The focal point of religion is communion with God. How do human beings conceptualize God? Who is God? God holds a myriad of identities. God may be conceived as formless or anthropomorphic, male or female, distinct from humans (dualism) or embedded within humans (non-dualism). Every individual imagines God in the way that will best stimulate that person’s inner devotion. Many define God as the Supreme Being and Creator, who loves and cares for each one of His creations. Many Hindu devotees worship God as the Divine Mother. It is the mother who expresses the purest and most natural love for her child, accepting and protecting it in every respect. The child instinctively feels closer to the mother from whose womb it took birth; the umbilical connection lives on long after the cord is physically severed. In accor dance with this natural intimacy between mother and child, God is conceptualized as Mother, always loving, forgiving, and sustaining Her children. In a word, the idea of God as Mother engenders a sense of security and strength in the devotee-child.
Though individuals may conceptualize God in myriad ways, God always stands for universal principles such as absolute Truth, Love, Purity, and Perfection. The intent of religious practice is to evoke the same lofty characteristics in men and women, and guide them towards becoming perfect beings. This is possible only when we internalize our spiritual ideal; only then may our worship have any meaning or impact on our lives. In the words of a religious savant, ‘This is why religion is often described as the science of “being and becoming”, a science of moral growth, a shaper of character.’ Although religion is centred on belief, its validity lies in generating only beliefs that are good and positive, and by its natural merits stimulating good thoughts and good actions in its followers. Thus, shaping good men and good women gives religion its credibility and significance.
True religion guides humanity to uplifting experiences and brings about the miracle of human transformation. It purifies people and reveals their innate divinity. This is accomplished through contemplation, and through service characterized by selflessness, compassion, humility, and moral strength. If religion is practiced with devotion it will justify itself by effecting a more humane evolution of humanity. It may not be free of theological disputes regarding the nature of God and the like, but it reveals its potential through its miracles: the transformation of sinners into saints. Valmiki, the author of the Ramayana, is a case in point. A dacoit by profession, he was transformed into a great saint by following the instructions of a celestial sage.