The Itihasas

The Itihasas

THE FRIENDLY TREATISES AND THE COMMANDING TREATISES

There are four books under this heading: The Valmiki-Ramayana, the Yogavasishtha, The Mahabharata and the Harivamsa. These embody all that is in the Vedas, but only in a simpler manner. These are called the Suhrit-Samhitas or the Friendly Treatises, while the Vedas are called the Prabhu-Samhitas or the Commanding Treatises with great authority. These works explain the great universal truths in the form of historical narratives, stories and dialogues. These are very interesting volumes and are liked by all, from the inquisitive child to the intellectual scholar.

The Itihasas give us beautiful stories of absorbing interest and importance, through which all the fundamental teachings of Hinduism are indelibly impressed on one’s mind. The laws of Smritis and the principles of the Vedas are stamped firmly on the minds of the Hindus through the noble and marvellous deeds of their great national heroes. We get a clear idea of Hinduism from these sublime stories.

The common man cannot comprehend the high abstract philosophy of the Upanishads and the Brahma Sutras. Hence, the compassionate sages Valmiki and Vyasa wrote the Itihasas for the benefit of common people. The same philosophy is presented with analogies and parables in a tasteful form to the common run of mankind.

The two well-known Itihasas (histories) are the epics (Mahakavyas), Ramayana and Mahabharata. They are two very popular and useful Sastras of the Hindus. The Ramayana was written by the sage Valmiki, and the Mahabharata by Vyasa.

THE RAMAYANA

The Ramayana, the Adi-Kavya or the first epic poem, relates the story of Sri Rama, the ideal man. It is the history of the family of the solar race descended from Ikshvaku, in which was born Sri Ramachandra, the Avatara of Lord Vishnu, and his three brothers. The ideal characters like Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Bharata and Sri Hanuman that we find in Ramayana firmly establish Hindu Dharma in our minds. The story of the birth of Rama and his brothers, their education and marriages, the exile of Sri Rama, the carrying off and recovery of Sita, his wife, the destruction of Ravana, the Rakshasa King of Lanka, and the reign of Sri Rama, are described in detail in Ramayana. How a man should behave towards his superiors, equals and inferiors, how a king ought to rule his kingdom, how a man should lead his life in this world, how he can obtain his release, freedom and perfection, may be learnt from this excellent epic. The Ramayana gives a vivid picture of Indian life. Even today our domestic, social and national ideals are copied from the noble characters in the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The great national heroes stand even today as beacon-lights to guide and inspire the people of the whole world. The lives of Rama, Bharata and Lakshmana provide a model of fraternal affection and mutual service. Sri Hanuman stands as an ideal unique Karma Yogin. The life of Sita is regarded as the most perfect example of womanly fidelity, chastity and sweetness. The Ramayana is written in twenty-four thousand verses by Sri Valmiki.

THE MAHABHARATA

The Mahabharata is the history of the Pandavas and the Kauravas. It gives a description of the great war, the Battle of Kurukshetra, which broke out between the Kauravas and the Pandavas who were cousins and descendants of the lunar race. The Mahabharata is an encyclopaedia of Hindu Dharma. It is rightly called the fifth Veda. There is really no theme in religion, philosophy, mysticism and polity which this great epic does not touch and expound. It contains very noble moral teachings, useful lessons of all kinds, many beautiful stories and episodes, discourses, sermons, parables and dialogues which set forth the principles of morals and metaphysics. The Pandavas obtained victory through the grace of Lord Krishna. The Mahabharata is written in one hundred thousand verses by Sri Krishnadvaipayana Vyasa.

THE BHAGAVAD-GITA

The most important part of the Mahabharata is the Bhagavad-Gita. It is a marvellous dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the battle-field, before the commencement of the great war. Bhagavan Sri Krishna became the charioteer of Arjuna. Sri Krishna explained the essentials of Hindu religion to Arjuna. Just as the Upanishads contain the cream of the Vedas, so does the Gita contain the cream of the Upanishads. The Upanishads are the cows. Lord Krishna is the cowherd. Arjuna is the calf. The Gita is the milk. The wise men are those who drink the milk of the Gita.

The Gita is the most precious jewel of Hindu literature. It is a universal gospel. The Gita teaches the Yoga of Synthesis. It ranks high in the religious literature of the world.

Arjuna saw before him his dear relatives and teachers in the battle-field. He fainted and refused to fight against them. Then Lord Krishna imparted knowledge of the Self to Arjuna and convinced him that it was his duty to fight regardless of consequences. Afterwards Arjuna gave up his Moha, or delusion. All his doubts were cleared. He fought against the Kauravas and achieved victory.

KNOWLEDGE OF ANCIENT INDIAN HISTORY AND CULTURE

The Mahabharata contains also the immortal discourse of Bhishma on Dharma, which he gave to Yudhishthira, when he was lying on the bed of arrows. The whole Mahabharata forms an encyclopaedia of history, morals and religion unsurpassed by any other epic in the world.

The Ramayana and the Mahabharata speak to us clearly about the ancient India, about her people, her customs, her ways of living, her arts, her civilisation and culture, her manufactures, etc. If you read these two books, you will come to know how great India once was, and you will be inspired to make her great once more. No other country has produced so many great men, great teachers, great Yogins, great Rishis, great prophets, great Acharyas, great kings, great heroes, great statesmen, great patriots and great benefactors, as India. The more you know of India and Hinduism, the more you will honour and love it and the more thankful to the Lord you will be that you were born in India as a Hindu. Glory to India! Glory to Hinduism! Glory to the seers of the Upanishads! Glory, glory to Lord Krishna, the author of the Song Divine!

The Itihasas: Timeless Epics of Wisdom and Dharma

The Itihasas hold a special place in Hindu tradition as sacred epics that preserve timeless teachings on righteousness, devotion, courage, and moral responsibility. The two great Itihasas, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, are more than historical narratives; they are spiritual guides that reveal the principles of dharma through the lives of noble characters and extraordinary events. These epics continue to inspire millions by teaching how truth, compassion, and selfless service can lead to a meaningful life. Devotional India encourages readers to explore these sacred texts to understand the enduring values that have shaped Indian culture and spirituality for centuries.

Understanding The Itihasas begins with recognizing their unique role in preserving spiritual knowledge through engaging stories. Unlike philosophical texts that explain ideas directly, these epics present profound lessons through real-life situations, relationships, and moral dilemmas. Every character, whether heroic or flawed, offers valuable insights into human nature and the consequences of one’s actions. By studying these narratives, readers learn how wisdom, patience, and faith help overcome life’s greatest challenges while remaining committed to righteousness.

One of the greatest strengths of The Itihasas is their ability to teach universal values that remain relevant in every generation. The Ramayana highlights the ideals of duty, devotion, sacrifice, and integrity through the life of Lord Rama, while the Mahabharata explores justice, responsibility, and the importance of making ethical decisions during difficult circumstances. Together, these epics remind individuals that true success is achieved through noble actions rather than material achievements alone. Devotional India highlights these teachings as practical guidance for modern life.

The wisdom contained in The Itihasas extends far beyond spiritual instruction. These epics offer valuable lessons about leadership, family relationships, friendship, forgiveness, and personal discipline. They show how patience and truth ultimately triumph over selfishness and injustice. By applying these principles in daily life, individuals develop stronger character, healthier relationships, and greater emotional balance. The timeless examples found within these sacred stories continue to inspire people to live with honesty, courage, and compassion.

Studying The Itihasas also deepens spiritual understanding by encouraging reflection on the eternal principles of dharma and karma. Every event described in these epics demonstrates that actions have consequences and that righteous living leads to lasting peace. The stories inspire readers to cultivate humility, self-control, gratitude, and unwavering faith while remaining steadfast during life’s trials. Devotional India reminds readers that these ancient teachings remain powerful sources of guidance in today’s fast-changing world.

Developing an appreciation for The Itihasas requires regular reading, thoughtful contemplation, and a sincere desire to learn from their timeless wisdom. Each reading reveals new meanings and deeper spiritual insights, making these epics lifelong companions on the path of self-improvement. Whether studied individually or discussed with others, their teachings encourage continuous learning and inspire individuals to become better human beings through righteous conduct and compassionate living.

Spiritual traditions honor The Itihasas because they present profound philosophical truths in a form that is accessible to everyone. Through inspiring stories, memorable characters, and meaningful dialogues, these sacred epics make complex spiritual principles easy to understand and apply. They continue to shape Indian culture, literature, art, and devotional practices while guiding countless seekers toward wisdom and self-realization. Devotional India continues to preserve and share these timeless teachings so future generations can benefit from their enduring message.

In conclusion, The Itihasas are priceless spiritual treasures that combine history, philosophy, devotion, and moral wisdom into inspiring narratives for all humanity. Their lessons on truth, courage, duty, and compassion remain relevant across every age and culture. By studying these sacred epics with sincerity and applying their teachings in everyday life, individuals can cultivate stronger character, deeper faith, and lasting inner peace. Devotional India invites every seeker to explore The Itihasas and discover the timeless wisdom that leads to a life of purpose, righteousness, and spiritual fulfillment.