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