Journal #3

Why is Rama so inclined to sympathize with Sugreeva?

Rama is inclined to sympathize with Sugreeva for many reasons. One of the most prominant reasons would be the fact that both Ram and Sugreeva have had their wives taken from them. "When Vali went back, he not only resumed his authority as a ruler over the kingdom (which he had not really lost), but alos forcibly aquired Sugreeva's wife and made her his own. And now Sugreeva has neither a home nor wife." (pg. 101) Also, Rama sympathizes whith Sugreeva having to deal with Vali's harshness and wrath towards his brother for doing nothing wrong. Rama has promised Sugreeva that he wil fight his brother Vali so that all will be well. Sugreeva asks Rama to prove himself. "Then Rama took out an arrow and shot it through not only the trunks of the seven trees but also through the seven worlds, and the seven seas, and all things seven; and then it returned to its starting point in the quiver. Sugreeva was overwhelmed at this demonstration and bowed his head in humility, convinced now that he was in the presence of a saviour." (pg. 102-103)

Vali had a different take on why Rama was inclined to help Sugreeva, or in this instance not help Sugreeva. "I have heard of Rama as being one possessing integrity and a sense of justice; one who could never take a wrong step. How could you ever imagine that such a person would ever take sides in a quarrel between brothers?" (pg. 105) Vali thinks Rama will not take sides because of his integrity and dedication to his brother, Lakshmana. In my personal opinion, I think Rama did the right thing by helping Sugreeva because together they were trying to achieve justice. Also, Rama stuck up for Sugreeva as Vali was dying explaining to him that Sugreeva left to save him, not to take his place as a ruler. (pg. 109-110) To me, that is a person with great integrity and a willingness to stick up for what is right.

This situation can be compared to modern politics and conflicts in that people choose sides to support and conflict is created when these sides clash. The republicans and democrats, for example, disagree on many issues. It's like Rama when choosing a side. The citizens of the United States choose a side that they agree with or support. Thus, leading to conflict when those around them support the other side.