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Hindu Culture - Facts and Fiction
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Subject: Hindu Culture - Facts and Fiction
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From: jai@mantra.com (Dr. Jai Maharaj)
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Date: 29 Nov 1995 23:05:35 GMT
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Approved: srh <srh@rbhatnagar>
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Article: 607 of soc.religion.hindu
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Newsgroups: soc.religion.hindu
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Organization: Mantra Corporation, USA
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Reply-To: Dr. Jai Maharaj <jai@mantra.com>
The following is from the Arsha Vidya Retreat Center and is offered
in this forum for practical guidance and discussion:
"SOME FACTS AND FICTION ABOUT THE FOUNDATIONS OF HINDU CULTURE
"Belief: Vedanta is for retired people. I don't need it now.
Fact: Vedanta is for any adult human being. It deals with the
basic problems of dissatisfaction, sorrow and conflict that we face
every day. Vedanta addresses these problems and gives us a clear
vision in the light of which one's life becomes a pleasure.
"Belief: Vedanta will expect me to blindly believe whatever it
says.
Fact: Many religions do demand unflinching faith in their
doctrines, even though they are hard to swallow. But not Vedanta.
Since it wants you to understand the realities of yourself, the
world, and God, it encourages you to ask questions until your
understanding is complete.
"Belief: Vedanta discourages accumulation of wealth. I want to be
successful and have a good life. How can I reconcile the two?
Fact: The scriptures say, "Annam bahu kurvita," May one produce
wealth in plenty." Vedanta helps you develop a healthy attitude
towards wealth and other material things. In fact, you can enjoy
wealth only when you have this understanding.
"Belief: Vedanta will make me docile and less productive. In these
days of competition I just can't afford that.
Fact: Understanding of Vedanta releases you from anxiety about the
future. It helps you plan with a clear mind and execute your plans
enthusiastically. Vedanta enables you to be more alert and
productive in a competitive world.
"Belief: I will be forced to go to temple and waste my time, when
I'd be happier watching TV or playing ball.
Fact: Vedanta does not force you to do anything. It does not make
you withdraw from your normal activities either. But if your
happiness depends entirely upon diversions and entertainment, you
have to take a real look at yourself. Vedanta guides that inquiry
and through it, you will find real satisfaction in whatever you
choose to do.
"Belief: I don't want to renounce the world and become a Swami.
Fact: Vedanta does not want you to renounce the world. Vedanta
gives meaning to the various roles you are called upon to play in
life -- as son or daughter, father or mother, husband or wife,
employer or employee.
"Belief: Vedanta will make me believe in karma and make me a
fatalist.
Fact: Vedant is much more than a belief in karma. It deals with
realities of life and living. Besides, belief in karma does not
make you a fatalist. Knowledge of karma helps you accept the past
gracefully and work on the present for a better future.
"These are only a few of the false notions about Vedanta and Hindu
Dharma in general. These notions need to be addressed and
understood. The Arsha Vidya Retreat Center is committed to
addressing these issues and bringing the facts to everyone
especially those in the Indian community."
For further information please contact:
Arsha Vidya Retreat Canter
P. O. Box 522 Telephone:
Saylorsburg, PA 18353 (717) 992-2339
Jai Maharaj <jai@mantra.com> Jyotishi, Vedic Astrologer *-=Om Shanti=-*
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