An Examination of the Popularity of Rama in Hinduism

Question: Why is Rama sacred to Hinduism?

Thesis: Rama is sacred to Hinduism because of his virtuous excellence, epic story in the Ramayana, and influence on Hindu culture as a whole.

Argument 1: Rama is sacred to Hinduism because of his virtuous excellence, which sets an idealized standard for millions of Hindus to follow.

Evidence 1a: Rama is often contrasted with Krishna, another beloved deity. Krishna's playfulness and mischievous pranks is frequently juxtaposed with Rama's desirable virtues and sense of duty. Both deities contribute much to the ideals of Hinduism, but Rama is most prevalent in everyday life and therefore more important, in terms of values, to the average Hindu.

Evidence 1b: Rama is considered to be the embodiment of truth, chivalry, virtue, and an ideal king. He is the quintessential personification of dharma, and a role model for young and old Hindus alike. These unquestionable ethics, so instilled in this figure that it became him, has and will guide millions of Hindus for thousands of years.

Argument 2: Rama is sacred to Hinduism because of his epic story in the Ramayana, which provide a model of Hindu dharma at its finest.

Evidence 2a: The Ramayana, one of the most popular Hindu sacred texts, behind only the Bhagavad Gita, is the equivalent of Homer's Odyssey or Iliad. The story of Rama, the ideal man, is one that resounds through Hindu society then, and even today.

Evidence 2b: In the Ramayana, he spends his exile with several of his closest companions. The fact that these companions have spawned huge followings in the subsequent centuries is testament to the prevailing influence of the Ramayana. These companions were Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman.

Argument 3: Rama is sacred to Hinduism because of his influence on Hindu culture as a whole.

Evidence 3a: Rama's birthday, as well as the date of his marriage to Sita, is one of Hinduism's most celebrated holidays. Revelries of Rama Navami can last for up to ten days. Also, Diwali, the festival of lights, marks Rama's return to Ayodha and his ensuing coronation (http://www.ihrf.com/messages/meaning-of-ram-navami.html). These holidays show only a sliver of Rama's cultural contributions, and the reason of his worship.

Evidence 3b: Saying "Ram! Ram!" when greeting a friend, as well as chanting "Ram Naam Satya Hai!", referencing Rama at funerals and times of death (http://www.lpswaltham.org/rama.htm), displays Rama's popularity and continued influence. His predominant sway on Hindu culture is not to be underestimated.

Conclusion: Rama is one of the most popularly worship deities in Hinduism. His influence on Hindu civilization is also highly prevalent. Rama is sacred to Hinduism because of his virtuous excellence, epic story in the Ramayana, and influence on Hindu culture as a whole. Rama's deeds provide a foundation for generations to come, and even his monkey attendant, Hanuman, has temples widespread across India. The largest holidays and the most sacred of texts are just a sliver of his influence and sway of Hindu history and culture. He is the ideal man, the perfect king, and there is not a Hindu temple in the world where he has not made his mark. For this reason, Rama is sacred to Hinduism in the highest sense possible.