Lord Hanuman
Jai Shree Ram , Jai Bajrang Bali
Lord Hanuman is a Hindu god and supreme devotee of Lord Rama. Hanumanji is well known and worshipped for his exceptional divine qualities of exemplary devotion, strength, valour, and intelligence. Shri Hanuman is the eleventh avatar of Lord Shiva, and his existence is experienced by his devotees as a jagrut dev (living god).
He is also known by several other names, such as Anjaneya, Maruti, Bajrangbali, and Pavanputra (son of the wind god, Vayu). Lord Hanuman holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Hindus and followers of Sanatana dharma. Shri Hanuman is celebrated for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama, incredible strength, exceptional valour, wisdom, intelligence, and boundless courage.
Sri Hanuman was the son of Anjani, an apsara, and the Hindu god of wind called Pavana. He was named Hanuman after the name of the city of Hanumpur, over which his maternal uncle Parti Surya ruled. Hanuman was borne with divine powers since he is believed to be the avatar of the all-mighty Hindu god Lord Shiva. Due to his exceptional strengths, his mother, Anjani, named him Vajranga.
He is also known by the names “Mahavir,” or mightiest hero (because he exhibited several heroic feats), Balibima, and Maruti. He is also one of the immortals or chiranjivis, who are said to live forever. Hanuman Puja is one of the most commonly practiced religious ritual.
Birth Of Lord Hanuman
According to Hindu legends, Hanuman was born to mother Anjana and father Kesari. Hanuman is also known as the son of the deity Vayu (God of Wind, or Pawan) because of legends associated with Vayu’s role. Hanuman’s birth is said to be the incarnation of Lord Shiva.
The birth of Lord Hanuman is narrated in the ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana. He is believed to be the son of Anjana, a celestial nymph (apsaras), and Kesari. According to the Ramayana, Kesari was the king of a tribe called the Vanaras who lived in the forest. Kesari was a brave warrior and a just ruler. He was also known for his devotion to the Hindu god Shri Rama.
The Ramayana is a Sanskrit epic from ancient India, one of the two important epics of Hinduism, the other being the Mahabharata. The Sanskrit epic Valmiki Ramayana states that Hanuman’s father, Kesari, was the son of Brihaspati. Kesari also fought on Rama’s side in the war against Ravana. Anjana and Kesari performed intense prayers to Lord Shiva to bless them with a child.
He was born at the most auspicious hour of the morning of the 8th of the Lunar month, Chaitra, at 4 o’clock on the most blessed day, Tuesday.
Hanuman prayers, also known as “Hanuman bhakti”, हनुमान प्रार्थना , or “Hanuman devotion,” are a significant aspect of Hindu religious practices.
Hanuman is a universal god worshipped by visiting Hanuman Temples across continents to seek blessings. Hanuman Pooja offers immense benefits to people who worship Lord Hanuman.
Bageshwar Dham Balaji Hanuman Temple is a famous religious place in village Gadha Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh state, India. The Dham is headed by Shri Dhirendra Krishna Shastri.
Significance And Worship Of Hanuman
Lord Hanuman is worshipped by performing Hanuman Puja by millions of Hindus and devotees around the world. He is considered a symbol of devotion, strength, and selfless service. His devotion to Lord Rama serves as an inspiration for devotees to cultivate unwavering faith and loyalty in their own lives.
Hanuman is known as “Sankat Mochan Bajrangbali” and is believed to remove obstacles for devotees. However, to be eligible for Hanuman Krupa (blessings), devotees must follow the path of dharma and truth and invoke the divine blessings by regularly chanting Hanuman Chalisa, Sunderkand, Bajrang Baan, Hanuman Ashtakand other Hanuman prayers.
Sunderkand or Sundara Kanda meaning ‘beautiful chapter’ is the fifth book in the Hindu epic Ramayana by Valmiki. Hanuman Prayer.
Hanuman Chalisa is a devotional hymn (stotra) dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Lord Hanuman is a revered Vanara god of strength, devotion, and courage.
Lord Rama And Hanuman
The stories and teachings of Lord Rama and Hanuman continue to inspire millions of people not only in India but also around the world. Their relationship exemplifies the ideals of devotion, righteousness, and the eternal connection between the divine and the devotee in Hinduism.
As per the Indian Vedic Epic Ramayana, Sri Rama and Sri Hanuman shared a deep and special bond of friendship and devotion. Hanuman Ji was a loyal and devoted follower of Shri Rama.
He Played a vital role in helping Shri Rama during his pursuit to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. Sita was abducted by demon Ravana when Lord Rama had gone to exile along with wife Sita and younger brother Lakshmana.
- Hanuman’s devotion to Lord Rama is legendary. He considered Rama to be his beloved lord and master and served him with unwavering dedication.
- Lord Rama, in turn, had immense affection and respect for Hanuman, recognizing his unparalleled devotion and loyalty.
- The bond between Rama and Hanuman is often celebrated as a symbol of the divine relationship between a devotee and the divine, illustrating the depth of devotion and the reciprocal love between a devotee and God.
- Hanuman is considered the embodiment of selfless service, and his life story inspires devotees to cultivate devotion, humility, and strength.
Lord Rama And Ramayana
In the epic Ramayana, Lord Hanuman is one of the most revered and central characters, known for his unwavering devotion, extraordinary strength, and selfless service to Lord Rama. Hanuman is a Vanara, and a devoted ally of Rama. His role in the epic is pivotal and his actions are instrumental in the rescue of Sita and the defeat of the demon king Ravana.
Hanuman’s journey to Lanka in search for Sita is a highlight of the Ramayana. With his immense strength and ability to change his size at will, he leaps across the ocean to reach Lanka. There, he finds Sita in captivity and conveys Rama’s message and reassurance.
Hanuman’s unwavering devotion is exemplified in his act of carrying Rama’s ring as a token to Sita and in his burning of Lanka with his fiery tail. He represents pure bhakti, or devotion, towards Lord Rama.
After his successful mission, Hanuman returns to Rama with news of Sita’s location. He later plays a crucial role in the epic battle between Rama’s forces and Ravana’s demon army, using his immense strength and valor to defeat many formidable opponents.
Hanuman’s character in the Ramayana embodies the qualities of loyalty, selflessness, devotion, and courage, making him a beloved figure in Hindu mythology and a symbol of unwavering faith in the divine. His stories and exploits continue to be celebrated and revered in various cultural and religious practices.
अष्टसिद्धि
Hanuman's Eight Divine Powers
Lord Hanuman Ashta Siddhis
Lord Hanuman was borne with Ashta Siddhis, and these special powers make Hanuman invincible. Ashta Siddhis are eight mystical divine powers or attainments possessed by Lord Hanuman in Hindu mythology. As per the Ramayana, these special powers helped Hanuman perform the various missions assigned to him by Lord Rama during the battle against the demon king Ravana.
It is believed that Hanuman possesses these siddhis, which make him an incredibly powerful and divine being. Hanuman is revered for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama, his immense strength, and his selfless service, which serve as inspiration to devotees on their spiritual journeys.
Here are Hanuman’s Ashta Siddhis and some details about them:
- Anima Siddhi: The size reduction at will was a very special power used by Lord Hanuman while performing various missions in Lanka. The ability to become extremely small, almost invisible. Hanuman used this siddhi to shrink his size while entering Lanka during the Ramayana.
- Mahima Siddhi: This was another very special Siddhi to increase size at will. The power to expand one’s size infinitely. Hanuman demonstrated this special power and increased his size during his mission to carry the entire Dronagiri Mountain to arrange the medicinal Jadi Buti needed heal injured Lord Lakshmana.
- Garima Siddhi: The capability to become extremely heavy or light at will. Hanuman used this siddhi to make himself heavy while sitting on Lord Rama’s chariot and light when leaping across the ocean to Lanka.
- Laghima Siddhi: The power to become weightless or levitate. Hanuman employed this siddhi to leap across the ocean and fly through the air with ease.
- Prapti Siddhi: The ability to access anything or reach any place at will. Hanuman used this siddhi to bring the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshmana‘s life.
- Prakamya Siddhi: The power to fulfill one’s wishes and desires instantly. Hanuman’s unwavering devotion and selfless service to Lord Rama exemplify this siddhi.
- Ishita Siddhi: The ability to control the material world and attain mastery over it. Hanuman’s actions, such as extinguishing the fire in Lanka, demonstrate this siddhi.
- Vashita Siddhi: The power to control and influence the minds of others. Hanuman used this siddhi to convey Lord Rama’s message to Sita in Lanka.
Lord Hanuman - Attributes And Characteristics
Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism (Sanatana Dharma), is known for his unwavering devotion, immense strength, divine powers and numerous virtues. He possesses a wide range of attributes, divine powers and characteristics that make him a beloved and iconic figure in Hindu mythology.
These attributes and characteristics of Lord Hanuman make him a revered figure in Hinduism, representing the ideals of devotion, strength, humility, and righteousness. Devotees of Hanuman often seek his blessings to overcome challenges, find strength, and cultivate unwavering faith in their own lives.
Here are some key attributes and characteristics associated with Lord Hanuman:
Attributes And Characteristics Of Lord Hanuman
- Devotion (Bhakti): Hanuman’s unwavering devotion to Lord Rama is his most defining characteristic. His love and loyalty to Lord Rama are legendary, symbolizing the highest form of devotion in Hinduism.
- Strength (Bal): Hanuman is often depicted as a symbol of physical strength, valour and courage. He possessed the power to change his size at will and even carry the entire mountain of herbs to save Lord Lakshmana’s life.
- Knowledge (Buddhi): Hanuman is revered for his wisdom and intelligence. He is considered the embodiment of perfect knowledge and is often portrayed as a scholar and grammarian.
- Humility (Vinamrata): Despite his immense power and knowledge, Hanuman remains humble and is known for his humility. This virtue is reflected in his interactions with others.
- Selfless Service (Seva): Hanuman’s dedication to serving Lord Rama is an exemplar of selfless service. He prioritizes the needs of others over his own.
- Devotion to Dharma: Hanuman embodies the principles of righteousness and dharma. His actions are guided by a deep sense of morality and duty.
- Loyalty and Obedience: Hanuman’s loyalty to Lord Rama is unwavering. He follows Rama’s commands and obeys without question, demonstrating his devotion and trust.
- Purity of Heart: Hanuman is often described as having a pure and virtuous heart, free from worldly desires and impurities. He is a symbol of inner purity and righteousness.
- Bhakti Yoga: Hanuman’s life is a representation of Bhakti Yoga, the path of devotion, which emphasizes connecting with the divine through unwavering love and devotion.
- Symbol of Strength in Adversity: Hanuman’s leap to Lanka to retrieve the Sanjeevani herb for Lakshmana is seen as an act of great courage and strength, particularly in the face of adversity.
- Protector and Blessing: Devotees seek Hanuman’s protection and blessings to overcome obstacles, challenges, and fears. His image is often found at the entrance of homes and temples to ward off negative energies.
- Symbol of Resilience: Hanuman’s burning tail, which he uses to set Lanka on fire, is seen as an illustration of resilience in the face of adversity.
- Symbol of Fearlessness: Hanuman’s fearless nature is evident in his fearless confrontation with demons and challenges.
- Hanuman Chalisa: The “Hanuman Chalisa” is a devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Hanuman, emphasizing his attributes, adventures, and the power of his blessings.
- Universal Appeal: Hanuman’s devotion and loyalty have endeared him to people of all backgrounds, transcending cultural and religious boundaries. He is a symbol of unwavering faith and dedication.
Significance Of Hanuman In Ramayana
In the Hindu epic Ramayana, Hanuman serves as a central figure whose unwavering devotion, strength, and loyalty are pivotal to the Ramayana story. As Lord Rama’s greatest devotee, Hanuman plays a crucial role starting from the search for Sita, saving Lakshmana’s life by bringing Sanjivani Buti , protecting Rama and Lakshmana from the captivity of Ahiravana with Panchmukhi avatar, the final battle against Ravana and his demon army, and the eventual triumph of good over evil.
Hanuman’s extraordinary divine powers and capabilities, including leaping across the ocean to Lanka and setting the Ravana’s Lanka city ablaze with his burning tail, demonstrate his boundless devotion and unparalleled strength. He is a key character in the Ramayana story.
Hanuman’s selflessness, courage, and commitment to righteousness make him an enduring symbol of devotion, loyalty, and the triumph of dharma (righteousness) in the face of adversity.
Relevance of Lord Hanuman in Today's world
In today’s world, the relevance of Lord Hanuman transcends religious boundaries, symbolizing timeless values and virtues that resonate with people from all walks of life. Hanuman exemplifies unwavering devotion, courage, humility, and selflessness, serving as a timeless role model for individuals facing modern-day challenges.
His devotion to Lord Rama embodies the power of faith and the importance of staying true to one’s principles in the face of adversity. Hanuman’s unparalleled strength and valor inspire courage and resilience in the pursuit of noble causes.
Moreover, Hanuman’s humility and willingness to serve others highlight the importance of humility, empathy, and compassion in interpersonal relationships and leadership.
In a world marked by division and uncertainty, the universal appeal of Hanuman’s character offers hope, guidance, and a reminder of the enduring power of goodness, righteousness, and devotion in overcoming obstacles and achieving inner peace.
Lord Hanuman FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Hanuman is a Hindu god who is a divine vanara and supreme devotee of the Lord Rama. Lord Hanuman is eleventh avatar of Lord Shiva and his existence is experienced by his devotees as a jagrut dev ( living god ). Hanuman played a crucial role in epic Ramayana.
Hanuman (/ˈhʌnʊˌmɑːn/; Sanskrit: हनुमान्, IAST: Hanumān), also called Maruti (Sanskrit: मारुति), Bajrangabali (Sanskrit: बजरंगबली), and Anjaneya (Sanskrit: आञ्जनेय), and Pavanputra.
The name Balaji refers to Shri Hanuman in several parts of India because the childhood (Bala in Hindi or Sanskrit) form of the Lord is especially celebrated there. The temple is dedicated to Balaji (another name for Shree Hanuman Ji).
The term “Balaji” is often used as a title for Lord Hanuman, particularly in certain regions of India. “Balaji” translates to “the one who is a child” or “the youthful one.” This title is associated with Lord Hanuman due to his childhood exploits and unwavering devotion to Lord Rama.
The name “Balaji” is derived from two Sanskrit words:
- “Bala” (बाल): This means “child” or “youth.” It signifies the early years of Hanuman’s life when he exhibited exceptional strength, intelligence, and devotion even as a young monkey.
- “Ja” (ज): This is a suffix that can be added to a name, indicating “born of” or “generated from.”
In the case of Hanuman, it signifies that he is born of Lord Vayu (the wind god) and Anjana.
The title “Balaji” is an affectionate way of referring to Lord Hanuman, emphasizing his divine qualities from his youth. Hanuman is often depicted as a robust and powerful monkey god, and his youthful form is revered for its devotion, strength, and selfless service to Lord Rama.
It’s worth noting that while “Balaji” is commonly associated with Lord Hanuman, the term is also used as a title for Lord Venkateswara, a form of Lord Vishnu, particularly in the context of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. In this case, “Balaji” is a reference to Lord Venkateswara’s divine and charming child-like form.
Lord Hanuman is worshipped for Strength, Wisdom, Intelligence, Courage, Devotion , valor and Self-Discipline.
Hanuman represents the embodiment of devotion, courage, strength, and selflessness in Hindu mythology. As Lord Rama’s ardent devotee, he epitomizes unwavering loyalty and service to the divine. His boundless strength, agility, and intellect symbolize the innate potential within every individual to overcome obstacles and fulfil noble endeavours.
Hanuman’s humility, credibility, and dedication inspire millions to cultivate faith, perseverance, and humility on their spiritual journey. As a divine being, he serves as a source of protection, guidance, and inspiration, guiding devotees towards righteousness, self-realization, and ultimate liberation.
Lord Hanuman symbolizes unwavering devotion, selfless service, and boundless strength as described in Ramayana and in Hindu mythology. As the epitome of devotion to Lord Rama, he embodies loyalty, sacrifice, and dedication.
He was assigned most difficult task to search for Sita. Hanuman achieved this task overcoming all challenges and obstacles. His exceptional courage and agility signify the triumph of good over evil and the power of righteousness to overcome adversity. Hanuman’s humility and obedience inspire millions to cultivate faith, perseverance, and humility on their spiritual journey.
As a divine being, he serves as a guardian and protector, guiding devotees towards righteousness, self-realization, and ultimate liberation. Hanuman’s enduring presence symbolizes the eternal bond between the devotee and the divine, inspiring love, faith, and surrender.
Hanuman is believed to be immortal due to several factors in Hindu mythology. Firstly, he is an incarnation of Lord Shiva and celestial being, born as the son of the wind god, Vayu, and Anjana, making him endowed with divine attributes.
Additionally, Hanuman’s unwavering devotion to Lord Rama grants him divine blessings, ensuring his immortality. Legends also suggest that Hanuman received a boon of longevity from Lord Rama himself, granting him eternal life until the end of the current cosmic cycle.
Hanuman’s immortality serves as a symbol of his eternal presence and the timeless significance of his teachings, inspiring devotion, and reverence among millions of devotees.