By P Mohan Chandran
What is it that has held a civilization together for thousands of years, allowing it to flourish, innovate, and contribute profoundly to global spiritual and philosophical thought? Could the secret lie within the essence of Sanatana Dharma, a tradition so ancient, its beginnings are intertwined with the dawn of humanity itself?
Sanatana Dharma, often recognized as Hinduism in the West, is more than just a religion. It is the spiritual, moral, and societal compass that has directed the Indian sub-#Indcontinent for millennia. The term 'Sanatana Dharma' can be translated to 'Eternal Order' or 'Eternal Duty', implying timeless principles and values that form the very core of human existence.
Origin and History
Shrouded in antiquity, the origins of Sanatana Dharma trace back to the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's oldest urban cultures. The subsequent Vedic period saw the compilation of the Rigveda, the oldest of the scriptures, laying the foundations for what would evolve into the diverse practices and philosophies we recognize today. The epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata, Upanishads, and Puranas further expanded on these spiritual teachings, shaping the cultural and moral landscape of the Indian subcontinent.
Significance & Greatness
Sanatana Dharma is all-encompassing. It does not prescribe a singular path to divinity but acknowledges various routes, recognizing the uniqueness of individual spiritual journeys. It introduces concepts of karma (actions and their effects), dharma (righteousness), moksha (liberation), and samsara (cycle of rebirth), offering profound insights into the nature of existence.
What makes Sanatana Dharma particularly remarkable is its openness to adaptation and evolution. It has never been static or dogmatic. This dynamism has allowed it to remain relevant and resilient, absorbing various influences and continually enriching its tapestry.
Quotes on Sanatana Dharma
Throughout history, many scholars, thinkers, and leaders have marveled at the depth and universality of Sanatana Dharma. Here are a few quotes by various well-known figures, both from India and internationally, that praise Sanatana Dharma:
"Hinduism is a relentless pursuit of Truth. Truth is God, and if today it has become moribund, inactive, irresponsive to growth, it is because we are fatigued.” – Mahatma Gandhi
“In the morning I bathe my intellect in the stupendous and cosmogonal philosophy of the Bhagavad Gita, in comparison with which our modern world and its literature seem puny and trivial.” – Henry David Thoreau
“Hinduism is not just a faith. It is the union of reason and intuition that cannot be defined but is only to be experienced.” – Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
“Hinduism has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance. We believe not only in universal toleration, but we accept all religions as true.” – Swami Vivekananda
“After a study of some forty years and more of the great religions of the world, I find none so perfect, none so scientific, none so philosophical, and none so spiritual as the great religion known by the name of Hinduism.” – Annie Besant
“When I read the Bhagavad-Gita and reflect about how God created this universe, everything else seems so superfluous.” – Albert Einstein
“The Bhagavad-Gita is the most systematic statement of spiritual evolution of endowing value to mankind. It is one of the most clear and comprehensive summaries of perennial philosophy ever revealed; hence its enduring value is subject not only to India but to all of humanity.” – Aldous Huxley
“In 3000 years of our history, people from all over the world have come and invaded us, captured our lands, conquered our minds. From Alexander onwards, the Greeks, the Turks, the Moguls, the Portuguese, the British, the French, the Dutch, all of them came and looted us, took over what was ours. Yet, we have not done this to any other nation. We have not conquered anyone. We have not grabbed their land, their culture, their history and tried to enforce our way of life on them. Why? Because we respect the freedom of others.”
– A. P. J. Abdul Kalam (Former President of India)
“If there is one place on the face of earth where all the dreams of living men have found a home from the very earliest days when man began the dream of existence, it is India.” - Romain Rolland (French Nobel Laureate)
After witnessing the first successful nuclear bomb test in 1945, Oppenheimer stated, "Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds." – Julius Robert Oppenheimer (American Theoretical Physicist)
(This quote is taken from the Bhagavad Gita, indicating his knowledge and respect
for Sanatana Dharma's scriptures.)
These quotes provide insights into how Sanatana Dharma has influenced and inspired many notable personalities across various fields and nations.
So, why is it essential to understand Sanatana Dharma in our modern age?
In a world that increasingly seems fragmented, the universal principles of Sanatana Dharma offer a beacon. Its teachings can guide us to a harmonious co-existence, respecting diversity and celebrating unity. At its heart, Sanatana Dharma calls for the realization of the divine in every being, fostering compassion, tolerance, and love.
As we navigate the tumultuous waters of the 21st century, might we find solace and guidance in the timeless wisdom of Sanatana Dharma? Could this ancient philosophy hold the answers to modern dilemmas, urging humanity towards a more enlightened, harmonious existence? Only time, and our collective choices, will tell.
Do you believe Sanatana Dharma has answers to every human problem?
A. Of course, there is no issue untouched by Sanatana Dharma
B. No, Sanatana Dharma also has some limitations.
© 2023. P Mohan Chandran. All Rights Reserved.
12102023
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