Ravan is one of the most well-known figures from the Hindu mythology. The most exciting thing about Ravan was that he was the greatest devotee of Lord Shiva. However, he was also an enemy of Lord Rama. A lot of individuals are inspired by the life of Ravan. He was known for his strength, ambition, and devotion towards Lord Shiva. The story of Ravan is not just associated with Ramayan and Lord Ram. Through the blog right here, you will get to know more about the Ravana origin, the life of Ravana, and the Ravana lineage.
About the Birth Story of Ravana
It is essential to first know about the story of Ravana's birth. He was born to Vishrava. He was born into a brahmin family. Since childhood, he had spiritual power within him. His mother, whose name was Kaikesi, belonged to the demon or Rakshasa family, which is why Ravan had both spiritual yet demonic or asuri energy in him. Later on in his life, Ravan was the one who challenged the God who was Lord Rama himself. Through this information, the individuals get to know about the Ravana family tree and Ravana's birth story.
What is the Ravana Brahma connection?
Ravan belongs to the family of the creator of the universe, Brahma. Ravana from Brahma's family makes him even more intelligent and powerful. Pulastya was the son of Brahma, who gave birth to Vishrava. Vishrava Varthur Ravan. The connection of Ravan with Brahma is why he was brilliant and had spiritual wisdom. This is also the reason why he had powers that were not present in other human beings.
He could perform intense penance. Through the Hindu holy books and Ravana's history, we have come to know that Ravana performed Tapasya to please Lord Brahma. After performing the Tapasya for a long time, he later asked for boons.
Ravan-A Scholar and a Devotee
Ravana, from the Hindu mythology, lets us know that before Ravana became the king of Lanka, he was known as one of the most brilliant students and scholars. He learned various subjects, including music, medicine, astrology, etc. Ravan was the one who sang the Shiva Tandava Stotram. It is one of the most powerful hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva. This was such a powerful hymn that Lord Shiva gave him the name of "Ravan". The meaning of the word Ravan is the one who trembles the world. So, Ravan was not only a king, but he was also highly knowledgeable.
Ravana's Rule over Lanka- A Kingdom of Gold!
After defeating Kuber, who is the God of wealth, Ravan took over the rule of Lanka. He considered this place his own after defeating Kuber. Lanka was made up of pure gold, and its beauty had no limits. Lanka was the land of prosperity and architectural beauty. When he took over Lanka, she started having demonic aims and ambitions. This was the time when he gained pride, which led him on a path to his downfall. Lord Rama defeated him in the future.
About Ravana's Ego and Downfall
No matter how powerful you are, there is always an end to your rule if you have an ego. This is precisely what happened with Ravan. Even though he was brilliant and powerful, his ego led to the wrong decisions. When he abducted goddess Sita and started a war with Lord Rama, that's when his downfall began. Lord Rama defeated him. However, even at that time, his wisdom was recognised. Lord Rama himself knew what an intelligent man Ravan was.
The Deeper Meaning of Ravana's Journey
When we look at the whole life of Ravan, we are able to figure out how even brilliant human beings can do everything wrong with their ego. Even though Ravana's ancestors were gods, he was still defeated because of his ego. Through the Ravan story, it was clear that when knowledge is combined with ego, it leads to defeat. This is the time when the rule is about to come into effect. The life of Ravan teaches us that both light and darkness can exist together. However, people must learn to live with humility, no matter how powerful they are.
Why Ravana's Story Still Matters Today?
Even today, there are so many stories that are remembered about Ravan. This is because the story of Ravan allows individuals to learn about human nature. Furthermore, humankind is being taught never to use its power or intelligence in the wrong way.
In various temples in Sri Lanka, even today, devotees pray to Ravan. He is worshipped as the most prominent and greatest devotee of Lord Shiva. The life of Ravan is a clear example of how even an intelligent human being with special powers can still get drawn away by the ego. The teachings and lessons from the life of Ravan are what make him remembered even today.
