Hanuman
Hanuman, son of the wind, is the mighty monkey devotee of Rama. With immense strength, flight, and shape-shifting, he leaps to Lanka, lifts a mountain of herbs, and embodies selfless service and courage.
Story beats
- 1) As a child he mistakes the sun for a fruit; Indra’s thunderbolt strikes him, granting resilience and humility.
- 2) Meeting Rama, he pledges unshakable devotion, burning his own tail to set Lanka alight while seeking Sita.
- 3) He leaps the ocean and carries the Sanjeevani-bearing mountain to revive Lakshmana.
- 4) After victory, he remains a humble servant, continuing to aid devotees and uphold dharma.
Context & symbolism
Hanuman exemplifies bhakti (devotion) combined with disciplined power. His humility tempers vast abilities; his monkey form bridges animal vigor and divine purpose. He is invoked for strength, courage, and protection.
His stories emphasize service over ego—the greatest feats flow from loyalty, not self-glory.
Motifs
- Leaping oceans; flying wind-assisted
- Burning tail as weapon
- Carrying a mountain of medicinal herbs
- Unbreakable devotion to Rama
Use it in play
- Invoke Hanuman’s blessing for a strength challenge or fearless leap.
- Carry a sacred herb-bearing hill through a war zone while foes swarm.
- Use a burning tail or rope to ignite enemy fortifications as distraction.
- Test loyalty: accept power only when pledged to a righteous cause.