Human existence derives strength from moral and spiritual values that people uphold. It is true that the study of the Vedas, scriptures, the Itihasas or the Puranas can make one proficient in the content they express. But it is also a fact that this does not guarantee that one reaches the goal of spiritual learning, which is salvation. It is only by learning and imbibing the truths they contain and by putting them in practice in one’s life that one qualifies himself to climb the spiritual ladder. That is why mere awareness of the rules and theory of dharma sastra is generally compared to the salt waters of the ocean, pointed out Velukkudi Sri Krishnan in a discourse. Only when the clouds absorb the waters of the ocean and convert them into rain water for use by all, is there any.
In the Ayodhya Kanda, the news of Rama’s exile in the forest for fourteen years plunges all the people in deep sorrow. Rama, who is the very embodiment of dharma, maintains equanimity. There is no gap between His perception of dharma and its practice. But the reactions of Lakshmana, Kausalya and others reveal that they are not able to apply their dharma knowledge in their practical life at that moment. Rama is able to convince them about His decision to fulfill His father’s word.
He first deals with Lakshmana’s righteous anger at the turn of events and then pacifies the sorrowful Kausalya in gentle terms. She is distraught and is determined to accompany Rama to the forest.
But Rama speaks to her about the values and dharma he had learnt from her since His childhood. She is bound by her wifely duty and has to remain with Dasaratha instead of following Rama.