Hari Gita Teachings In Hinduism - Modern Day Relevance

A collection of teachings from Hari Gita.

A young child grows older as time goes by, however the soul in such a way doesn't age. The physical body may get destroyed however the soul is indestructible. In all the three passage of times it remains luminous, conscious, imperishable, and subtle and yet cannot be recognized without its knowledge. Knowing the characteristics of the soul in this way is called atmagyan.

Vairagya or non-attachment is having a disregard for everything that is not Bhagwan or affiliated with Bhagwan. More specifically Vairagya is where one should not have attachment or affection for their body; have no affection for their partner, kin, wealth, home, animal, vehicles or the objects indulged in by the soul via the ten indriya’s like sound (panch vishay), clothes, jewellery, kingdom, the pleasures of the abodes of rewards such as Swarglok and any other pleasures in life beside those of Bhagwan.

The word ‘bhaj’ means to ‘serve’ and the word ‘ktin’ means ‘with pure love’. Therefore to serve Bhagwan with extreme love is what the wise people understand to be bhakti.

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The Hari Gita, a text within the broader context of Hindu scripture, encapsulates the teachings and wisdom of Lord Hari (Vishnu). These teachings, like those found in the Bhagavad Gita, offer profound insights into the nature of the self, the universe, and the path to spiritual liberation. Here are some key teachings of the Hari Gita, expanded with examples and their modern-day relevance:

Key Teachings and Examples

1. The Nature of the Self (Atman)

   • Teaching: The self is eternal and indestructible, transcending physical birth and death.
   • Example: Just as a person changes worn-out garments and takes on new ones, the soul sheds an old body and takes on a new one.
   • Modern Relevance: This teaching encourages a perspective that reduces the fear of death and fosters a deeper understanding of one's true essence. In contemporary psychology, this can be linked to the concept of resilience, where understanding the enduring nature of the self can help individuals navigate life's challenges with greater equanimity.

2. Detachment and Renunciation (Vairagya)

   • Teaching: True peace comes from detachment from material possessions and desires.
   • Example: Just as a lotus grows in water but remains unaffected by it, one should live in the world without being influenced by its transient nature.
   • Modern Relevance: In today's consumer-driven society, this teaching promotes minimalism and sustainable living, encouraging individuals to find contentment beyond material wealth. This aligns with modern movements that advocate for mental well-being through decluttering and simplifying life.

3. Devotion and Surrender (Bhakti)

   • Teaching: Complete surrender to God and devotion are the paths to salvation.
   • Example: Just as a river ultimately merges into the ocean, a devotee's love and devotion lead them to the divine.
   • Modern Relevance: This principle can be seen in the increasing interest in spiritual practices and mindfulness in the modern world. Many people find solace in practices like yoga, meditation, and community worship, which provide a sense of purpose and connection in a fast-paced, often isolating society.

4. Righteous Action (Dharma)

   • Teaching: One must perform their duties without attachment to the results.
   • Example: As a soldier fights not for personal gain but for duty, one should act according to their role and responsibilities in life.
   • Modern Relevance: This teaching is applicable in professional and personal life, encouraging ethical behavior and integrity. In the corporate world, it translates to ethical leadership and corporate social responsibility, where actions are guided by a sense of duty rather than mere profit.

5. Equanimity (Samatva)

   • Teaching: Maintain a balanced mind in success and failure, pleasure and pain.
   • Example: Like the calm depths of the ocean remain unaffected by the waves on the surface, one should remain serene amidst life's ups and downs.
   • Modern Relevance: This is particularly relevant in stress management and emotional intelligence. Techniques for maintaining mental balance are crucial in today's high-stress environments, contributing to better mental health and interpersonal relationships.

Modern-Day Relevance

• Mental Health: The Hari Gita’s teachings on detachment, equanimity, and understanding the true self provide valuable tools for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. Practices derived from these teachings, such as meditation and mindfulness, are increasingly recognized for their benefits in mental health care.

• Sustainable Living: The principle of detachment from material possessions resonates with the growing global movement towards sustainability and minimalism. It encourages a lifestyle that reduces environmental impact and promotes well-being.

• Ethical Leadership: In business and politics, the emphasis on dharma (duty) and ethical action promotes integrity and accountability. Leaders inspired by these principles can drive positive change and foster trust within their communities and organizations.

• Community and Connection: The focus on devotion and surrender highlights the importance of community and shared spiritual practices. This is evident in the popularity of yoga, meditation groups, and spiritual retreats, which provide a sense of belonging and collective well-being.

• Resilience and Adaptability: The teaching of the self’s indestructibility fosters resilience, encouraging individuals to adapt and thrive despite challenges. This is especially pertinent in an era of rapid change and uncertainty, where resilience is key to personal and professional success.

The Hari Gita’s teachings offer timeless wisdom that continues to provide guidance and inspiration in various aspects of modern life, from personal development and mental health to ethical leadership and sustainable living.