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Matru Devo Bhava: Mother Is Like God – Hindu Teaching and Its Modern Day Relevance

Matru Devo Bhava is a revered teaching in Hinduism, emphasizing the divinity of the mother. The phrase, which translates to "Mother is like God," encapsulates the profound respect and reverence that Hindu culture and scriptures advocate towards mothers. This principle is rooted in the belief that a mother’s love, care, and sacrifice are akin to divine attributes, and honoring one's mother is seen as a path to spiritual growth and righteousness.

Scriptural Basis and Stories

The idea of "Matru Devo Bhava" comes from the Taittiriya Upanishad, one of the principal Upanishads in Hindu philosophy. In it, a student is advised, "Matru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava, Acharya Devo Bhava, Atithi Devo Bhava," which translates to "Revere your mother as God, your father as God, your teacher as God, and your guest as God." This emphasizes that after the divine, the most revered individuals in one’s life should be those who give us life, nurture us, and impart knowledge.

Several stories from Hindu epics and Puranas highlight the divine status of mothers:

  1. Lord Rama and Kaushalya: In the Ramayana, Lord Rama exemplifies the ideal son by respecting his mother, Queen Kaushalya, and fulfilling her wishes. His obedience to his mother is a key aspect of his dharma, showcasing that reverence to one’s mother is paramount, even for a divine incarnation like him.

  2. Shivaji Maharaj and Jijabai: Shivaji, the Maratha warrior king, often attributed his success and values to his mother, Jijabai. She instilled in him the principles of courage, justice, and devotion, which guided him throughout his life. This historical example underlines how a mother’s influence shapes the character and destiny of her children.

  3. Pandu and Kunti: In the Mahabharata, Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas, plays a pivotal role in their lives. Despite immense personal hardships, she remains strong and imparts wisdom, courage, and a sense of duty to her sons. Her life is a testament to the strength and sacrifices of a mother.

Importance of the Teaching

In Hinduism, the mother is often considered the first guru (teacher). The formative years of a child are spent under her guidance, and she is seen as the primary source of emotional, spiritual, and moral instruction. This concept is significant because it places the role of the mother not just in the domestic sphere but in the spiritual and ethical upbringing of individuals.

Matru Devo Bhava reinforces the idea that honoring and caring for one’s mother is not just a duty but a spiritual obligation. This teaching fosters a sense of gratitude, respect, and reverence, which are essential for cultivating a harmonious society.

Modern-Day Relevance

In today’s fast-paced and globalized world, the principle of "Matru Devo Bhava" remains profoundly relevant:

  1. Family Values: As families become more nuclear and individualistic, the teaching reminds us of the importance of maintaining strong family bonds. It encourages younger generations to value the wisdom and experiences of their elders, particularly their mothers.

  2. Women’s Empowerment: This teaching can also be interpreted as a call to honor and respect women, recognizing their critical role in society. By elevating the status of mothers to that of the divine, it promotes gender equality and the dignity of women.

  3. Mental and Emotional Well-being: Acknowledging and expressing gratitude towards one’s mother can lead to emotional fulfillment and mental well-being. It fosters a sense of connection and reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are prevalent in modern society.

  4. Cultural Preservation: In a world where cultural identities are constantly evolving, teachings like "Matru Devo Bhava" help preserve and pass on traditional values. They serve as a reminder of the importance of respecting and learning from one’s heritage.

Lesser-Known Facts

  1. Matrika Worship: In Hinduism, the concept of the divine mother extends beyond the earthly mother. The Matrikas are a group of mother goddesses who are considered protectors and nurturers of the universe. Worship of these goddesses underscores the divine feminine principle and its significance in Hindu thought.

  2. Mother as the First Teacher: The role of the mother as the first guru is also reflected in the practice of Vidyarambham in South India, where children begin their education under the guidance of their mothers. This ritual marks the initiation of learning with the mother as the starting point.

  3. Goddess Parvati’s Example: Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, is often revered as the ideal mother, particularly in her role as the mother of Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya. Her nurturing nature and her role in the upbringing of her divine children are celebrated in various festivals and rituals.

  4. Sita as the Ideal Mother: Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, is venerated not only for her devotion and loyalty as a wife but also for her strength and compassion as a mother. Her life is an example of the challenges and sacrifices that mothers endure, and she is often invoked as a symbol of resilience.

Quotes from Hindu Scriptures

  1. "There is no deity superior to the mother." – Taittiriya Upanishad.

  2. "A mother is a bank where her children deposit all their worries and hurts." – Traditional Hindu Saying.

  3. "The mother who is wise, who has self-control and is pious, sanctifies her children." – Manu Smriti.

  4. "The heavens, the earth, and the whole universe bow to the mother." – Mahabharata.

The teaching of "Matru Devo Bhava" is not just a religious or cultural mandate; it is a universal principle that underscores the importance of motherhood in all aspects of life. In a rapidly changing world, this ancient wisdom serves as a reminder of the enduring values of respect, gratitude, and reverence for the one who gives us life and nurtures us through it. By embracing and practicing this teaching, individuals and societies can cultivate deeper bonds, greater empathy, and a more profound respect for women and mothers everywhere.