**The Saga of Hanuman: The Immortal Devotee**
**Full Name:** Shri Hanuman, also known as Anjaneya, Maruti, Bajrangbali, and many other epithets reflecting his virtues and feats.
**Origin/Culture:** Hanuman hails from Hindu mythology, a revered figure in Indian culture and beyond, embodying devotion, strength, and righteousness.
**Domain/Role:** As the God of Strength and Devotion, Hanuman is the epitome of Bhakti (devotion) and Shakti (strength), serving Lord Rama with unwavering fidelity.
**Symbol/Iconography:** Hanuman is often depicted carrying a mace (Gada) and a mountain (Dronagiri), symbolizing his strength and selflessness. His visage is that of a formidable monkey-faced deity, often shown flying or in a pose of service.
**Mythology/Stories:** Among the many tales, the Ramayana highlights Hanuman’s devotion. His epic leap across the Indian Ocean to reach Lanka and his search for Sita are legendary. His ability to assume immense size or become minuscule is renowned, showcasing his divine powers.
**Family Relationships:** Son of the wind god, Vayu, and Anjana, a celestial nymph, Hanuman’s lineage is divine and illustrious.
**Attributes/Qualities:** Hanuman embodies unmatched physical strength, unwavering devotion, humility, and wisdom. He is celebrated for his celibacy, courage, and the power to cast away evil spirits and negativity.
**Depictions/Representations:** Art and literature portray Hanuman in diverse ways – from the fearsome warrior leaping across oceans to the devoted servant kneeling in reverence before Lord Rama.
**Worship/Temples:** Worshiped across India and in many parts of Southeast Asia, Hanuman temples are abundant. Tuesdays and Saturdays are especially dedicated to his worship, with the Hanuman Chalisa and Sundarkand recitations being popular rituals.
**Symbols/Animals:** The monkey, embodying agility and loyalty, is inextricably linked with Hanuman. His mace and the image of him lifting a mountain are symbolic icons.
**Historical Influence:** Hanuman’s tales have inspired countless generations, fostering values of courage, fidelity, and selflessness. His stories are integral to cultural festivals, theatre, and art.
**Sacred Texts:** The Ramayana, along with other texts like the Mahabharata and various Puranas, elaborates on Hanuman’s exploits. The Hanuman Chalisa, a devotional hymn, is recited by millions daily.
**Evolution:** Over centuries, Hanuman’s depiction has evolved from a deity of brute strength to a symbol of devotion and moral integrity, reflecting societal changes and spiritual aspirations.
**Modern Influence:** Hanuman’s influence pervades modern culture, seen in movies, books, and comics. He remains a role model for devotion and duty.
**Titles/Epithets:** Anjaneya, Marutinandan, Sankat Mochan, and Bajrangbali are among the many titles that honor his virtues and deeds.
**Sacred Sites:** The Hanuman Garhi in Ayodhya, the Sankat Mochan Temple in Varanasi, and the Salasar Dham in Rajasthan are revered sites of worship.
**Attributes/Artifacts:** The gada (mace) is Hanuman’s primary weapon, symbolizing his strength and martial prowess. The Sanjeevani mountain, which he carried to save Lakshman’s life, is another significant artifact.
**Allies/Adversaries:** Loyal ally of Lord Rama and the Vanara (monkey) army, his adversaries include demons from the Ramayana like Ravana and his cohorts.
**Cosmology:** Hanuman’s role in the cosmic order is as a protector and servant of Dharma, aiding the forces of good against evil.
**Philosophical/Religious Significance:** Hanuman represents the ultimate devotee, embodying selflessness, strength, devotion, and righteousness, guiding devotees toward the path of Dharma.
**Power Score:** Within a theoretical deity power scale of 200, Hanuman’s score might well be 180, considering his divine birth, immense strength, ability to change size, and his role in key cosmic battles.
**Weapons/Tools:** The mace (Gada) is Hanuman’s primary weapon, symbolizing not just his physical strength but also his spiritual discipline.
**Weapon/Tool Score:** In a comparative assessment of divine armaments, Hanuman’s Gada, coupled with his divine powers, could rank at 45 out of 50, symbolizing immense power balanced by his unwavering faith and moral rectitude.
Hanuman’s saga is not just a tale of heroism and devotion; it is a guiding light for humanity, exemplifying how strength, when allied with virtue and loyalty, can lead to divine achievements.