There is a difference in praising God and praising a human being. Whenever we praise any person, there is usually an element of exaggeration. However, whatever is said about the glories of the Lord does not do justice to Him. For instance, if we say that the light of the sun is equal to a million glow-worms and fireflies, it is not an exaggeration. On the contrary, it is a gross understatement, an insult to the blinding brilliance of the sun.
Foremost among the Lord’s innumerable noble qualities is His boundless compassion. Today the greatest problem is that people do not feel anything for anybody — they display apathy. If someone is suffering it does not arouse their compassion. Instead, they harshly retort, “So what if he is suffering? It is the result of his own karma!” They do not know how to empathise with another. To help someone through a challenging and difficult life; to help him or her bear suffering by minimising it — is called empathy. Shri Ramachandra was extremely compassionate. This is pointed out again and again by Goswami Tulsidas in the Ramcharitmanas.
Everyone is suffering from countless and diverse fears: fear of losing one’s job or source of income; fear for the well-being of one’s near and dear ones; fear of losing one’s wealth and so on. People in powerful positions are afraid that they will lose the power which they wield over others; famous persons dread the day when they will no longer have name and fame; others fear disease, old age and its accompanying problems. And of course, people who currently have no problems are nervous and worried, “This is too good to last. What will follow?” We are surrounded by nameless and often unreal and imaginary fears. Tulsidas declares that those who are steadfast in their devotion to Shri Ram are able to overcome this dreadful fear of the world.
Some kind-hearted people may empathise with us and wish sincerely to help us, but may not have the ability to do anything to lighten our load. The Lord is not only extremely compassionate but also capable of freeing us from these dreadful and incapacitating fears. By eradicating all fears, He makes it possible for us to function efficiently and perform our duties well.
When we give something to those in need, we tend to give it with a feeling of superiority, but the Lord gives as a friend. In friendship, there is no condescension or supremacy. We are all jivs (beings) in need; we are weak and helpless. Only Bhagavan is our true friend. He can help others because He is the only One who is beyond all need and help.
Whosoever sings the praises of Lord Ram with supreme reverence will always gain His blessings and grace, leading to a blissful and fulfilled life.
