Day 192 - Nirvana-Prakarana

Day 192 - Nirvana-Prakarana

Chapter I: Evening and the Assembly's Dispersal

Introduction

Valmiki's Prelude:
Valmiki introduces the subject of Nirvana, urging the audience to grasp the concept of ultimate liberation.

The Sage's Discourse

The Sage's Captivating Speech:
As the chief sage speaks eloquently, the assembly, including princes and chiefs, listens intently, captivated by his words.
Audience's Reaction:
The audience is deeply moved, appearing as still and focused as portraits, forgetting their devotions in their immersion in the sage's discourse.

Evening's Descent

The Setting Sun:
The sun sets in the west, its radiant beams fading, symbolizing the knowledge and truth realized at the end of life's journey.
Nature's Response:
The evening winds blow softly, seemingly to listen to the sage, while the sounds of nature quieten in deep meditation. The calm waters and shimmering lakes appear undisturbed, reflecting the serene atmosphere.

Royal Palace's Activities

Activities in the Palace:
As the palace's evening activities begin, the sound of drums and trumpets mingles with the loud peal of conch shells, marking the close of the day. This loud noise startles the birds, the branches of palm trees, and even the babies in the palace.

The Sage's Conclusion

Sage's Final Words:
The sage, Vasistha, addresses Rama, advising him to capture the essence of the teachings and disregard the unintelligible parts. He encourages Rama to ponder and practice the teachings to evade life's dangers.

Assembly's Dispersal

Breaking of the Assembly:
As evening rituals commence, the assembly disperses. The chiefs, after paying respects to the monarch and Rama, and offering reverence to the sage, return to their homes. The celestial beings and munis depart for their respective abodes.

Evening Routine

King and Princes:
The king, after offering flowers at Vasistha's feet, enters the royal seraglio. Rama and his brothers accompany the sage to his hermitage, showing their respect before returning to their mansions.
Daily Ablutions:
The assembly members perform their ablutions, worship gods, offer oblations to ancestors, treat guests, and provide alms. They take their meals with family and dependents according to their customs.

Night's Embrace

Sleep and Reflection:
As night falls, everyone, including the king, princes, chiefs, and sages, retires to bed, reflecting deeply on Vasistha's teachings. They ponder on how to navigate life's challenges with spiritual knowledge.

Rama's Vigil

Rama's Contemplation:
Rama and his brothers spend most of the night awake, contemplating the profound teachings of Vasistha. They sleep only briefly, allowing the sage's wisdom to illuminate their minds.

Dawn's Arrival

Morning Awakening:
With the arrival of dawn, they awaken, ready to embrace the day's light and responsibilities, their minds still resonating with the sage's guidance.

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Advisory to Modern Society

Embrace Reflection:
Modern society can draw inspiration from this narrative, emphasizing the importance of reflection and mindfulness in daily life. Just as the assembly immersed itself in the sage's teachings, individuals today should take time to contemplate and integrate wisdom into their lives, ensuring a balanced and thoughtful existence.