Rama

Definition

Rama is a central figure in the Hindu epic Ramayana, considered an avatar of the god Vishnu. Rama is revered as the embodiment of virtue, morality, and righteousness, and his story is a key part of Hindu religious doctrine and mythology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rama is considered the seventh avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu, born to King Dasharatha and Queen Kausalya.
2. The Ramayana tells the story of Rama's exile, his quest to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana, and his eventual return to reclaim his rightful throne.
3. Rama is revered for his unwavering adherence to dharma, his devotion to his wife and family, and his triumph over evil.
4. The festival of Diwali celebrates Rama's return to his kingdom after his exile, and is a major Hindu holiday.
5. Rama's story is seen as a model of ideal behavior and righteous living, making him a central figure in Hindu religious and cultural traditions.

Review Questions

• Explain the significance of Rama's role as an avatar of the god Vishnu in Hindu mythology.
  • As an avatar of Vishnu, Rama is believed to be a divine incarnation, embodying the highest principles of virtue, morality, and righteousness. His story in the Ramayana is seen as a manifestation of Vishnu's role in preserving cosmic order and defending the faithful against the forces of evil. Rama's status as an avatar imbues him with a sacred quality and makes him a revered figure in Hindu religious doctrine and practice.
• Describe how Rama's adherence to the principle of dharma is central to his characterization in the Ramayana.
  • Rama's unwavering commitment to dharma, or righteous duty, is a defining aspect of his character in the Ramayana. He is portrayed as the embodiment of moral and ethical behavior, always acting in accordance with his dharmic obligations, even when faced with personal hardship and adversity. Rama's dedication to upholding dharma, even at great personal cost, is seen as a model for proper living and is a key reason he is revered as a moral exemplar in Hindu religious and cultural traditions.
• Analyze the significance of the festival of Diwali in celebrating Rama's return from exile and the role this event plays in Hindu religious doctrine and mythology.
  • The festival of Diwali commemorates Rama's triumphant return to his kingdom after his exile, marking the restoration of dharmic order and the defeat of the forces of evil represented by the demon king Ravana. This event is a central part of the Ramayana narrative and is deeply embedded in Hindu religious doctrine and mythology. The celebration of Diwali, with its themes of light overcoming darkness and good vanquishing evil, reinforces the importance of Rama's story and his status as a revered avatar of Vishnu who upholds the principles of righteousness and moral virtue.

Related terms

Ramayana: The Hindu epic that tells the story of Rama, his wife Sita, and their adventures.

Avatar: The incarnation or manifestation of a deity, such as Rama being an avatar of the god Vishnu.

Dharma: The principle of righteousness, moral duty, and cosmic order that Rama is seen as upholding.