As we prepare to celebrate Sri Rama Navami, what is the difference between Rama & Ravana, and how can we use it for our own good? Bhagawan lovingly clarifies for us today.
Ravana taught a great lesson to the world. He exclaimed: “Oh men! Do not live as I have lived and ruin your lives.” What is the root cause of Ravana’s ruin? Unable to conquer his desires and unwilling to get rid of his impulses, he ruined his entire clan. His sons were killed. His brother and other kinsmen died and ultimately his country itself was reduced to ashes. Ravana confessed – “In the end I ruined myself”. This was the message Ravana gave to his countrymen in his last moments. Only by suppressing desires does a man manifest his humanness. A man who is unable to put an end to his desires puts an end to himself. A good man by his good conduct achieves greatness. Ravana sought to achieve greatness but did not strive to lead a good life. Rama’s career is different. He aspired only to be a good man and did not seek greatness.
– Divine Discourse, Apr 16, 1997.
