Hanuman Chalisa is the essence of Sundar Kanda. The themes covered in
the Hanuman Chalisa can be divided into the following categories:
Hanuman's Physique:He is the symbol of muscular Hinduism. His
physical strength is mentioned in verses 2,3,5 (the thunderbot mace),
9,10,11,18,19,23 and 24. The chalisa repeatedly mentions the halo that
surrounds the deity's entire body (tej). The good are awe-struck by it
while evil people find it scary. Verse 23 alludes to the ferocity of
Hanuman's anger. Verse 9 and 10 tells the power of Hanuman to
transform himself physically.
Hanuman's Intelligence:The first verse says that Hanuman is a sea of
wisdom and virtue. Verse 7 reiterates these two qualities. Verse 16
hints at his negotiating skills and the next verse speaks of the
excellence of his advice.
Beloved of the Gods:Verses 13,14 and 15 tells how the gods sang
paeans in praise of Hanuman.
His heroic acts:Verses 18 and 19 recount the incidents of the sun and
the signet ring respectively showing his heroic deeds.
Love for Ram:Verses 7 and 8 tells how intensely Hanuman loved his
Lord Ram. Verses 12,13, 21 and 32 show the relationship between Ram
and Hanuman.
Hanuman and Sita:Verse 31 tell the Boons grated to Hanuman by Sita.
Hanuman as the mediator: Verses 21 and 33 show the way to attain Sri
Ram through Hanuman.
Hanuman's humility:Verse 9 tells the humility when he met Mother Sita.
Hanuman's blessings: Verses 20,22,24,25,26 and 36 remind that Hanuman
is a remover of adversities (sankat mochan) for his devotees.
Hanuman's parentage:The Chalisa mentions the patronage to Hanuman by
his father Kesari, Lord of Wind (Vayu) and Lord Shiv (Hanuman is
considered as the 11th incarnation of Lord Shiv)
Praise of Hanuman:Verses 29, 35 and 36 is in sheer praise of Hanuman.
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