Studies in the Epics and Puranas c7.s2.12

c7.s2.12

According to tradition the number of verses in the Rām is 24000 divided into 500 sargas or chapters, each thousand verses beginning with a letter of the Gāyatrī-mantra. In its present form, the Rām comprises seven books. Like the Mbh, the Rām has not come down to us in its original form, Book VII and most of Book I being later additions to the main epic in Books II-VI. The later portion not only displays difference in language and style, but contains matter which has but very slight connection with the main story; shows Rāma as an incarnation of Viṣṇu whereas he is a mortal hero in the genuine epic; and gives premier position to Viṣṇu in place of the Vedic Indra who occupies the place of honour in the genuine sections.