'தர்ம மனப்பான்மை'

Bharata's extensive knowledge of Dharma is evident in the exhaustive list of sin and punishment he enumerates to prove that he had no hand in the exile of Lord Rama. The law of Karma places a high value on human actions, both good and evil.

Ideally, a virtuous life is to be practised purely for virtue's sake. In fact, sin makes us live in constant fear, and guilt is a feeling that can rob one of his peace of mind.

But even with the fear of the stern and watchful eye of the law, it is not easy for a majority to lead such a life because human life offers plenty of opportunities to swerve from the path of Dharma. Only pure devotion to God can bring forth the compassionate feeling toward all aspects of God's creation and inspire us towards this ideal.

In a lecture, Sri B. Sundarkumar said the Bhagavata Purana extols Rantideva's selflessness that held the wants of others as more precious than his own to teach the nuances and ethics governing the fine art of giving. Rantideva was devoted to God and had the knowledge and ability to perceive the presence of God in all things, in all places and at all times. That is why he was able to share whatever little he had with the guests who approached him in hunger.

On one occasion — on the completion of a 48-day-long fasting schedule — he had received some food and water as God's grace. Though he and his family were hungry and ready to partake of the food, he gave away whatever he had to the three guests who came in succession. He gave this with total willingness. There was no desire to eat or drink even though he was starving.

The Vedas exhort us to give with sincerity and non-attachment. The quality of magnanimity, rooted in one's attitude, ennobles human nature and manifests as an invaluable adornment to man.

One has to give what is worthy and also whole-heartedly without harbouring any attachment to what is given away. When one gives, it has to be done with no expectation whatsoever. In addition, one has to be grateful to the recipient for giving the opportunity.
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"bharatheeyan-santhosh"