Sri Ram’s Secret Victory Chariot: The Dharma Rath

myNachiketa
4 hours ago
2 min read

In the middle of the great battle of Lanka, worried Vibhishan looked across the battlefield. He saw the mighty king Ravan riding a big golden chariot, protected by strong armour and powerful weapons. Then he looked at Sri Ram, who was standing on the ground, barefoot, without a chariot or even a shield.

Vibhishan felt very worried. Out of love for Ram, he said, “Ram, you have no armour, no chariot, and no shoes. How will you defeat a powerful enemy like Ravan?”

Sri Ram replied that a true winning chariot is different, the chariot of righteousness, Dharma Rath. Ramji then described the qualities of this winning chariot:

The Wheels: Bravery and Patience

Bravery and patience are the wheels of that chariot.

The Flag: Truth and Kindness

Truth and good behaviour are its strong flag and banner.

The Four Horses: Strength, Wisdom, Self-Control, and Charity

Strength, wisdom, self-control, and Kindness are the four horses. They are tied together with the ropes of forgiveness, mercy, and equality.

The Charioteer and Weapons

Devotion to God is the wise charioteer. Detachment is the shield, and contentment is the sword. Charity is the axe, wisdom is the strong power, and the highest knowledge is the steady bow.

The Arrows and Armour

A pure and steady mind is like a quiver. Quietness, self-control, and good vows are the many arrows. Respect for teachers and wise people is the unbreakable armour. There is no better way to win than this.

“My friend, anyone who has such a chariot of goodness can never be defeated by any enemy. A person with this strong chariot can even win over every difficulty or challenge of life.”

Hearing this, Vibhishan felt very happy. He held Ram’s feet and said, “O Ram, ocean of kindness and happiness! Through this, you have taught me a great lesson.” The true strength lies within and is not gained from external things.