PROTECT HINDUISM: 2011

From the Vedas : Sanskrit : ॐ सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः | सर्वे शन्तु निरामयाः । सर्वे भद्राणि पश्यन्तु | मा कश्चिद्दुःखभाग्भवेत् । ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः | English : Om, May All become Happy, May All become free from Illness, May All see what is Auspicious, Let no one Suffer, Om Peace, Peace, Peace.

Wednesday 22 June 2011

Why does Hindu Dharma prohibit consumption of non-vegetarian food?

1. Why does a person have a non-vegetarian diet?

The two main reasons are:

A person has a liking for non-vegetarian food that is why he has it.
Negative energy also prompts a person to have a Tama-dominant non-vegetarian diet to satisfy its own desire.

2. Why does Hindu Dharma prohibit consumption of non-vegetarian food?

Majority of Hindus believe that, ‘Non-vegetarianism is demonic and the height of cruelty’. A Hindu woman says, “My husband, who has adopted Western Culture, may have non-vegetarian food; but I, being a Hindu wife, will never even touch meat.’ However, in this day and age some Hindus in the villages as well as in cities, blindly imitate the western culture and have non-vegetarian food. They are Hindus in namesake only.

The reasons why Hindu Dharma prohibits consumption of non-vegetarian food are

Eating meat is a Tama-dominant act. That is why, it is prohibited in Hindu Dharma. The act of eating meat represents the Raja-Tama-dominant foreign culture.
Hindu religious texts advise refraining from consuming non-vegetarian food.

It is said in Manusmruti,

न मांसभक्षणे दोषो न मद्ये न च मैथुने ।
प्रवृत्तिरेषा भूतानां निवृत्तिस्‍तु महाफला ।। - मनुस्‍मृति, अध्‍याय ५, श्‍लोक ५६

Meaning: Since man has a natural inclination towards consuming alcohol, meat and copulation, having a desire for them does not amount to sin. But being free from the three is beneficial.

Another shloka in Manusmruti advises giving up all consumption of non-vegetarian food by looking at the origin of meat, the shackling and slaughter of animals for meat. All points elucidated in these shlokas are advice to Hindus by the religious texts.

Subtle picture of meat indicates the following:

A covering of distressing energy exists around the meat.
- Destroyer particles of negative energy are created in the meat and spread in it.
- A covering of distressing energy is created around the meat and it keeps growing.
- Due to slaughtering the animals and extracting their meat, centres of distressing energies are created in the meat and rings of distressing energy are emitted from every centre.
- Waves of distressing energy, in the form of smell, are emitted into the environment.
- Particles of distressing energy are also emitted into the environment.
A flow of Akarshan-shakti (energy of attraction) is attracted to the meat and distressing energy in the environment is attracted to it.
A ring of Illusory energy in a wheel-shaped form is created.
- Illusory particles are also emitted.

The illusory vibrations emitted by the meat affect the mind of the person eating the meat.

3. Adverse effects of a non-vegetarian diet

A. All people associated with meat are destructive / vicious in nature: It has been said in Manusmruti,

अनुमन्‍ता विशसिता निहन्‍ता क्रयविक्रयी ।
संस्‍कर्ता चोपहर्ता च खादकश्‍चेति घातका: ।। - मनुस्‍मृति ५.५१

Meaning: One who promotes or supports non-vegetarianism, the butcher, one who sells or purchases meat, the one who cooks it, serves it or consumes it, are all destructive / vicious in nature.

B. A person who has a non-vegetarian diet does not attain happiness:

य: अहिंसकानि भूतानि हिनस्‍ति आत्‍मसुखेच्‍छया ।
स जीवंश्‍च मृतश्‍चैव न क्‍वचित्‌ सुखमेधते ।। - मनुस्‍मृति ५.५४

Meaning: One who slaughters non-violent, helpless animals for his own happiness never attains happiness when alive and even after death.

Manusmruti also says that, if a person consumes an animal’s meat on Earth, then that animal will consume the person’s meat after his death / in the other world.

C. Due to a non-vegetarian diet, there is a greater possibility of the person suffering from various diseases: Due to the excess of proteins in non-vegetarian food, the person consuming it suffers from various diseases. By consuming non-vegetarian food, obstacles are created in the blood circulation and respiration. Eating meat adversely affects digestion. People who eat non-vegetarian food develop heart disease, cancer of the chest and stomach etc.

D. Due to the consumption of non-vegetarian food, it becomes easy for negative energies to enter a person’s body: Non-vegetarian food increases the Tamoguna in a person. With its consumption, a person becomes Tama-dominant and develops a demonic attitude. As a result, it becomes easy for the negative energies to enter the body of the person who is non-vegetarian, and create centres for themselves.

E. As a result of consuming non-vegetarian food, obstacles are created in a person’s spiritual progress and he gets trapped in the worldly cycle. With the consumption of non-vegetarian food, the Tamoguna present in the animal enters the person who eats the non-vegetarian food and his body becomes inactive. Due to this, obstacles are created in his spiritual progress, that is, the person moves away from God.

As against this, Manusmruti says about those not consuming non-vegetarian food:

यो बंधनवधक्‍लेशान्‍प्राणिनां न चिकीर्षति ।
स सर्वस्‍य हितप्रेप्‍सु: सुखम्‌ अत्‍यंतम्‌ अश्‍नुते ।। - मनुस्‍मृति ५.४६

Meaning: One who does not have a desire to shackle and slaughter animals, becomes the well-wisher of animals and acquires infinite happiness.

4. Adverse effects on man of the Tama-dominant waves in non-vegetarian diet

One of the tenets of Dharma is - ‘A diet made from slaughtering another being destroys all the virtues in the person consuming it.’ Due to the adverse effects of the Tama-predominant waves in non-vegetarian diet, the Sattva guna in the person is destroyed. Consequently, his benevolent thoughts are also destroyed and Tama-dominant, indiscretionary, violent thoughts originate or surface.

Spiritual experience: Having various physical and psychological distress on consuming non-vegetarian diet and resolving not to consume it: A seeker had non-vegetarian food on the night of 11^th December 2005. In just 15 minutes his state became such that he could not comprehend what he was doing or speaking. After sometime, his body became heavy and there was burning sensation in his stomach. She continued to experience distress even the next day. After doing service unto God (satseva), the seeker’s distress reduced. That very day he decided to give up non-vegetarian diet. This spiritual experience highlights the adverse effects of a non-vegetarian diet.

These types of adverse effects have to be endured by every non-vegetarian. That is why, many Saints and great men have opposed a non-vegetarian diet.

5. Subtle-effect on the walls of the slaughter house, of the pain caused to animals

Scientists of Delhi University, Professors Manmohan Baj and Vijayraj Singh went to a Russian slaughter house and studied the effect of the suffering of the subtle bodies of the beings slaughtered there. They say that, inflicting blows on the animals in the slaughter house generates broken waves of suffering in its stones. Through this example, the subtle-effects of slaughtering animals for meat becomes clear.

6. Effects of consuming non-vegetarian diet during Pitrupaksha

During the fortnight for appeasement of deceased ancestors (Pitrupaksha) an area of 200 metres adjacent to earth gets covered with the subtle bodies (ling-dehas) of departed ancestors. Depending on the actions of the person during this period, his departed ancestors gain corresponding momentum for their onward journey. The Tamoguna increases in the person who indulges in consuming non-vegetarian diet. As a result, the Tama-dominant negative energies, in the form of departed ancestors, satisfy their desire for non-vegetarian food through that person. Due to a similarity in the unsatisfied desires of the departed ancestors and the desire for non-vegetarian food in a person, the departed ancestors begin to frequently enter and leave the body of the person.

By performing the ritual to appease the deceased ancestors (shraddha), the person’s debt unto the ancestors is reduced. However, by performing a Tama-dominant action like consuming non-vegetarian diet, a person’s debt unto the ancestors increases instead of decreasing. For this reason the Hindu religious Scriptures have advocated refraining from non-vegetarian diet during Pitrupaksha.

7. Why are people consuming non-vegetarian food troubled by negative energies?

In the process of cooking of meat and fish, subtle foul air is released. As a result negative energies are attracted to it. Due to this the people present in that area have to repeatedly face distress of negative energies.

Some tithis and time periods advocated for abstinence from non-vegetarian diet: Keeping in mind the possibility of attracting the distress of negative energies, try to avoid non-vegetarian diet as far as possible.

On the no moon and full moon days and two days prior to and following these tithis
During the transition period, that is, during sunrise and sunset.
During an eclipse, refrain from non-vegetarian food that increases the Tamo-guna.

Subtle-desire bodies of the person who has non-vegetarian food and those in his proximity come into contact with one other. As a result, even those who do not consume non-vegetarian food are troubled.

8. Examples of great men opposing non-vegetarian diet

The great statesman Arya Chanakya says, ‘Those who consume non-vegetarian diet and alcohol are a burden on Mother Earth. Saints and Ascetics like Maharshi Vyas, Kapimuni, Adya Shankaracharya etc. have strongly opposed non-vegetarian diet.

While elucidating the meaning of a quote from the Mahabharat, ‘Ahimsa Parmodharma’, Raman Maharishi says, ‘Non-violence is the supreme Dharma.’

While describing a person who is a non-vegetarian, George Bernard Shaw says, ‘People who consume non-vegetarian diet are akin to corpses of slaughtered animals !’ When George Bernard Shaw was on deathbed, his doctors gave him meat as a medicine. Doctors told him, “You will die if you do not consume non-vegetarian diet.” Shaw replied, “Instead of eating non-vegetarian diet, I would prefer to embrace death. If I remain alive without taking this prescribed non-vegetarian diet, then my doctors will also turn vegetarian.” Thereafter, he remained alive despite not consuming non-vegetarian diet.

9. Why are the various rules devised by authors of the Scriptures for destroying the inclination towards non-vegetarian diet?

Despite being instructed about the adverse effects of consuming non-vegetarian diet and advised on refraining from it, some people continue to be non-vegetarian. To destroy the inclination of such people towards non-vegetarianism, authors of the Scriptures have devised certain rules about it. For example, prohibiting the consumption of or even looking at non-vegetarian diet on certain days and during specific time periods.

This means that we get engrossed in whatever we see. Its impressions are formed on the mind. On the other hand, when scenes, thoughts or actions are removed from our vision, mind or memory, their intensity diminishes. Abiding by the rules of not consuming non-vegetarian diet too has similar results.

10. Reasons for not abiding by Scriptural rules and its effect

The Scriptures devised rules about diet; but the influence of Western Culture kept increasing. Also systems for providing education on Dharma became non-existent. As a result, people gave up following the rules of Dharma. Their attraction for non-vegetarian diet and alcohol continued to increase. Depending on the form and intensity of the unfulfilled desires of the negative energies, they are of various types namely, ghosts, spirits, witch etc. Taking advantage of the increased Tamo-guna in the person due to consumption of non-vegetarian diet, these negative energies cause distress. They fulfill their unfulfilled desires of consuming non-vegetarian diet and alcohol, using such people as a medium.

11. Why do Saints advocate giving up non-vegetarian food?

Saints are the Sagun form of God. They are aware of what is necessary for the person who visits them. That is why, they advise or ask only about those aspects.

Spiritual experience: The foetus in the womb being unable to tolerate the non-vegetarian food consumed by its pregnant mother and miscarriage being averted upon her giving up non-vegetarian food: A couple visited a doctor. The wife was pregnant. The Alopathic doctor had warned the woman of a miscarriage within two days. Hence, the couple had come to meet the Saint. The Saint informed the woman that she was nurturing a Brahman in her womb, who was unable to tolerate the non-vegetarian diet consumed by her. The Saint further reassured her, that if she gave up non-vegetarian food, the foetus could survive. The woman accepted the Saint’s advice and the miscarriage was averted.

Spiritual experience of a seeker of Sanatan: Being advised by Sanatan’s first Saint, Pujniya Phadake aaji to give up non-vegetarian food and understanding its reason later upon being advised by a doctor to give up non-vegetarian food: I used to visit Sanatan’s first Saint Pujya Phadake-aaji for doing seva. Without any apparent reference, She would ask me from time to time to give up non-vegetarian food. After some time, I began to get stomach pains. A doctor advised me to give up non-vegetarian food. - Mr. Sagar Mhatre, Maharashtra

Mr. Sagar’s spiritual experience demonstrates the Omniscience of Saints. If a person is inclined towards a non-vegetarian diet because of the influence of negative energies, then this problem can be resolved by Saints. Thus, a person is protected from the distress caused by negative energies. A lady-seeker was fond of non-vegetarian diet since childhood. In 2003, a Saint performed spirtual healing on this seeker suffering from negative energies. As a result she was able to give up non-vegetarian diet.

12. Remedies for obliterating sins caused due to consumption of non-vegetarian diet

A non-vegetarian diet makes one susceptible to the effects of negative energies and also results in sin. For some reason if consuming non-vegetarian food is unavoidable. In this regard, a verse (shloka) says:

गोमूत्रं गोमयं चैव क्षीरं दधि घृत तथा ।
पंचरात्रं तदाहार: पंचगव्‍येन शुद्ध्‌यति ।।

Meaning: By consuming panchagavya, that is, a mixture of cow-urine, cow-dung, cow-milk, curd and ghee made from cow’s milk over five nights, the sin caused by consumption of non-vegetarian food is obliterated.

If it is not possible to perform this remedy, then maximum chanting of God’s Name can help in purification. This makes us realise that the Hindu Scriptures have given due thought to save man from any sins committed knowingly or unknowingly, thus leading him on the path of Spirituality.

Wednesday 15 June 2011

Why do we light lamp in front of deities in the evening?

Our Sages and Seers devised an ideal structure of daily actions (Dinacharya), so that man is able to lead a healthy, contented and blissful life. Following the daily actions (Dinacharya), the rules and regulations associated with it is the only way to repay the debt of the Sages and Seers.

1. Appropriate conducts during transition period (Sandhikal)

The transition period (Sandhikal) is the period of 48 minutes, that is, two Ghatikas, before the sunrise and after the sunset. The transition period is Raja-Tama predominant. Influence of negative energies is more in this period. To get protection from these, Dharma has given importance to abiding by Conducts (Acharpalan) in this period.

Scriptures have described various Conducts (Achars) to be performed in the evening, so that there are good impressions (Sanskars) on man and he becomes equipped with good Achars, he is able to perform spiritual practice (Sadhana) in addition to getting protection from the negative energies.

1.1 Lighting black-incense (Dhoop) or incense-stick (Udbatti) in the premises (Vastu)

The increased influence of negative energies after sunset pollutes the environment in the Vastu. Distressing vibrations are generated in the Vastu. Light black-incense everyday to remove these distressing vibrations. For lighting black-incense (Dhoop), light coal or cow-dung cake in a specially made vessel for the purpose and place the black-incense (Dhoop) upon it. Hold the vessel in one hand and a cardboard in another, fan the fire with the cardboard to spread the smoke in the Vastu.

Black-incense is generally used in removing the distress caused due to ancestors. If black-incense is not available, light incense-sticks (Udbattis) in the Vastu regularly. Use incense-sticks of Chameli, Heena, Sandalwood and Kevada fragrances. The Saviour (Tarak) or Destroyer (Marak) frequencies of Deities are attracted to the fragrance of these incense-sticks as per the need and negative energies move away. Along with the Vastu, this action also helps in purifying the clothes.

By lighting the black-incense (Dhoop), the Saviour (Tarak) Shiva Principle is activated. Pure (Sattvik) vibrations are attracted in the Vastu. The Purity (Sattvikta) of the Vastu is enhanced. At the same time, the environment of the Vastu is also purified. When the Purity (Sattvikta) is enhanced, the negative energies get troubled and they leave the Vastu. Purity (Sattvikta) of the Vastu is preserved by lighting black-incense daily. If this is not possible, black-incense must be lit at least once a week.

1.2 Lighting a lamp in front of the Deities and paying obeisance to them

Most people suffer maximum distress from negative energies in the evening. Worshippers of the Aghori Knowledge take control of the negative energies that enter the environment in the evening and get evil acts done through them. That is why, mishaps and killings are more in the evening. This period is considered to be the ‘time of distress or ruin’. Light an oil-lamp in front of a Deity, to get protection from the negative energies present in the environment in the evening. At the same time, light a lamp in front of the basil plant (Tulsi) too in the courtyard. By lighting a lamp in front of the Deities, their Principle is awakened and those residing in the Vastu benefit.
Science underlying lighting of a lamp in front of the basil plant (Tulsi) in the evening: The evening time is considered to be the time of arrival of the Lakshmi Principle in the Vastu. Tulsi is essentially Sattvik. Principles of various Deities are attracted to the basil plant (Tulsi). By lighting a lamp in front of the basil plant (Tulsi), the Purity (Sattvikta) in it is activated. This Purity (Sattvikta) spreads in the environment present in the Vastu and purifies it. The frequencies of Lakshmi Principle are attracted to the flame of the lamp kept in front of the basil plant (Tulsi) in the purified environment and enter the Vastu. This also purifies the Vastu and a protective sheath of Pure (Sattvik) frequencies of the Deities is created around the Vastu. At the same time, because of the Absolute Fire (Tej-tattva) frequencies emitted by the lamp, the Vastu and those residing in it are protected from the negative energies circulating in the environment.

Bear in mind the increased influence of the negative energies in the environment in the evening and as possible, return home before the lamp is to be lit in front of the Deities and the Tulsi and do not leave the house after the lamp is lit.

1.3 Casting off the evil-eye from the children

Children get affected easily by the evil-eye. Casting off the evil-eye means pulling out the distressing vibrations created in the body of a person due to the evil-eye, in some specific objects and thus removing the distress of the person. To cast off the evil-eye, rock salt-mustard seeds, rock salt-red chillies, coconut with water etc. are used. Evil-eye can also be cast off from a person who has distress from negative energies.

1.4 Recitation of Verses (Shloks)

Some of the Verses (Shloks) to be recited in the evening are as follows,

शुभं करोतु कल्‍याणं आरोग्‍यं सुखसंपदा |
शत्रुबुद्धिविनाशाय दीपज्‍योतिर्नमोऽस्‍तु ते ||
This means, “O flame of the lamp, you are auspicious and benevolent. You provide health and wealth and destroy the intellect of the enemies; hence, I pay my obeisance to you.”

शुभं करोतु कल्‍याणं आरोग्‍यं सुखसंपदाम्‌ |
मम बुद्धिप्रकाशं च दीपज्‍योतिर्नमोऽस्‍तु ते ||
“O flame of the lamp, you are auspicious and benevolent. You provide health and wealth. You purify our intellect. We pay our obeisance to you.”

दीपज्‍योति:परब्रह्म दीपज्‍योतिर्जनार्दन: |
दीपो हरतु मे पापं दीपज्‍योतिर्नमोऽस्‍तु ते ||
This means, the light of a lamp is a form of Supreme Brahman. The flame of the lamp is a form of the Supreme God, who removes the sorrows of the Universe. “O lamp, eliminate my sins. O flame of the lamp, I pay my obeisance to you.”

Benefits of reciting Verses (Shloks):

By lighting the lamp with the recitation of Verses (Shloks) like ‘Shubham karotu kalyanam…’, the destroyer task of driving away the negative energies is achieved.

The Pure (Sattvik) vibrations created by the recitation of the Verses (Shloks) purify the house. That is how the distress of negative energies also reduces.

By reciting Verses (Shloks) after lighting a lamp, the grasping power of children increases, they are able to study better, that is, their capacity to learn by heart increases, their speech gets purified and it helps in their pronunciation becoming clear.

After the recitation of Verses (Shloks), Stotras like Ramraksha, Hanuman Chalisa etc. should also be recited. After the recitation of Verses (Shloks) and Stotras, the Arti of the Deity should be performed and prayer should be made. For this entire worship, all the members of the family should be present, as possible.
Benefits of having all the family members attend the evening worship: When all the members of the family are present for the evening worship, it creates good impressions (Sanskars) on the children and they get spiritual benefit. Their Purity (Sattvikta) increases. They obtain Divine consciousness (Chaitanya) and Bliss (Anand). Because of the good impressions (Sanskars), moral values are enhanced and everybody’s life becomes happy.

2. Misconducts during the evening

In the olden days, the elders in the house used to be mindful about the distress caused by the negative energies in the evening. As prescribed in the scriptures, they used to light a lamp in the evening and gathering all the members of the family in front of the Deities, they used to recite verses (Shloks) and chant etc.; but today this practice is being ignored. We experience the harm being caused due to the structure of nuclear families today. The sound of recitation of verses (Stotras) is drowned in the cacophony of television channels. Most people are out of the house in the evening. From the small villages to the metros, we can see heavy crowds at the food stalls everywhere - Chinese food, snacks, fast food, ice-creams parlours etc.
Externally it feels pleasant watching the entertainment programmes on television channels in the evening; but do we ever give a thought to its effects ?

2.1 Actions forbidden in the evening

Since the influence of negative energies is more in the evening, some actions are forbidden.

Sleeping, eating, drinking and having a meal

Commencement of an auspicious task

Giving white objects to others

Exchange of money

Crying

Departure for a journey

Taking an oath, abusing, quarreling, speaking indecently and the untruth

There are actions other than those enumerated here, which are forbidden in the evening as per the scriptures.

The floor should not be swept in the evening: Raja-Tama predominant frequencies circulate more in the environment in the evening. Through the act of sweeping too, vibrations of Raja-Tama are generated, which attract the Raja-Tama vibrations present in the environment. Garbage collected in the premises (Vastu) during the day can be removed by sweeping before the evening.

Actions forbidden for pregnant women in the evening:
A. Should not stand at the doorstep of the house. This harms the foetus.
B. Should not look at the animals return home in the evening. If a pregnant woman looks at these animals, the negative energies present in the legs of these animals can attack the foetus.

Sitting on the banks of rivers other than the Ganga: The river Ganga is also known as ‘Gangotri’, that is, ‘the one that provides the source of Pure (Sattvik) frequencies from Shiva’. Because of the Pure (Sattvik) frequencies emitted by the Ganga water, the environment around the banks of the river Ganga always remains virtuous and full of Divine consciousness (Chaitanya). That is why, there is very little risk of distress from negative energies in this environment. As compared to this, there is very little Purity (Sattvikta) on the banks of other rivers. Hence, because of the movement of negative energies, there is more possibility of a Jiva sitting on the banks of these rivers getting distressed. Inferior negative energies moving around on the banks of the rivers contain more of the Absolute Earth (Pruthvi) and Absolute Water (Apa) Principles. Hence, these energies are able to merge with the human body, which is also made of the Absolute Earth (Pruthvi) and Absolute Water (Apa) Principles, in a shorter time. Hence, preferably one should not sit on the banks of the rivers in the evening.

Study of Vedas: Evening is the onset of the night (also known as Pradoshkal). The Vedas command that study of Vedas should not be carried out in the Pradoshkal. It is also prohibited to read scriptures for committing to memory (Santha); but to recite Mantras to avert the evil (also known as Shantipath) is considered acceptable in this period.

Tuesday 14 June 2011

Clarification of doubts related to Hinduism

Recently, a Hindu man sent out an email with some questions he was asked about Hinduism, that he needed answers to. Some of those questions and the answers to them are published here, as we all may come across such questions. Every Hindu should know the answers to such questions. This emphasises the need for taking and imparting education about Hinduism.

1. Why do Hindus believe in many idols?

Hindus worship God in His various forms as well as the formless aspect of God, as Hinduism teaches that ‘there is nothing but God’, that is, ‘God is in everything’. Some Hindus may worship a certain form of God for specific reasons, such as Sree Ganesh is worshipped to remove obstacles, Sree Dattatreya to overcome ancestral souls’ (pitar/poorvaj) trouble, the Mother Goddess to acquire divine energy (shakti) and supernatural powers (siddhi), etc.

Each idol is a representation of a Deity or Divine Energy. There are millions of Divine Energies and aspects of the Divine, each with a specific divine function in the universe. For example, the specific divine function or main divine aspect of Brahma is Creation (utpatti), while that of Sree Vishnu is Sustenance (sthiti) and of Shiva is destruction (laya.)

Depending on the mission of Its particular Incarnation, the Divine may take a form accordingly. For example, while most forms of Deities show the Deity’s ‘Savior of devotees’ aspect (symbolised by the Deity’s hand raised in blessing) and ‘Destroyer of evil’ aspect (symbolised by the Deity’s weapon carrying hand), the destroyer form of Sree Durga has weapons and destroyer symbols in all Her hands.

2. What is Shiva linga? Some say it is the male genital organ.

The words ‘Shiva’ and ‘linga’ are from the Hindus’ ancient, scriptural language Sanskrit (Sanskrut). ‘Shiva’ means auspiciousness and ‘linga’ means a sign or a symbol. Accordingly, the Shiva linga is the symbol of Lord Shiva. It is the "symbol of God, who is all-auspiciousness."

It is a misconception (stemming from the time that Hindu literature came into the hands of non-Hindu scholars) that the Shiva linga represents male genital organs. To be able to understand Hindu scriptures, a spirit of deep inquiry about the Divine is required and such a spirit is developed with daily spiritual practice (sadhana) as per the spiritual principles of Hinduism.

3. Why did Brahma create different castes as mentioned in the Vedas ? Is that good?

Please tell which verse refers to this in the Vedas, as this is a misconception. The Vedas talk about the system of spiritual classes based on one's spiritual constitution (qualities) and deeds, to provide a path to every person to progress to God-realisation. The caste system is a social ill, as is discrimination found in all societies, not limited to Hindu society.

4. Why do Hindus not eat meat and eat vegetables, when plants also have life?

Hindus' Holy Scriptures like the Bhagavad Geeta recommend a vegetarian diet, as it is a spiritually pure (sattvik) diet, while a non-vegetarian diet is a spiritually impure (tamasik) diet. The health benefits of a vegetarian diet and the fact that animals feel much more pain than do plants, are established scientific consensus!

Hinduism teaches one to overcome the spiritually inferior components of raja-tama to progress in the spiritually pure component of sattva, as it promotes spiritually pure qualities like love, courage, economy, fairness, etc.

5. Why is Hinduism so confusing?

Imagine a first-grade student looking at Ph. D. level curriculum; it would seem confusing! Hinduism is comprehensive. It has many Scriptures (4 Vedas, 108 Upanishads, 18 primary puranas, 18 upa-puranas for each primary purana, Itihasas, the Bhagavad Geeta, tantras, samhitas, upa-samhitas, and 1000s of other shruti and smruti texts; and many other books, compositions and commentaries by the acharyas) that provide a profound system of attaining complete and direct knowledge about the Divine.

Even a literal study of Hinduism's many Scriptures can take lifetimes. Add to that the fact that most scriptures of Hinduism are in Sanskrit, which needs several years to master. Otherwise, one is often at the mercy of widespread mis-translations by non-Hindu (often anti-Hindu) so-called scholars.

Hinduism can be confusing to one who has not studied and understood its basic principles, which are like the grammar to understand a language. Hence, rather than trying to understand Hinduism with one's own limited intellect, it is important to learn it from an authority on the subject, that is, Hindu Saints/Gurus. They can make us well versed in the “grammar” to understand and live Hinduism (Dharma).

6. Why can’t Hindus pray directly to God ? Why do Hindus need a middle man ?

In Hinduism, accessing God is not just limited to prayer, but there is a system of spiritual paths to experience that one is none other than God! Hinduism's Scriptures like the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita are not man-made, but have come directly from God or His Incarnation.

Unlike ideologies that emphasise the separation between human and Divine, Hinduism teaches that with the guidance and grace of a spiritual authority like a Guru, it is relatively simple to progress to the constant experience of Divinity in oneself and everything.

7. What is the real meaning of ‘Om’?

Some Hindu Scriptures like the Mandukya Upanishad are entirely devoted to the explanation of ‘Om’, which may give some idea about how profound this syllable is - it is considered to be the primal sound, Divine syllable.

In brief, the syllable ‘Om’ or ‘Aum’ is taken to consist of three phonemes, ‘a’, ‘u’ and ‘m’, variously symbolising the 3 Vedas, the Hindu trimurti (‘a’ representing Brahma, ‘u’ Vishnu and ‘m’ Shiva) or the 3 stages in life (birth, life and death). ‘Om’ is a sacred syllable representing Brahman, the impersonal Absolute of Hinduism - omnipotent, omnipresent, and the source of all manifest existence.

8. Why does God have wife and children in Hinduism?

This is a misconception. In Hinduism, God (Ishwar, Brahman) does not have wife or children, as the God principle is unmanifest. In the context of Deities, the male deity is the Purush or Principle aspect of God, the female deity is the Prakruti or Energy aspect of God, and children refer to the combination of those Divine Principles and Energies.

For example, Sree Durga is the Divine Energy of Shiva who is the Destroyer principle of God, and Sree Ganesh is the Divine Principle spiritually born of Sree Durga and Shiva principles. It is like the color yellow comes from a combination of green and blue colors.

9. Why don’t Hindus worship at regular times ?

In Hinduism, there are various systems of worship. In the path of ritualistic worship (karmakand), there are auspicious times during each day, week, month and year, to perform such worship. For example, one should perform ritualistic worship after taking a shower in the early morning hours and soon after sunset.

However, Hinduism teaches to progress from worship limited to regular times, to worshipping the Divine all the time; only the mode of worship will differ accordingly. This constant communion with God is achieved at higher stages in the spiritual journey, through constant remembrance of His Name and contemplation on the Divine.

People who do not follow any form of worship are found in all communities, not limited to the Hindu community.

10. Why could Hinduism not develop (like some other religions did) ?

This is a misconception. Hinduism is already the most developed, advanced system and science; the concern should be not about developing it, but to understand, live and preserve it!

If one is referring to spreading the way some religions did, Hinduism historically has not spread like that, as the whole world used to be Hindu before religions were created and spread. Hinduism (Sanatan Dharma) teaches the way of peace and expansiveness, devoid of sectarianism that causes divisive evangelism, forced conversions and disharmony. However, it is the need of times that Hindus take and impart Hinduism education, and stand united to stem the tide of such assaults.

From forumforhinduawakening

Monday 13 June 2011

Why Hindus do not eat beef ? Or why Cow is holy ?

Once again like most Hindu concepts there are multiple answers to this.

1. Cow is a pet -

A simplistic answer will be a question - why do Westerners no eat
dog's meat, or cat's meat ? The obvious point is that people world over
do not eat their pets, and cow in the least is a pet.

Why don't people eat their pets ? Because people get emotionally attached
with the pets. A pet becomes a family member. Also most civilized people
people protect those who are under their protection. The same point has emtionally
been emphasized by a story from Hindu scripture -literature 'Raghu Vamsha
by Kalidas. In the story, King Dilip, forefather of Lord Rama, offers
to a lion his own life in exchange of a divine cow that is under Dilip's
protection. Such is the Hindu scriptural reverence for the defence of
those under your refuge.

2. Cow's usefulness for Indian agricultural economy -

Similarly one can ask why do people in the West not eat horse meat?
In the west, the agriculture depended on horses till last century, hence
horse meat is not part of western diet. Similarly, agriculture in India
from ancient times to even now largely uses oxen for farming. So you
don't destroy the 'work horse' of agricultural economy. Cows, oxen thus
have been crucial for Indian agriculture.

3. Dietary considerations -

Unlike Chinese diet, Indian diet uses milk and milk products to large
extent. In the hot, hardy Indian climate, the milk yield goes down.
The average milk output of an Indian cow therefore is lower compared to
cows in cooler climates. Hence in order to protect the milk yield, in
the old days, the numbers of milch cattle had to be protected. The best
way known to man, to protect certain species is to make it 'holy'. Thus
by giving cow a 'holy' status, the sages ensured its protection.

The importance of milk in Indian diet arose from the keen observation
of nature by the sages. The newborn of all mammals are nourished by
mother's milk. If milk is good for defenceless babies, then it must be
good for man, who was vulnerable from physical defences, compared to
all other animals. Interestingly, it is only human being that drinks
milk of other species. From all aspects such as milk yield,
domesticability, availability of fodder etc, a cow is most suitable.
Yet, this does not explain veneration of cow by Hindus.

4. Logical higher explanantion for how 'useful' became 'holy' cow -

The one quality that distinguishes humans from other animals is that of
'gratitude'. It is Hindu gratitude that takes a 'dumb' cow to a higher
plane of thought. After our birth, our mother nourished us with her
milk when we were totally helpless, for a year or two. Thereafter it is
cow's milk that nourishes us for the rest of our lives. The Hindu
respects the mother as the lifegiver, hence the term  Matru devo bhava
meaning 'see God in your mother'. He then extends the same logic and
the same gratitude furher to a cow who nourished him with her milk too.
In every civilized society mother is respected and venerated, she is
never cosidered as object of 'consumption'. The Hindu extends the same
logic, same courtsey to a cow. Thus this extension of gratitude makes
cows 'holy'.

(Ref: Sanskruti Poojan by Pandurang Shastry Athawale, Sadvichar Darshan
Trust, Mumbai, 3rd Ed, 1988, pp 205-8, in Hindi/Gujarati/Marathi)


5. Scriptural support

Indian scriptures describe Lord KrishNa as a cow herder in his youth.
His childhood stories regale Hindus even now. A one particular story
about Govardhan tells that it was KrishNa who asked cow herders to stop
worshipping Indra - a powerful God in the heavens, and then asked
them to worship cows since they gave them their livelyhood. Once again
the subtle teaching for cowherders was 'see God in everything', even in
your work. Approaching work as worship makes every menial task a joyful
and rejoicing endeavour. It will also make you feel God as something
close and not something distant.

A famous hymn in praise of Gita, the most sacred Hindu text, compares
Gita to a cow, Lord Krishna as the milker, the essence of Upnishads
as the milk.

The Hindu thought goes beyond mere kindness to animals as the SPCA
(Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) in the West wants.

Even though cow herds have been prevalent in India for over 5000 years,
the ideas of 'cow tipping' and lassoing are unheard of.

6. Symbolically, cow represents the qualities of earth - ever giving,
ever nourishing. The Hindu reveres all animals and the cow is revered as
representative of all animals and many other animals are revered as
carriers (Vaahanas) for the demi-Gods.

(Ref: Dancing with Siva, By Sivay Subramuniya Swami, Himalayan Publ,
3rd ed, 1993, p.193)

Saturday 11 June 2011

Understanding some common misconceptions about Hinduism

Hinduism is a vast religion with multiple facets. It is one of the oldest religions in the world. For the less informed, Hinduism may look too confusing, too complicated to understand, and too contradictory in its precepts and practices. Even many Hindus do not know the exalted philosophies of the religion. Naturally, there are many misconceptions commonly prevalent about Hinduism, some propagated by vested interests, some by ill-informed westerners and some by self-doubting Hindus. Here is an attempt to clear up some of those misconceptions.

Know that Hinduism does not have 330 million Gods.

As per Hindu mythology, this count actually refers to Devas - celestial beings - but not Gods. Deva is a Sanskrit term that at times is used to glorify Gods, but not to represent Gods. This usage has led to the mischievous misinterpretation by westerners to denounce Hinduism as a religion of 330 million gods. Unfortunately, many ill-informed Hindus, too, have taken to believe in this misperception.

Devas, according to mythology, live in Indralokha (or Devalokha, an equivalent of Heaven) and they are none other than human beings in earlier births who did extraordinarily good deeds with a desire to enjoy the fruits of such deeds. They enjoy the fruits of those deeds in Deva Lokha, and once exhausted, they have to take birth again in this world. According to the mythology, this cycle is an ongoing phenomenon.

Know that Hinduism, in its essence, is not a religion of multiple Gods.

Hinduism permits worship of multiple God forms, endowed with different looks, powers, and attributes, who, in reality, represent the One God, known as Brahman, or Parabrahman, Paramatma or Satchidananda. Hinduism accepts the basic differences in every person in taste, temperament and capacity of intake in the matter of religion. A woman found distasteful to one person can be the soul-stirring sweetheart of another person. When such a difference in taste can exist, why not allow different tastes in the worshiping of God?

Thus Hinduism permits you to choose a specific God form most appealing and lovable to you; it encourages you to believe wholeheartedly that that particular God form indeed is the one supreme God. A chaste woman considers her husband alone to be the most handsome and most wonderful person; likewise, at the lower echelons of religion, a believer's conviction that his personal God alone is the most powerful and the "only true God" is also encouraged.

As a person matures in his religious progress, he surpasses his narrow convictions. He understands by experience that one supreme lord has, by His grace, adapted to come in the form of his personal God and that He presents Himself in other forms to satisfy other sects of believers. At the ultimate level of experience, the seeker perceives that the whole universe is simply nothing other than God and it includes his own soul, too.

Know that Hinduism has not ordained that the society should be caste-based with all the concomitant discriminations.

Hinduism had accepted the practical fact that there will always be differences among persons in intellectual, physical and mental capabilities. For the society to run smoothly like well-oiled machinery, there has to be a well-defined division of labor. The society needs all sorts of people who do their jobs to the best of their ability doing those activities best suited to them.

The society needs peasants and artisans (‘Shudra'), traders (‘Vysya'), intellectuals and teachers (‘Brahmin'), and warriors (‘Kshatriya'). Each class requires its own skill sets, physical and mental capabilities, food habits, ethical and moral codes of conduct and the Hindu Dharma has provided these guidelines. What is best suited to one class need not be a benchmark for another.

In ancient days, the society at large accepted these classifications as matters of fact (without acrimony). It is also said that such a division of labor was not originally based on family lineage. But when followed over generations, it gradually turned into a caste system and further degenerated into upper and lower classes with discrimination and acrimony between them. This is actually a sociological phenomenon and it is incorrect to blame the religion for it.

Know that Hinduism, by its Karma theory and the concept of rebirth, does not say that one has to gradually take birth "from lower to upper class" before attaining Moksha.

Hinduism says that as long as one has desires, one has to take rebirth. The rebirth can be in any class of the society and even a rebirth as an animal is not ruled out. Even a highly spiritually oriented Brahmin may get a rebirth in the form of an animal just to satiate some odd, unquenched desires of the previous birth.

Know that Hinduism does not say that the experience of God is reserved for Brahmins (the so called upper class/priest class) only.

Traditionally, Brahmins, by virtue of their social status, had the exclusive access to the highest scriptural knowledge (of Vedas) in olden days. That way, they were better informed of the nuances of the highest religious facts. But that never made them exclusively able to attain the vision of God. The knowledge about swimming acquired by a person by reading books, but without any exposure to water, is useless. Likewise, in Hinduism, the personal experience of God is what really matters (and not the scriptural knowledge).

There are countless great masters in Hinduism who have experienced God without any theoretical knowledge of scriptures. Traditionally, even great pundits and Brahmin scholars kneel before these unlettered divine souls, many of whom are not Brahmins by birth, to learn about the true experience of God from them. Umpteen examples are available in Indian history on this count. The phenomenon of Brahmins dominating the religious scenario and showing discrimination towards other castes is again a sociological development and not a religiously ordained one.

Know that Hinduism is not totally anti-materialistic and does not totally discourage enjoyment.

What Hinduism says is that materialistic pursuits or running behind sensual pleasures is not going to fetch you everlasting happiness. It only says that behind any unbridled searching for enjoyment, there is always a pain lurking behind. Hinduism advises one to practice moderation, to be watchful, and not to get carried away.

Hinduism does place liberation - ‘Moksha' as the ultimate goal of life. But, for for the majority, the path of progress towards the goal (Moksha) includes Dharma (righteousness), Artha (materialism) and Kama (sensual enjoyments). The important point is that the materialistic and sensual enjoyments (Artha and Kama) must always be guided by righteousness (Dharma). Leading a life this way, one can gradually understand the transient nature of worldly life, acquire dispassion (‘Vairagya') and the mind then yearns for liberation (Moksha), the ultimate goal.

It is no doubt that Hinduism gives the highest regard to renunciation. But again, for the society at large, the recommended way of living so as to attain the supreme goal starts at ‘Brahmacharya' (celibacy at a young age while acquiring education), followed by ‘Grihasta' (married life of a householder), ‘Vanaprasta' (living frugally in a secluded way at the forest, once the couple has completed their duty toward their offspring) and finally ‘Sanyasa' (total renunciation).

When an earnest seeker is mature enough to comprehend the transient nature of worldly life, has a high degree of discrimination and dispassion and yearns for God, he can opt to renounce much earlier, without going through all these stages one by one.

Know that Hinduism does not preach fatalism and does not negate self-effort.

It is wrong to think that by advocating Karma theory (which says that for every action in the past, one has to face the reaction inescapably in the future and this cycle transcends births over births), Hinduism encourages a fatalistic attitude. What Hinduism says is that one cannot have freedom of choice in facing the repercussions of past actions, but one does have the free will to choose his present actions. It is quite obvious that only because we have the freedom of choice of action, we have accumulated our past KarmThe essence of Hinduism on this matter of Karma or fate is two-fold.

One: The reactions to our past actions are not entirely self-propelling; they are indeed executed by the will of God; the more one surrenders to God and the more one accepts with humility the divine dispensation, the more one gets relief from the impinging effects of Karma.

Two: By carefully choosing one's present actions based on Dharma, by doing acts with dispassion and a sense of surrender to the supreme, one paves the way for escaping from the evil effects of his present actions in the future.

Know that Hinduism does not say that faith and surrender to a Hindu God alone are the way to salvation.

Hinduism has two major approaches to the concept of God. One starts by negating "I" and the other starts and ends with "I".

In the first school (Bhakti Yoga - the path of love), the whole universe is God; It is God who creates, preserves and destroys. He is omnipresent and omnipotent. In front of him, "I" am nothing. I have no individuality. I, too, am part of him. He, the Paramatman, is the true existence. I, the Atman, am part and parcel of (and subservient to) Him.

In the second school (Gnyana Yoga - the path of Wisdom), the seeker thinks "I don't know whether a God exists; whether he is with form or without form; I don't know whether the world is his creation; But one thing I know; I exist. In waking, dreaming or deep sleep, I am aware of my existence. When I think, "I am," at that moment, everything else also comes into existence. When my mind ceases to function (as in deep sleep), the whole world, the entire creation vanishes. Everything - the world, the cosmos, the personal God of worship - everything is a product of the mind. When the seeker inquires to find ‘Who am I?" and truly experiences this reality in a truly "mindless" state, he grasps the fact that his soul, Atman, is none other than the Brahman, the supreme soul.

Hinduism does not say that possession of occult powers is an indication that one has attained God realization.
Occult powers (Siddhi) may develop in a person who is deeply involved in spiritual practices with single-pointed concentration. But it has to be understood that presence of Siddhi is not an indication of a person's attainment of true spiritual wisdom. The highest goal being God realization in Hinduism, obtaining Siddhis in fact can distract a person from his goal and cause spiritual downfall.

This is the warning given by all great spiritual masters of Hinduism. But a person who has reached his goal, may still have Siddhis in him but he cares the least about them. It is up to him to use them for the good of others or not.

Know that Hinduism does not say that one should blindly believe his Guru to attain salvation.

For an earnest seeker who is convinced that attaining Moksha - salvation/God realization/self-realization - is the goal of life, Hinduism emphasizes the need for surrendering to a Guru (rather to a Satguru - a Guru of the highest order who has personally experienced the Supreme Truth). Hinduism encourages one to do all the questioning and doubting before selecting a Guru; After surrendering to a Guru, asking probing questions of the Guru until getting convincing answers is also encouraged.

At the same time, Hinduism is very clear that egotism is one of the greatest impediments to attaining the supreme truth. That's why great masters say that unconditional surrender (rather than egotistic arguments and doubting) is the best option to receive the grace of the Satguru.

Other than the above, there are always differences of opinions among various schools of philosophies in Hinduism about the interpretation of scripture. But these are quite normal and acceptable in a vast religion like Hinduism. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa used to say, "Until one gets the vision of God, there will always be lurking doubts; Once divine vision is had, all doubts will vanish once for all."

Friday 10 June 2011

Science in Hinduism

Traditions in Hinduism were considered mainly as superstitions, but with the advent of science, it is becoming evident that these traditions are based on some scientific knowledge and moved from generations to generations as traditions. Though the common people did not know science in it, they were following it very faithfully over the years. This article is an attempt to bring forward the science involved in these traditions and rituals. Ancient Rishis, which were scientists actually, did not tell the common people the science involved in these traditions, but instead related them with the God and religion, so that the common people would benefit from them.

Another contributing factor is that the Hindu traditions are made depending on the climate of India as Hinduism is the main religion in India. Even in India, there are different regions with different climate, so they vary from region to region.

1. Why every Hindu should have a Tulsi plant in front of his/her house?

Answer: The Latin name of Tulsi plant is ” Ocimum Sanctum.” It is also called as Holy Basil. For thousands of years, Tulsi has been worshiped by Hindus. It is considered as a sacred plant and it is necessary for every Hindu family to have a Tulsi plant in front of their house. The recent studies, have shown that Tulsi plant releases Ozone (O3) along with oxygen, which is very essential for ecological balance. World Ozone Day is celebrated on 16th September of every year, at which time some environmental organizations distribute Tulsi plants in large number.

Besides that Tulsi has lots of medicinal uses and is a very important herb according to Ayurveda. Tulsi leaves are supposed to strengthen our immune system. So, the Tulsi leaves are mainly used for treating fever, common cold, cough, sore throat, and respiratory disorders.

Therefore, I think not only Hindus but all of us should have a Tulsi plant in front of our house.

2. Why Hindus worship some particular trees and not all the trees?

Answer: It is true that Hindus honor all the trees but some particular trees and plants are considered sacred and have been worshiped over thousands of years.

Some of the examples are Peepal Tree (Ficus religiosa) and Audumbar Tree (Ficus racemosa). These two trees are 24-hour oxygen generators and cannot be planted manually. They grow on their own mainly through the birds, which eat their fruits. Audumbar tree is associated with Guru Dattatreya, one of main Hindu deities and cutting or dishonoring the tree in any way is considered as a sin. Both of these trees are very important for ecological balance. So by associating them with Hindu deities, they have been protected, so that no one would cut them.

3. Why Hindus pierce ears of a baby?

Answer: After a baby is born, it is a general practice in Hindus to pierce his/her ears. Actually, it is a part of acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture and acupressure is not new to Hindus. Even it is said that these techniques originated in India and later they were conserved and modified by Chinese. Outer part of ears carry a lot of important acupuncture and acupressure points. The point where the ears of a baby are pierced is known for curing asthma. That is why even ancient Hindus used to wear earrings but now a days most Hindus do not wear earrings. They do not even pierce the ears after first piercing. The holes in their ears become invisible after as they grow up. Only Hindu female wear earrings as a tradition.

But there are males of some castes in Hinduism who wear earrings as a tradition till now.

4. Why Hindus do not eat meat on particular days?

Answer: Hindus do not eat meat on particular days not limited but including:

Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays of every week, Sankashti Chaturthi, Angarki Chaturthi, Ekadashi, Gudhipadwa, Akshaytrutiya, Diwali (all the days) and many more auspicious days.

Amongst this, the reason for not eating meat on some particular days excluding weekly days is purely religious. Killing of animals is considered as a sin in Hinduism. So, people avoid eating meat at least on those auspicious days to maintain sacredness of that particular day.

The reason behind not eating meat on weekdays including Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays is that as a human being we need only a little amount of meat to fulfill requirements of our body such as iron, vitamin B12 and other vital nutrients. But human being basically is an animal and we get addicted to eating meat. As we all know eating excessive meat is not good for health. It can cause diseases like piles, kidney stones, colon cancer, blood pressure, heart attack, etc. Then also people cannot refrain themselves from eating flesh. Therefore, Hinduism has placed some restrictions by assigning the days to particular deities. E.g. Monday is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Thursday to Lord Dattatreya, and Saturday to Lord Hanuman. In this way, people have been assigned some religious restrictions and as most of Hindus are religious, they do obey this rule. In this way, they restrict the meat in their diet which is good for their health.

5. Why only some castes are allowed to eat non-vegetarian food and others are not?

Answer: Basically, who should eat and who should not depends on the occupation of a person. If you ask a modern doctor, he will simply tell you that if you have need for more calories and you do a lot of physical labor, then only you should eat nonvegetarian food. If your occupation is of sedentary type and you eat a lot of high-calorie food, you are bound to gain more weight and invite all sorts of diseases related to obesity.

The medieval caste system of India was based upon the occupation of a person. Therefore the people from a particular caste doing more physical labor were allowed to eat meat. For example, job of a Kshatriya was to fight with enemy and protect the people. So, they required a lot of energy. Hence, Kshatriyas were allowed to eat meat. In the same way, a farmer who requires a lot of physical work was allowed to eat meat. On the other hand, other castes like Brahmins who do Prayer and intelligent work requiring less hard labor were restricted from eating meat. In the same way, weavers, businessmen were not allowed to eat meat.

Aside from that, some nonvegetarian products like meat and chicken are hard to digest. If you do not have enough body movement, it will be hard for you to digest that food and you will be unnecessarily inviting the ailments.

6. We get the human body after our soul passes through 84,00,000 species.

Hindus believe we get a human body after our soul passes through 84,00,000 species. Initially, critics of Hinduism used to say that this is just a myth so many species do not exist. But with the advent of science, it is revealed that there are about 84,00,000 species on the earth. So, the above statement is symbolic for the fact that human being is born through evolution and we human being is the most advanced stage of evolution.

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