A Son, Wife, And Friend Who Are True To Their Roles Are Earned Through Goodness – Ancient Hindu Teaching – Modern Day Relevance
The ancient Hindu teaching that “A son, wife, and friend who are true to their roles are earned through goodness” carries profound wisdom, emphasizing the importance of virtuous living in cultivating and sustaining meaningful relationships. This idea resonates deeply with the Hindu belief in karma—the principle that good deeds lead to positive outcomes, not just in the form of personal success but also in the quality of relationships one nurtures.
The Role of a Son in Hindu Tradition
In Hindu culture, a son is considered a bearer of the family's legacy, responsible for the continuation of family traditions and for performing the shraddha (rituals) for ancestors. The Mahabharata, one of Hinduism's great epics, highlights the importance of a dutiful son. In the Mahabharata, Yudhishthira says, “A son who does not protect his father when he is capable, or who does not perform the required rites after his death, is not a son.”
A son who brings joy to his father is seen as a reflection of the father’s good deeds and moral upbringing. This is emphasized in Hindu scripture, where it is often said that a child’s virtues or vices are a direct consequence of the parent's actions in their previous lives. The Manusmriti (The Laws of Manu) mentions, "Through the son, he conquers the worlds; through the son's son, he attains immortality; through his son's grandson, he ascends to the highest heaven."
The Importance of a Supportive Wife
The role of a wife in Hindu tradition is that of a companion, who stands by her husband in all phases of life. The ideal of a wife is beautifully illustrated in the story of Sita from the Ramayana. Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, is celebrated for her unwavering loyalty and support. Despite facing great hardship, including exile and abduction, Sita remains devoted to Rama, embodying the ideal of pativrata—a woman devoted to her husband.
In Hinduism, marriage is considered a sacred bond (samskara) that ties two individuals together not just for this life but for seven lifetimes (saptapadi). The mutual support between husband and wife is seen as essential for achieving dharma (righteousness), artha (prosperity), kama (pleasure), and moksha (liberation). A supportive wife is, therefore, not just a partner but a spiritual companion who helps her husband fulfill his life’s purpose.
The Value of a Loyal Friend
A loyal friend is a treasure in Hindu thought, valued for their steadfastness in both good and bad times. The story of Krishna and Arjuna in the Mahabharata exemplifies this. Krishna, who is both Arjuna’s friend and charioteer, guides him through the complexities of life and war, offering wisdom and support. This friendship, rooted in mutual respect and loyalty, is one of the central themes of the Bhagavad Gita, where Krishna imparts the teachings of life and duty to Arjuna.
The Mahabharata also gives the example of Karna, who remained loyal to his friend Duryodhana even though it meant standing against his own brothers. Karna’s unwavering loyalty, though ultimately tragic, is revered as an example of friendship that transcends personal gain.
The Importance of Good Deeds in Cultivating Relationships
The teaching that a true son, wife, and friend are earned through goodness reflects the Hindu belief in the moral law of karma. Good deeds done in the past are believed to bring forth positive relationships in the present. This is seen as a cycle where virtue begets virtue, creating a harmonious life.
The Bhagavad Gita teaches that one should perform their duties with sincerity and without attachment to the results. This selflessness is the essence of karma yoga—the path of action—which leads to the cultivation of good relationships. It is believed that by practicing kindness, generosity, and righteousness, one attracts people who embody these qualities.
Modern-Day Relevance
In today’s world, these teachings are as relevant as ever. A supportive family and loyal friends are often seen as the pillars of a happy life. In an age where relationships can sometimes be transactional or superficial, the ancient Hindu emphasis on earning and nurturing relationships through goodness serves as a reminder of the timeless values of loyalty, duty, and mutual respect.
In the context of modern relationships, the idea of a son who honors his parents, a wife who supports her husband, and a friend who is loyal can be seen as a call to return to the fundamentals of love, respect, and integrity. These relationships are not just given but are earned through the ongoing practice of virtue.
The ancient Hindu teaching that a son, wife, and friend who are true to their roles are earned through goodness encapsulates the essence of Hindu philosophy. It underscores the importance of dharma (duty) and karma (action) in nurturing relationships that are deep, meaningful, and enduring. By living a life of virtue, one not only fulfills their own purpose but also creates a network of relationships that are rich in loyalty, love, and mutual respect—values that remain as relevant today as they were in ancient times.