On the sacred occasion of
Sri Rama Navami, devotees immerse themselves in chanting the name of
Lord Rama, meditating on his auspicious attributes and glorious deeds. One such
powerful hymn is the Sri Rama Apaduddharaka Stotram, often recited
alongside the Vishnu Sahasranama. This stotram strings together the many names
by which Lord Rama was adored during his lifetime, each carrying profound
meaning and spiritual significance.
Understanding the Names
Raamaaya
The name “Rama” means one
who charms the heart of all. Sage Vashishta bestowed this name upon the
prince of Ayodhya, whose divine form captivated everyone—from his family and
citizens to sages, monkeys, and even demons. Rama himself cherished this name,
assuming it in three avatars: Parashu Rama, Dasaratha Rama, and Bala Rama.
Raamabhadraaya
This name celebrates
Rama’s union with Seetha, the embodiment of auspiciousness. When Rama broke
Shiva’s bow and won Seetha’s hand, King Janaka blessed the divine couple with
“Bhadrante,” signifying prosperity and protection. Rama with Seetha is hailed as
Ramabhadra.
Raamachandraaya
Rama’s presence was as
soothing as the full moon (Chandra), bringing joy and peace to all.
Though born in the solar dynasty, he is lovingly called Ramachandra, reflecting
his ability to light up hearts like the moon brightens the night sky.
Vedase
Rama is the very essence
of the Vedas, recognized by sages as the Paramatma incarnate. While citizens
adored him as a noble prince and king, seers like Vishwamitra and Vashishta saw
him as the Vedatma—the embodiment of divine truth.
Raghunaathaaya
As the scion of the
illustrious Raghu dynasty, Rama eclipsed his ancestors with his nobility. His
reign, remembered as Rama Rajya, remains the eternal model of righteous
governance.
Naathaaya
Meaning “our Lord,” this
name reflects the intimate devotion of his consort Seetha and his subjects, who
saw him as their protector and guide.
Seethaya Pathaye Namaha
Rama is inseparable from
Seetha, just as Narayana is from Lakshmi. Devotees, sages, and even Hanuman
often addressed him as Seethapati, emphasizing his eternal bond with the
goddess.
The Power of Rama’s Name
- Chanting “Sri Rama Jayam” is believed
to bring victory in all endeavors.
- Lord Shiva declared that chanting
Rama’s name thrice equals reciting the entire Vishnu Sahasranama:
“Sri Rama Rama Rameti Rame Rame Manorame, Sahasranama Tatthulyam Rama Nama Varanane.” - Hanuman’s devotion exemplifies the
transformative strength of Rama’s name—it gave him the power to leap
oceans, burn Lanka, and carry mountains.
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