Jeainny Kim

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The Perfect Man According To The Ramayana

The Ramayana by R. K. Narayan

Ramayana describes Rama as the perfect man. A perfect man is defined as one

“Possessing strength, aware of obligations, truthful in an absolute way, firm in the execution of vows, compassionate, learned, attractive, self-possessed, powerful, and free from anger and envy but terror-striking when roused.” (5, Narayan)

Among these criteria of perfection, mastery of emotion seems to carry the most weight. For example, uncontrolled emotions lead to violent consequence and death in the epic.

Example 1) Soorpanaka envies Rama’s wife Sita and attempts to snatch her, which causes Lakshmana to chop off her nose, ears and breasts with his sword (82-3, Narayan).

Example 2) Before Rama kills Vali, Rama condemns Vali with the following accusations: “you let your temper carry you on and on” and “indulge your anger luxuriously, however unwarranted” (118, Narayan).

However, mastery of emotion does not equate to abstinence from emotion. When Ravana kidnaps Sita, Rama is openly distressed and cries in front of Sugreeva, Lakshmana, and Hanuman. At the sight of Sita’s jewelry, Rama “grieved that he had not protected his wife” and “tears came to his eyes” (112, Narayan). 

Despite his immense grief, Rama maintains clear thinking in agreeing to help Sugreeva kill Vali. At first glance, Rama’s decision seems motivated only by freeing Sugreeva so that he can help rescue Sita. Vali accuses him as much: “Ravana entrapped your wife…To redeem her and to wreak your vengeance on him, you probably seek the support of Sugreeva” (117, Narayan). In return, Rama volleys all accusations calmly with his rationale. As a result, Vali accepts his death as salvation and thanks Rama (120, Narayan). 

I found such emphasis on mastering emotions to enable clear thinking rather practical.