. When Rama decided to leave for the forest, Sita wanted to accompany him to serve him. Rama tried in many ways to dissuade her, telling her about the dangers in living in the forest, infested by wild animals and demons on the prowl. Sita replied: ‘When I am with the lion among men, what can any animal do to me?’ Rama argued with her that the Rakshasas were capable of assuming any form and that it would be difficult to safeguard her. Sita retorted: ‘Can’t you, who are the protector of the fourteen worlds, protect a lone Sita!’ By these arguments, Sita tried to make Rama agree to her going with him.
Rama then employed a different argument. He told her that she should stay behind to render service to his aged parents. Earlier Sita had listened to the advice Rama had given to his mother Kausalya when she wanted to go with Rama to the forest. Rama had told her about her duties towards her husband and said that in no circumstance should she leave him and follow Rama. He had told Kausalya: ‘For a wife the husband is the Lord. The son cannot take the husband’s place. The husband is primary. Your first duty is to serve my father and not come with me.’ Sita reminded Rama of the advice he had given to his mother and told him that he could not lay down one rule for his mother and another for herself with regard to a wife’s duties towards her husband. She urged Rama to act up to his own words and take her with him.’ You are going to the forest to honour your father’s words. I am following you to act up to my husband’s words,’ she said. In this manner the Ramayana demonstrates the proper relationship between husband and wife and their respective duties. (SSS Vol.24, pp.61-62)
During the period of Rama’s exile in the forest, Maricha, the demon, donned the form of a golden deer to entice Sita. Sita knew very well that a golden deer could not be found in the world. However, keeping with her role in the Divine drama of Ramayana she expressed a desire to possess the golden deer and requested Shri Rama to capture it for her. Rama then had to run after the golden deer, in order to make her happy. When Sita thus developed a desire for a worldly object, the very moment she was separated from Rama, the Divinity. It is common knowledge that the more you develop desires for worldly things, the greater you become distant from Divinity. Less luggage more comfort, makes travel a pleasure. Therefore, we have to reduce our luggage of desires. She had all along reduced her desires in order to be in close proximity to Rama. But the moment she developed a desire for golden deer, Rama moved away from her. She could not bear the agony of that separation. Day in and day out, she was contemplating only on Rama and none else. No other thought developed in her mind. That is how she became a great Pativrata. (SSS Vol.40)
Shri Rama released Sita from the captivity of the demon Ravana who confined her in Lanka for ten months. Rama took her into His fold after putting her to test of fire. The fire God presented her before Rama saying, ‘Oh Rama! Sita is a great woman of chastity. She is so much devoted to her husband that she did not look at the face of even one male in all these ten months.’ Sita came out of the fire unscathed and the fire god himself attested to her chastity. One can imagine how great and noble she was! Can there be a parallel to such women in any country in the world? The country of Bharat is situated in the middle of the seven seas. Every man and woman in this country has to conduct themselves as Purushottama (noble male) and Pativrata (chaste woman) respectively. No wonder several Avatars (incarnations) took birth in this sacred land. Great men and women and noble souls may be born in any country. But it is only in the country of Bharat that Avatars took birth. (SSS Vol.42, pp.222-223)
Day in and day out, she was contemplating only on Rama and none else. No other thought developed in her mind. That is how she became a great pativrata. Finally, when Rama killed Ravana and released her from captivity, He subjected Sita to a test, before taking her back into His fold. He directed her to enter the fire and come out unscathed. The god of fire appeared before Rama and testified, “Sita is a great pativrata. She does not at all think of any other matter but constantly contemplates on Your name.” Why did Rama put Sita to such a test? It is only to make the world know about her chastity. Later, when Rama returned to Ayodhya and started ruling His kingdom, a washerman engaged in a quarrel with his wife commented, “Sri Rama took back His wife Sita who lived for ten months in Lanka in the captivity of Ravana. I am not so foolish.” The news reached Rama. Again, Rama put Sita to test by forsaking her. He knew that she was a great pativrata, but he took decision to make the world know about her chastity. There is no other individual who can equal the chastity of Sita. Rama wanted to prove the chastity and devotion of Sita to the world. (SSS Vol.40, p.184)
Sita too kept up the Dharma of women. She declined to return to Rama on the shoulders of Hanuman for she said, she would not of her own will contact another male; nor would she deny Rama the chance of proving his prowess by destroying the wicked person who stealthily carried away His Consort. That is the Dharma of a pativrata (chaste woman). (SSS Vol.4, p.293)
Ideal Wife
Sri Rama was accompanied by Sita in Treta Yuga, who led the life of an ideal wife and set an example to mankind in chastity. Sita in spite of the great difficulties she encountered while living in exile and spending ten long months in captivity in Lanka, never lost her poise. She steadfastly held on to Ramanama with single-minded devotion. She never wavered even. She gave up food and sleep totally and constantly contemplated on Ramanama. She could not visualise any other form except that of Sri Rama, who was Ekatma sarva bhutantaratma (one atma that dwells in all beings) Even in birds and beasts, she was seeing only the form of Sri Rama. That one atma principle is referred to Hiranyagarbha, which is pure gold. Pure gold is always referred to as 24 carat gold. (SSS Vol.40, p.182)
Sita was prepared to face any trouble and make any sacrifice for the sake of her husband. She sought no comfort for herself. She dedicated her life to the service of Rama. (SSS Vol.21, p.87)
Hanuman said to Rama: Sita is verily a jewel amongst women, chaste and virtuous. (SSB 1996, p.58)
Sita’s wise counsel to Rama
Sita also tendered wise counsel to Rama and advised Him not to destroy all the demons. She suggested that only those who committed the evil deeds should be punished. Justice does not lie in destroying the entire clan. Women are great because they show the right path to men. They are in fact the light of wisdom in the world. They, therefore, deserve protection and reverence. Sita symbolises Jnana Tattva (principle of wisdom). Sita told Rama that goodness was universal, irrespective of caste, creed and community. It is because of women like Sita that men have made progress in life. (SSS Vol. 37, p.103)
Feelings depend on our possessions, be it arms or wealth. Sita once told Rama: “Lord! These animals living in the forest have done no harm. Is it not a great sin to harm these creatures when they have not disturbed You in any way? The Rakshasas are moving about in the Dandaka forest. None of them have crossed Your path. Then why have You taken upon Yourself to harm them? These thoughts of killing and harming are fostered in You because of the weapons You carry. If You keep these weapons away, such thoughts would not occur. In You are present Truth and Righteousness; but there is also the quality of violence that appears to negate the good qualities. Keep violence at a distance You will then become an embodiment of non-violence.”
Sita illustrated this point with a good example. Indra once saw a sage meditating. He wanted to test if the mendicant was in deep meditation or was just pretending superficially. He transformed into a soldier and appeared before the sage with a huge sharp sword. He said: “O sage! I am going on an urgent mission. The sword is highly valuable. I propose to leave it in your custody. I shall collect it upon my return. Please keep it safe till then.” The sage agreed and gave his word to guard the sword. From that moment, his entire mind was only on the sword. He had to take the sword wherever he went! This was because he had given his word to protect it. However, because he had the sword with him, certain violent thoughts started invading his mind. Gradually, the good effect of all his penance was diminished. What is the reason? It is the effect of the object. (SSB 1996, p.122)
Glorius Example of Sita’s Noble Charater
Lakshmana set out on a jouney to a Munipalle (a place where hermits reside) to leave the pregnant Sita there, as per the command of Sri Rama. Sita told him “Oh! Lakshmana! There is reason in Rama sending me to the forest for fear of getting a bad name in society. The duty of the king is to provide good governance. He has to lead an ideal life so that others can emulate his qualities. He had to work for the welfare of all people in his kingdom irrespective of whether one belongs to him or otherwise., in a spirit of total sacrifice. I don’t feel sorry even if Rama forsakes me. His glory and reputation keep me happy. Long live His divine glory!’ This is glorious example of Sita’s noble character. (Beacons of Divine Wisdom Part 1, p.120)
Noble Mother
Lava and Kusha could become powerful and famous due to their noble and virtuous mother Sita. Amma (mother) is the first word that man picks up in life. The first letter of the word ‘Amma’ also happens to be the first letter of the alphabet. (SS June ’99, p.141)
Every person, man or woman, should respect the parents, install the Divine in the heart and pray to God constantly. It is everyone’s duty to bring a good name to the parents. It was because of the noble behaviour of Lava and Kusha that their mother, Sita became renowned. When Lava and Kusha were engaged in a battle with Rama, Lava aimed an arrow at Rama with a prayer that if their mother Janaki was a Sadhvi (a supremely noble woman) the arrow should render Rama unconscious. Rama became unconscious when the arrow hit him. See what happened. The mere thought of his mother lent so much power to his arrow! This shows that when you cherish the mother and seek God’s grace, the blessings of the mother become more powerful. (SSS Vol.30, p.109)
Sita’s compassion
( Painting Courtesy: Sri K V Bhima Rao)
Here, there is another story. When Hanuman went to Sita to convey the glad news, he said, “Mother! I have to convey glad tidings to you. But I must also seek your permission to carry out a task. These demons, who had troubled you so long, must also be killed. I shall tear them to pieces. Pray, grant me permission to do so.” Sita then said, “Son! There is nothing to blame them for. They have only been executing the command of their master. So, it is the fault of their master, not theirs.” (SSB 1996, p.94) In fact, I suffered not because of these demons, but because of separation from Sri Rama.”
She then narrated a story to Hanuman. A hunter once went shadowing a tiger. But it caught sight of him and started to chase him. The hunter ran and climbed up a tree. The tiger kept a patient vigil below while the hunter waited for it to move away. The hunter then looked up and saw a bear on the higher branches. The tiger addressed the bear, “O bear! This is my prey that I have been chasing for such a long distance. It has now climbed the tree. Send my prey down to me, so that I may feed on it. The bear then said, “O tiger! This tree is my residence. The hunter has sought shelter here as a guest. It is my bounden duty to protect him. Hence I cannot push him down.” But the tiger still did not give up and leave. Soon, the bear fell asleep. The tiger then addressed the hunter, “O hunter! I am interested only in my meal. It does not matter if it is you or someone else. I shall spare you and let you go, provided you push down that sleeping bear to me. I shall eat him and then go my way.” This hunter was infested with evil feelings. Out of sheer selfishness, and in order to save himself, he pushed down the sleeping bear. The poor bear, while tumbling down, managed to hold on to a branch and saved itself from death. This is the protection that good people are always given. The bear was a kind soul, and its goodness saved it. It is not good to repay kindness with harm. The bear slowly climbed back. The tiger then told the bear, “O bear! Despite your having shown such kindness to this man, he has repaid it by harming you. He is one without any sense of gratitude, having forgotten the good done by you. Hence, it is wise to send him down.” Then the bear answered, “Son! Each man’s sin is his own, his merits are his own. He will reap the consequences. Doing good is my nature, doing bad is his nature. He will suffer for his sin. I shall reap the benefits of my goodness. I cannot push him down.” (SSB 1996, p.94-95)
Narrating this story, Sita said: “No doubt these demons put me to a lot of suffering without knowing what in truth and what is Dharma. Being the consort of Rama, I cannot stoop down to their level and seek revenge. I do not want to cause harm to anyone.” (SSS Vol.32, Part I p.190-191)
Sita then continued, “Similarly, my nature is that of compassion. Hanuman, though they have put me to much trouble, I cannot wish to put them to death for that. Giving trouble is their nature. Suffering with tolerance is my nature. Hence, do not punish them.” Hanuman was thrilled on listening to this. (SSB 1996, p.95)
Hanuman said, “O mother, it is but natural that you, being the consort of Lord Rama, are broad-minded and noble hearted. You are the embodiment of Dharma. It is a mistake on my part to think that you would permit me to punish these helpless demons,” Then Sita said, “Hanuman, not only me but all the women are endowed with noble qualities like compassion and love.” (SSS Vol.32 Part I p.191)
Sita Principle
Shabari replied, “No woman who knows the Rama principle will be ignorant of the Sita-principle, that Gem of womankind, that Crown of virtue, that Light of femininity.
Sita Sanctified the Entire Earth
Sita always used to contemplate upon Sri Rama’s divine name and form. When Rama decided to abandon her in the forest giving weight to the words of an illiterate villager in a remote corner of His kingdom even though Sita was pure and unblemished, she never found fault with Him. On the other hand, she considered Sri Rama’s happiness and welfare as her own. She could bear her separation from Sri Rama with fortitude and quiet dignity and got her twin sons Lava and Kusha educated in the Royal disciplines of Astras and Sastras (arrows and weapons). She demonstrated her noble character to the entire world upholding the Truth and Righteousness so assiduously followed by her husband Sri Rama. She gave birth to two sons, Lava and Kusha who were Embodiments of Jnana (wisdom) and through them she spread the Rama Katha (The story of Sri Rama) to the whole world. Thus, Sita sanctified the entire earth. (Beacons of Divine Wisdom Part 1, pp.108-109)