Uttar Kaanda
206 - Sri Rama's exhortation to His subjects (Sri Rama-Gita); the citizensí acknowledgement
Chaupais
Description
One day, invited by the Lord of the Raghus, the preceptor (Vasistha) and other leading Brahmanas and all the other citizens assembled (in the royal court). When the preceptor and the other sages and Brahmanas as well as all other gentlemen had taken their seats, the Lord who puts an end to the round of births of His devotees, addressed them in the following words:- "Listen to My words, citizens all: I am not going to say anything out of attachment for you in My heart; I do not ask you to do any thing wrong nor do I make use of My authority. Therefore, listen to Me and act accordingly if you please. He is My servant and he is dearest to Me, who obeys My command. If I say anything which is wrong, brethren, be not afraid to correct Me. It is by good fortune that you have secured a human body, which-as declared by all the scriptures-is difficult even for the gods to attain. It is a tabernacle suitable for spiritual endeavours, gateway to liberation. He who fails to earn a good destiny hereafter even on attaining it."