Accomplishing Great Tasks: The Power of Lord Rama

As we come to the final reflection in this series on the divine qualities of Lord Rama, we now consider Samarthaḥ, one who is fully capable and efficient in accomplishing even the most difficult tasks.

In the Valmiki Ramayana, this quality is most vividly seen during the search for Sita and the events that followed.

Ravana, having performed severe austerities, had received a boon from Brahma that he would not be killed by devas, daityas, danavas, yakshas, gandharvas, rakshasas, serpents and other powerful beings. Considering humans and vanaras insignificant, he did not include them in his request.

This decision, born out of pride, became the cause of his downfall.

Lord Rama, appearing in a human form, did not rely on celestial armies. Instead, He gathered and led the vanaras, forming an army that would accomplish what seemed impossible. Under His guidance, they constructed a bridge across the ocean to Lanka, an extraordinary feat described in the Ramayana.

With this very army, Lord Rama proceeded to battle Ravana. In the end, He defeated and killed him, bringing an end to his wrongdoing.

This is the essence of Samarthaḥ, the ability to accomplish great tasks with perfect execution, using the means available.

Incase of his Devotees, the Lord makes them capable and efficient. When one is sincerely devoted and surrendered, even tasks that seem impossible become achievable by His mercy.

This is seen in the life of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who carried the teachings of Srimad Bhagavad Gita to the West and established the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). What began as a humble effort has now grown into a worldwide movement, continuing to expand even decades later.

In the Valmiki Ramayana, Lord Rama is seen accomplishing extraordinary tasks, leading the vanara army, constructing the bridge to Lanka, and ultimately defeating Ravana. Through these pastimes, His capability in performing even the most difficult tasks is clearly seen.

As we conclude this journey through the divine qualities of Lord Rama, we understand that these qualities are not developed independently, but arise naturally in one who takes shelter of the Lord through devotion. By engaging in hearing, chanting, and remembering Him, the heart becomes purified, and these qualities gradually manifest.

On this auspicious occasion of Rama Navami, let us celebrate by deepening our devotion and sincerely trying to follow His example, making our lives an offering in His service.