Rejoice in the way things are but only after attaining the necessary. The philosopher who said to rejoice in the way things are did not mean to live in filth and without working or by cheating. What he meant was not to be greedy – not to run madly after possessions.
Some people have this uncanny knack of distorting philosophy and religious teachings for their own purpose. People who are lazy, afraid of failure, not ready to work hard or be committed or be dedicated or disciplined or experiment distort philosophy and find refuge in them.
Every living being in the universe works hard for the essential. It is only human beings who have an issue with working. We are either lazy or we use unscrupulous methods to amass wealth. We all should have some possessions. But at the same time, we should not drown in our own possessions. Wealth should be only accumulated through truthful means.
Keep what is essential for us and get rid of the rest. This just does not apply to things alone. It also applies to our mindset. We should get things necessary for a peaceful life. Too much possession makes life stressful, less efficient, less peaceful and less attractive.
Stop Finding Excuse In Philosophy: Insights from Hinduism
Introduction Philosophy offers a framework for understanding life, morality, and existence, but it can also become a convenient refuge for those avoiding action. In Hinduism, while philosophical inquiry is deeply respected, there is a strong emphasis on balancing thought with action. Hindu scriptures, stories, and symbols often highlight the importance of duty (dharma) and the dangers of using philosophical reasoning to evade responsibilities.
Symbolism in Hinduism
The Lotus (Padma): In Hinduism, the lotus is a symbol of purity and transcendence. Despite growing in muddy waters, it blossoms above the surface, untainted by its surroundings. This symbolizes how one should rise above challenges and distractions, including the temptation to over-intellectualize or use philosophy as an excuse for inaction. Just as the lotus blooms regardless of its environment, individuals are encouraged to fulfill their dharma without letting philosophical debates paralyze them.
The Trishula (Trident): The trishula, associated with Lord Shiva, represents the three gunas (sattva, rajas, tamas) and the balance one must maintain between them. Overindulgence in sattva (pure knowledge) without action (rajas) leads to stagnation, akin to finding excuses in philosophical thought. The trishula reminds us to harmonize knowledge with action and willpower.
Quotes from Hindu Scriptures
Mahabharata:
- "Udyoginorhi siddhyanti kāryāṇi na manorathaiḥ"
- Translation: "Success in life comes through action and not merely by dreaming or thinking."
The Mahabharata stresses the importance of action over mere contemplation. This quote reminds us that intellectualizing without translating thoughts into deeds is futile.
Isha Upanishad:
- "Kurvanneveha karmāṇi jijīviṣecchataṁ samāḥ"
- Translation: "One may desire to live for a hundred years only if he continuously engages in work."
The Isha Upanishad teaches that action is essential for a meaningful life. It discourages using philosophy as an excuse for avoiding one's responsibilities.
Stories Illustrating Action Over Excuses
Nachiketa's Quest (Katha Upanishad):
- In the Katha Upanishad, young Nachiketa seeks the meaning of life and death from Yama, the god of death. Nachiketa’s determination and refusal to be swayed by distractions exemplify the spirit of action. Even when offered material pleasures and long life, he insists on gaining true knowledge, showing that real philosophical inquiry does not avoid action but rather drives one towards purposeful deeds.
The Story of Vishwamitra and Menaka:
- Vishwamitra, a sage, is known for his intense tapasya (penance) to become a Brahmarishi. However, when the celestial nymph Menaka was sent to distract him, he lost focus. The story is often cited as an example of how even the most determined individuals can falter if they allow themselves to be distracted or if they rationalize their distractions with philosophical justifications.
Importance of Action in Hinduism
Dharma (Duty): Hinduism places a significant emphasis on dharma, which is not just about following rituals but actively participating in the world to uphold cosmic order. Excuses derived from philosophical arguments often lead to adharma (dereliction of duty), which is discouraged.
Karma Yoga: This path of selfless action, as expounded in the Bhagavad Gita, is central to Hindu ethics. It teaches that one should perform their duties without attachment to the results, embodying the principle that action is paramount, and excuses have no place in the pursuit of dharma.
Lesser-Known Facts
Manusmriti on Inaction: The Manusmriti, an ancient legal text, emphasizes that individuals who neglect their duties under the guise of philosophical reasoning or any other excuse are not to be respected. It states that inaction leads to degradation of one's character and standing in society.
Taittiriya Upanishad: This Upanishad speaks of the "Satyam Vada, Dharmam Chara" (Speak the truth, perform your duty). It highlights that philosophy should guide one towards righteous action rather than serve as a shield for avoiding responsibilities.
Modern-Day Relevance
In today's world, where information is abundant and philosophical discourse is accessible to many, there is a growing trend to engage in intellectual discussions without translating these into meaningful action. Hinduism’s emphasis on karma yoga and dharma is highly relevant in reminding us that ideas, no matter how profound, are of little value unless they are enacted.
Procrastination and Philosophy: Many people delay action under the guise of needing more time to think or understand. Hinduism encourages moving beyond analysis paralysis by grounding philosophy in daily duties and responsibilities.
Workplace Application: In professional settings, discussions and planning are necessary, but overthinking or using theoretical debates to avoid decision-making can be detrimental. The Hindu approach would advocate for informed action—planning should lead to execution, not endless deliberation.
Practicality in Day-to-Day Life
Balancing Thought and Action: One can apply the lessons from Hinduism by ensuring that philosophical thinking does not lead to inaction. This might mean setting deadlines for decisions, acting on values rather than just contemplating them, and avoiding the temptation to use intellectual arguments as a reason for not engaging in challenging but necessary tasks.
Mindful Action: Integrating the teachings of karma yoga, individuals can strive to act with mindfulness, ensuring that their actions are aligned with their values and duties, and not deferred by endless contemplation or excuses.
Philosophy in Hinduism is not an end in itself but a means to guide righteous action. The teachings across various Hindu scriptures emphasize that while deep thinking is valuable, it should never become a refuge for those avoiding their responsibilities. The balance between contemplation and action is key, ensuring that one's life is meaningful and in harmony with the greater cosmic order.