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Line 216: − == Vasudeva Kutumbakam (WORLD IS ONE FAMILY) ==+ − Though it is natural that for historical, cultural civilizational, linguistic reasons there had always been many nations/states, the basic philosophy that all living beings are children of God is deep rooted. Therefore, anyone who considered some one as his own and others not as his own, was dubbed as petty minded. This value is expressed in the Hitopadesha. − v;a fut% ijks osfr x.kuk y?kqpsrlkeà mnkjpfjrkuka rq olq/kSo dqVqEcdeÃA − Those who think "He is mine", "He is not", are petty minded". Those who are large hearted regard the world as one family. − If the people constituting different nations understand this value, and act ill that spirit, there will be friendly and harmonious relationship among the nations of the world, and the enormous defence budget of all the nations can be drastically reduced and humanity will enjoy greater happiness. − Thus our national stream continued to flow even during foreign rule, because for us national idealism was primary, and statehood, political power was secondary. It is through this cultural bond that we the people of this country became a nation and are surviving as a nation. − This aspect has been forcefully brought forth by the Supreme Court in the case of Pradeep Jain Vs. Union of India (A.I.R. 1984 S.C. 1420), while expounding the basis which has made the people living in this vast sub-continent a nation, in the following words: − The history of India over the past centuries bears witness to the fact that India was at no time a single political unit. Even during the reign of the Maurya dynasty, though a large part of the country was under the sovereignty of the Maurya kings, there were considerable portions of the territory which were under the rule of independent kingdoms. So also during the Moghul rule which extended over large parts of the territory of India, there were independent rulers who enjoyed political sovereignty over the territories of their respective kingdoms. It is an interesting fact of history that India was forged into a nation neither on account of common language nor on account of the continued existence of a single political regime over its territories but on account of a common culture evolved over the centuries. It is cultural unity -something more fundamental and enduring than any other bond which may unite the people of a country together -which has welded this country into a nation. − Thus, it is the samskriti (culture) which was evolved in this country from times immemorial which not only welded the people of this country into a nation but also made it invincible and consequently the country has survived, despite all sorts of onslaughts to which it was subjected to from time to time during the last nearly one thousand years. − Sarvajna Narayana in his "Hitopadesha" (words of wisdom) in his inimitable style expounds the distinction between human beings and animals and says that man's legitimate claim to superiority over the animals would be valid only if he conforms to Dharma. The verse reads: − vkgkjfunzkHk;eSFkquapA lkekU;esrr i'kqfHkuZjk.kkeà /keksZ fg rs"kkef/kdks fo'ks"kks /kesZ.k ghuk% i'kqfHkLlekuk%AA − Consumption of food, sleep, fear, and enjoyment of sex are common to man and animal. But, 'Dharma' is a special attribute of man. Bereft of 'Dharma', man is equal to anima1. − Therefore everyone should conform to dharma (right conduct). Otherwise he is no better than an animals. − With this backgroupd if we examine the values of life evolved in Bharat which are collectively called Dharma, they are of universal application. It is Manava Dharma, also now coloquially called Hindu dharma, which is the name given by those belonging to Islam religion who came to this land around 1000 A.D. ; in view of its origin in this land; which they called Hindustan. It is no religion. Instruction in those values would not constitute religious instruction. This position can be made clear by posing the following question: − Whether the rules of Dharma that : − 1. Everyone should tell the truth; 2. No one should indulge in violence against other living beings; 3. No one should acquire illegitimate wealth; 4. Every one should establish control over his senses; 5. There should be purity in thought, speech and deed; 6. Everyone should render service to other individuals; 7. Every one should eschew selfishness and greed. 8. The world should be regarded as one family, − can be regarded as applicable to persons belonging to any particular religion? The answer must be in the negative. The above values which originated in this country are applicable to all human beings. − Ingraining these values, in every individual through education is the only solution to the evil which the world including our country is now facing. − The correct approach therefore is that irrespective of the religion to which the citizens of this country belong, arid practice, which they have the right and liberty, the great values of life evolved from times immemorial in this country which are of eternal value and which alone call ingrain character and love towards other human beings and also all the living beings is our rich heritage, should be inculcated in all citizens. − All the values of life evolved in this land are collectively called Dharma or Sanatana Dharma and their practice gave rise to our culture, 'the Bharatiya Samskriti' This also came to be known as Hinduism (Hindutva) for historical reasons as stated by Kerry Brown in his celebrated work "The Essential Teachings of Hinduism". He says: − "The term "Hindu" was first used by the medieval Muslim invaders to describe the dwellers of the Indus valley. But the culture we now know as Hinduism and which the Indians call Sanatana Dharma -Eternal law predates that label by thousands of years. It is more than a religion in the doctrinal sense that the west understands religion. One can believe in any God or no God and still be a Hindu. It is away of life, a state of mind". − It is this culture, which comprises our values of life. The resurrection of these values alone provides the remedy for all the ills afflicting our National life as also humanity. − Even in the face of such noble ideals, and large heartedness, of our nation, estrangement was brought about between a section of the people, viz., the Muslims and the rest, on the basis of religious intolerance which ultimately resulted in the division of the country into two nations; Hindustan and Pakistan. This injury inflicted on the nation was the price paid for securing political independence. This proved to be very costly. − Despite such unfortunate partition of our Motherland, the deep rooted, unshakable, everlasting principles which are an inseparable part of our civilization and culture, from times immemorial which as indicated earlier is collectively called "Dharma", the people of this part of the country gave secularism a pride of place in our constitution. − A careful study of the provisions of the Constitution shows that the broadest philosophy essential for peaceful co-existence of all the citizens evolved from times immemorial in this ancient land of ours as also the requirement of fostering and ensuring feeling of fraternity among the people and unity and the integrity of the nation, has been given top priority in the constitution. These objectives among others, are summed up in the preamble. It reads: − We the people of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a (sovereign socialist, secular democratic republic) and also to secure to all its citizens; Justice, social, economic, political, liberty of thought, expression, belief faith and worship; Equality of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all; Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individuals and the unity and integrity of the Nation. − It is the same dharma, which is colloquially called Hindu Dharma or Hinduism just as Bharat is called Hindustan, which has inspired us not to opt for a theocratic state, Just as Rule of Law is said to be the sworn enemy of caprice, Dharma or Hinduism is the sworn enemy of theocracy. It is in view of the sway of Dharma that Secularism has been made one of the elements of the basic structure of our constitution. despite Islamic states established in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Therefore, it is clear that so long as Dharma has sway, Secularism survives and it gets destroyed the moment Dharma loses its primacy. − Hence, it is our duty to resurrect, protect and preserve "Dharma" not only to safeguard national interest but also in the interest of humanity as a whole. − − FOR WOMANHOOD
Values Based On Dharma (धर्माधिष्ठितगुणाः) (view source)
Revision as of 14:59, 13 July 2017
, 14:59, 13 July 2017no edit summary
(INDIA AND HER PROBLEMS.p.8)
(INDIA AND HER PROBLEMS.p.8)
The greatest satisfaction for the people of Bharath has been that though attempts were made and are being made, by some deliberately, and by others out of ignorance and/or under Western influence, to destroy all our values evolved from ancient times which are the basis of our nationalism they have not been successful in destroying our National Vitality and identity. Our Nationalism, has withstood both political and social onslaughts on it, for several centuries as it is firmly based on noble values which are the very life breath of our people.
The greatest satisfaction for the people of Bharath has been that though attempts were made and are being made, by some deliberately, and by others out of ignorance and/or under Western influence, to destroy all our values evolved from ancient times which are the basis of our nationalism they have not been successful in destroying our National Vitality and identity. Our Nationalism, has withstood both political and social onslaughts on it, for several centuries as it is firmly based on noble values which are the very life breath of our people.
=== Vasudeva Kutumbakam (WORLD IS ONE FAMILY) ===
Though it is natural that for historical, cultural civilizational, linguistic reasons there had always been many nations/states, the basic philosophy that all living beings are children of God is deep rooted. Therefore, anyone who considered some one as his own and others not as his own, was dubbed as petty minded. This value is expressed in the Hitopadesha.
v;a fut% ijks osfr x.kuk y?kqpsrlkeà mnkjpfjrkuka rq olq/kSo dqVqEcdeÃA
Those who think "He is mine", "He is not", are petty minded". Those who are large hearted regard the world as one family.
If the people constituting different nations understand this value, and act ill that spirit, there will be friendly and harmonious relationship among the nations of the world, and the enormous defence budget of all the nations can be drastically reduced and humanity will enjoy greater happiness.
Thus our national stream continued to flow even during foreign rule, because for us national idealism was primary, and statehood, political power was secondary. It is through this cultural bond that we the people of this country became a nation and are surviving as a nation.
This aspect has been forcefully brought forth by the Supreme Court in the case of Pradeep Jain Vs. Union of India (A.I.R. 1984 S.C. 1420), while expounding the basis which has made the people living in this vast sub-continent a nation, in the following words:
The history of India over the past centuries bears witness to the fact that India was at no time a single political unit. Even during the reign of the Maurya dynasty, though a large part of the country was under the sovereignty of the Maurya kings, there were considerable portions of the territory which were under the rule of independent kingdoms. So also during the Moghul rule which extended over large parts of the territory of India, there were independent rulers who enjoyed political sovereignty over the territories of their respective kingdoms. It is an interesting fact of history that India was forged into a nation neither on account of common language nor on account of the continued existence of a single political regime over its territories but on account of a common culture evolved over the centuries. It is cultural unity -something more fundamental and enduring than any other bond which may unite the people of a country together -which has welded this country into a nation.
Thus, it is the samskriti (culture) which was evolved in this country from times immemorial which not only welded the people of this country into a nation but also made it invincible and consequently the country has survived, despite all sorts of onslaughts to which it was subjected to from time to time during the last nearly one thousand years.
Sarvajna Narayana in his "Hitopadesha" (words of wisdom) in his inimitable style expounds the distinction between human beings and animals and says that man's legitimate claim to superiority over the animals would be valid only if he conforms to Dharma. The verse reads:
vkgkjfunzkHk;eSFkquapA lkekU;esrr i'kqfHkuZjk.kkeà /keksZ fg rs"kkef/kdks fo'ks"kks /kesZ.k ghuk% i'kqfHkLlekuk%AA
Consumption of food, sleep, fear, and enjoyment of sex are common to man and animal. But, 'Dharma' is a special attribute of man. Bereft of 'Dharma', man is equal to anima1.
Therefore everyone should conform to dharma (right conduct). Otherwise he is no better than an animals.
With this backgroupd if we examine the values of life evolved in Bharat which are collectively called Dharma, they are of universal application. It is Manava Dharma, also now coloquially called Hindu dharma, which is the name given by those belonging to Islam religion who came to this land around 1000 A.D. ; in view of its origin in this land; which they called Hindustan. It is no religion. Instruction in those values would not constitute religious instruction. This position can be made clear by posing the following question:
Whether the rules of Dharma that :
1. Everyone should tell the truth; 2. No one should indulge in violence against other living beings; 3. No one should acquire illegitimate wealth; 4. Every one should establish control over his senses; 5. There should be purity in thought, speech and deed; 6. Everyone should render service to other individuals; 7. Every one should eschew selfishness and greed. 8. The world should be regarded as one family,
can be regarded as applicable to persons belonging to any particular religion? The answer must be in the negative. The above values which originated in this country are applicable to all human beings.
Ingraining these values, in every individual through education is the only solution to the evil which the world including our country is now facing.
The correct approach therefore is that irrespective of the religion to which the citizens of this country belong, arid practice, which they have the right and liberty, the great values of life evolved from times immemorial in this country which are of eternal value and which alone call ingrain character and love towards other human beings and also all the living beings is our rich heritage, should be inculcated in all citizens.
All the values of life evolved in this land are collectively called Dharma or Sanatana Dharma and their practice gave rise to our culture, 'the Bharatiya Samskriti' This also came to be known as Hinduism (Hindutva) for historical reasons as stated by Kerry Brown in his celebrated work "The Essential Teachings of Hinduism". He says:
"The term "Hindu" was first used by the medieval Muslim invaders to describe the dwellers of the Indus valley. But the culture we now know as Hinduism and which the Indians call Sanatana Dharma -Eternal law predates that label by thousands of years. It is more than a religion in the doctrinal sense that the west understands religion. One can believe in any God or no God and still be a Hindu. It is away of life, a state of mind".
It is this culture, which comprises our values of life. The resurrection of these values alone provides the remedy for all the ills afflicting our National life as also humanity.
Even in the face of such noble ideals, and large heartedness, of our nation, estrangement was brought about between a section of the people, viz., the Muslims and the rest, on the basis of religious intolerance which ultimately resulted in the division of the country into two nations; Hindustan and Pakistan. This injury inflicted on the nation was the price paid for securing political independence. This proved to be very costly.
Despite such unfortunate partition of our Motherland, the deep rooted, unshakable, everlasting principles which are an inseparable part of our civilization and culture, from times immemorial which as indicated earlier is collectively called "Dharma", the people of this part of the country gave secularism a pride of place in our constitution.
A careful study of the provisions of the Constitution shows that the broadest philosophy essential for peaceful co-existence of all the citizens evolved from times immemorial in this ancient land of ours as also the requirement of fostering and ensuring feeling of fraternity among the people and unity and the integrity of the nation, has been given top priority in the constitution. These objectives among others, are summed up in the preamble. It reads:
We the people of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a (sovereign socialist, secular democratic republic) and also to secure to all its citizens; Justice, social, economic, political, liberty of thought, expression, belief faith and worship; Equality of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all; Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individuals and the unity and integrity of the Nation.
It is the same dharma, which is colloquially called Hindu Dharma or Hinduism just as Bharat is called Hindustan, which has inspired us not to opt for a theocratic state, Just as Rule of Law is said to be the sworn enemy of caprice, Dharma or Hinduism is the sworn enemy of theocracy. It is in view of the sway of Dharma that Secularism has been made one of the elements of the basic structure of our constitution. despite Islamic states established in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Therefore, it is clear that so long as Dharma has sway, Secularism survives and it gets destroyed the moment Dharma loses its primacy.
Hence, it is our duty to resurrect, protect and preserve "Dharma" not only to safeguard national interest but also in the interest of humanity as a whole.
== The Country ==
== The Country ==
Apart from a study of the history of the Freedom struggle, a visit to the cellular prison in the Andaman Island, will at once make anyone understand the tremendous sacrifice made by the children of Bharat Mata, to break the shackles of slavery by which she was bound. It was our nationalism and love for the country which inspired all of them to make such sacrifices despite the unbearable pains, hardship and suffering which those patriots and members of their family had to undergo.
Apart from a study of the history of the Freedom struggle, a visit to the cellular prison in the Andaman Island, will at once make anyone understand the tremendous sacrifice made by the children of Bharat Mata, to break the shackles of slavery by which she was bound. It was our nationalism and love for the country which inspired all of them to make such sacrifices despite the unbearable pains, hardship and suffering which those patriots and members of their family had to undergo.
== 1.4.2 Values of Life ==
== Values of Life ==
The second factor which welded the people of this Country into a nation is the system of values of life. There are many main and subsidiary values. I shall refer only to the most important of them, all of which come within the purview of 'Dharma'.
The second factor which welded the people of this Country into a nation is the system of values of life. There are many main and subsidiary values. I shall refer only to the most important of them, all of which come within the purview of 'Dharma'.
(b) Raja Dharma -The Duty of Rulers (3) Respect for Womanhood (4) Equality (Samanata) (5) Gratitude (Kritajnata) (6) Compassion (Daya) (7) Simple Life -Sparing use of Natural Resources (8) Service (Seva -Paropakara) (9) Sacrifice (Tyaga) (10) World is one Family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam)
(b) Raja Dharma -The Duty of Rulers (3) Respect for Womanhood (4) Equality (Samanata) (5) Gratitude (Kritajnata) (6) Compassion (Daya) (7) Simple Life -Sparing use of Natural Resources (8) Service (Seva -Paropakara) (9) Sacrifice (Tyaga) (10) World is one Family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam)
=== 1.4.2.1 DUTY TOWARDS OTHER LIVING BEINGS ===
=== DUTY TOWARDS OTHER LIVING BEINGS ===
In our culture and civilization, primary importance attached was to duty. Our ancestors established a duty based society in which the right given to an individual was the right to perform his duty. This position is declared in the following verse of the Bhagvadgita thus :-
In our culture and civilization, primary importance attached was to duty. Our ancestors established a duty based society in which the right given to an individual was the right to perform his duty. This position is declared in the following verse of the Bhagvadgita thus :-
It is therefore, the duty or Dharma of every individual to obey these provisions in letter and spirit in thought, word and deed which will foster the feeling of fraternity and ensure the dignity of individuals.
It is therefore, the duty or Dharma of every individual to obey these provisions in letter and spirit in thought, word and deed which will foster the feeling of fraternity and ensure the dignity of individuals.
== 1.4.2.5 GRATITUDE (Kritajnata) ==
== GRATITUDE (Kritajnata) ==
To have a feeling of gratitude towards persons and other living beings who/which have been helpful to us, is another value of our national life. It is this feeling which is the basis ~ custom of worshipping animals, and plants as also Ayudha Pooja, i.e., worshipping one day in year all the implements or instruments through which we earn our lively hood. It is the same feeling which had led to the prohibition of slaughter of cows, calves, oxen, bullocks -as the cows give milk which sustains us, from childhood till death. We worship the cow as 'Gomata' (Mother Cow). Kautilya in his Artha Sastra made a specific provision banning cow slaughter. It reads:
To have a feeling of gratitude towards persons and other living beings who/which have been helpful to us, is another value of our national life. It is this feeling which is the basis ~ custom of worshipping animals, and plants as also Ayudha Pooja, i.e., worshipping one day in year all the implements or instruments through which we earn our lively hood. It is the same feeling which had led to the prohibition of slaughter of cows, calves, oxen, bullocks -as the cows give milk which sustains us, from childhood till death. We worship the cow as 'Gomata' (Mother Cow). Kautilya in his Artha Sastra made a specific provision banning cow slaughter. It reads:
oRlks o`"kks /ksuqÜpS"kkeo/;k%A
oRlks o`"kks /ksuqÜpS"kkeo/;k%A
Yajnavalkya Smriti (VI 234) also declared Govadha (Killing of a cow) as an offence. It is this value which has found its way into article 48 of the Constitution of Bharat, which makes it obligatory for the state to make a law prohibiting cow slaughter.
Yajnavalkya Smriti (VI 234) also declared Govadha (Killing of a cow) as an offence. It is this value which has found its way into article 48 of the Constitution of Bharat, which makes it obligatory for the state to make a law prohibiting cow slaughter.
== 1.4.2.6 COMPASSION ==
== Compassion ==
To have compassion towards all living beings, including human beings was considered as the root of 'Dharma' .Every one was asked to look towards other living beings as his ownself (Atmavat Sarvabhutanam). The Smritis declared that cruelty to animals was a punishable offence. There is also a custom to give a weekly holiday to bullocks. In the Mahabharatha, Raja Rantideva, declares:
To have compassion towards all living beings, including human beings was considered as the root of 'Dharma' .Every one was asked to look towards other living beings as his ownself (Atmavat Sarvabhutanam). The Smritis declared that cruelty to animals was a punishable offence. There is also a custom to give a weekly holiday to bullocks. In the Mahabharatha, Raja Rantideva, declares:
dke;s nq%[krIrkuka izkf.kukekfrZuk'kueÃ
dke;s nq%[krIrkuka izkf.kukekfrZuk'kueÃ
Basaveshwara, the great 12th Century Reformer declared "Compassion is the root of Dharma; bereft of compassion, there is no Dharma".
Basaveshwara, the great 12th Century Reformer declared "Compassion is the root of Dharma; bereft of compassion, there is no Dharma".
== 1.4.2.7 SIMPLE LIFE -SPARING USE OF NATURAL RESOURCES ==
== Aparigriha- Simple living & sparing use of Natural resources ==
It is the desire of all human beings to enjoy life, and to secure happiness. The question however examined by the ancient Bharatiya thinkers has been how to secure it. Is it by increasing the wants or limiting the wants1 They opted for the latter and incorporated it in the first verse of Ishavasyopanishad. It reads:
It is the desire of all human beings to enjoy life, and to secure happiness. The question however examined by the ancient Bharatiya thinkers has been how to secure it. Is it by increasing the wants or limiting the wants1 They opted for the latter and incorporated it in the first verse of Ishavasyopanishad. It reads:<blockquote>bZ'kkokL;fen¡ lo± ;fRdŒp txR;ka txrà rsu R;Drsu HkqŒthFkk% ek x`/k% dL; fLon ?kueÃA
bZ'kkokL;fen¡ lo± ;fRdŒp txR;ka txrà rsu R;Drsu HkqŒthFkk% ek x`/k% dL; fLon ?kueÃA
All we find in this ephermeral world are created by God. Let us use them only to the minimum extent and let us not snatch the wealth belonging to another.
All we find in this ephermeral world are created by God. Let us use them only to the minimum extent and let us not snatch the wealth belonging to another.
Swami Vivekananda who rejuvinated and propagated the greatness of Dharma, said thus:
</blockquote>Swami Vivekananda who rejuvinated and propagated the greatness of Dharma, said thus:
Race after race has taken the challenge up, and tried their utmost to solve the world-riddle on the plane of desires. They have all failed in the past; the old ones have become extinct under the weight of wickedness and misery, which lust for power and gold brings in its train, and the new ones are tottering to their fall. (India and Her problems p.12)
Race after race has taken the challenge up, and tried their utmost to solve the world-riddle on the plane of desires. They have all failed in the past; the old ones have become extinct under the weight of wickedness and misery, which lust for power and gold brings in its train, and the new ones are tottering to their fall. (India and Her problems p.12)
He declared that only 'Sacrifice' brings harmony and real happiness.
He declared that only 'Sacrifice' brings harmony and real happiness.
We have to resurrect this ideal.
We have to resurrect this ideal.
Dharma and Womanhood 2nd article
Respect for women was another most cherished value of life from times immemorial in Bharat. Women were not considered as an object of physical pleasure by man, but were regarded as divine treasures for family life. In view of the role assigned by nature to mothers, and in view of the fact that the mother is the dearest person on earth to an individual and in view of the intense love and affection of a mother for her children, and her readiness to make tremendous sacrifices for the sake of her children the mother came to be regarded as God incarnate (Mata Pratyaksha Devatha). Further, as every woman is a potential mother, the cultural value evolved was to treat mother as God and to treat every woman except one's wife, as mother. As a result, every woman and even small girls, are addressed as Ma, Amma etc., which means mother.
Respect for women was another most cherished value of life from times immemorial in Bharat. Women were not considered as an object of physical pleasure by man, but were regarded as divine treasures for family life. In view of the role assigned by nature to mothers, and in view of the fact that the mother is the dearest person on earth to an individual and in view of the intense love and affection of a mother for her children, and her readiness to make tremendous sacrifices for the sake of her children the mother came to be regarded as God incarnate (Mata Pratyaksha Devatha). Further, as every woman is a potential mother, the cultural value evolved was to treat mother as God and to treat every woman except one's wife, as mother. As a result, every woman and even small girls, are addressed as Ma, Amma etc., which means mother.