Rama is not merely the name of a character in our Itihasas. The entire cosmos reverberates to the tune of Rama Nama only. In fact, the all-pervading Rama Nama existed even before the Universe was formed.

Nama Article 20th November 2008

 

Source: http://www.namadwaar.org/answers/questions.html

 

It is rather confusing when you say that Lord Shiva was chanting the Divine Name of Rama. It has been stated in all the scriptures that Lord Shiva existed long before the birth of Lord Rama. Please explain. 

 

Sri Sri Muralidhara Swamiji:

 

Rama is not merely the name of a character in our Itihasas. It is a Mantra, just like the 'Pranava' Mantra (Om). The great Sage Vashishta chanted this mantra for a very long time.

 

Hence he named Dasharata's first child with the name of his favourite mantra, knowing well that he is verily Lord Vishnu's incarnation.

 

The entire cosmos reverberates to the tune of Rama Nama only. In fact, the all-pervading Rama Nama existed even before the Universe was formed. So it is incorrect to believe that the Rama Nama came into existence only via Ramayana.

 

Chant the Mahamantra Nama kirtan :

 

Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare