The ancient Hindu saying, “To be ordinary is the greatest thing in the world,” embodies a profound spiritual truth that resonates across time and culture. In a world often obsessed with fame, power, and success, this wisdom offers a counter-narrative, inviting us to find contentment and peace in the simplicity of everyday life. This idea is not just a philosophical stance but is deeply rooted in Hindu teachings, scriptures, and practices, with a powerful relevance for modern-day living.
The Wisdom of Simplicity in Hindu Scriptures
In Hinduism, the concept of humility and ordinariness is emphasized across various texts and teachings. The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered scriptures in Hindu philosophy, advocates for the renunciation of ego and the embracing of simplicity. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna in the Gita to perform his duties without attachment to the fruits of his actions, which reflects the idea of being ordinary—engaging in everyday tasks without seeking recognition or reward.
Similarly, the Upanishads, ancient Hindu texts that form the basis of much of Hindu philosophy, stress the importance of realizing the Self (Atman) that transcends all worldly identities and achievements. The Mundaka Upanishad speaks of the futility of chasing after worldly desires and instead encourages one to seek knowledge of the Self, which is beyond all external appearances and societal roles. This quest for self-realization requires a shedding of ego and embracing the ordinariness of one's true nature.
Stories Illustrating the Value of Ordinariness
One of the most famous stories from Hindu mythology that exemplifies this idea is that of Lord Rama in the Ramayana. Despite being a king and an incarnation of Vishnu, Rama is revered for his simplicity, humility, and adherence to dharma (righteousness). He accepts his exile to the forest with grace and lives as an ordinary ascetic, embracing the challenges of the forest life without complaint. His ordinariness and humility, even in the face of great adversity, are what make him a beloved figure in Hindu culture.
Another example is found in the life of Mahatma Gandhi, who was deeply influenced by Hindu teachings. Gandhi lived a life of simplicity and humility, often emphasizing the importance of being ordinary. He famously said, "Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever," which reflects the idea of embracing the present moment and the simple joys of life without the trappings of ego and ambition.
The Importance of Dropping Pretensions
In the modern world, where social media and societal expectations often pressure individuals to project an idealized version of themselves, the ancient Hindu teaching to drop all pretensions and masks is more relevant than ever. The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the concept of “Sthitaprajna,” a person who is steady in wisdom, undisturbed by success or failure, praise or blame. Such a person is naturally ordinary, without any need to prove anything to the world.
By embracing ordinariness, one can lead a life free from the constant anxiety of comparison and competition. It allows for a deeper connection with oneself and others, fostering genuine relationships based on authenticity rather than superficial appearances.
The Role of Dharma and Karma Yoga
In Hinduism, the path of Karma Yoga, or the yoga of action, teaches that one should perform their duties selflessly, without attachment to the outcomes. This approach is inherently about embracing ordinariness—doing what is required, whether it be grand or mundane, with the same sense of duty and devotion. The Bhagavad Gita states, “Yoga is skill in action,” which implies that the true spiritual practice lies in how one approaches everyday tasks, not in seeking extraordinary achievements.
The concept of Dharma, or righteous duty, also supports the idea of ordinariness. Hindu scriptures teach that everyone has their own dharma to follow, which may not necessarily be grand or remarkable by societal standards. However, fulfilling one's own dharma with sincerity and without ego is considered the highest spiritual achievement.
Modern-Day Relevance
In today's fast-paced, achievement-oriented society, the wisdom of being ordinary offers a path to inner peace and contentment. The relentless pursuit of success, wealth, and recognition often leads to stress, burnout, and a sense of emptiness. In contrast, embracing ordinariness allows one to find joy in the present moment, in the simple, everyday experiences that truly make up the fabric of life.
The modern relevance of this ancient wisdom is also seen in the growing popularity of mindfulness and meditation practices, which encourage individuals to slow down, live in the moment, and appreciate the ordinary. These practices align closely with the Hindu teachings of finding contentment within and not in external achievements.
The Power of Being Ordinary
To be ordinary is indeed the greatest thing in the world, as it allows one to live authentically, free from the burdens of societal expectations and ego-driven pursuits. This ancient Hindu saying reminds us that true happiness and peace lie not in being extraordinary, but in embracing our true nature, in all its simplicity and ordinariness. By dropping pretensions and living humbly, we can reconnect with the deeper, more meaningful aspects of life, leading to a state of contentment and spiritual fulfillment that transcends the superficial trappings of the modern world.