In a time when wisdom and compassion were the guiding forces of society, the tale of Sage Dhaumya and his devoted disciple Aruni emerged as a beacon of inspiration—a timeless story that transcends the boundaries of era and geography. This narrative, filled with symbolism and profound lessons, highlights the supreme value of selfless service, determination, and unwavering commitment in the quest for spiritual and personal growth. The Setting: A World on the Brink At the heart of this story lies an ancient ashram, a sanctuary where seekers of truth gathered under the guidance of Sage Dhaumya—a revered master known for his deep spiritual insight and calm demeanor. The ashram, a space of peace and contemplation, was situated near a vital water channel that not only irrigated the surrounding fields but also nurtured the community’s way of life. The channel was a symbol of life itself—a flowing artery that connected the spiritual and physical realms. However, nature is often unpredict...

Hindu Teachings in the Digital Age: Navigating the Paradox of Abundance and Decline In today’s interconnected world, Hindu teachings have never been more accessible. With countless websites, online lectures, podcasts, and video series available at the click of a button, one might assume that the vast wisdom of Hindu philosophy is reaching an ever-growing audience. However, despite this digital abundance, there is a paradox: while Hindu teachings are now available in unprecedented volume and variety, the depth of engagement—measured in sincere readership and attentive listenership—is steadily declining. This article explores the multifaceted dimensions of this problem, examines contributing factors, and proposes potential solutions to reinvigorate the tradition of study, inquiry, and true spiritual transformation. The Digital Revolution and Hindu Teachings The advent of the internet has democratized access to information across the globe. For centuries, Hindu knowledge was passed dow...

How Food Habits Influence Gunas In Hinduism? In Hindu thought, the concept of the three gunas—sattva, rajas, and tamas—represents the fundamental qualities that underlie all nature, including the human mind and behavior. These gunas are present in varying combinations in everyone and everything. Sattva is associated with purity, harmony, and balance; rajas with activity, passion, and restlessness; and tamas with inertia, ignorance, and heaviness. One of the most direct ways to influence the balance of these gunas within ourselves is through food. What we eat not only nourishes our physical body but also shapes our mental and spiritual tendencies. This article explores how dietary habits affect the three gunas, lists common foods associated with each guna, identifies the problems arising from imbalanced eating, and offers practical solutions. Understanding the Gunas Sattva : Sattva guna signifies clarity, peacefulness, and upliftment. A mind dominated by sattva is calm, discerning,...

The tradition of worshipping small, thumb-sized images in Hindu households has deep historical and symbolic roots. In ancient times, when the establishment of elaborate temple icons was gradually developing, devotees were encouraged to create intimate shrines within their homes. These home shrines often featured icons of deities that were modest in size—traditionally about the size of the worshipper’s thumb. This tradition is laden with significance, symbolism, and practical implications that continue to influence personal devotional practices today. Historical and Cultural Significance Historically, the emergence of home shrines paralleled the growth of temple worship. While grand temples and monumental statues were the hallmark of public religious life, the household served as a space for personal connection with the divine. The small, thumb-sized images symbolized the idea that the divine could be present in the most personal of spaces. They were accessible, portable, and intimate...

Devala is a revered sage in Hinduism, frequently mentioned in the Mahabharata, sometimes alongside another sage named Asita. His contributions are significant in the context of ancient Hindu literature and dharma. The term "Smriti" in Hindu philosophy refers to a body of traditional texts remembered and passed down through generations, in contrast to "Shruti," which is considered divinely revealed. Devala Smriti: Overview The Devala Smriti is one such text attributed to Sage Devala. It is a dharmasutra treatise, which means it is a work focused on dharma, the moral and ethical code of conduct in Hinduism. Although the full extent and original content of the Devala Smriti are not completely known, it is believed to have been an extensive text, possibly encompassing various aspects of dharma. Sections of Devala Smriti Based on references and quotations found in other ancient Hindu texts, it is inferred that the original Devala Smriti might have contained secti...

The Dual Path of Duty and Liberation in Hinduism In the rich tapestry of Hindu thought, dharma serves as the guiding principle that shapes both individual conduct and cosmic order. Among its many dimensions, two paths emerge prominently in the Mahabharata’s dialogue between Bhishma and Yudhishthira: Rajya Dharma , the dharma of active engagement and responsibility, and Moksha Dharma , the dharma of renunciation and the pursuit of spiritual liberation. Though traditionally discussed in the context of kingship and asceticism, these two dharmas offer timeless wisdom for every individual navigating the complexities of modern life. Understanding Pravrutti and Nivrutti Marga Hindu scriptures often speak of two complementary paths or margas: Pravrutti Marga (the path of action): Involves active participation in society, fulfilling one’s duties toward family, community, and the world. Nivrutti Marga (the path of renunciation): Involves stepping back from worldly attachments to focus...

The Mandukya Upanishad, one of the shortest yet most profound Upanishads, offers deep insights into the nature of consciousness. Verse 10, which states, “Taijasa is the second syllable u in AUM. One who knows him thus increases his knowledge. In his family only knowers of Brahman (= Atman) are born,” serves as a window into the intricate symbolism and spiritual wisdom of ancient India. This verse encapsulates the connection between sound, consciousness, and the path to self-realization, and its lessons continue to resonate even in the modern era. The Structure and Symbolism of AUM AUM, often regarded as the primordial sound or the cosmic syllable, is divided into three principal phonemes: A, U, and M. Each of these syllables represents distinct states of consciousness. In traditional exegesis: A stands for the waking state (Vaishvanara), the realm of physical existence where the self interacts with the external world. U , identified in this verse with the term Taijasa , symbol...

In Hindu philosophy, particularly as articulated in the Bhagavad Gita and the teachings of various sages, the concepts of inner detachment, conquest of craving, and freedom from desire are central to the idea of true inaction (Nishkama Karma) rather than the renouncement of work (Sannyasa). These teachings emphasize that one can lead a life of profound spirituality while engaging actively in the world. Inner Detachment (Vairagya) Inner detachment, or Vairagya, involves cultivating a state of mind where one is not emotionally or mentally attached to the outcomes of their actions. This does not mean abandoning responsibilities or duties but performing them with an equanimous mind. The Bhagavad Gita elaborates on this in its teachings to Arjuna, where Lord Krishna advises performing one's duty without attachment to success or failure. This attitude of detachment transforms ordinary actions into acts of devotion and wisdom. Conquest of Craving (Vasana Kshaya) Conquering craving...

Tithi in Panchang – Hindu Calendar on Friday, June 27 2025 – It is Shukla Paksha Dwitiya tithi or the second day during waxing or light phase of moon in Hindu calendar and Panchang in most regions. It is Shukla Paksha Dwitiya tithi or the second day during waxing or light phase of moon till 12 :58 PM on June 27. Then onward it is Shukla Paksha Tritiya tithi or the third day during waxing or light phase of moon till 12 :01 PM on June 28. (Time applicable in all north, south and eastern parts of India. All time based on India Standard Time.)  Good – Auspicious time on June 27, 2025 as per Hindu Calendar – Good and auspicious time on the entire day.  Nakshatra  – Punarvasu or Punartham or Punarpoosam nakshatra till 9:27 AM on June 27. Then onward it is Pushya or Poosam or Pooyam nakshatra till 9:12 AM on June 28. (Time applicable in north, south and eastern parts of India).  In western parts of India (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, north Karnataka and south Raja...

A Glimpse into Sorimuthu Ayyanar Temple Sorimuthu Ayyanar Temple stands hidden in the dense greenery of Mundanthurai Reserve Forest, nestled between Papanasam and Karaiyar Dam in Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu. On the banks of the Thamirabarani River, this sacred site ranks among the six significant Sastha temples in South India. While Lord Shiva in the form of a Shivalinga is the primary deity, the temple’s fame centers on Lord Ayyappa (Dharma Sastha) worshipped here as Sori Muthu Ayyanar. This article explores the temple’s history, symbolism, rituals, miracles, and its unique place in the living religious tradition of devotees. Six temples are associated with the shad chakras in the human body. The Sorimuthu Ayyanar temple is associated with Moola Dharam.  Ayyappa is worshipped here as Muthayya. He is seen along with Poorna and Pushkala. Location and Natural Setting Located deep within a protected reserve forest, the temple is surrounded by thick jungles, ancient trees, and ...