AJA Aja wept, when he was made to eat the dung he gave in charity. (Var Ramkali M. 3, Shalok M. l, p. 953) Aja was a king of the solar dynasty. He was the son of king Raghu, father of Dashratha and grandfather of Shri Rama. Once a hermit came to him and asked for charity. He was in his stable and inspecting the horses. At first he did not pay attention to the request of the hermit, but when reminded, he in his pride and anger gave some dung to the recluse, which was accepted and preserved by him.
As the time passed, the dung increased in volume and size. On an hunting expedition, the king thought of testing the modesty of his wife, therefore, soaking his clothes in a deer\’s blood, he sent them to his queen, giving the impression, that he had passed away during the expedition. The queen full of extreme sorrow and anguish, became a \’Sati\’. The King out of repentance for his action, left his kingdom and resorted to the forest. There he went to the same hermit, whom he had given the horse\’s dung in charity.
The hermit offered to him the dung from the preserved heap. The king felt highly ashamed and wept for his rudeness and arrogance. Aja means unconquerable. It is one of the names of Brahma also. The above episode exhibits the punishment for the rude behaviour. One has to feel ashamed and penitent.
References :
1. Kohli, Surindar Singh, Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib, 1993
King Aja, mentioned in the Hindu epics, was a virtuous and noble ruler, best known as the father of King Dasharatha and the grandfather of Lord Rama in the Ramayana. Renowned for his humility and devotion, Aja symbolizes the qualities of a wise and just leader. His life serves as an example of living in harmony with divine principles and fulfilling one’s responsibilities with integrity and devotion.
In the Guru Granth Sahib, references to figures like King Aja are employed to inspire spiritual reflection and personal growth. While the scripture does not delve into their detailed narratives, it draws upon their symbolic essence to underscore the importance of humility, righteous living, and devotion. The virtues associated with King Aja align with Sikh teachings on selflessness, compassion, and dedication to the divine.
The Guru Granth Sahib frequently emphasizes that true greatness lies not in one’s worldly status or lineage but in their spiritual connection and deeds. The mention of King Aja serves as a reminder that rulers and leaders are ultimately servants of the divine, entrusted with the responsibility to uplift and serve their people. Such references bridge cultural and spiritual traditions, making the scripture’s teachings universally relevant.
In conclusion, the reference to King Aja in the Guru Granth Sahib transcends its mythological origins, offering timeless lessons on humility, devotion, and righteous leadership. It inspires individuals to align their lives with divine will and live in service to humanity, echoing the core principles of Sikh philosophy.
