A Precious Parable From The Upanishads

Dr. Sethu Raju and Pundit Pramod Sharma (Gaur)

Long ago the Hindu sages arduously prayed to gods to know more about their own existence as humans and the uniqueness of the universe. Often, they were also possibly deeply indulged in discussions of religion and philosophy, including some enigmatic problems, such as the origin of universe and the origin of life. Although they did not arrive at any definite conclusions, the highly knowledgeable rishis did, however, leave a legacy of many written parables, in the form of lyrics and dialogues, Continue reading “A Precious Parable From The Upanishads”

God And Human Suffering

(The Hindu perspective Researched and compiled by: Dr. Suresh Basrur )

In order to address this question, “How to reconcile the existence of God and human suffering?” we must first get an understanding of the relationship between God and human being. Hindu scriptures tell us that every human being has a soul (atman), which is in fact a part of the Supreme Being (Brahman). The goal of the human soul atman is to ultimately become one with the Supreme Being (Brahman). Continue reading “God And Human Suffering”

The Hindu Doctrine of Karma – in brief

(Dr. Sethu Raju and Pundit Pramod Sharma)

Aeons ago, the wise sages stood on the riverbanks of ancient India and sang their exalting devotional songs that were as if “by the breath of God”. Out of these chants and out of the profound wisdom and spirituality of the sages in the centuries has since grown the Sanatana Dharma or Hinduism, the religion of the Hindus. It contains solid and uncorrupted principles (shrutis and smritis), which may be called the doctrines, to appeal to the vast masses of the followers of this ancient religious faith or the way of life in the world. One of the eternal smritis is the doctrine of Karma. Continue reading “The Hindu Doctrine of Karma – in brief”

Hinduism and Environment

How Religion can Protect the Environment (Dr. Suresh Basrur)

1. Hindu teachings on nature and the environment

From the earliest days of the Hindu civilization, reverence for the environment has been an integral part of Hindu society. Our ancient forefathers perceived God’s presence around them through nature; they considered the natural forces which affected their lives as manifestations of the Supreme Being or God named Brahman. Continue reading “Hinduism and Environment”