When Vibhishan came to take shelter of Lord Ram, the Lord asked Sugreev what was his opinion. Sugreev said he is spying for Ravana, so we must tie him up. But when Vibhishan came into Lord Ram’s room, the Lord gave him a big hug! Sugreev was upset and said that you asked my advice but you did not follow it! Lord Ram said I followed it…you said to tie him up but instead of tying him with ropes, I tied him in my arms…because the one who is tied up in my embrace will never leave me!
Moral of the story: Like Vibhishan, let us also take Sharanagati, shelter of the Lord, and maybe He will also tie us up!
Jai Jai Sri Ram!!!
Lessons to be Learned:
- Unconditional Acceptance: Lord Ram’s acceptance of Vibhishan despite Sugreev’s doubts teaches us the importance of giving people a chance and accepting them with an open heart, especially when they seek shelter or guidance.
- Trust in Divine Wisdom: Sugreev’s suggestion and Lord Ram’s action highlight that divine wisdom and compassion often surpass human judgment. Trusting in the Lord’s decisions and embracing His ways can lead to spiritual growth.
- Sharanagati (Complete Surrender): Vibhishan’s act of seeking shelter in Lord Ram exemplifies true surrender. When we surrender to the Lord, He embraces us, providing protection and guidance.
- Binding Through Love: Lord Ram’s embrace of Vibhishan instead of binding him with ropes illustrates that true binding is through love and compassion. When we embrace others with love, we create unbreakable bonds.
- Importance of Devotee Association: Vibhishan’s shelter under Lord Ram shows the importance of associating with devotees and seeking their guidance and protection in times of need.
Teachings from Srila Prabhupada’s Books:
- The Power of Surrender:
- In Bhagavad Gita 18.66, Lord Krishna says, “sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekaṁ śaraṇaṁ vraja, ahaṁ tvāṁ sarva-pāpebhyo mokṣayiṣyāmi mā śucah” (Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions. Do not fear.)
- Srila Prabhupada explains that complete surrender to the Supreme Personality of Godhead brings about the ultimate protection and liberation from all sinful reactions.
- The Importance of Devotional Service:
- In Srimad Bhagavatam 1.2.6, it is stated, “sa vai puṁsāṁ paro dharmo yato bhaktir adhokṣaje ahaituky apratihatā yayātmā suprasīdati” (The supreme occupation [dharma] for all humanity is that by which men can attain to loving devotional service unto the transcendent Lord. Such devotional service must be unmotivated and uninterrupted to completely satisfy the self.)
- Srila Prabhupada emphasizes that devotional service, or bhakti, is the highest duty and brings complete satisfaction to the soul.
- Compassion and Forgiveness:
- Srila Prabhupada teaches that compassion and forgiveness are essential qualities of a devotee. Just as Lord Ram embraced Vibhishan despite his previous allegiance to Ravana, devotees should practice forgiveness and compassion towards others.
- The Value of Association with Devotees:
- In Srimad Bhagavatam 3.25.25, it is stated, “satāṁ prasaṅgān mama vīrya-saṁvido bhavanti hṛt-karṇa-rasāyanāḥ kathāḥ taj-joṣaṇād āśv apavarga-vartmani śraddhā ratir bhaktir anukramiṣyati” (In the association of pure devotees, discussion of the pastimes and activities of the Supreme Personality of Godhead is very pleasing and satisfying to the ear and the heart. By cultivating such knowledge one gradually becomes advanced on the path of liberation and thus becomes freed from the material world.)
- Srila Prabhupada points out that the association of devotees is crucial for spiritual progress and ultimate liberation.
