RamarpaNam-104

File 104.

Jai Sri Ram.

Vishvamitra turned Maha-Rishi from Kingly Rishi.

In case if Vishvamitra, there were several impediments to His tryst with Brahma-Rishi. In the South the celestial cow was the cause. In the west, King Ambareesha was the cause. Despite all these, He was relentless. His efforts, the impediments, His perseverance coupled with the grace of Gods took him towards His goal of becoming a Brahma-Rishi. With the fulfillment of His wish, He would become a Siddha. However Saint-hood and God-hood are different.

Gods during incarnation also undergo such trials and tribulations. But that does not diminish the status of God-hood, as their role is to educate and guide the people by such chosen sufferings.

Rama for example holding His bow and arrow indicates His Savior role. Krishna holding a butter ball in His hands indicates Atmas chosen for His enjoyment. We are therefore the subject of anubhavam and rakshaNam for and by Him.

Vishvamitra on continuing His severe penance, Brahma appeared and accorded ‘Rishi’ honors to him, whereas Vishvamitra was expecting to be crowned the 'Brahma-Rishi' or ultimate sage-ship title to Him.

RiSiH tvam asi bhadram te sva arjitaiH karhmabhiH shubhaiH

Then came Menaka, a distinguished apsara of Deva loka and started to play swimming sport in the holy lake. Vishvamitra, seduced by her feminine features got enticed with her for 10 long years. Realistion came very late to Him that he should have won over the lust and bid adieu to her.

menakaam madhuraiH vaakyaiH visRijya kushika aatmajaH ||
uttaram parvatam raama vishvaamitro jagaama ha

He therefore, moved northward and close to the banks of the river Kosi He further undertook severe penance by which the gods seemingly were annoyed. They all approached Brahma and made known their consent for Him being called a ‘Maharishi’.

maharSi shabdam labhataam saadhu ayam kushika aatmajaH

Will He be satisfied by that?  No, motivated by the progress from a King to Raja Rishi, to Rishi and now to Maha-Rishi, readied Himself to further penance surviving on air alone. That way there was no stopping Him.

So, Be aware, move forward and stop not till the goal is reached.