The epic theme of the Ramayana is the transformation of the demonic nature to divinity.
During
the war in Lanka, an arrow released by Lakshmana struck a child whom its mother was carrying.
Lakshmana noticed that the mother, instead of caring for the dead child, was fleeing to save
herself. He remarked to Rama that this callous lack of maternal affection revealed the demonic
nature of the woman.
Rama counselled patience and told Lakshmana that the woman's heart had
been purified by seeing Rama. She had given up all desires and attachments. He asked
Lakshmana to beckon her and ascertain whether she was running away for the sake of personal
safety or for higher reasons. A monkey was sent to fetch her.
When questioned, the woman said:
“Ramachandra, it is not as if I have no love for my child. Unfortunately, for the decree of fate it
has passed away, while I have survived. I wish to live so that, after defeating Ravana, when
Rama takes the Rakshasas to Ayodhya, I shall be able to serve Rama and feast my eyes on him.
Some day Rama will bless the people of Lanka and take them to Ayodhya. I shall then be able to
render service in Rama's palace. I am keeping alive only with this hope."
The moral of this episode is that there is good in the midst of evil and evil in the midst of good.
Likewise purity prevails amidst impurity and impurity exists in the midst of purity. That is why
the answer to the question, "Where is the Lord to be found?" is "Out of unrest peace ensues;
from peace results illumination; that illumination reveals the supreme effulgence of the Divine;
in that effulgence is Divinity."
(From the Divine Discourses of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba)
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