Once upon a time, King Dasaratha ruled the prosperous kingdom of Ayodhya. The King was blessed with four sons from his three wives: Rama, son of Kaushalya, was the eldest boy and heir to the throne of Ayodhya. Bharat (son of second wife Kaikeyi), Lakshman and Shatrugan (twin sons of Sumitra) enjoyed the strong bonds of brotherhood. Together the four boys mastered the mental and physical challenges presented by their teachers.
Eventually the King became too old and weak to rule the kingdom, so he named Rama as his successor. All the citizens of Ayodhya were elated as they prepared for the coronation ceremony. Second Queen Kaikeyi, however, was jealous that Rama would receive all the glory while her own son Bharat would have nothing. Kaikeyi began scheming and plotting a way to have her own son crowned king.
On the eve of Rama’s coronation Kaikeyi called King Dasaratha into her chambers. She reminded him that he had vowed to grant her two wishes after she had saved his life many years ago. The king remembered his vow, of course, and pledged once again to grant her wishes. Kaikeyi then calmly told the King she wanted him to banish Rama for fourteen years and name her son Bharat as ruler of Ayodhya. King Dasaratha was filled with sadness. Although he did not want to rob Rama of his birthright, he was compelled to fulfill his promise to Kaikeyi.
Upon hearing his father’s decision Rama calmly accepted his fate and promised to fulfill his dharma (duty) by living out the term of his banishment. Rama’s wife Sita and his brother Lakshman insisted on following Rama into exile, so the three began their journey south into the wild forest where they would live for fourteen years.
During their long exile Rama, Sita, and Lakshman fought many battles and performed countless heroic deeds. They cemented alliances with the tribes and animals living in the forest. Their reputation spread until nearly everyone had heard of their courage and fairness.
Fourteen years passed and finally the time arrived for the threesome to begin their journey back to Ayodhya. But on the eve of their departure a great tragedy occurred. Sita was captured by Ravana, the evil Lord of Lanka, and was taken to his lair in his kingdom south of India.
When Rama and Lakshman discovered that Sita had been kidnapped, they appealed to their friends in the forest for help. Legions of humans and animals came to their aid, building a great bridge across the sea to the land of Lanka. In a bloody and violent battle that lasted more than ten days Rama and his army defeated Ravana, Lord of Lanka.
Finally Rama was reunited with his wife Sita. Together with Lakshman they began their journey north to claim Rama’s rightful place as the King of Ayodhya. Word of their glorious victory had spread and they were greeted by celebrations in every village and city they entered.
The kingdom of Ayodhya had planned an elaborate festival for the return of the King, his wife, and his brother. The entire kingdom was ablaze with light as every building and home was decorated with lamps and candles. There was a great feast that included dancing and fireworks.
During the festival of Diwali we remember Rama’s triumphant return to his kingdom. We celebrate his faithfulness and courage. As we light candles and hang lamps in our windows, we welcome the light of knowledge and virtue into our homes and hearts.
Burnt Offerings 