A Small Collection Of Bhagavan Swaminarayan Quotes Bhagavan Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan Sampraday, imparted profound wisdom through his teachings. Here are 30 quotes attributed to him: A person is the very embodiment of God. Every human being, therefore, without distinction of caste, creed, color, status, or sex, is essentially the same. Realization of the Supreme Being is the true aim of human life. In the joy of others lies our own. The soul's natural inclination is towards its source - God. Perform all duties with total detachment. Through true knowledge one attains God. In the company of the good, one develops good qualities. By the company of the wicked, one's mind is spoiled. The path of devotion leads to God. Truthfulness, non-violence, and non-stealing are the threefold jewels of religion. The ultimate goal of human life is to attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Control over one's mind is true strength. T...

The Prefect Ganesh, written by Terrence McNally, an America playwright, is a quest for philosophical answers in India by two middle-aged suburban women with help of Hindu God Ganesha. It was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize in 1994. The Perfect Ganesh will be presented at various venues in Britain in March and April 2008 by Phizzical Productions and South Asian Touring Theatre Consortium. Two middle-aged suburban women Margaret Civil and Katharine Brynne abandon their annual vacation ritual and purchase a holiday package to India . Both women are tired of their unsuccessful marriages and both had not yet got over personal tragedies, which include the death of their respective sons. In India , the two women come across the happy and benevolent Ganesha as guide. Katherine Brynne wants to find a perfect Ganesha statue to add to her collection and this is when Ganesha appears and become part of the play. The Perfect Ganesh is set in the India of early 1990s and is directed...

The Atharva Shikha Upanishad is a succinct yet profound text belonging to the Atharva Veda, consisting of twenty mantras divided into three sections and written in prose. It primarily focuses on the teachings of meditation on Om or Pranava, which serves as a paramount symbol for Brahman, encapsulating both its transcendent and immanent aspects. Key Teachings and Symbolism Three Sages and Their Quest for Knowledge Three revered sages—Pippalada, Angiras, and Sanatkumara—seek wisdom from the sage Atharvana on the practice and significance of meditation. Atharvana imparts to them the esoteric knowledge of Om (Pranava), emphasizing its comprehensive representation of Brahman. The Four Components of Om (A-U-M- ) The Upanishad delineates the four parts of Om, each part symbolizing various dimensions and elements of the universe: A ( अ ): Symbolism: Represents the physical world (earth), the Rig Veda, the deity Brahma, and the Vasus (a group of eight deities). Associations: I...

In the epic of Ramayana, the war between Rama's forces and Ravana's demons was intense and filled with numerous tales of bravery and valor. One such tale is the story of the demon Bajradanstra, who was sent by Ravana to fight in the battle. The Summoning of Bajradanstra As the war raged on, many of Ravana's powerful demons were being killed by Rama, Lakshmana, Hanuman, and the Vanara army. Concerned about the continuous losses, Ravana summoned Bajradanstra, a fierce and mighty demon known for his unparalleled strength and ferocity. Ravana entrusted him with the mission of turning the tide of the battle. This demon had teeth like thunderbolts and could eat up anything that came in front of him. He promised Ravana that he will consume Rama, Lakshmana and the entire Vanara Army. Preparing for Battle Bajradanstra, eager to prove his might, armed himself with the best weapons and went to seek Ravana’s blessings. Confident in his strength and skill, he assured Ravana of h...

A recent survey conducted by ‘The Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life’ indicate that Hindus in the United States are better educated and are like to earn more. The survey is based on interviews with more than 35,000 Americans aged 18 and older. Majority of the people who follow Hinduism in US are immigrants from India . The survey is titled ‘U.S. Religious Landscape Survey’ and was conducted between May and August of 2007. Some of the important findings regarding Hindus and Hindu religion in the United States from The Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life survey. Hindus account for approximately 0.4% of the total population. Education Nearly Half of the Hindus is United States have obtained post graduated education. Only 4% of Hindus have education less than High School. 12% High School Grade. 10% some college. 26% college graduate. 43% Post Graduate. Income High education the reason for high income le...

In the epic battle of the Ramayana, Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, was determined to annihilate his enemies. Among his many warriors was the formidable demon Dhumraksha. Known for his fierce fighting skills and loyalty to Ravana, Dhumraksha was entrusted with the critical task of hunting and killing Rama, Lakshmana, and their vanara (monkey) allies. Despite his allegiance to Ravana, Dhumraksha harbored a deep respect for Rama and Lakshmana. As he prepared to enter the battlefield, he couldn't help but notice several ill omens. These ominous signs hinted at the dire consequences that awaited him, but his duty to Ravana propelled him forward. Armed with a massive mace, Dhumraksha stormed onto the battlefield with a terrifying roar. He swung his mace with deadly precision, crushing many vanaras under its weight. The vanaras, despite their courage, began to flee in terror before the relentless onslaught of the demon. Amidst the chaos, Hanuman, the mighty monkey god and ardent d...

Garuda, the vahana or divine vehicle of Bhagavan Vishnu, plays a pivotal role in the Ramayana war, showcasing his immense power and unwavering loyalty. When Rama and Lakshmana were rendered unconscious by the Nagapasha, the deadly serpent weapon wielded by Indrajit, the situation seemed dire. The battlefield was filled with despair as everyone believed that Rama and Lakshmana had been bitten by venomous snakes and were on the brink of death. In this moment of crisis, Vayu, the wind god, urged Bhagavan Rama to call upon Garuda for help. Responding to Rama's invocation, Garuda descended upon the battlefield with unmatched speed and grace. His very presence commanded awe and reverence, his golden feathers shimmering in the sunlight. Upon arriving at the scene, Garuda immediately began to pluck out the poisonous serpents entwining Rama and Lakshmana. His mere sight was enough to instill terror in the serpents; many fled in fear, while others fell dead, unable to withstand Garuda...

During the climactic battles of the Ramayana, Rama and Lakshmana found themselves in a dire situation. Indrajit, Ravana's formidable son and a master of sorcery, had unleashed the powerful Nagapasha, a snake weapon, upon them. The venomous serpents conjured by the weapon coiled tightly around the brothers, rendering them unconscious and giving the illusion of death. This sight was heart-wrenching for the Vanara (monkey) army, who, witnessing their fallen leaders, were plunged into despair and hopelessness. Indrajit, confident in his perceived victory, hurried to his father Ravana's court to announce the supposed demise of Rama and Lakshmana. Ecstatic at the news, Ravana saw an opportunity to further break Sita's spirit, as she had steadfastly refused to yield to his advances. He believed that showing Sita the lifeless forms of her husband and his brother would be the final blow to her resilience. Ravana approached Trijata, a compassionate Rakshasi (demoness) who had bee...

The most popular form of worshipping Lord Shiva in Hinduism is in the Linga form. It is known as Shivling or Shivalinga. The Linga symbol is an attempt to give form to the formless, referred as Supreme Being or Brahman in Hindu religion. When a Linga is installed on a Yoni, it represents the union of Shiva and Shakti – the beginning of creation. Here are the reasons why Shivling is worshipped? Meaning and Significance of Shivling Linga in Sanskrit means symbol or sign. One of the first uses of the term ‘linga’ in association with Shiva is found in the Shvetasvatara Upanishad – it says that Lord Shiva, the Supreme Being, has no linga (sign or symbol). In simple terms, it is impossible to define Brahman or that is alinga. Now it is not possible for a common man to pray to Brahman which is beyond any characteristic. Human beings need a form to worship. In Sanatana Dharma, each individual has the freedom to define the Supreme Being or Brahman in the most convenient way he/ s...

In the epic of the Ramayana, the battle between Hanuman and Vidyutmali is a vivid illustration of bravery, strength, and divine power. Here is an expanded version of the encounter: As the Ramayana war raged on, Vidyutmali, a powerful rakshasa warrior known for his ferocity and valor, entered the battlefield. His arrival was marked by a deafening war cry that echoed through the plains, striking fear into the hearts of the Vanara soldiers. His chariot, adorned with fierce symbols and drawn by terrifying beasts, struck an imposing figure as it advanced. Hanuman, the devoted servant of Lord Rama and a warrior of unmatched strength, saw Vidyutmali's approach. With a determined glint in his eye, Hanuman prepared to engage the demon. Vidyutmali, noticing Hanuman, wasted no time and drew his bow, releasing a flurry of arrows towards the mighty Vanara. The arrows, with their menacing sharpness, whistled through the air. Hanuman, unfazed and displaying his extraordinary agility, brushe...

Climate change is an undeniable reality that impacts ecosystems and societies worldwide. With rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and increasing sea levels, our planet's health and our way of life are at risk. Hinduism, known for its deep ecological consciousness, offers profound insights and guidance on how to address and mitigate the effects of climate change. Here’s how Hindu teachings and practices provide answers to face this global challenge: 1. Respect for Nature (Prakriti) Hinduism venerates nature, viewing it as a manifestation of the divine. The Earth (Prithvi) is considered a goddess, and every element of nature – rivers, mountains, trees, and animals – is held sacred. This reverence fosters a deep sense of respect and responsibility towards the environment. Practical Actions: Environmental Conservation: Promote and participate in activities like tree planting, river cleaning, and wildlife protection. Sustainable Living: Embrace eco-friendly practices ...

In the Bhagavad Gita, feelings of disgust or aversion can be understood and addressed through various teachings. The Gita, as a spiritual and philosophical text, offers guidance on how to manage emotions and achieve inner peace. Here are some ways the Gita suggests overcoming feelings of disgust: 1. Understanding the Nature of the Self The Gita emphasizes the importance of recognizing the true self (Atman), which is beyond the physical body and mind. By understanding that our true identity is the eternal soul, and not the temporary body, one can transcend negative emotions like disgust. Reference: Bhagavad Gita 2:20: "For the soul there is neither birth nor death at any time. He has not come into being, does not come into being, and will not come into being. He is unborn, eternal, ever-existing, and primeval. He is not slain when the body is slain." 2. Detachment and Equanimity Lord Krishna advises maintaining detachment from the outcomes of actions and practicing...

Dealing with hatred, according to Hindu teachings, involves a comprehensive approach that encompasses spiritual, ethical, and practical dimensions. Hinduism, with its rich philosophical heritage, provides numerous insights and methods to address and transform hatred. Here are key concepts and practices derived from Hindu teachings to deal with hatred: 1. Understanding Karma and Dharma Karma: Hinduism emphasizes the law of karma, which states that every action has consequences. Recognizing that hatred and negative actions will lead to negative outcomes can motivate individuals to cultivate positive thoughts and actions instead. Dharma: Following one's dharma (duty/righteousness) is essential. By adhering to dharma, individuals can act in accordance with ethical principles, which discourages hatred and promotes harmony. 2. Practicing Ahimsa (Non-Violence) Ahimsa, or non-violence, is a core principle in Hinduism. It encourages individuals to refrain from causing harm to ot...

The Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, offers profound insights into overcoming negative emotions such as envy. Here are some key teachings from the Bhagavad Gita that can help one overcome envy: 1. Self-Knowledge and Self-Realization Verse 2.13: "Just as the soul acquires childhood, youth, and old age in the body, in the same manner, it acquires another body. The wise are not deluded by this." Understanding that the true self is beyond the physical body and material possessions helps to reduce envy, which is often rooted in the comparison of external attributes and achievements. 2. Detachment and Non-Attachment Verse 2.47: "You have the right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself to be the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction." Focusing on one’s own duties and actions without attachment to the...

In which year was Adi Shankaracharya born? Majority of the people would say Adi Shankara was born in 788 AD at Kaladi in Kerala and died in 820 AD. But the three monasteries among the four set up by Shankaracharya – Dwaraka, Puri and Kanchi – will say it is 509 BC. The fourth Sringeri monastery will say 44 BC. In nutshell, a common birth date of Shankara has not been agreed upon by researchers and the mutts. A good amount of research has been done to know the birth year of Adi Shankara but there is no common agreement. This is the reason why many people might have come across different birth dates of Adi Shankaracharya. But why has majority of the scholars agreed upon 788 AD as the birth year? Shankaracharya in his ‘Brahma Sutra Bhasya’ mentions about the city of Pataliputra . It is believed that the city of Pataliputra was destroyed in 750 AD. In the same Bhasya, Shankara mentions about King Purnavarma. Hiuen Tsang, Chinese pilgrim, mentions about Purnavarma as a Buddhist k...

The Bhagavad Gita, the 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the epic Mahabharata, offers profound insights on how to deal with despair and challenges in life. Here are some key teachings from the Bhagavad Gita that can help address feelings of despair: 1. Understanding the Eternal Self (Atman) Verses: Chapter 2, Verses 12-30 Teaching: Krishna explains to Arjuna that the self (Atman) is eternal and indestructible. Understanding that the true self is beyond physical and mental suffering can provide a sense of peace and reduce despair. Application: Reflect on the nature of the self and the transient nature of physical and mental suffering. Meditate on the eternal aspect of your being. 2. Performing Duty Selflessly (Karma Yoga) Verses: Chapter 2, Verses 47-48; Chapter 3, Verses 1-35 Teaching: Krishna advises Arjuna to perform his duty without attachment to the results. This is the practice of Karma Yoga, which emphasizes action without selfish desire or fear of failure. A...

The Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, provides timeless wisdom that can be applied to many aspects of life, including dealing with rejection. Here are some principles from the Bhagavad Gita that can help one overcome rejection: 1. Understanding Impermanence Bhagavad Gita Reference: Chapter 2, Verse 14 "O son of Kunti, the nonpermanent appearance of happiness and distress, and their disappearance in due course, are like the appearance and disappearance of winter and summer seasons. They arise from sense perception, O scion of Bharata, and one must learn to tolerate them without being disturbed." Application: Rejection, like any other emotional experience, is temporary. It comes and goes. Understanding this impermanence helps us to not be overly attached to the negative feelings that arise from rejection. 2. Performing Duty Without Attachment Bhagavad Gita Reference: Chapter 2, Verse 47 "You have a right t...

In Hinduism, the concept of avatars, or divine incarnations, plays a crucial role in maintaining cosmic balance. This belief is rooted in the sacred texts and philosophical traditions of Hinduism, which assert that the Supreme Being incarnates in various forms to restore dharma (cosmic order and righteousness) whenever it is threatened by adharma (chaos, unrighteousness, or evil). Core Concepts of Avatars Definition of Avatara: The term "avatar" comes from the Sanskrit word "avatāra," which means "descent." It signifies the descent of a deity from the divine realm to the earthly plane. In Hindu tradition, these avatars are primarily associated with Vishnu, one of the principal deities responsible for preserving the universe. Purpose of Avatars: Avatars are believed to manifest in times of great distress and cosmic imbalance to restore peace, order, and righteousness. They protect the virtuous, annihilate evil, and re-establish the principles of d...

What if someone tells you that Bhagavad Gita Shlokas have a curative effect on many diseases and ailments? You will be hesitant to believe it but still you will be interested to know more. Such an interest led me to the book titled “The Curative Powers OF The Holy Gita” written by Dr. T.R. Seshadri, which explores the healing powers of shlokas in the Bhagavad Gita. The book ‘The Curative Powers OF The Holy Gita’ in Seshadri’s words is a quest for attaining integration – of the body, soul, mind and intellect – so as to achieve the knowledge of SELF for a define purpose. What the book suggests is not a therapy but a sort of faith healing – a combination of shlokas from Bhagavad Gita along with Yoga and Meditation. The book says that most of the modern day diseases are psychosomatic – caused by mind. Emotional disturbances like hatred, anger and fear destroy not only our peace of mind but our health as well. They are often caused by the over-or-under secretion of t...

Tantrism, a spiritual and mystical tradition within Hinduism and Buddhism, emphasizes that the key to understanding the mysteries of the universe lies within the human body. This belief is central to Tantric philosophy and practice, which sees the body not merely as a physical entity but as a microcosm of the cosmos. The Human Body as a Microcosm Tantrism teaches that the human body is a reflection of the universe. This concept is rooted in the idea that the macrocosm (the universe) and the microcosm (the human being) are interconnected and mirror each other. By exploring and understanding one's own body, a practitioner can gain insights into the nature of the cosmos. Chakras and Energy Centers A key aspect of this exploration involves the chakras, which are energy centers within the body. According to Tantric tradition, there are seven primary chakras, each associated with specific physical, emotional, and spiritual functions. These chakras are thought to be points where t...

Dubai one among the seven kingdoms in United Arab Emirates , an Arab and Muslim country, is well known for its religious tolerance. A large portion of migrant workers from India and Sri Lanka to UAE practice Hinduism. There is a Hindu Temple Complex at the Bur Dubai creek near the Dubai Museum which caters to the needs of Hindus. The temple complex houses the Lord Shiva and Krishna Temples . There is a large queue during weekends and holidays at the small temple complex. Devotees have to wait for long period to get darshan. The shrines are dedicated to Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva. The Hindu Temple Complex at the Bur Dubai creek is the single temple in UAE for thousands of Hindus in Dubai , Abu Dhabi , Sharjah, Ajman , Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ras Al-Khaimah – the seven kingdoms which form United Arab Emirates . Interestingly, the temple sits next to a Mosque in the busy Bur Dubai area. Timing - 6:00 AM to 1 PM ; Evening prayers - 4.30 PM to 10 PM.

In Hindu philosophy, the concept that the universe is a macrocosm and the human being is a microcosm is a profound and central idea, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all existence. This perspective is deeply rooted in various Hindu texts, teachings, and philosophical traditions. Here’s an expanded explanation of this concept: Macrocosm and Microcosm Macrocosm (Brahmanda): The term "macrocosm" refers to the universe as a whole, the vast and infinite cosmos that encompasses all of creation. In Hinduism, this is often symbolized by the term "Brahmanda" (the cosmic egg), representing the universe's expansive and intricate nature. The macrocosm includes all levels of existence: physical, mental, and spiritual realms. It is governed by cosmic laws and divine principles, reflecting the unity and order of creation. Microcosm (Pindanda): The term "microcosm" refers to the human being, seen as a small-scale representation of the universe. In Hin...

Yoga is the relation between the guru and the disciple. This relationship seeks new challenges, new paths and new horizons, creating an ever renewing confidence in the Self. You are the guru and you are the disciple. This duality is within you. The sense of enquiry and devotion is the discipleship, and the intensity towards the Divine is the guru. Because of old religious prejudices, for centuries we have looked down and condemned the physical body as an enemy, and as a heavy liability. We have neglected the growth of the potential which is in us. The body as it is now is pampered and misused. True, the body with it's unruly desires and passions has posed problems. But the same body if taken into confidence and spoken to, could be developed as a sensitive instrument for the holistic growth. In fact the ‘Hatha’ and ‘Tantra’ Yogas know and utilize the body with it's passions as an asset and sublimate these energies for spiritual powers and siddhis. A purified body is a new v...

Talk about Pushya Nakshatra and something that immediately comes to the mind is gold. The significance of the day is the favorable alignment of astrological stars, which is considered special for beginning new ventures and purchases. When Pushya Nakshatra falls on a Thursday it is considered even more auspicious and it is referred as Guru Pushya Nakshatra. Pushya Nakshatra occurs several times in a year in the Hindu calendar. Most people opt for Gurupushya Nakshatra day and ignore the normal days. According to Hindu astrological beliefs the favorable alignment of the stars on this Pushya Nakshatra day results in prosperity, success and happiness. Therefore it is considered to be the most auspicious day in a year to make investments and purchases. Thanks to the effective campaign conducted by Jewellery shops, Pushya Nakshatra day for many means the right day in the Hindu calendar to buy gold ornaments. In India , gold is still considered to be an ideal investment and many people...