Throughout history, great minds have often possessed an uncanny ability to tap into the depths of knowledge that seemed to transcend the limitations of their time.
Such is the case with Tulsidas, the celebrated poet and saint of medieval India, who is best known for his literary masterpiece, the Hanuman Chalisa.
However, what many may not realize is that Tulsidas also provided a fascinating insight into the distance between the Earth and the Sun, long before scientists were able to unravel this cosmic mystery.
The Legend of Hanuman and the Sun:
The story that connects Tulsidas with the Sun begins with the popular Hindu deity Hanuman, the epitome of devotion and loyalty.
According to Hindu mythology, Hanuman, in his childlike curiosity, mistook the Sun (Surya) for a ripened fruit and decided to have a taste.
As he leapt towards the sky to devour the Sun, Rahu, an astrological entity, attempted to intervene and bring darkness to the world by swallowing the Sun. Hanuman’s swift action thwarted Rahu’s plan, and he managed to save the Sun, restoring light to the world.
Tulsidas’ Unique Insight:
In his poetic description of this enchanting tale, Tulsidas provides a fascinating detail about the distance between the Earth and the Sun.
He writes that Hanuman believed the Sun to be an easily reachable fruit and embarked on his daring journey towards it.
As Hanuman soared through the sky, the distance between him and the Sun became increasingly apparent, defying his initial perception.
It is believed that Tulsidas described Hanuman’s travel towards the Sun by stating that after crossing several realms, Hanuman reached a point where the Sun was still far away, making it impossible for him to fulfill his desire.
Tulsidas’ depiction of Hanuman’s journey suggests an understanding of the vastness of space and the enormous distance between celestial bodies.
Tulsidas’ Insight and Scientific Discovery:
It is remarkable to consider that Tulsidas, who lived in the 16th century, had provided a poetic insight into the correct distance between the Earth and the Sun, which was only discovered by scientists centuries later.
Prior to the 17th century, scientists like Nicolaus Copernicus and Johannes Kepler were still formulating their theories about the heliocentric model of the solar system, which places the Sun at the center.
Tulsidas’ understanding of the vastness of space and his portrayal of Hanuman’s journey towards the Sun hints at an awareness of the astronomical reality that modern science would later unveil.
It is important to note that Tulsidas was not a scientist, but a poet and saint who tapped into a higher realm of consciousness, often referred to as divine inspiration or intuition.
“Tulsidas’ timeless contribution continues to inspire and intrigue, inviting us to explore the depths of knowledge, both ancient and modern.
