Week 4 Story: Hanuman Origin
Hanuman Origin
Lord hanuman singing bhajans, Wikicommons
The origins of Hanuman are a confusing tale that not that many people know or understand. Rightfully so Hanuman is a very interesting being that is thought to be an incarnation of Shiva or even the son of Anjana and Kesari, or even Vayu the wind god. Some even say that Hanuman was born from Anjana with Shiva being the father through the winds of Vayu. If one thing is clear about the origins of Hanuman is that it is shrouded with mystery. I present another origin story of Hanuman.
Hanuman is almost synonmyous with strength, heroism, and loyalty. All of these traits are highly desirable and often are sought after. Hanuman is also referred to as the monkey god, and has presiding power over the monkeys. The true story of Hanuman is much different than previously assumed. Hanuman was originally born to a lowly peasant, Anjali, unknowingly through Vishnu. Vishnu sent Anjali Hanuman, half man half ape, to her as a test of the will of humans.
Upon birth the townspeople were alarmed and horrified of what Anjali had given birth to. Anjali was unphased by the appearance of her child and loved him regardless. The townspeople were unrelenting in their hate and negative feelings towards Hanuman and Anjali. Vishnu exhibited the conditions that were inflicted upon Anjali and his son Hanuman. Vishnu was displeased to say the least. Vishnu conjures some nagas to talk some sense into the townspeople. The nagas question the townspeople on why they must hate what is different, as they are snakes that take the form of people but are respected. The message sent by Vishnu sends a clear example to the people that they are acting out of line. From this point the townspeople see past Hanuman's appearance and start to treat him as their own. It soon becomes apparent to all that Hanuman is strong, and virtuous, and should rightful preside over the village as the king.
Uninterested in this proposal Hanuman departs of the forest where the monkeys preside to see if they would accept him without judgment. To no surprise the monkeys in the forest see past the appearance of Hanuman and focus on his abilities to find that he is superior in leadership and strength than their current leader. Hanuman goes on to take the formal role of king of the monkeys, thus concluding Hanuman's upbringing.
Author's Note: I started with the story of Hanuman from the Ramayana, and decided to talk about the origin of Hanuman as he was an interesting character.
Brad, I like that you have a little back story to your writing to help the reader understand what you were writing about. I also was interested with the monkey god, Hanuman, and think you did a great job with your story. I think he is an interesting leader in this story so I am glad you also realized it in your writing.
ReplyDeleteHey Brad! You did a great job with your story. I liked that you chose to write about a character we didn't really get into depth in the original Ramayana epic. The monkey god, Hanuman, is such an interesting character since he is half human half monkey. Your writing really help bring out qualities that we would not be able to see in the original. Great job!
ReplyDeleteHey Brad,
ReplyDeleteYou made a good choice on writing about the origin of Hanumana and adding your taste to it. I agree with you that in the Ramayana there is no specification on where Hanumana came form as they had many stories about him. As being a half monkey, I can see why you made him the king of apes. It was nice to see that they happily accepted him in the forest, as you would think about belonging to your own kind.