Of the two iconic characters of India, both incarnations of the Lord, which one should we try to emulate?
In answering this question, it is important to consider the context - the yugas during which the Lord incarnated.
During the Rama avatara, the Krita Yuga was still largely dhaarmic. Rama explicitly did the right things (we, even today, have no doubt that his actions we the right things to do), except perhaps the episodes of seemingly doubting Sita and of eliminating Vaali from a hidden perch. So, it is easy for Indian parents to push their son to be like Rama, devoted to his father and mother, to his kingdom and his people, to dharma, etc (and daughters to be like Sita, too!).
On the other hand, during the Krishna avatara, the Dwapara Yuga was still mostly dhaarmic but there were injustices against individuals and the people, the rule of tyrants and the like. In this context, Krishna's actions reflect the need to act street smart for the cause of the people and of upholding dharma. There are several episodes where Krishna finds loopholes to outwit the tyrants, especially during the 18-day Mahabharata war.
Given that Kali Yuga is worse off than Dwapara in dharma, Krishna should be the right model for us to emulate. Emulate Rama, whenever possible, of course!
Hey I bookmarked your blog ever since I saw it on FB! I love such discussions and reflections too, and you're doing a fine job. I'll share my thoughts on other posts when I find some time.
ReplyDeleteI really liked this analysis of yours. It makes a lot of sense. Even the definition of Dharma or morality is indeed context-dependent and not always as objective as we would like to believe, especially in today's age.
Neeraja, thanks! That was very encouraging. I don't get many responses on the blog or on FB, but I chug along :)
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