The Vedas show us the Supreme one, and also the path leading to the Supreme One. The Valmiki Ramayana does what the Vedas do, for it is the story of Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It also shows us the path to moksha. The greatness of a work becomes evident, if it is compared to the Vedas. It is said the Vedas themselves were born as Valmiki, son of Prachetas, said Vaduvur Veeraraghavachariar in a discourse explaining the greatness of the Valmiki Ramayana.
The Vedas guide us, and so does the Valmiki Ramayana. Valmiki offers us guidance on proper conduct and observances through Rama. Rama's conduct is upheld as something we all should try to emulate. Rama never strays from the path shown by the Vedas. He never fails to carry out the duties enjoined upon Him by the Sastras. He is seen as the supreme example of one who always adheres to dharma. He protects dharma and meticulously adheres to dharma Himself.
Rama does not order or instruct anyone about need to respect the parents. He leads by example. He does not instruct us to be forgiving, but by giving Ravana chances for repentance, He shows the importance of being able to forgive.
He does not order us to accept the friendship of everyone, regardless of their status in life. But He shows us the importance of doing so, by befriending even monkeys.
By vetoing the suggestions of monkeys and welcoming Vibhishana, He shows the importance of extending the hand of friendship to anyone seeking refuge. He shows the importance of welcoming anyone who seeks one's protection, even if that person has undesirable traits. He says that since Vibhishana has come to Him seeking refuge, He will welcome him, for to ignore him would be to act against the Sastras, which insist that anyone who seeks help must be protected, regardless of whether he deserves such protection.
Thus, at every stage and in every way Rama, shows us the importance of keeping to the way shown by the Sastras.
No wonder that whether He is in the forest or in His kingdom, He is seen as the King by everyone.
