Page 13 - Ramayana - Eng
P. 13

Introduction


               This  present  edition  attempts  to  present  the
           pastimes of Lord Rāma in their true glory. Although
           it is a summary study, nothing of the main body of
           the story has been left out. It is hoped that in the not
           too distant future, a devotional scholar will present
           a  verse-by-verse  translation  of  Vālmīki  Rāmāyaṇa  for  the
           ever-increasing number of devotees throughout the world.

               We  pray  that  by  the  mercy  of  Śrīla  Prabhupāda,  this
           edition of Rāmāyaṇa will shower the highest fortune on its
           readers by awakening in their hearts loving feelings for the
           lotus feet of Lord Rāma. We beg the devotees to bless us with
           their mercy, so that we may also attain such a benediction.

               Again,  it  must  be  emphasized  that  the  reading  of  the
           Rāmāyaṇa  will  give  greatest  benefit  if  taken  not  simply
           as  an  exciting  story,  but  with  the  understanding  of  the
           supramundane  and  eternally  supreme  position  of  Lord
           Rāma. Those who read with this awareness will ultimately
           attain the greatest benediction of life, that of going back to
           Godhead.
                            janma karma ca me divyam
                                evaṁ yo vetti tattvataḥ
                            tyaktvā dehaṁ punar janma
                                naiti mām eti so ’rjuna

               “One  who  knows  the  transcendental  nature  of  My
           appearance and activities does not, upon leaving the body,
           take his birth again in this material world, but attains My
           eternal abode.” (Bhagavad-gītā 4.9)

              “Lord  Śrī  Rāma,  the  Absolute  Personality  of  Godhead,
              is  attractive  not  only  in  His  personal  features,  but  also
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