Friendship – Become a Real Friend

We all want to have a real good friend. But we are never bothered to become a good and trustworthy friend. Do not wait for a true friend. We can become a real friend.

A true friend need not be your classmate or from your society or neighborhood or of the same age.

Friend can be from the family too. True friendship is that which breaks all barriers and shows the highest form of love. Friendship is love without expectations.

Means and greed should not be the reason for friendship. Such a relationship is not friendship it is business or convenience. 

True friendship is the purest form of relationship. There is no give and take. There is no tolerating. There is no expectation.

In friendship, sharing should be given importance not using and needing the other.

When we share our joy, dance, song, happiness…it multiplies…it grows…it creates positivity.

When you make friendship with a hidden motive, it will always end in disaster.

Always respect your friend’s individuality. Never impose your personality, likes and dislikes.

In this fast moving world, a friend might not always be there when you are in danger. Instead of complaining, empathize with your friend.

Always respect your friend’s decision to come or not to come for an event or special occasion. Never rate your friend by attendance.

Friendship in Hinduism: Becoming a Real Friend

Meaning and Importance of Friendship

In Hinduism, friendship is not merely a social relationship but is deeply rooted in spiritual and moral values. A true friend (सखा, sakhā or मित्र, mitra) is considered an extension of oneself, embodying qualities such as trust, loyalty, compassion, and selflessness. Hindu scriptures emphasize that real friendship transcends material benefits and is based on mutual respect and understanding, helping each other grow spiritually and morally.

Scriptural Insights

1. Mahabharata: The Mahabharata, one of the greatest epics of Hinduism, highlights the deep bond of friendship through characters like Krishna and Arjuna. Krishna, who serves as Arjuna’s charioteer, guide, and friend, exemplifies the ideal qualities of friendship. Their relationship is based on unconditional support, even in the face of immense challenges. Krishna’s guidance to Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita represents the ultimate role of a friend—leading one towards righteousness (Dharma) and self-realization.

2. Ramayana: In the Ramayana, the friendship between Lord Rama and Hanuman is celebrated as an ideal. Hanuman's unwavering devotion, service, and loyalty to Rama reflect the essence of true friendship, which is selfless and dedicated to the welfare of the friend.

3. Bhagavad Gita: In the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 9, Verse 22), Lord Krishna speaks of his divine friendship with his devotees, where he promises to protect and support those who worship him with love and faith. This illustrates the divine aspect of friendship in Hinduism, where the relationship between the divine and the devotee is akin to a deep and unwavering friendship.

   • Quote: “To those who are constantly devoted and who worship Me with love, I give the understanding by which they can come to Me.” (Bhagavad Gita 10.10)

4. Hitopadesha: This ancient Indian text of wisdom also speaks about friendship. It emphasizes that a friend should be someone who is helpful in adversity, who gives good counsel, and who supports one in every situation.

   • Quote: “True friends are those who, in times of distress, always share their friend's adversity and provide support.”

Qualities of a Real Friend According to Hindu Teachings

• Loyalty (Nishtha): A real friend remains steadfast and loyal, standing by one’s side through thick and thin.
• Selflessness (Nishkama Bhakti): True friendship is marked by selflessness, where the focus is on the well-being of the friend rather than personal gain.
• Truthfulness (Satya): Honesty is central to friendship in Hinduism, where a friend is expected to be truthful, even if the truth is uncomfortable.
• Support in Dharma (Moral Duty): A true friend encourages and supports one in following the path of Dharma, helping them make righteous decisions.

Modern-Day Relevance

In today’s world, where relationships are often tested by distance, time, and external pressures, the principles of friendship laid out in Hinduism remain profoundly relevant. True friendship, according to Hindu teachings, goes beyond superficial connections and is about nurturing a bond that promotes mutual growth, understanding, and spiritual development.

In the context of modern life, where stress, competition, and digital communication can sometimes dilute the essence of true friendship, Hinduism reminds us of the importance of real, meaningful connections that are based on trust, loyalty, and spiritual companionship.

Quotes from Hindu Wisdom on Friendship

• “A friend, even though he may have many faults, should be considered as good, just like the full moon with many blemishes.” — Chanakya Niti
• “The friend who is always well-meaning, who is constant in joy and sorrow, who gives good counsel, and who is helpful in adversity, such a person should be considered a true friend.” — Hitopadesha
• “A true friend is like a lamp that guides you through the darkness of life.” — Anonymous Hindu Wisdom

In Hinduism, the concept of friendship is elevated to a spiritual relationship that is not just about mutual benefit but about guiding each other towards truth, righteousness, and spiritual fulfillment. In today’s world, these teachings serve as a reminder of the true essence of friendship, urging us to cultivate relationships that are deep, meaningful, and spiritually enriching.