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Form Is The First Step Towards Formless – Hinduism Teaching

In Hindu philosophy, the concept of form leading to the formless is deeply rooted in the understanding of the universe and the ultimate reality, often referred to as Brahman . This concept is intricately tied to the idea of manifestation and transcendence, which are fundamental aspects of Hindu spirituality. At its core, Hinduism acknowledges the diversity and multiplicity of forms in the universe, which are seen as manifestations of the one ultimate reality, Brahman. This understanding is expressed through the concept of "maya," which suggests that the material world is a manifestation of Brahman, but it is also illusory in nature. Forms, in this context, represent the tangible, visible aspects of the universe. They include physical objects, living beings, thoughts, emotions, and everything that can be perceived by the senses. While forms are essential for human experience and interaction with the world, they are considered transient and impermanent. However, according

Reason For Decline Of Worship Of Indra In Hindu Religion

The decline in the worship of Indra , the ancient Vedic god of rain, thunder, and war, in Hinduism can be attributed to several factors: Evolution of Hindu Pantheon: Over time, Hinduism underwent significant changes, with the emergence of new deities and the reinterpretation of existing ones. As Hinduism evolved, deities like Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi gained prominence, overshadowing lesser-known gods like Indra. Shift in Religious Focus: The focus of Hindu worship shifted from the Vedic gods to more accessible deities like Vishnu and Shiva, who are believed to be more directly involved in the lives of devotees. These deities are often seen as more personal and approachable, thus attracting greater devotion. Demotion of Indra: In some Hindu scriptures, Indra is portrayed as a flawed deity who is sometimes depicted as being arrogant, insecure, and even morally compromised. Such depictions might have contributed to a decline in his popularity among worshippers. Rise of Devotional

Lotus In The Hands Of God Vishnu Symbolism

In Hinduism, the lotus holds profound symbolism, and when it's depicted in the hands of the god Vishnu , it carries several layers of meaning: Purity and Enlightenment: The lotus is often associated with purity, beauty, and enlightenment. It grows in muddy water but rises above it, unstained by the impurities around it. Similarly, Vishnu, as the Preserver in the Hindu Trinity, is untouched by the material world and represents purity and transcendence. Creation and Manifestation: The lotus is a symbol of creation and manifestation. It emerges from the depths of the water, symbolizing the emergence of life from the cosmic ocean. Vishnu, as the preserver, sustains and supports the universe, nurturing life and maintaining cosmic order. Divine Beauty and Grace: The lotus is admired for its exquisite beauty and grace. When held by Vishnu, it symbolizes his divine beauty and grace . Vishnu is often depicted as the epitome of perfection and harmony in Hindu tradition. Spiritual G

Sudarshana Chakra Of Goddess Durga – Symbolism And Meaning

The Sudarshana Chakra (disc), wielded by Goddess Durga, holds deep symbolism and significance in Hindu mythology. Here's an expansion on its symbolism and meaning: Divine Weaponry: The Sudarshan Chakra is a powerful celestial weapon gifted to Goddess Durga by Bhagavan Srihari Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Its association with Vishnu highlights its divine origins and its potency as a tool of divine intervention. Destruction of Evil: When Goddess Durga is depicted wielding the Sudarshana Chakra, it symbolizes her role as a warrior goddess engaged in the eternal battle against evil forces. The Chakra's presence in her hand signifies her readiness to annihilate negativity and restore cosmic balance. Wheel of Time: The Sudarshan Chakra is often interpreted as a representation of the wheel of time, symbolizing the cyclical nature of existence. Its circular form signifies the endless cycle of creation, sustenance, and transformation that characterizes the

Concept of Shraddha In Various Hindu Scriptures

‘Etymologically, the word shraddha is derived from shrat, a root noun probably cognate with the English word ‘heart’, and dha to place; it would thus mean: “to put one’s heart on something”. ’ Though generally the English word ‘faith’ is used to translate ‘shraddha’, it does not convey the same meaning. Explaining the uniqueness of this word, Swami Vivekananda says: ‘I would not translate this word Shraddha to you, it would be a mistake; it is a wonderful word to understand , and much depends on it.’ In the Rig Veda we come across the ‘Shraddha Sukta’ (Rig Veda, 10.151). Its seer is a woman whose name is also Shraddha. Here shraddha is deified and conceived of as a deity who is to be worshipped thrice a day. The hymn states that shraddha is to be attained through heartfelt devotion, and that by this shraddha everything can be achieved. In the Brahmanas, shraddha signifies ‘the aspiration for the sacrificial goal — namely, svarga, heaven — and a confidence in the efficacy of the sac

May 4 2024 Tithi – Panchang – Hindu Calendar – Good Time – Nakshatra – Rashi

Tithi in Panchang – Hindu Calendar on Saturday, May 4 2024 – It is Krishna Paksha Ekadashi tithi or the eleventh day during the waning or dark phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in most regions. It is Krishna Paksha Ekadashi tithi or the eleventh day during the waning or dark phase of moon till 5:38 PM on May 4. Then onward it is Krishna Paksha Dwadashi tithi or the twelfth day during the waning or dark phase of moon till 3:10 PM on May 5. (Time applicable in all north, south and eastern parts of India. All time based on India Standard Time.) Good – Auspicious time on May 4, 2024 as per Hindu Calendar – There is no good and auspicious time on the entire day. Nakshatra – Purva Bhadrapada or Pooruruttathi nakshatra till 7:33 PM on May 4. Then onward it is Uttara Bhadrapada or Uthrattathi nakshatra till 5:53 PM on May 5. (Time applicable in north, south and eastern parts of India). In western parts of India (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, north Karnataka and south Ra

What We Know Is A Drop In The Ocean – Hinduism Teaching

The concept "What we know is a drop in the ocean" resonates deeply with Hindu teachings, encapsulating the idea of the vastness of knowledge and the limitations of human understanding. In Hinduism, this sentiment aligns with the notion of Maya, the illusion that the material world is the ultimate reality, obscuring the infinite nature of existence. Limitations of Human Knowledge: Hinduism acknowledges the finite nature of human perception and intellect. It teaches that our understanding of the universe is limited by our senses, experiences, and cultural conditioning. What we perceive and comprehend is only a tiny fraction of the cosmic reality . The Ocean of Consciousness: Hindu philosophy describes the universe as a manifestation of Brahman, the ultimate reality or cosmic consciousness. This Brahman is likened to an ocean of infinite knowledge and existence, transcending all boundaries of time, space, and comprehension. Hindu saints have always reminded us that what is

Temporal Power – Authority In Hindu Philosophy

Adhikara is a polyvalent word generally referring to temporal power, authority or right. In grammar, adhikara is a governing rule under which a set of rules are enumerated. In philosophy , a section dealing with a particular topic is called adhikara. In the Nyaya system of philosophy (Nyayasutra of Gautam), it means commencement or beginning. It is defined as ability and power to lay down an injunction. In Vedanta, particularly in the commentaries of Upanishads, Gita and Brahmasutra, it means the same. Shankara uses the term in the sense of relevance, duty, authority, eligibility, and competence. Bhaskara and later Vedantins frequently use this word in the sense of ‘injunction laying down eligibility’. In Samkhya, it means context, relevant topic, discussion, occasion, and proximity, whereas in Yoga it means ability or power. In legal treatises, adhikara means ownership, lordship, right, title, property, duty and so on. Besides these meanings, it means administrative rules. In Smriti

Agnivesha

Agnivesha, also known as Agniveshya, holds a significant place in Hindu mythology and ancient Indian texts like the Mahabharata and Puranas. Born as the son of Devadatta, an incarnation of Agni, the fire god, Agnivesha is revered as a rishi or sage. He is also known by the names Kanina and Jatukarna. Within the broader framework of Vedic literature, Agnivesha is credited as the progenitor of the Brahmana group of Agniveshyayana, also known as Prarava Agniras. This lineage traces its ancestry back to Agnivesha, indicating his esteemed position in the ancient Indian social and intellectual hierarchy. According to the Mahabharata, Agnivesha played a pivotal role as the teacher of Drona, who himself is a prominent figure in Hindu tradition and is renowned as the martial arts guru of the Kauravas and Pandavas. Agnivesha's teachings and guidance to Drona underline his stature as a revered guru and scholar. Moreover, Agnivesha is depicted as a disciple of the venerable Sage Agastya

Acintyabhedabheda - Philosophical Doctrine Of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu

Acintya Bhedabheda is the philosophical doctrine of C haitanya Mahaprabhu (1486 – 1533 CE) and his followers. Achintyabhedabheda highlights the ‘incomprehensible difference-non-difference’ nature of Reality. It represents a Vaishnava tradition. It is also known as Chaitanya-Mata, and the Gaudiya Vaishnavism school but more generally the Bengal school of Vaishnavism. Among all the philosophies advocating both bheda (difference) and abhead (identity), it is Nimbarka’s philosophy of Bhedabheda that comes closest to the Bengal school of Vaishnavism. However, there are substantial differences between them. Nimbarka believes in two categories of reality – the independent reality and the dependent reality – the former is Brahman or God and the latter comprises the world and the being. The relationship between these two categories of reality has the nature of both difference and identity, i.e., bhedabheda. The logical challenge involved in explaining the possibility of both difference and

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Goddess Durga Rides Lion or Tiger – Which is the Vahana of Goddess Durga?