Unshakable Devotion and Divine Power: Exploring Verses 9–10 of the Hanuman Chalisa

As we continue our journey through the sacred verses of the Hanuman Chalisa, we arrive at two powerful lines that reflect Hanuman’s immense capabilities and the profound impact of his unwavering devotion to Lord Ram. These verses emphasize not only his physical strength but also his spiritual might—qualities that inspire courage and surrender in the hearts of devotees.

Verse 9

“Vidyavaan guni ati chatur, Ram kaj karibe ko aatur”
Wise, virtuous, and supremely intelligent, you are ever eager to carry out Lord Ram’s work.

In this verse, Hanuman is praised as vidyavaan—one who is full of knowledge and learning. But this isn’t mere intellectual knowledge. It’s spiritual wisdom, earned through service, surrender, and love. He is also described as guni (virtuous) and ati chatur (very clever), reminding us that true intelligence includes humility, integrity, and the ability to act selflessly.

Yet, the most beautiful part of this verse may be the line “Ram kaj karibe ko aatur”—Hanuman’s eagerness to serve Lord Ram. There is no hesitation, no resistance—only joyful readiness. His entire being is aligned with his purpose: to serve. This teaches us that the highest wisdom lies not in accumulation, but in action rooted in love and devotion.

Verse 10

“Prabhu charitra sunibe ko rasiya, Ram Lakhan Sita man basiya”
You delight in hearing the stories of the Lord, and Lord Ram, Lakshman, and Sita dwell always in your heart.

This verse paints a tender picture of Hanuman’s inner world—one filled with divine love and remembrance. He is rasiya, one who delights in listening to the divine tales of Lord Ram. His joy is found not in worldly pleasures but in immersing himself in the stories and teachings of his beloved Lord.

The second part of the verse tells us something deeply important: Ram, Lakshman, and Sita reside in Hanuman’s heart. He is not merely a servant performing tasks—he is a devotee whose every breath, every heartbeat, is steeped in divine presence. Hanuman becomes a living temple.

Living These Verses
Together, these verses offer a clear invitation: to cultivate inner virtues, act with purpose, and allow the divine to take root in our hearts. They remind us that the most powerful service comes not from obligation, but from love.

Maharaj-ji Neem Karoli Baba often spoke of Hanuman as the ultimate embodiment of bhakti (devotion) and seva (selfless service). Through these verses, we glimpse why: Hanuman’s wisdom is matched by his humility. His strength is matched by his surrender. And his joy is found in remembrance and love.

As we reflect on these verses, we can ask ourselves:

What does it mean to serve with eagerness, not ego?

How can we create space in our hearts for love, for remembrance, and for divine presence?

May Hanuman’s example inspire us to walk our path with clarity, devotion, and joyful purpose.

Jai Hanuman! Jai Maharaj-ji!