The story of Hanuman setting Lanka ablaze is one of the most famous episodes in the Ramayana. When Ravana set Hanuman’s tail on fire, hoping to humiliate him, Hanuman instead used this fire to burn down the entire golden city of Lanka. However, there were two places that Hanuman deliberately left untouched by the flames. Let's explore the reasons behind this selective act of destruction.
The Unscathed Ashoka Vatika
The first place that Hanuman spared was the Ashoka Vatika, where Mother Sita was held captive. It’s obvious that Hanuman, devoted to Lord Rama and respectful towards Mother Sita, couldn’t even think of causing harm to the place where she resided. His primary mission was to find and assure Sita of Lord Rama’s impending rescue. Therefore, Ashoka Vatika remained unscathed, preserving the sanctity and safety of Sita.
Vibhishana's Sacred Abode
The second place Hanuman spared was the house of Vibhishana, Ravana's righteous brother. During his reconnaissance of Lanka, Hanuman noticed a house that stood out from the rest. This house had no demonic symbols but was adorned with symbols of Lord Vishnu. Intrigued, Hanuman decided to investigate further.
Vibhishana, despite being Ravana’s brother, was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu. He maintained his piety and righteousness even in the heart of demon-land. Hanuman saw the tulsi plant in Vibhishana’s courtyard and the symbols of Lord Vishnu at his doorstep, which confirmed Vibhishana’s devotion and righteousness.
Hanuman's Encounter with Vibhishana
Disguised as a sage, Hanuman stood outside Vibhishana's house to learn more about him. Vibhishana welcomed the sage and explained his plight. He expressed his desire to surrender to Lord Rama and revealed critical information about Sita’s location in Ashoka Vatika. This interaction reassured Hanuman of Vibhishana’s noble intentions and loyalty to dharma.
Hanuman’s Return to Ashoka Vatika
After setting most of Lanka on fire, Hanuman returned to Ashoka Vatika to ensure that no harm had come to Sita. Seeing her safe and sound brought him immense relief and satisfaction.
In sparing these two places, Hanuman demonstrated his discerning judgment and deep compassion. His actions were guided not only by his loyalty to Lord Rama but also by his recognition of righteousness and devotion, even in the land of demons.
By preserving the sanctity of Ashoka Vatika and the home of the pious Vibhishana, Hanuman upheld the principles of dharma, ensuring that his act of destruction was targeted only towards evil, leaving the righteous unharmed.
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