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Showing posts from September, 2006


True Saints Never Advertise – Hindu Wisdom

The statement ‘True saints never advertise. They are like flowers. Bees (devotees) naturally get attracted to them’ encapsulates a profound aspect of Hindu wisdom regarding the nature of spiritual attainment and the behavior of those who have truly reached a higher state of consciousness. Let's delve deeper into its meaning: True Saints and their Nature: In Hinduism, a "true saint" refers to an individual who has attained a state of self-realization or enlightenment. This state transcends the ego and desires, leading to a profound sense of inner peace, wisdom, and compassion. Such individuals are often seen as embodying the divine qualities of love, humility, and selflessness. The Analogy of Flowers and Bees: The analogy of flowers and bees illustrates the natural attraction that genuine saints exert on sincere seekers. Just as bees are naturally drawn to flowers for their nectar, devotees are naturally drawn to enlightened beings for their spiritual wisdom and guidan

How Hindu Religion Overcame Islamic Invasion?

The interaction between Hinduism and Islamic invasion in the Indian subcontinent is a complex historical narrative spanning centuries. Hinduism, as one of the oldest religions in the world, has encountered numerous challenges throughout its history, including interactions with Islamic invaders. Hinduism's ability to overcome Islamic invasions was shaped by a combination of spiritual resilience, cultural adaptability, and historical circumstances. While the violence perpetrated by invaders posed significant challenges, the enduring strength of Hindu philosophy, the fervor of devotional movements, and the valor of its defenders played crucial roles in preserving and revitalizing Hinduism in the face of adversity. Universal Teachings and Philosophy: Hinduism's diverse and inclusive philosophy, which encompasses a wide range of beliefs, practices, and traditions, played a significant role. The emphasis on concepts such as dharma (duty/righteousness), karma (action and consequen

When does a Hindu pray? - Pray Time of Hindus

I never knew when I started Hindu blog that I will have to answer questions like when does a Hindu pray or is their a Hindu Sunday or Friday or Shabbat? I got several mails asking questions like these. This shows that most people around the world are still ignorant about Hinduism. There is no particular time for prayer in Hinduism. There are no compulsory obligations. You can still be a Hindu without praying. But there are Hindus who make it a point to pray in the morning and evening. They light a lamp while praying. The lamp is a symbol. It leads a person from ignorance to knowledge. There are people who recite mantras, like the famous Gayatri Mantra, while praying. There are Hindus who don’t visit temples. They don’t feel the need for any mediators. They pray in the mind or concentrate on any object. There is no timeframe for prayer. Some people pray for a few seconds. There are others who spend hours praying. Some Hindus pray based on the aus

Too Much Body Consciousness Is A Trap With No Escape Door – Hinduism Knowledge

In Hinduism, the concept of body consciousness refers to being excessively preoccupied with one's physical form, appearance, and bodily sensations. This preoccupation can lead to a fixation on superficial aspects of existence, distracting individuals from deeper spiritual pursuits and the understanding of their true nature. The idea that excessive body consciousness is a trap with no escape door reflects the understanding that becoming overly attached to the body and its desires can hinder spiritual progress and perpetuate suffering. Hindu philosophy teaches that the body is transient and impermanent, subject to aging, illness, and eventual death. Thus, investing too much importance in the body alone can lead to a sense of dissatisfaction and disillusionment as it inevitably changes over time. According to Hindu scriptures and teachings, true liberation (moksha) is attained by transcending the limitations of the physical body and realizing one's essential nature as pure con

True Hindu spirit is coming out of the crowd

People find comfort in being a part of the crowd. They don’t want to be creative. Even if they have different thoughts from that of the society they subdue it. Coming out of the crowd means you are rebelling. Now, rebellion is a bad word for any society. The Hindu society is no exception. But this is not true Hindu character. Hinduism accepts change. It moves with time. It incorporates the finding of scientific world. But the mindset of majority of Hindus is not willing to change. This is because they want to be part of the crowd. They are ready to sacrifice their individuality to bask in the glory of honor and respect provided by the crowd. To achieve something, you have to break away from the collective mind. You have to tread new path. All discoveries and inventions of the world are the result of the moving away from collective thinking. A major problem in Hindu society is its caste system. Many people know that it is bad. But are unwilling to openly spe

Why Interconnectedness Is A Core Teaching In Hinduism?

Interconnectedness is indeed a fundamental concept in Hinduism, stemming from its philosophical underpinnings and spiritual worldview. Here's why: Cosmic Unity: Hinduism perceives the universe as a single, interconnected entity. This view is reflected in the concept of Brahman, the ultimate reality, which is considered to be the source and essence of all existence. Everything in the universe, animate and inanimate, is believed to be interconnected and manifestations of Brahman. Law of Karma: The principle of karma, central to Hindu thought, asserts that every action has consequences. According to this belief, individuals create their own destiny through their actions. The interconnectedness lies in the idea that one's actions not only affect one's own life but also have repercussions that ripple through the interconnected web of existence, affecting others as well. Interconnectedness of Life Forms: Hinduism teaches that all living beings are interconnected through the

Why so many gods in Hinduism?

A Christian reader of Hindu Blog wrote to me saying that Hinduism has too many gods and it is confusing. Too many gods is a criticism leveled against Hinduism. And it is also used by some people to attack Hinduism. Now, if you put this question to a Hindu scholar, he/she will quote from religious texts to explain about the numerous gods. A common man might not understand many of the quotes and explanations. Now, Hinduism is not a religion and it does not have a founder. It is a way of life. So depending on the need of the hour, region, Nature and environment, people are free to create their own gods, forms of worship and celebrations. Some people need god to escape from the fear of death. Some need god for solving their day-to-day issues. After doing all the hard work, some people feel the need for that extra help, which is provided by God. So everyone needs ‘a form of God’ to pray to. Each individual depending on his/her need and liking, can choose a form to

Why Hinduism Believes There Is Alien Life In Universe?

Although Hinduism doesn't have a singular, dogmatic stance on the existence of alien life in the universe, but its cosmology and philosophical frameworks provide room for such possibilities. Here are a few reasons why some Hindus might entertain the idea of alien life: Vastness of the Universe: Hindu cosmology often speaks of a vast and infinite universe, with numerous realms and dimensions beyond our own. This vastness suggests the potential for life forms beyond Earth. Reincarnation: Hinduism teaches the concept of reincarnation, where the soul takes birth in different forms across various realms. This notion could extend to other planets or realms inhabited by different beings. Puranas and Epics: Hindu scriptures such as the Puranas and the epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana sometimes mention beings with supernatural or celestial qualities. While these texts might not explicitly describe aliens as we conceive of them today, they do depict diverse forms of life

How Hindu Religion Overcome Persecution By British?

The Hindu religion faced various challenges during British colonial rule in India, including social, cultural, and religious disruptions. However, it would be a stretch to say that Hinduism "overcame persecution" by the British in a singular sense. Instead, Hindus adapted and responded to colonial pressures in various ways. Revival Movements: During the colonial period, there was a resurgence of interest in Hinduism and its cultural heritage. Various revival movements, such as the Arya Samaj and the Ramakrishna Mission, emerged to rejuvenate Hinduism and promote its values. These movements aimed to counteract the influence of colonialism and Christian missionary activities. Cultural Renaissance: The British colonial period also witnessed a cultural renaissance in India, often referred to as the Bengal Renaissance. Intellectuals and scholars like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Swami Vivekananda played pivotal roles in fostering a sense of pride in Indian culture and traditions, in

Scriptures Are Mere Signposts You Have To Undertake The Journey – Hindu Wisdom

The idea that scriptures are mere signposts is a profound concept found in various spiritual traditions, including Hinduism. In Hindu wisdom, scriptures such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and others serve as guides or signposts pointing towards spiritual truths and paths to enlightenment. However, the journey itself, the actual practice of spiritual disciplines, introspection, and realization, is considered essential. Here's a breakdown of this concept: Scriptures as Signposts: Hindu scriptures contain profound teachings, philosophies, and stories that offer insights into the nature of reality, the self, and the divine. They serve as signposts that point seekers towards deeper understanding and spiritual growth. Undertaking the Journey: Merely reading or reciting scriptures is not enough to attain spiritual realization. One must undertake the inner journey of self-discovery, self-transformation, and self-realization. This journey often involves practices such as me

Janna – Kannada Jaina Poet of 12th Century AD

Janna was a famous Jaina Kannada poet of the 12th Century AD. He was patronized by King Ballala II and Narasimha II of the Hoyasala dynasty. He was give the title Kavichakravarti. His great skill in composition of inscriptional literature can be found in the inscription at Channarayapatna (179) and Tarikere (45). Literary Works of Janna Yasodharacharite (epic poem – deals with Jaina tenets) – Though a translation of the original Sanskrit, it depicts the greatness of non-violence in simple and lucid style. Kannada nativity is introduced to get the teaching across the masses. Anantanatha Purana (epic poem – sketches the life of fourteenth Tirthankara) Anubhavamukura (treatise on erotica) His contribution to Kannada epigraphy is phenomenal. Janna was also a warrior and administrator. He was a judge and minister during the reign of Narasimha II of the Hoyasala dynasty. He is believed to have constructed numerous basadis (Jaina temples).

Why Hinduism Is A Colorful Religion?

Hinduism is often described as a colorful religion for several reasons: Diversity: Hinduism is incredibly diverse, both in its beliefs and practices. It encompasses a wide range of rituals, ceremonies, festivals, and traditions. Each region, community, and even family may have its own unique customs and ways of worship, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Hindu culture. Festivals: Hinduism celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, each with its own distinct colors, decorations, and rituals. For example, Holi, known as the festival of colors, involves people throwing colored powders and water at each other in a joyous celebration of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Symbolism: Colors hold significant symbolism in Hinduism. For instance, red symbolizes auspiciousness and fertility, while yellow represents knowledge and learning. The vibrant use of colors in clothing, decorations, and rituals adds to the visual richness of Hindu religious practices. Art and

Quoting from ancient religious texts is not a solution for present day problems

Whenever there is a major issue in our society, the religious leaders quote from ancient text to validate their point. Can there be anything more foolish than this? The problems our society face are different from the time when these sacred books were written. Most of the problems of today might not have been even imagined by the writers of the religious texts. A classic example is abortion. Biblical points have been analyzed countless times for abortion. When bible was written there was no country in the world with a population of more than a billion. Today, we have two nations – China and India . Will the quotes in Bible solve the problems of population explosion? Another example is the caste system in India . Hindu religious texts are used to defend this evil system. But any person who thinks judiciously knows that the caste system has no value in the modern world. Similarly, Koran is quoted for defending various practices in Islam. Can the writings of

Internal Cleanliness Will Reflect In External Cleanliness – Hindu Wisdom

In Hinduism, there's a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of the inner and outer worlds, and this principle extends to cleanliness as well. The idea suggests that the state of one's internal being, encompassing thoughts, emotions, and spiritual well-being, reflects outwardly in one's actions and surroundings. If someone maintains purity and cleanliness within themselves, it will naturally manifest in their external environment as well. This principle is not just about physical cleanliness but also about mental and spiritual hygiene. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating virtuous qualities within oneself, which naturally extends to how one interacts with the world and maintains cleanliness in their surroundings. It's a reminder of the profound connection between our inner state and the world around us, highlighting the importance of inner purification for creating a harmonious and clean external environment. In Hinduism, the concept of internal cl

Stop sacrificing animals in the open at Kalighat temple

A division bench of the Calcutta High Court has ordered to stop the animal sacrifice in front of the famous Kalighat temple in Kolkata. It is a shame that the court had to intervene to stop this awful practice. People resort to these medieval practices for pleasing god. No idea, which god will be pleased by such practices? These practices bring to shame to Hindu religion and the western media uses such practices to malign India and Hinduism. The worst part is that even educated people participate in animal sacrifices. There is nothing much horrible than watching an animal being slaughtered in the public. Quite often these poor animals are transported in the most horrible manner. They are not fed properly and are left tied to poles for several days. It is hard to change the mindset of the elderly people. But the youngsters should stop participating in such sacrifices. They should understand the true essence of Hinduism, which is the oneness of all that lives. The

Ants and Termites Turn Barren Land into Agricultural Land

Ants and termites are of great help to Nature. They help in decomposing waste materials, which in turn act as food for plants. They play a key role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem. A farmer near Chennai used the service of these tireless sentinels of nature to convert his barren land into agricultural land. Natesan, a farmer of Karanodai village, found it difficult to plough his land. This also made digging a well an impossibility. During monsoon, water used to get collected on the land. The land became parched during summer. To prepare the land for agriculture, the farmer released ants, termites and earthworms. They burrowed into the hard land and made the soil porous. Rain water also seeped in through these holes. How Natesan made his barren land productive can be found here . Nature has answer to every problem. But unfortunately, we humans always look for shortcuts to make gains. This leads to the destruction of nature.

Hinduism Does Not Stick To Holy Scriptures – It Constantly Evolves

Hinduism is often described as a living tradition precisely because it's not bound by a single holy scripture or a centralized religious authority. Instead, it has a vast and diverse collection of texts, teachings, and practices that have evolved over thousands of years. One of the key aspects of Hinduism is its adaptability and inclusivity. It has the capacity to absorb new ideas, beliefs, and practices while still maintaining a sense of continuity with its ancient traditions. This flexibility allows it to resonate with different cultures, societies, and individuals across time and space. The idea of constant evolution in Hinduism can be seen in various aspects of its religious and philosophical thought, including the concepts of karma (the law of cause and effect), dharma (the moral order of the universe), and the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). These concepts are interpreted and reinterpreted by different schools of thought and by individual practitioners in re

How To Calculate Time of Birth of Baby in Hinduism?

Time of birth of baby in Hinduism is calculated based on three factors. Baby appearing on earth. Cutting of umbilical cord. First cry of baby. Among this child appearing on earth is not considered ideal by some astrologers as sometimes some babies enter the world feet first. Cutting the umbilical cord is also rejected on the ground that it can be manipulated and sometimes the child may be still born. First cry of child is considered the ideal time of birth of child in Hinduism as the child starts breathing in the world and confirms the first living state on earth. This gives more accurate horoscope results. The time is calculated from the local sunrise. Kundali is prepared based on sunrise to birth time. Astrologically, each birth time requires some corrections, or rectification of the birth chart. All standard classical astrological works describe it on the basis of moon’s epoch or on the basis of horary astrology or ruling planets. The personal experience

Worship Of Shiva Helps In Achieving Peace And Prosperity

Worship of Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, is believed to bring various spiritual and worldly benefits, including peace and prosperity, according to Hindu traditions. Here's how: Peace through Meditation: Shiva is often depicted in a meditative posture, symbolizing inner peace and tranquility. Worshipping Shiva can help devotees attain a similar state of inner calmness through meditation practices associated with him, which in turn can lead to a sense of peace in their lives. Destruction of Negativity: Shiva is also known as the destroyer of evil and ignorance. By worshipping Shiva, devotees seek his blessings to destroy negative forces within themselves and in the world around them. This process of destruction is seen as necessary for the creation of new beginnings and positivity, which ultimately leads to peace. Prosperity through Renunciation: Shiva is often depicted as living a simple life, renouncing material comforts and possessions. Through devotion t

Thoughts on religious conversions in India

Religious conversions are a major cause of tension among the various religious communities in India. In India, the main religious conversions are taking place from Hinduism to Christianity and Buddhism. It must be noted here that people do not convert because they have found a better religious teaching. Most of them convert due to oppression and economic reasons. The main reason for people converting to Buddhism is the caste system in Hinduism. It is high time that the Hindu society got rid of the evil caste system. Lot has been said about this subject but there has been no change even in the mindset of educated Hindus. The oppressed castes will look for ways to express their anger against Hinduism. One method is converting to Buddhism. The conversion of Hindus to Christianity is mainly for material gains. Poor and uneducated people are lured to their fold with money by several missionaries. The missionaries are paid for increasing the number of followers. Numerous young people are r

Give Prime Importance To Integrity Of Character – Hindu Scriptures

In Hindu scriptures, integrity of character, or "dharma," holds paramount importance. Dharma encapsulates not just moral and ethical duties but also the essence of righteousness, virtue, and cosmic order. Integrity is fundamental to leading a life in accordance with dharma. Here are a few instances from Hindu scriptures emphasizing the significance of integrity: Bhagavad Gita: In this revered text, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. He emphasizes the importance of adhering to one's righteous duty, or dharma, regardless of the circumstances. Integrity in performing one's duties without attachment to the outcomes is highlighted as essential for spiritual growth and harmony in the universe. Ramayana: The character of Lord Rama is often cited as the epitome of integrity and righteousness. He upholds his dharma as a prince, son, husband, and king throughout his life, even in the face of tremendous adversity. His unwavering commitment to trut

No sane person can equate Hindu temples with brothels

This article of Hindu blog is a reaction to an article in timesonline uk which stated that a millennium ago the temples of India were brothels. (the article is no longer available online) The article states that ‘the Hindu temples of central and southern India can be startlingly erotic’ This sentence gives a feel that the walls of Hindu temples are all filled with erotic sculptures. But this is not true. Only few temples have erotic sculpture. The example used by the author is the temple of Khajuraho . In reality, erotic scenes are only a small part of the carvings in Khajuraho and other temples. The author seems to have not seen the carvings in which women are shown as writing letters, women applying kohl to her eyes, women playing with children, women brushing her hair. All sculptors in Khajuraho are not based on women. There are carvings showing armies marching, court musicians, farmers and potters. Only 10 percent of the total sculptors in Khajuraho are erot

An anthropological explanation to the erotic statues in Hindu temples

This is a reaction to an article published in timesonline under the title “Why is a Hindu temple like a Soho phone box? Must I draw you a picture?” by Terence Kealey. The article quotes from several sources to state that ‘ in short, a millennium ago the temples of India were brothels — they may have been more than that, but they were brothels too — and they advertised their wares as brothels always have.’ It seems the best way to attain popularity is to hurt the religious sentiments of people. Look at the words used to define Hindu temples. Terence Kealey is hurting the religious sentiments of more than one billion people. The writer has every right to put forward thoughts on the erotic sculptors in Hindu temples. Some of the findings have scientific backing, according to Terence Kealey. The findings of the article are going to be debated. But what is the author trying to prove by stating that the Hindu temples were brothels. There is a better way of saying

Stiffness In Life Is The Result Of Ego - Hindu Wisdom

In Hindu philosophy, the concept of ego (ahamkara) plays a significant role in understanding human nature and behavior. According to this wisdom, ego is often seen as the root cause of many problems, including stiffness or rigidity in life. The ego, in Hindu thought, is the sense of individual identity or "I-consciousness" that separates one from the unity of the universe. When the ego becomes inflated or dominant, it leads to a sense of separateness, attachment to personal desires, and an exaggerated sense of self-importance. This can result in rigid beliefs, behaviors, and attitudes that hinder personal growth and harmony in relationships. Stiffness in life can be understood as a resistance to change, an unwillingness to adapt, or a fixation on one's own perspective to the exclusion of others. This rigidity often arises from the ego's need to protect itself and maintain control over its surroundings. However, this resistance to flow with the natural rhythm of li

Guru Is Light - Hinduism Teaching

"Guru is Light" is a profound teaching within Hinduism that emphasizes the significance of the guru, or spiritual teacher, in guiding individuals on their path towards enlightenment or self-realization. In Hindu philosophy, the guru is regarded as the dispeller of darkness, leading disciples from ignorance to wisdom, from confusion to clarity. The concept of the guru as light in Hinduism is deeply rooted in the spiritual traditions of the religion. In Hinduism, the term "guru" is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning "dispeller of darkness." This metaphorical understanding reflects the belief that the guru serves as a beacon of light in the darkness of ignorance, guiding seekers on their spiritual journey towards enlightenment. The guru is revered as a source of wisdom and knowledge, possessing the ability to illumine the path of disciples through their teachings and guidance. This illumination is not limited to mere intellectual understanding but enc

The lack of a spiritual leader who can represent the Hindu community is a boon

While traveling in a train, I overheard the conversation of a few new converts to Christianity from Hinduism. These new converts were poor rural Indians. But they were educated. One man was talking about how the meeting with the preacher of the new sect helped him to get rid of alcoholism. They were also talking about the lack of a proper religious leader in Hinduism to guide them. People are happy to become followers. They want someone to guide them. People want to see miracles. They need to improve their lifestyle with the help of the spiritual leader. They need to be a part of group or sect to satisfy their ego. They need it to debate that my sect is better than yours. But this comes with a price – loss of individuality. All the thoughts of these people are borrowed from the spiritual leader. It is like dead people programmed to walk by another man. Fortunately, Hinduism does not have a spiritual leader who can represent the entire community. And I see this as a

Plight of Hindu Widows

The treatment meted out to widows by certain section of Hindu society is appalling. The life of a widow in rural India is nothing short of dreadfulness. So much has been written about this aspect. It is high time the Hindu society took up the issue of widows. Certain societies in India have changed during the past 60 years. A classic example is the Hindu society in Kerala. Primary education has done a world of good here. Remarriage is no longer a problem in Kerala. Hindu society should take lessons from Kerala. A reformation should take place within the Hindu society. The story of India 's widows by Dheera Sujan is an eye opener. “My mother became a widow at the age of 37. Soon after, she packed up her children and her belongings and left India for a job in Australia . 40 years later, her family still hasn't really recovered from losing us, and I think she's never stopped feeling guilty for leaving them.   When I asked her why she'd made suc

Sadhanapanthas In Hinduism

The Sadhanapanthas, also known as the Sadhana sect, emerged as a distinct religious movement within Hinduism, primarily centered around the teachings and practices of Saint Sadhana, who lived during the seventeenth century CE. Saint Sadhana was a bhakti saint who belonged to the Ramananda tradition, which is itself a prominent Vaishnavite lineage within Hinduism. One of the notable aspects of Saint Sadhana's life is his unconventional background; he is often depicted as having been a butcher before he became a saint. This aspect of his life adds an intriguing dimension to his story, emphasizing the transformative power of devotion and spirituality in Hinduism, where individuals from diverse backgrounds can find spiritual enlightenment and redemption through their faith. The Sadhanapanthas were followers of Saint Sadhana who formed a separate sect or community dedicated to his teachings and spiritual practices. While rooted in the broader Vaishnavite tradition, the Sadhanapantha

Sadhana In Hinduism

Sadhana in Hinduism is indeed a multifaceted concept that encompasses various practices aimed at spiritual growth, self-discipline, and personal transformation. Let's delve deeper into some of its key aspects: Purificatory Practice: Sadhana involves engaging in daily rituals or practices aimed at purifying the mind, body, and spirit. These practices often include physical exercises, breath control (pranayama), mantra chanting, meditation, and the performance of religious rites. Devotion and Worship : Many Sadhana practices revolve around devotion to a particular deity or deities. Practitioners may engage in puja (worship), offering prayers, and performing rituals specific to the deity they are devoted to. This aspect of Sadhana helps cultivate a deep sense of connection and reverence towards the divine. Contemplation and Meditation: Sadhana often includes practices that involve contemplation and meditation. Through introspection and mindfulness, practitioners seek to quiet t

Without A Stable Mind We Can Never Expect Happiness – Hinduism Teaching

The concept of a stable mind leading to happiness is indeed a central teaching in Hinduism. In Hindu philosophy, the mind is often depicted as a turbulent entity, prone to fluctuations and distractions. Achieving stability of mind through practices like meditation, self-discipline, and devotion is emphasized as crucial for spiritual growth and inner peace. The Bhagavad Gita, a key Hindu scripture, discusses the importance of controlling the mind and senses for achieving happiness and spiritual liberation. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to cultivate equanimity and detachment, which leads to a tranquil mind capable of facing life's challenges without being swayed by external circumstances. Additionally, various forms of yoga, including Raja Yoga (the yoga of meditation and mental control) and Bhakti Yoga (the yoga of devotion), are prescribed in Hinduism to attain mental stability and ultimately, union with the divine. The teaching that happiness stems from a stable mind underscor

Without Being Sincere And Open-Hearted Nobody Can Find God – Says Hindu Saints

Hindu saints often emphasize the importance of sincerity and open-heartedness in spiritual pursuits. According to Hindu philosophy, the journey to find God or attain spiritual realization requires not just external rituals or practices but also inner transformation and genuine devotion. Here's an expansion on this idea: Sincerity in Devotion: Hinduism teaches that true devotion arises from the depths of one's heart. It's not merely about performing rituals mechanically but about offering oneself completely to the divine with sincerity and purity of intention. Saints often stress that without this sincerity, one's spiritual practices can become superficial and devoid of real meaning. Open-heartedness and Vulnerability: Being open-hearted implies being vulnerable and receptive to divine grace. It involves letting go of ego, pride, and defensiveness, and allowing oneself to be guided by the wisdom of the divine. Hindu saints encourage devotees to cultivate an attitude

Ayurveda might provide cure for Alzheimer's

Five plants used in Ayurvedic medicines might pave way to finding effective treatment for Alzheimer’s. These plants are known to prevent the breakdown of neurotransmitters, responsible for the disease.  These plants are being studied by the scientists of Jadavpur University and King's College , London . More details can be found here at BBC News (he link doest not support https so removed). Researchers say ayurveda works in the same way as conventional drugs for boosting mental agility in the disease.  They found that the plants used in ayurveda acted to improve memory and concentration in Alzheimer's sufferers.  Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, degenerative and irreversible brain disorder. There is no known cure.  The disease causes intellectual impairment, disorientation and eventually death. Researchers from King's College, London and Jadavpur University in the eastern Indian city of Calcutta, studied five plants commonly used in ayurvedic

Stubbornness Is Just A Way To Hide Weakness – Hindu Knowledge

The idea that stubbornness can be a mask for weakness is a profound insight found in various philosophical and spiritual traditions, including Hinduism. In Hindu thought, there is a strong emphasis on self-awareness, inner strength, and the importance of overcoming weaknesses through self-realization and personal growth. Stubbornness often stems from a fear of change, insecurity, or an unwillingness to confront one's own limitations. Rather than facing these underlying issues, a person might resort to stubbornness as a defense mechanism, refusing to yield or adapt even when it would be in their best interest to do so. In Hinduism, the concept of "ahamkara" or ego plays a significant role in understanding the nature of stubbornness and weakness. Ahamkara refers to the ego's identification with the external world, leading to a false sense of self-importance and attachment to desires and opinions. When someone is stubborn, it can be a manifestation of this egoic atta

The growing intolerance among Hindu youngsters

Every religion uses youngsters to ignite violence. This is happening around the world and in India . Hindu fundamentalists too use them for political mileage and other sectarian needs. But unfortunately, most of the Hindu youngsters are ignorant about Hinduism. There are two types of Hindu youngsters. One type goes to temple, prays, take part in festivals. They stay away from all the activities of organized religion. For them, religion comes to fore only during functions like marriage etc. Then they are off to their materialistic world and return to religion when they are depressed or suffer losses. They consider Bhagavad Gita and other spiritual texts for the old age or to be read in their retired life. The second type is proud of being a Hindu. They take part in all activities associated with the religion. They argue about the superiority of their religion. This is when they are ignorant about the basic tenants of the religion. For them, Hinduism is building temples an

How Hinduism Sees Small Animals Like Snail Ants?

In Hinduism, there isn't a singular, uniform perspective on small animals like snails and ants. Hinduism is a diverse religion with a wide array of beliefs and practices, and attitudes toward animals can vary greatly among different Hindu traditions, communities, and individuals. However, there are some overarching principles and attitudes within Hinduism that can shed light on how small animals might be perceived: Respect for Life: Many Hindus adhere to the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence, which extends to all living beings. Therefore, there's often a general respect for the lives of even the smallest creatures. Reincarnation and Karma: The concept of reincarnation and karma is central to Hindu belief. According to this belief system, all living beings are interconnected, and the soul undergoes a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Therefore, even small animals are seen as having souls that are subject to the same laws of karma and reincarnation as humans. Anima

Janam Sakhi – Compositions on the life of Guru Nanak Dev - Life History Books of Guru Nanak Ji

Janam Sakhi is the name given to various compositions on the life of Guru Nanak and all of them contains the major events in Guru Nanak’s life. These texts contains the authentic life history of Guru Nanak Ji. Here are some of the important Janam Sakhi: Puratana Janam Sakhi – compiled by Bhai Birsing, with accounts received in England and some valuable documents from Punjab. Sambhunatha Horoscope – compiled by Pyara Singh Janam Sakhi Guru Nanak Deva by Pyara Singh Bhai Bale Wali Janam Sakhi Janam Sakhi – Bhai Mani Singh Janam Sakhi – Bhai Mihirban Bhai Balaji Importance of Janam Sakhi Janam Sakhi is a primary source on the life of Guru Nanak and is held in great esteem. Many believe it to be the true narrative. Some texts contain incidents and episodes that have been questioned by others. Bhai Bale Wali Janam Sakhi, the text by Bhai Mani Singh and Bhai Balaji are the most popular ones. Janam Sakhi of Bhai Mani Singh was composed during the period of Guru Go