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How To Overcome Fear Of Fighting? – Hinduism Solution And Answers

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 Overcoming the fear of fighting, whether it is a physical confrontation or a metaphorical battle in life, can be approached from various perspectives in Hinduism. Hindu philosophy offers a wealth of wisdom, stories, mantras, and practical advice to help individuals face their fears with courage and composure. Let's explore some solutions and insights from Hinduism that address the fear of fighting.

1. Understanding Fear in Hinduism

In Hinduism, fear is often seen as a product of ignorance (Avidya) and attachment (Raga). According to the teachings, fear arises when the mind becomes attached to the physical body, wealth, relationships, or status. By cultivating knowledge (Jnana) and practicing detachment (Vairagya), one can reduce fear.

The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred text of Hinduism, addresses the concept of fear directly. Arjuna, a warrior prince, is gripped by fear and moral confusion on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. His dialogue with Lord Krishna reveals key insights on overcoming fear:

2. Insights from the Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2, Verse 47) emphasizes the importance of performing one's duty without attachment to the results:

"Karmanye vadhikaraste, Ma phaleshu kadachana,
Ma karma phala hetur bhurmatey sangostva akarmani."

Translation:
"You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Do not let the results of your actions be your motivation, nor let your attachment be to inaction."

Practical Application: This verse teaches us to focus on the duty at hand rather than the outcome. By doing so, one can overcome the fear of failure or the fear of negative consequences, which often paralyze action.

3. Mantras for Courage and Overcoming Fear

Mantras are powerful tools in Hinduism that can help in overcoming fear. Repeated chanting of certain mantras can calm the mind and instill courage. Here are a few effective mantras:

Durga Mantra:

  • Sanskrit: ॐ दुर्गा देवी नमः
  • Transliteration: Om Durga Devi Namah

Shiva Mantra:

  • Sanskrit: ॐ नमः शिवाय
  • Transliteration: Om Namah Shivay

Kali Mantra:

  • Sanskrit: ॐ क्रां क्रां क्रीं क्रीं क्रौं क्रौं क्रं क्रं ह्रीं ह्रीं ह्रां ह्रां ह्रीं ह्रीं ॐ नमो भगवते कालिकायै
  • Transliteration: Om Kraam Kraam Kriim Kriim Kraum Kraum Kram Kram Hriim Hriim Hraam Hraam Hriim Hriim Om Namo Bhagavate Kalikaye

Ganesha Mantra:

  • Sanskrit: ॐ गणपतये नमः
  • Transliteration: Om Ganapataye Namah

4. Stories from Hindu Scriptures

  • The Story of Arjuna and Krishna: As mentioned earlier, the story of Arjuna's fear on the battlefield and Krishna's guidance is a fundamental lesson in overcoming fear. Krishna teaches Arjuna to focus on his duty as a warrior and not be swayed by attachment or fear of death, which is inevitable for all beings.

  • The Story of Prahlada: The story of Prahlada in the Puranas is another example of overcoming fear through faith and devotion. Despite facing severe trials and dangers from his own father, Hiranyakashipu, Prahlada remains fearless and steadfast in his devotion to Lord Vishnu. This teaches that unwavering faith in a higher power can help transcend fear.

5. Practical Day-to-Day Solutions

Here are some practical day-to-day methods to help overcome fear, inspired by Hindu teachings:

  • Meditation and Pranayama: Regular practice of meditation (Dhyana) and breath control exercises (Pranayama) like Anulom Vilom and Kapalbhati can help calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and build mental resilience.

  • Self-Reflection and Detachment: Engaging in daily self-reflection (Svadhyaya) can help you understand the root cause of your fears. Practicing detachment (Vairagya) helps in reducing the fear that comes from losing material possessions, status, or relationships.

  • Satsang and Study of Scriptures: Participating in spiritual gatherings (Satsang) and regularly reading Hindu scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and Ramayana can provide spiritual nourishment and guidance on overcoming fear.

  • Performing Duties with Surrender: As suggested in the Bhagavad Gita, performing your duties with a sense of surrender to God (Ishvara Pranidhana) can help you overcome the fear of failure. Trust that a higher power is guiding you, and do your best without attachment to the results.

6. Inspiration from Quotes in Hindu Scriptures

Here are some inspirational quotes from Hindu scriptures that can help instill courage and reduce fear:

  • Bhagavad Gita 2.31: "Considering your dharma, you should not waver. There is nothing more honorable for a warrior than a war against evil."

  • Upanishads (Katha Upanishad 1.2.23): "The fearless one crosses over fear, for he knows his true nature as the eternal, untouched by fear."

  • Rig Veda 10.151.3: "Let us not be shaken by fear. Let us face our challenges with courage."

7. The Importance of Overcoming Fear in Hinduism

In Hinduism, overcoming fear is essential for spiritual progress. Fear is seen as an obstacle that prevents one from realizing their true nature (Atman), which is eternal, fearless, and blissful (Sat-Chit-Ananda). When a person is free from fear, they are more capable of performing their duties, living righteously, and achieving liberation (Moksha).

8. Lesser-Known Insights

  • Navagraha Influence: According to Vedic astrology, the placement of certain planets (Grah) in one’s birth chart can influence fear and courage. Remedies such as chanting specific mantras, wearing gemstones, or performing rituals (Puja) can help mitigate these effects.

  • Ayurvedic Practices: Certain herbs and Ayurvedic practices can help reduce anxiety and fear. Herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Tulsi are known to calm the mind and enhance resilience against fear.

9. Final Thoughts

Overcoming fear in Hinduism is about aligning oneself with Dharma (righteous duty), cultivating inner strength through spiritual practices, and surrendering to the divine will. By understanding the nature of fear and following the wisdom provided in the scriptures, one can develop the courage to face life's challenges with equanimity and strength.

Inspiration from Hinduism teaches us that true courage comes from knowing oneself, performing one's duty with devotion, and trusting in the divine order of the universe.