HANUMAN (HANWANTAR) Though Hanuman burnt the citadel of Lanka, uprooted the garden of Ravana, brought the wound-healing herb for Lakshmana and pleased Sri Rama, yet due to his previous karmas (actions), he could not get rid of his loin-cloth. (Dhanasan Trilochan, p. 695) Within his mind Ram Chand (Sri Rama) mourned for Sita and Lakshmana. He remembered Hanwantar (Hanuman), who came to meet him. (Shalok Varan te Vadhik M. l, p. 1412) It is said mat Hanuman\’s actual father was god Shiva. When Shiva and Parvati played in the forest, disguised as elephants, Ganesha was bom to them.
After that they played in the guise of monkeys and Parvati became pregnant, but she did not like to be the mother of a monkey. Therefore Shiva entrusted the embryo from the womb of his wife to the wind god Vayu, who deposited it in the womb of Anjana, the monkey woman. The monkey called Kesri was her husband. Thus Hanuman was bom as the son of Anjana. He had the powers given by both Shiva and Vayu. He was also blessed by other gods and divinities.
The sun-god told him: “My son Sugriva is living on earth with Bali and he is not as strong and powerful like him. You be of help to Sugriva as his minister and constant companion.” When, in the service of Sugriva he came into contact with Sri Rama, after the abduction of Sita by Ravana and remained connected with him till his death. Several of his feats are given in Ramayana e.g. burning of Lanka, uprooting the garden of Ravana and bringing the wound-healing herb from Himalayas for healing the wounds of Lakshmana.
It was he who first rnet Sita in Ravana\’s garden and informed Sri Rama about it. According to an anecdote, before meeting Sri Rama, once Hanuman looted the belongings of some saints and seers and left nothing with them except the loin-cloth. The saints cursed him that he would also have nothing except loin-cloth. Hanuman was a great devotee of Sri Rama and through his intense devotion, he ultimately became one with the Lord.
References :
1. Kohli, Surindar Singh (ed), Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib, 1993
Hanuman, also known as Anjaneya, Maruti, or Pawanputra, is one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. His character embodies strength, devotion, humility, and service, and he is celebrated as a central figure in the epic Ramayana. Hanuman’s divine origin, extraordinary abilities, and unwavering loyalty to Lord Rama make him a symbol of selfless devotion and courage.
Origins of Hanuman
Hanuman’s birth is rooted in divine blessings. He was born to Anjana, a celestial being turned into a Vanara (monkey-like being), and Kesari, the king of the Vanaras. Hanuman is also considered the son of Vayu, the wind god, who imbued him with immense strength, agility, and speed. His birth was destined to aid Lord Rama in the epic battle against Ravana, the demon king of Lanka.
Hanuman in the Ramayana
Hanuman’s role in the Ramayana, penned by the sage Valmiki, is unparalleled. He appears as Lord Rama’s greatest devotee and ally, assisting him in the search for Sita, his abducted wife. Hanuman’s many heroic deeds include:
- Leaping Across the Ocean: To locate Sita in Lanka, Hanuman demonstrates his extraordinary abilities by leaping across the ocean, showcasing his strength, determination, and devotion.
- Burning Lanka: When captured by Ravana, Hanuman uses his fiery tail to set the city of Lanka ablaze, displaying his boldness and tactical intelligence.
- Delivering the Sanjeevani Herb: During the battle between Rama’s forces and Ravana’s army, Hanuman retrieves the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshmana’s life, showcasing his loyalty and resourcefulness.
- Carrying the Mountain: Unable to identify the specific herb, Hanuman uproots an entire mountain and carries it to the battlefield—a testament to his divine strength.
Throughout the Ramayana, Hanuman is portrayed as the epitome of devotion (bhakti), willing to go to any lengths to serve his lord.
Attributes of Hanuman
Hanuman is known for his many remarkable qualities, including:
- Strength: Hanuman possesses unmatched physical power and is considered invincible in combat.
- Wisdom: Despite his power, Hanuman displays deep intelligence and humility, earning him the title of Rudra Avatar (an incarnation of Shiva).
- Devotion: His unwavering loyalty to Lord Rama makes him the ultimate symbol of selfless devotion and surrender to the Divine. Hanuman as a Divine Protector
Worshipped across India, Hanuman is revered as a protector from evil forces and a source of strength for his devotees. His blessings are sought for courage, success, and spiritual growth. Temples dedicated to Hanuman are widespread, where devotees chant the Hanuman Chalisa, a devotional hymn extolling his virtues and seeking his blessings.
Legacy and Influence
Hanuman’s significance goes beyond the Ramayana. He is mentioned in other scriptures like the Mahabharata and various Puranas, and he is honored in Jain and Buddhist traditions as well. His devotion, strength, and service inspire countless followers to lead lives of humility and commitment to higher ideals.
