--> Skip to main content


How To Deal With Rejection? - Hinduism Teaching

By
Hinduism teaching on how to deal with rejection?

Rejection in relationship, rejected in interview, rejected by loved ones…so what? I am not the only one who has faced such a situation in life. Deal with rejection with a positive frame of mind.

First and foremost we should not allow rejection to overhaul us especially our future.


Rejection is a temporary phase of life. It will soon pass. Learn from it and move ahead in life.

Quite often rejection is a wakeup call. It can help us in making an honest evaluation of ourselves.

Change your focus – learn something new, go on a journey – this will help in forgetting the rejection.

Meditation is a good method to overcome the stress and tension created by rejection.

If you are looking for answer to the question in Hindu philosophy, then there is nothing you can reject. All that we see here are part of the Supreme Truth. There is nothing outside it. There is no second. When there is no second there is no scope for rejection. The concept of rejection itself is worthless. It is purely manmade.

Abhilash
www.hindu-blog.com

Additional Thoughts On The Topic:

Hindu philosophy offers profound insights into dealing with rejection, rooted in its recognition of oneness and the divine interconnectedness of all existence. The idea that "there is nothing you can reject because everything is part of the Supreme Truth" reflects the core Advaita Vedanta teaching of non-duality. This teaching provides a framework not just for understanding rejection but for transcending the very notion of it.

Philosophical Meaning and Importance

  1. The Unity of All Existence:

    • According to Advaita Vedanta, everything in existence is an expression of Brahman, the ultimate reality. This means that no event, person, or situation is separate from this supreme unity. Rejection, therefore, becomes an illusion—a product of the dualistic mind that perceives "self" and "other."
    • Relevance: This perspective helps us understand that rejection is not a denial of our worth but rather a perception rooted in limited understanding.

  2. Rejection as Maya (Illusion):

    • Hinduism teaches that much of what we experience as pain or separation stems from maya, the cosmic illusion that veils the true nature of reality. Rejection is an interpretation we impose on life’s circumstances, not an inherent truth.

  3. Karma and Acceptance:

    • Karma emphasizes that every event or experience, including rejection, is part of a grand, just, and interconnected design. Instead of focusing on rejection, Hinduism encourages acceptance, understanding that every experience is an opportunity for growth and self-realization.

Deep Symbolism and Relevance Across Time

  • Rejection as a Teacher: Rejection, when viewed through a Hindu philosophical lens, is not a negative event but a teacher. It is a moment that invites self-reflection, detachment, and alignment with one’s dharma (purpose).

  • Timeless Relevance:

    • In the past, saints and sages embraced rejection to achieve spiritual growth. For instance, Lord Buddha left behind worldly comforts and faced skepticism to attain enlightenment.
    • In the present, the principle of non-duality helps people navigate modern struggles with identity, self-worth, and interpersonal conflicts.
    • For the future, these teachings offer tools for resilience, peace, and unity in an increasingly fragmented world.

How It Influences Modern Life

  1. Overcoming Rejection in Relationships:

    • In a world where relationships are often viewed through a transactional lens, understanding the oneness of all existence allows individuals to see rejection as part of the divine play (lila) rather than a reflection of their inadequacy.

  2. Dealing with Professional Rejection:

    • Recognizing rejection as a moment of redirection rather than failure aligns with the Hindu belief that the universe operates in harmony with one’s ultimate purpose.

  3. Mental Health and Resilience:

    • Viewing rejection as an illusion fosters detachment, reducing anxiety, depression, and fear of failure.

Stories and Quotes Supporting the Idea

  1. Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita:

    • Krishna teaches Arjuna: “You have the right to perform your duties but not to the fruits of your actions.” (Bhagavad Gita 2.47). This encourages embracing effort without attachment to outcomes, making rejection irrelevant.

  2. Valmiki’s Transformation:

    • The sage Valmiki, once a rejected and feared bandit, found purpose through divine grace. His story highlights that rejection can lead to self-discovery and a higher calling.

  3. Eklavya’s Dedication:

    • Despite being rejected as a student by Guru Dronacharya, Eklavya pursued self-discipline and became an exceptional archer. His story underscores how rejection can fuel inner growth and resilience.

Lesser-Known Facts

  • Jivanmukti: A soul that achieves liberation while living often transcends concepts of rejection and acceptance, as they are seen as dualistic constructs.
  • Bharatiya Art and Philosophy: Many ancient Hindu texts, sculptures, and dances subtly illustrate rejection as a step towards union with the divine.

Universal and Practical Application

  • Universal Teaching: This idea resonates across cultures and religions. The concept of unity is echoed in the Christian teaching of forgiveness and Buddhist non-attachment.
  • Modern Problems:
    • In today’s competitive society, rejection is a common experience. The Hindu perspective encourages mindfulness and equanimity.
    • In the face of social media-driven validation, it reminds individuals of their intrinsic worth beyond external approval.


The Hindu teaching that rejection is an illusion grounded in duality serves as a universal, timeless guide to living a balanced and meaningful life. By understanding that rejection is part of the divine interplay, one can cultivate resilience, detachment, and inner peace. Embracing this philosophy can help individuals transcend modern challenges and connect to their higher purpose.