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Human Body Is A City Of Many Doors As Per Hinduism

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In the Vedas, the human body is described as a city of many doors. We only live in this city with many doors for a short period. The human body is the temple of God and the soul resides in it only temporarily. As the span of life is so short, we need to gain maximum benefit from these few years God has allotted us.

Nine Doors in the Human Body

There are nine doors in the body. These doors are the two eyes, two nostrils, two ears and the mouth. Seven out of the nine doors are present in the face, the other two doors are the genital organs and the anus.

Five Organs of Perception and Five Organs of Action

The five organs of perception are: they eyes to see, the ears to hear, the nose to smell, the tongue to taste and the skin to feel and touch.

The five organs of action are: a mouth to speak, hands to work, feet to walk, the genital organs to procreate and the anus to excrete waste matter.

The elements in the body vibrate in two different ways and have two specific functions. Space is active in the ears in order to hear and in the throat to produce sound. Air is active in the skin to enable us to feel when we touch and in the hands to increase our sensitivity for our work skills. Fire is active in the eyes to allow us to see and in the feet to walk. Water is active in the mouth to enhance the taste buds and in the genitals. Earth is active in the nose to empower us to smell and in the anus.

When the organs of perception and action come in contact with external objects, we perceive the opposites of heat and cold, unhappiness and happiness, pleasure and pain. Since the human body is prone to disease and deterioration, it is imperative that we take good care of the gross body.

Source - Book titled - The Universe Within By Paramahamsa Prajnanananda (page 16 - 17)

Additional Explanation And Further Teachings On The Topic:

The concept of the human body as a "city of many doors" finds its roots in the Upanishads and other Hindu scriptures. This metaphor compares the human body to a city with gates or doors, representing pathways for interaction, perception, and spiritual growth. It is a profound teaching that carries deep symbolic meaning and offers timeless wisdom applicable to personal, societal, and ecological challenges.

Meaning and Symbolism

  1. City as the Body:

    • The "city" symbolizes the physical body, mind, and soul.
    • Doors or gates are sensory organs and faculties of perception (eyes, ears, mouth, nose, etc.) through which we interact with the external world.

  2. Inhabitants of the City:

    • The Jivatma (individual soul) resides within this city, governed by the higher power of the Paramatma (Supreme Soul).
    • The mind, intellect, ego, and other subtle energies serve as administrators of this city.

  3. Paths to Liberation:

    • The doors symbolize opportunities or choices—some lead to spiritual growth and liberation (moksha), while others entangle the soul in worldly attachments.

  4. Symbolism of "Doors":

    • Doors as opportunities: They represent choices between inner peace or external distractions.
    • Doors as blockages: When shut or misused, they can prevent growth, fostering ignorance or suffering.

Importance and Relevance

  1. Past Wisdom:

    • In ancient India, sages used this metaphor to emphasize self-awareness and introspection, teaching disciples to focus inward.

  2. Present-Day Relevance:

    • This teaching serves as a guide for mindfulness and balance in an era dominated by sensory overload and materialism.

  3. Future Vision:

    • As humanity faces challenges like social unrest and climate change, this concept reminds us to use our "doors" responsibly to foster unity, harmony, and sustainable living.

Applications in Overcoming Problems

  1. Personal Challenges:

    • Self-Control: Understanding that sensory gates influence the mind helps in cultivating discipline and mindfulness.
    • Emotional Regulation: Being aware of "doors" that bring in negativity (anger, greed) can guide one to introspection and peace.

  2. Social Issues:

    • Unity and Tolerance: Recognizing every human as a "city" interconnected with others fosters empathy and harmony.
    • Conflict Resolution: Mindfulness in opening the "doors" of understanding rather than those of ego or bias.

  3. Environmental Concerns:

    • Sustainability: The teaching encourages responsible consumption and awareness of the impact of our choices on nature.
    • Inner Ecology: By managing the "city" within, one can contribute positively to the world outside.

  4. Modern Problems:

    • Stress and Anxiety: Meditation on the body's inner city can provide clarity and reduce mental clutter.
    • Technology Addiction: Disciplined use of sensory "doors" can prevent overstimulation.

Universal Teaching and Modern-Day Relevance

  • The metaphor transcends religious boundaries, highlighting a universal truth about human existence.
  • It aligns with modern concepts like psychology, mindfulness, and environmental consciousness.
  • In the digital age, where distractions abound, this teaching is a reminder to turn inward and prioritize meaningful pursuits.

Quotes and Stories from Scriptures

  1. Katha Upanishad (2.2.1):

    • "The body is the chariot, the self is the master, the intellect is the charioteer, and the mind the reins."
    • This verse reflects the interconnectedness of the body-city and its components.

  2. Bhagavad Gita (5.13):

    • "The embodied soul, controlling the doors of the body, rests in peace."
    • This highlights the role of sensory control in attaining inner tranquility.

  3. Story of King Janaka:

    • King Janaka, despite being a ruler, remained detached and mindful, illustrating mastery over the "doors" of his senses.

Why Many Fail to Recognize This Teaching

  1. Lack of Awareness:

    • Modern education often overlooks spiritual teachings, leading to disconnection from such wisdom.

  2. Material Distractions:

    • Overemphasis on external achievements blinds individuals to inner growth.

  3. Cultural Dilution:

    • Ancient metaphors and teachings are often viewed as outdated or irrelevant in the fast-paced modern world.

Simple Explanation with Examples

Imagine your body as a house with many windows and doors. When you open a door to let fresh air in, the house becomes pleasant. But if you open it to a storm, the house is disturbed. Similarly:

  • The "door" of your ears can let in wisdom or gossip—your choice determines your inner peace.
  • The "door" of your mind can focus on gratitude or envy—your choice shapes your reality.

Lesser-Known Facts

  1. Connections to Yoga:

    • The chakras, energy centers within the body, are seen as gateways to higher consciousness.

  2. Role of Meditation:

    • Practices like pratyahara (withdrawal of senses) align with the concept of mastering the "doors" of the city.

  3. Vedic Architecture (Vastu):

    • Even physical city planning in ancient India mirrored this symbolic understanding of gateways and flow.

How This Teaching Influences Modern Life

  • Encourages balance: Teaching us to live harmoniously with nature, others, and ourselves.
  • Enhances mindfulness: Redirecting focus inward to foster self-awareness.
  • Promotes sustainability: Advocating responsible and conscious living.

The idea of the human body as a city of many doors is a profound reminder of our potential and responsibility. By managing the "doors" wisely, we can achieve personal peace, contribute to societal harmony, and live in tune with the environment. This universal teaching, rooted in Hinduism, remains relevant across time, offering guidance for overcoming the challenges of modern life.