India is Hinduism. The name of the religion comes from the name of the Indus River, on which the country is located. This name was introduced by the British. The Hindus themselves call their religion sanatana dharma, which can be translated as eternal order, eternal law. There are more than 700 million followers of Hinduism. They also live in other countries of South Asia, especially in Nepal. The formation of Hinduism took place over a long period of time and went through several stages of development. One of the first religious systems in India was Vedism.
Vedism
The formation of Hinduism has a rich history. The first religions of India arose as a result of the synthesis of several ethnocultural components. In the IV-III millennium BC. On the territory of India, in the cities of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, a developed civilization had already developed. The discovery of this civilization occurred only in the 20th century, and there is still a lot of mystery in it. However, it can already be said that elements of the beliefs of the peoples who inhabited these cities were included in later religious systems. So, buffalo kulyp, which can be judged from surviving prints, also exists in modern India. The cults of some trees have also been preserved. Presumably, the nature of the ritual was orgastic in form with a strong element of eroticism, with exciting singing and dancing.
Veda
The main system-forming factor of the Indian religion was the religion of the ancients Aryans, which in the 2nd millennium BC. began to penetrate into Indian territory. The Aryans were fair-skinned and fair-haired people, and the local tribes Dravidians And proto-Dravidians had blue-black skin color. The ancient Aryans were pagans who deified and spiritualized animals, plants, and natural phenomena. The main religious action was the ritual of sacrifice, including human sacrifice. All complex religious practice was gradually reduced to canonical, sacred texts - Veda. There are four in total:
- Rig Veda- a collection of hymns to the gods;
- Yajurveda- a collection of sacrificial formulas;
- Herself-Veda- a collection of sacrificial chants;
- Atharva Veda- a collection of spells and spells.
Later the Vedas were supplemented brahmins containing explanations and interpretations of the Vedas, Aranyakami - instructions for hermits, Upanishads - reflections, teachings about the structure of the world, the essence of man and the meaning of ritual. Based on all these texts, one can get an idea of Vedic.
Gods of Vedism
In the Vedas you can find mention of many gods. Most of the hymns are dedicated Indra - the god of thunder, rain, the young king of the gods. Indra plays a key role in the Vedic pantheon. He made the transition from chaos to order possible by defeating a huge serpent Vritra, personifying the primordial chaos. In general, the pantheon of gods does not lend itself to unambiguous systematization. The origin of most gods is associated with the deification of the cosmos, nature and natural phenomena. God Dyaus - sky god, Prithivi- goddess of the earth, Agni- God of fire, Soma- god of the sacrificial drink, Miter- a god who monitors order and compliance with the contract. The Vedas contain myths about the creation of the world, relationships between gods, the influence of gods on people’s lives, etc.
Since the Aryans were a nomadic people, rituals (primarily sacrifices) were performed in the open air on specially selected and prepared sites. Many rituals were associated with the king, his birth, and initiation into the kingdom. Was widespread ancestor cult, which were thought to exist eternally in some indefinite place, which means that the ancient Aryans did not yet have the idea of the transmigration of souls. The rituals were performed by priests - brahmins.
As it developed, its structure became more complex, and the influence of local beliefs changed, the religion of Vedism also changed. Brahmanism becomes a new stage in development.
Brahmanism
Castes in Brahmanism
At the stage of development of Brahmanism, the idea of the first man appears Purusha, which gives rise to all people and all living things on earth. The legend of Purushu anchors the emerging caste system in India. She talks about a certain cosmic entity that sacrifices itself, as a result of which the world and its parts arise. From different parts of Purushu's body came people belonging to different castes(from Portuguese - “pure”) - estates. These classes are isolated; they should not communicate with each other. From the mouth of Purushu arose the highest caste - brahmins(priests, experts on sacred texts), from the shoulders - kshatriyas(warriors and rulers), from the thighs - vaishyas(farmers, traders), from the feet - Shudras(servants, dependent people). There was also an even lower layer called untouchable. Members of the first three castes, considered the highest, upon reaching maturity, underwent a rite of passage and were called "twice-born" In relation to them, a doctrine is formed about the responsibilities of a person in different periods of life (varna-ashrama-dharma). In childhood, a person leads the life of a student, then he must marry and become an exemplary housewife; Having raised children, he must leave home and lead the life of a monk, hermit-sannyasin. In Brahmanism, the concept of Brahmana- the impersonal Absolute, the essence, basis and cause of the world, as well as Atman - the individual, spiritual principle in a person, his innermost essence, identical to Brahman and striving to merge with him. Gradually the idea of the circulation of existence arises - samsara, about rebirths - incarnations individual soul into ever new bodily shells, oh karma - the law determining the next birth, about mokshe - the ideal to which every soul should strive, which consists in getting rid of rebirths and incarnations.
However, in Brahmanism there was too strict a caste division, in which only representatives of the highest caste - the Brahmans - could deal with religious and mystical problems. In this regard, as well as as a result of the further development of society, religious movements appear that proclaim more democratic orders and are in opposition to official Brahmanism. These movements primarily included Jainism and Buddhism. But Buddhism was soon pushed out of India and became, and Jainism, due to its characteristics, never became widespread and remained a national religion, not very popular, but very influential.
Jainism
The founder of Jainism is considered to be a Kshatriya. Vardhamana, who lived in the 6th century. BC. Until the age of 30, he led the life of a layman, and then left the world and wandered for many years. Having achieved the highest knowledge and received the title Mahavira Jina, which means “great hero,” he preached a new faith for many years, converting many disciples to it. For many years, his teachings were transmitted in oral tradition, but in the 4th or 3rd centuries. BC. At the All-Jain Council in the city of Patalipura, an attempt was made to create a written canon. This attempt ended with the Jains splitting into two groups: digambars(clothed with light) and Shvetambara(dressed in white). The differences between these schools affected some elements of ritual, the living conditions of believers and the community as a whole, but agreement remained on the main issues.
The core of the Jain creed is the self-improvement of the soul - jivas to achieve moksha. This can be achieved by a representative of any caste, not just a Brahman, if he follows certain conditions. The task of every Jain striving for liberation comes down to getting rid of karma as a sticky base, along with which all the coarse matter stuck to it, prone to a constant cycle of existence, disappears. To complete this task, the following conditions are required:
- faith into the truth of doctrine;
- perfect knowledge;
- righteous life.
Jain vows
In fulfilling the last condition, members of the Jain community took upon themselves five basic vows:
- do not harm living things(the so-called principle ahimsa, which all Hindus adhered to, but the Jains followed it especially strictly);
- do not commit adultery;
- not to acquire;
- be sincere and pious in speech.
To these obligatory ones were added additional vows and restrictions, leading to a reduction in the pleasures and enjoyments in life.
A special layer among the Jains were ascetic monks, who completely broke with normal life and, as it were, became a standard for all others. Any Jain could become a monk, but not everyone could withstand the hardships of this path. The monks had no property, they did not have the right to stay in one place for more than 3-4 weeks, except for the rainy season. The monk is careful not to accidentally crush any small animal; he is limited in food, eats no more than twice a day, and lives by alms; The extreme form of asceticism is refusal of food, death by starvation. The additional vows are quite sophisticated: absolute silence for many years; exposure to cold or sun; standing for many years. Among the Digambaras, zeal and asceticism reached extreme limits. They had to eat food every other day, walk completely naked (dressed in light); When moving, sweep the ground with a fan, cover your mouth with a piece of gauze so as not to accidentally swallow an insect, etc.
The extreme demands of Jainism limited the spread of this movement in India. Neither farmers, nor artisans or warriors could be Jains, since due to the nature of their activities they could not observe the principle of ahimsa. Only the intelligentsia and financial circles of society became devout Jains. This explains the fact that Jainism, the number of followers of which never exceeded 1% of the population of India, nevertheless played an important role in its history.
Hinduism
Gradually, the influence of religious movements opposed to Brahmanism became weaker and a religious situation began to form in India, which is most accurately expressed in the concept of “Hinduism.” Hinduism can be defined not only as the religion of the Hindus, but also as a way of life, including the entire sum of life principles and norms, social and ethical values, beliefs and ideas, rituals and cults, myths and legends, everyday life and holidays. Hinduism is tolerant of anyone appearing on Indian soil. He easily assimilates any faith, making its gods incarnations of the gods of Hinduism. However, Hinduism is still based on beliefs coming from Vedism and Brahmanism. Hinduism does not have a clear ecclesiastical organization like those found in the West; it relies on the caste system of society, which is sometimes called the cornerstone of Hinduism.
Gods in Hinduism
Gradually, an idea emerges in Hinduism Trimurti- Hindu triad of main gods - Brahma, Shiva And Vishnu. Each god performs its own function. Brahma is considered the creator of the world, Vishnu is its protector, and Shiva destroys the world at the end of each time cycle. The cult significance of Brahma is insignificant. There are only two temples dedicated to him in all of India. Vishnu and Shiva are extremely popular and form two powerful movements, called Vaishnavism and Shaivism.
At the core Vaishnavism lies the cult of the god Vishnu and those associated with him Krishna And Frames. Based on the analysis of Indian mythology, we can conclude that thanks to Vishnu, the synthesis of the created world, its structure and integrity is achieved. The four-armed Vishnu is usually depicted reclining on a thousand-headed dragon floating on the primeval waters of the universe. Sheshe. When Vishnu wakes up, a lotus grows from his navel, with Brahma sitting in the corolla. The mythology of Vishnu includes the idea of avatars - his periodic appearances in the world in the guise of an animal or a man. Each such appearance of Vishnu is associated with a specific function that he must perform to save people. Human incarnation first occurred in the form of Prince Rama, then Krishna, Buddha, etc. Vaishnavites also revere his wife Lakshmi. The cult of Lakshmi is associated with the cults of fertility and animals. Hindus themselves revere Lakshmi as the goddess of luck and prosperity and a loving consort.
From the 11th century The intensive development of Vaishnavism begins, which is largely due to the popularity of the images of Rama and Krishna - avatars of Vishnu.
Frame - hero of the ancient Indian epic "Ramayana". This epic took shape in completed, written form several centuries BC and became one of the foundations of Indian culture. The Ramayana is a favorite poem of Indians, telling about love and loyalty, honor and observance of customs. It is not surprising that its hero Rama was deified in the minds of the people as one of the incarnations of the god Vishnu.
Krishnaism- a branch of Hinduism, which, without breaking ties with it, acquired independent significance. Krishna - ancient deity. His name means "black" and indicates that he is an aboriginal deity in origin. The first mention of the god Krishna appears in " Mahabharata" - another famous epic poem of India. Of particular importance for understanding the teachings of Vaishnavism is the chapter of the poem entitled "Bhagavad-gita", which means "divine song".
In the 60s of the XX century. in the USA thanks to the activities of an Indian preacher Swami Brahhupada society emerges " Krishna Consciousness", which quickly gained great popularity. Soon branches of this society appeared in Europe, and then in Russia. Currently, the society is active in many cities of Russia, including Novorossiysk. Thus, one of the directions of the national religion of Hinduism is spreading throughout the world.
Shaivism
Shaivism is based on the cult of Shiva, widespread mainly in South and East India. The cult of Shiva contains elements dating back to pre-Aryan antiquity (power over animals, worship of the linga, practice of yoga). The Vedic prototype of Shiva is Rudra, the god of thunder and thunderstorms. This god brought terror and corruption to people. One of Rudra's epithets was Shiva (Benevolent), used for the purpose of appeasement. Rudra was understood by the ancient Aryans as the embodiment of wild nature, its elemental destructive power; at the same time, it was a force that one could rely on and resort to for protection.
Shaivism as a cult system developed, in all likelihood, in the 1st-1st centuries. BC. At the same time, sculptural images of Shiva appear, the formation of his iconographic appearance is completed: flowing hair with a crescent in which the Ganges River flows, a tiger skin on the hips, snakes and a necklace of skulls on the neck, the third forehead eye, the fire of which incinerated the god of love Kamu. The number of hands can be up to ten. The image and mythology of Shiva is formed in its main features in the Mahabharata. In general, this image is multifaceted and contradictory. One of the most important attributes of Shiva is lingam, which became the main object of worship in Shaivism. In temples, the number of stone lingams sometimes reaches several hundred. Combination of lingam and yoni(male and female) - also a typical composition in Shaivite sanctuaries.
Shiva is an exemplary family man. His wife Parvati- daughter of the king of the Himalayas, sons - Ganesha with an elephant's head and Skanda- leader of the army of the gods. In the development of Shaivism, Shiva’s wife personifies the female hypostasis of the energy of God - shakti, on the basis of which a special cult arose - Shaktism. Numerous fertility goddesses have also become the embodiment of this energy, the most popular of which are Durga And Kali. Shakti is a spiritual energy that manifests itself under special circumstances and is closely intertwined with the male life-giving force of Shiva.
Play a big role in the life of Indians brahmins or priests. Their authority is unquestioned. They are engaged in worship, taking care of the temple, and doing theoretical work. However, along with the Brahmins, there are also sorcerers, especially in rural areas. Widespread pronunciation mantra(prayers) to which supernatural power is attributed.
Numerous holidays and rituals in which a huge number of people take part give Hinduism a special uniqueness. These can be mass pilgrimages to holy places or grandiose ritual-dramatic actions associated with popular ancient Indian heroes, a festival of lamps lit in honor of the goddess Lakshmi, holidays in honor of the goddess Saraswati and many others.
There are many family holidays and rituals: a wedding, the birth of a son, presenting a cord to a young man for the “twice-born,” a funeral. In India, there are sacred places where the dead are burned and the charred remains are drowned in the river. For ten days the family wears mourning - a piece of white cloth or white clothes. For a long time in India the custom was practiced sati, according to which the widow must ascend to her husband’s funeral pyre in order to also be burned. If she did not do this, it was considered a disgrace not only for her, but also for the entire family. There has been a struggle against this custom in India for many years. Until now, the caste system plays a big role here, determining the life and destiny of a person.
India is a country with a unique, unusually interesting culture and its own original beliefs. It is unlikely that in any other state - with the possible exception of ancient Egypt and Greece - there is such a huge number of myths, scriptures and traditions. Some researchers consider this peninsula to be the cradle of humanity. Others suggest that this country is one of the main heirs to the culture of the Aryan peoples who came here from the lost Arctida. India - Vedism - was later transformed into Hinduism, which still exists today.
History of India in Brief
The ancient tribes inhabiting the Hindustan Peninsula switched from gathering and hunting to settled agriculture around 6-7 thousand BC. e. By the end of the 3rd millennium, a highly developed culture of urban-type settlements was already emerging in these territories.
Modern scientists call it “Harappan”. This civilization existed for almost a millennium. The ancient Indian Harappan cities had well-developed crafts and a wealthy merchant class. What happened to this culture is unknown. Some researchers suggest that a large-scale catastrophe occurred, others believe that the rich cities of this period for some reason simply went bankrupt and were abandoned.
Subsequently, Muslim dynasties ruled in India for a long time. In 1526, these territories were conquered by Khan Babur, after which India became part of a huge empire. This state was abolished only in 1858 by the English colonialists.
History of religion
Over the centuries, this country has successively replaced each other:
- Vedic religion of Ancient India.
- Hinduism. Today this religion is the dominant one in India. More than 80% of the country's population is its adherents.
- Buddhism. Nowadays it is confessed by part of the population.
Early beliefs
Vedism is the oldest religion of Ancient India. Some scientists suggest that it appeared in this country some time after the disappearance of the huge, prosperous ancient state of Arctida. Of course, this is far from the official version, but it is actually very interesting and explains a lot. According to this hypothesis, once upon a time, for unknown reasons, the earth's axis shifted. As a result, the climate has changed greatly. In Arctida, located either at the North Pole or in modern subpolar continental regions, it became very cold. Therefore, the Aryans who inhabited it were forced to migrate towards the equator. Some of them went to the Middle and Southern Urals, building observatory cities here, and then to the Middle East. The other part moved through Scandinavia and the third branch took part in the formation of Indian culture and religion, reaching Southeast Asia and subsequently mixing with the indigenous inhabitants of these places - the Dravidians.
Basic concept
In fact, Vedism - the oldest religion of ancient India - is the initial stage of Hinduism. It was not widespread throughout the country, but only in part of it - in Uttar and Eastern Punjab. According to the official version, it was here that Vedism originated. The adherents of this religion were characterized by the deification of all nature as a whole, as well as its parts and some social phenomena. There was no clear hierarchy of gods in Vedism. The world was divided into three main parts - earth, sky and an intermediate sphere - antarizhna (compare with the Slavic Reality, Navya and Pravya). Each of these worlds corresponded to certain gods. The main creator, Purusha, was also revered.
Veda
We talked briefly about what the oldest religion of Ancient India is. Next, we will understand what the Vedas are - its fundamental scripture.
At the moment, this book is one of the oldest sacred works. It is believed that for thousands of years the Vedas were transmitted only orally - from teacher to student. About five thousand years ago, part of them was written down by the sage Vyasadeva. This book, which today is actually considered the Vedas, is divided into four parts (turiya) - “Rigveda”, “Samaveda”, “Yajurveda” and “Atharvaveda”.
This work contains mantras and hymns, written in verse and serving as a guide for Indian clergy (rules for conducting weddings, funerals and other ceremonies). It also contains spells designed to heal people and perform various kinds of magical rituals. The mythology and religion of Ancient India are closely related. For example, in addition to the Vedas there are Puranas. They describe the history of the creation of the universe, as well as the genealogy of Indian kings and heroes.
The emergence of Hindu beliefs
Over time, the oldest religion of Ancient India - Vedism - is transformed into modern Hinduism. This was, apparently, mainly due to the gradual increase in the influence of the Brahman caste on public life. In the renewed religion, a clear hierarchy of gods is established. The Creator comes to the fore. The trinity appears - Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva. Brahma is assigned the role of the creator of social laws, and in particular the initiator of the division of society into varnas. Vishnu is revered as the main protector, and Shiva as the destroyer god. Gradually, two directions appeared in Hinduism. Vaishnavism speaks of eight descents of Vishnu to earth. One of the avatars is considered to be Krishna, the other is Buddha. Representatives of the second direction - the cult of Shiva - especially reverence the god of destruction, considering him at the same time the patron of fertility and livestock.
Hinduism began to play the role of the dominant religion in India since the Middle Ages. It remains so to this day. Representatives of this religion believe that it is impossible to become a Hindu. They can only be born. That is, varna (the social role of a person) is something that is given and predetermined by the gods, and therefore cannot be changed.
Varnashrama-dharna social system
Thus, another ancient religion of Ancient India - Hinduism, became the heir to many traditions and rituals of previous beliefs. In particular, the division of Indian society into varnas arose during the time of Vedism. In addition to the four social groups (brahmanas, kshtariyas, vaishyas and sudras), according to this religion, there are four ways of human spiritual life. The stage of learning is called Brahmacharya, social and family life - Grihastha, subsequent withdrawal from the worldly - Vanaprastha and the final stage of life with final enlightenment - Sannyasa.
Whoever created the varnasrama-dharna, such an orderly way of life is still preserved in the world. In any country there are priests (brahmanas), administrators and military men (kshtariyas), businessmen (vaishyas) and workers (sudras). Such a division makes it possible to streamline social life and create the most comfortable living conditions for people with the opportunity to develop and improve themselves.
Unfortunately, in India itself, varnasrama-dharna has been greatly degraded by our time. The rigid division into castes (and depending on birth) that exists here today contradicts the basic concept of this teaching about the need for human spiritual growth.
Religion of Ancient India in brief: the emergence of Buddhism
This is another very common belief on the peninsula. Buddhism is one of the most unusual religions in the world. The fact is that, unlike Christianity, the founder of this cult is a completely historical person. The creator of this currently quite widespread teaching (and not only in India), Sidgartha Shanyamuni, was born in 563 in the city of Lumbene into a kshtariya family. They began to call him Buddha after he achieved enlightenment at the age of 40.
Religion has always viewed deity not as a punitive or merciful force, but as a role model, a kind of “beacon” of self-development. Buddhism completely abandoned the idea of the creation of the world by some Creator. Adherents of this religion believe that a person can only rely on himself personally, and suffering is not sent to him from above, but is the result of his own mistakes and inability to give up worldly desires. However, like the earlier Indian religions discussed above, Buddhism contains the idea of salvation, that is, the achievement of nirvana.
Interaction with Western culture
For Europeans, the culture and religion of Ancient India remained a sealed secret for a long time. The interaction between these two completely different worlds began only at the end of the century before last. Celebrities such as Nicholas and Helena Roerich and others made their invaluable contribution to this process.
Today one of the concerns about India is widely known. The famous soothsayer believed that the most ancient teaching would soon return to the world. And it will come precisely from India. New books will be written about it, and it will spread throughout the Earth.
Who knows, perhaps the ancient religion of India will indeed become the basis of future new beliefs. The “Fire Bible,” as Vanga predicts, “will cover the Earth with white color,” thanks to which people will be saved. Perhaps we are even talking about the famous work written by the Roerichs - Agni Yoga. "Agni" translated means "Fire".
Culture of Ancient India
Religion and culture of Ancient India are closely interconnected phenomena. The otherworldly mystical world of the gods is almost always present in the works of Indian artists, sculptors and even architects. Even in our time, masters strive to bring deep content, a certain vision of inner truth, into each of their works, not to mention the ancient craftsmen.
Unfortunately, very few ancient Indian paintings and frescoes have reached us. But in this country there is simply a huge number of ancient sculptures of historical value and architectural monuments. Look, for example, at the huge Ellora caves with the magnificent Kailasa temple in the center. Here you can also see the majestic statues of the divine Trimurti Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva.
So, we have found out that the oldest religion of Ancient India is Vedism. Hinduism and Buddhism that emerged later are its development and continuation. Religious beliefs in India have had a tremendous impact not only on culture, but also on social life in general. In our time, this country still remains incredibly interesting, original, original and unlike any other state in the world.
What the article is about:
— What faith is professed in India in percentage terms? Features of the Hindu faith. What are the common features of the faith of Hindus and world religions. Vaishnavism and Shaivism are the main faiths of India. The process of creation of universes. Jesus Christ about the transmigration of souls (reincarnation) in the faith of Hindus in India. Vegetarianism in India. Basics, essence, description. L
In India, 80% of Hindus are Hinduism. The second common religion is Islam with about 13% followers. Originated and exist in India Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism . 2% of the population profess Christianity. Also associated with India Judaism and Zoroastrianism ; In the country, these religions have several tens of thousands of followers.
(Data from Wikipedia).
Table of religion in India in percentage as of 2001
| Religion | Population | Percent % |
|---|---|---|
| All | 1,028,610,328 | 100,00 % |
| Hinduism | 827,578,868 | 80,456 % |
| Islam | 138,188,240 | 13,434 % |
| Christianity | 24,080,016 | 2,341 % |
| Sikhism | 19,215,730 | 1,868 % |
| Buddhism | 7,955,207 | 0,773 % |
| Jainism | 4,225,053 | 0,411 % |
| Other | 6,639,626 | 0,645 % |
| Beyond religion | 727,588 | 0,07 % |
Faith in India.
Faith in India occupies a special position among Hindus. In total, less than 0.07% of the Indian population has no faith. This is only 720 thousand people out of India’s more than one billion population (according to 2001 data). The population of India in 2017 is about 1 billion 340 million 54 thousand people.
Hindu religion
According to 2001 data, the majority of Hindus in India profess Hinduism: 827,578,868 people. This constitutes more than 80 percent of India's total population. The vast majority of Hindus in India belong to the denomination Vaishnavism and Shaivism (will be discussed in more detail below) .
What are the beliefs of Hindus, features, differences.
The Western world, after becoming acquainted with the culture and faith of India, became aware of such methods of self-knowledge as meditation, special breathing exercises, and yogic asanas. All this is part of the path of spiritual development, and is intended to calm the mind and control the senses. And yoga exercises are also for maintaining physical health. But all this is just the first step on the path of spiritual development. Meditation is intended for - perfect comprehension of your spiritual “I” (spiritual essence). Which ultimately allows the yogi to achieve exit from his physical body - without waiting for natural death, and subsequent transfer to other spheres of existence, or merging with the impersonal radiance of the Almighty (Brahman). Or - transfer to the material - “paradise” planetary systems of our universe, with a highly developed civilization, and incarnation there in a new physical body. (More details about the planets of “hell”, material “heavenly” planets are described in the article on the site:
This is a difficult branch of faith in India, which is called Jainism. The path of spiritual development itself is called “jnana yoga” (or also known as “jnana yoga”). This is the philosophical path of understanding the all-pervading Brahman - the energy of the Supreme. Successful pursuit of this type of spiritual development involves complete renunciation of material sensory pleasures, a renounced lifestyle, and constant engagement in meditative knowledge of eternal spiritual existence. For a person who lives in modern society, such a path of advancement in spiritual self-knowledge is impossible. And yet, following the modern fashion for oriental innovations, many people practice meditation and yoga without even understanding the ultimate essence of this activity. The maximum effect from such activities (without complete renunciation of the world and everything “worldly”) will be only calming the mind and relative control of one’s emotions.
By the way, “jnains” are also mentioned in the holy scripture about the journey of Jesus Christ to
And this apocrypha, not included in the canonical scriptures, tells about the journey of Jesus Christ to India and Tibet:
“…At the age of fourteen, young Issa, blessed by God, crossed to the other bank of the Indus and settled with the Aryans, in a country blessed by God.
2. The fame of the miraculous youth spread into the depths of the northern Indus; when he traveled through the country of Punjab and Rajputana, the worshipers of the god Jaina asked him to settle with them.
3. But he left the misguided worshipers of Jaina and stopped at Juggernath, in the country of Orsis, where the mortal remains of Viassa-Krishna rest and there the white priests of Brahma gave him a warm welcome.”
Here is an episode from the scriptures of ancient India:
The Supreme Lord said: “...Jnana Yoga (in another way “ jnana yoga") - the path of philosophical reflection - is intended for those who have an aversion to material life, and therefore are not attached to ordinary activities performed for the sake of enjoying its fruits. Those who are not averse to material life and who still have many material desires should go to perfection through karma yoga.
Those who are fortunate enough to have faith in hearing about Me (the Supreme) and chanting My glories, and who have neither aversion nor attraction to material life, should follow the path of love and devotion to Me and thus achieve perfection.” Srimad-Bhagavatam, 11.20.6-8 ( It is recommended to study after reading – )
What is the main faith in India?
According to 2001 data, the majority of Hindus in India profess Hinduism: 827,578,868 people. This constitutes more than eighty percent of the total population of India. The vast majority of Hindus in India belong to the denomination Vaishnavism and Shaivism.
Vaishnavism and Shaivism, it is that faith of the Hindus in India which represents an achievement in consciousness - constant loving devotion to the Supreme.
The difference between Vaishnavism and Saivism is the form in which the Supreme is worshiped. Vaishnavas (“Vaishnavism”) and Shaivites (“Shaivism”).
“In the worldview of Shaivite ascetics, the key role is played by complete rejection of the world and dedication to achieving liberation from the cycle of samsara (rebirth in a material body). While Vaisnavas prefer to remain involved in the society of non-sadhus, rendering service to society out of compassion“ (Wikipedia).
Here we should understand from the moment of creation of the material universe and the entire material world. In the Vedic scriptures, creation is described in the most detailed way.
At the very beginning of the creation of the material world, the Supreme ( "Vishnu") takes the form Karanodakasayi Vishnu, or “MAHA VISHNU” (“Chief Vishnu”). All universes emanate from this form of the Supreme.
Then the Supreme takes on many forms Garbhodakasayi Vishnu. In these forms, the Almighty enters into every universe.
Then, this form of the Supreme Garbhodakasayi Vishnu - generates- Brahma. Brahma this is the first powerful being in the universe. He is engaged in the secondary creation of the universe. Brahma is the direct creator of the universe. When Vishnu does not have a suitable jiva (soul) for such a responsible post, then Vishnu (the Supreme) Himself plays the role of Brahma.
Brahma gives birth - Shiva (“Siva” - among the ancient Slavs). Another one of several names Shiva - “Rudra”.
If Brahma is the secondary creator of the universe, Vishnu supports the entire universe with His all-pervading energy, then Shiva, when the time comes, destroys the universe. And after a certain period, the creation of the universe occurs - again.
In fact, Vishnu and Shiva are two forms of manifestation of the Supreme. It is difficult for you and me, with the human way of thinking, to understand how the Supreme Personality of Godhead can simultaneously enter each universe and manifest Himself in different forms simultaneously. An analogy with fire can help in understanding the almighty spread of the Almighty in many forms. From one source of fire (for example, a candle) you can light many different sources of fire. And the fire remains the same - fire. Its properties and qualities do not change during its distribution in different sources. If fire has this kind of property of immutability, then the Almighty Supreme Being can even more so preserve His omnipotent qualities, spreading Himself in several forms of manifestation.
You need to think about the Almighty as the Almighty Supreme Being, the Supreme Mind. And accept knowledge about Him as it is, without trying to analyze it with our imperfect “three-dimensional” thinking. Therefore, for successful advancement along the path of spiritual development, the faith and religion of India provides for a more specific focus on one of the forms of manifestation of the Almighty: among the Shaivites, the form of manifestation is - Shiva, and among the Vaishnavas (“Vishnavism”), respectively, on the form - Vishnu (“The Most High” in Vedic Slavic culture (faith), later – the Almighty).
There is a description of Vishnu and Shiva in the scriptures. In particular, there is a special practice of yoga, when the yogi meditates on the form of Vishnu located in his heart (as in the heart of every living being). With sufficiently long and successful meditation, such a yogi acquires superhuman abilities. But in order to engage in such spiritual practice, you need to completely renounce material things, pleasures, accept celibacy (celibacy), and only then will you have a chance to achieve certain results.
For a person who lives in modern society and does not intend to spend his life in complete renunciation of the material world, the path suitable for successful spiritual development is devoted loving service to the Almighty. At the final level of this principle, a person does everything for the sake of serving the Almighty (in various options possible for him). This path of spiritual development is realized in their spiritual practice by Vaishnavas, or devotees of Vishnu (the Almighty). This spiritual practice is called “bhakti yoga” (“devotional loving service to the Supreme”). This type of faith and corresponding spiritual practice is not only practiced in India, and not only by Hindus. Over the past few decades, this trend has gained great development in Western countries, better known as “Hare Krishnas”. Krishna– this is one of the names of the Almighty (God).
« The President of India congratulates believers on the 40th anniversary of the arrival of the Spiritual Teacher
Srila Prabhupada to Moscow:
Holy Scripture published on our website (“Song of God”). This scripture describes all the main paths of spiritual development. If anyone aspires to, or is simply interested in, eternal spiritual knowledge, I highly recommend reading it. Actually, this article and this entire site appeared only because its creator several years ago had great luck - read , WHICH IS RECOGNIZED AS THE QUINTESSENCE, THE ESSENCE OF ALL VEDIC WISDOM!
That's what he said about world famous writer Leo Tolstoy:
I firmly believe in the basic principle of the Bhagavad-gita, and always try to remember it and be guided by it in my actions, and also to speak about it to those who ask my opinion and reflect it in my writings.” (Lev Tolstoy).
You can read more about the spiritual direction - “Vaishnavism” in the article:
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Features of the Hindu faith. Common beliefs of India with world religions.
Beliefs in India differ in that the sacred scriptures, which underlie Hindu beliefs, provide the most information about the creation of the universe and life on other planets. The Indian scriptures describe the forms and incarnations of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. The ancient Vedas provide information about the size of atoms, the time of origin, structure and time of destruction of our universe. The process of formation of the human fetus in the womb during its development is accurately described. Indian Vedas are considered sacred scriptures – “ Apaurusheya”, i.e. scriptures, the source of knowledge in which is - not of earthly origin. And the information contained in them confirms this.
Thus, the Hindu faith is based on knowledge in a variety of material and transcendental (spiritual) fields.
The faith of Hindus in India is based on the recognition (faith) in - One God - the Supreme, or "Vishnu", (“Vyshny” - in ancient Slavic). The Hindu belief in many gods is based on knowledge and understanding of the existence of powerful beings of our universe who live on other planets (planetary systems). But God Himself, the Primary Source of all things, is recognized in the Hindu faith as One, as in other monotheistic religions and faiths.
The sacred scriptures of India are presented in the ancient language - Sanskrit. More than 90% of modern languages come from Sanskrit. For example: English word "man"- Human. According to Indian scriptures, the progenitor of humanity is - Manu. “Smayanti” (Sanskrit) - smile (English) - smile; matta (Sanskrit) – mad (English) – crazy. And these are just a few of many similar words.
But most of all, there are similarities between ancient Sanskrit and the Russian language. Brother(Russian) – bratri (Sanskrit); alive– jiva; door– dvara; mother– matri; winter– hima; snow– sneha; swim– floating; dark– tama; father-in-law– svakar; uncle- Yes Yes; fool– durra; honey– madhu; bear– madhuveda; nice– priyah; sastra, astra(Sanskrit) – sharp, weapon (Russian). By the way, the word “FAITH” itself also comes from Sanskrit words: “BE” – “To know”, to know”, And "RA" – "radiate", or “radiating knowledge” (source).”
The similarity of the ancient Sanskrit language with the Russian language is explained by the fact that the Vedic civilization existed on the territory of Eurasia for many millennia.
In the faith of Hindus in India, the Supreme One God has many names.
From one of the names of God: “Vishnu” comes - “The Most High” (“Vyshny” in ancient Slavic). From one of the names of God - “Bhagavan”, the word “God” comes from. Another name for the Supreme God among Hindus is “Govinda”. “GO” – “cow”. “The patron of cows,” since the cow is considered by Hindus in India to be a sacred animal, in fact, a second mother, because it feeds a person with its milk. On behalf of the Most High God “ Go Vinda” (“Patron of cows”) comes from the same root word – “ Go d “, and the word – “ Go bless (God). Modern word - "beef" – also comes from the name of the Almighty – "Govinda" – “Patron of Cows” .
This is how we disposed of our ancient Vedic heritage, calling in the name of the Almighty- a piece of the corpse of an animal patronized by the Almighty Himself!
There are a lot of geographical names from the Sanskrit language: Varna (city in Bulgaria); Kama; Kryshneva; Khareva; Soma; Kalka; Moksha; Nara – rivers in Russia; Arya– cities in the Nizhny Novgorod and Yekaterinburg regions. Chita , the exact translation from Sanskrit is “to comprehend, understand, know.”
All this confirms the established fact that for many millennia, in most of the territory of modern Eurasia, there was a Vedic civilization. By the way, the ancient Slavic Vedas reflect the same knowledge as the Vedas of ancient India. And this emphasizes one culture and faith that was on the mainland.
At the beginning of the twentieth century, a sacred scripture was discovered in one of the Tibetan monasteries, which, after its translation, was called “TIBETAN GOSPEL”. It told the story of the journey of young Issa at the age of 14 from Judea to India. IN “TIBETAN GOSPEL” it tells about the life of Saint Issa up to the age of 29 (precisely the period that was not covered in the canonical Christian writings). Here are some excerpts from this scripture:
….he left the misguided worshipers of Jaina and stopped at Juggernath, in the country of Orsis, where the mortal remains of Viassa-Krishna rest (-sage, author and editor-compiler of many deeply ancient and extensive monuments - the Vedas, Puranas, the philosophical system of Vedanta, as well as the famous epic "Mahabharata". The Mahabharata contains one of the most important books of Hinduism., , which is recognized as the essence of all Vedic wisdom! Published on our website - P Rome. admin),
...and there the white priests of Brahma gave him a warm welcome. They taught him to read and understand the Vedas, to heal with prayers, to teach and explain the Holy Scriptures to the people, to expel an evil spirit from a person’s body and return him to a human image.
After a fifteen-year journey through India and Tibet, at the age of 29, Saint Issa returned to Judea, where he was executed by crucifixion.
..….10. And the disciples of Saint Issa left the land of Israel and went to all countries to the pagans, preaching that they need to leave gross errors and think about the salvation of their souls and the complete bliss that awaits people in an immaterial and full of splendor world, where in peace and in all His the great Creator dwells in purity in perfect majesty.
The full text of the scripture can be read by clicking on the link: (the page will open in a new “WINDOW”).
Jesus Christ did not agree with some aspects of the doctrine of transmigration of souls in the Hindu faith. He did NOT agree that the soul of a person after the death of the physical body can move into the body of an animal.
… “As a father would act with his children, so God Himself will judge people, after their death, according to His merciful laws. He will never humiliate His child by forcing his soul to move, as in purgatory, into the body of an animal.”
The very knowledge about the transmigration of souls (reincarnation) does not apply specifically to the faith of India. The transmigration of souls into a new body (according to their past actions) was known everywhere, right up to the 3-4 centuries AD.
You can at least take a passage from the Bible:
1. “And as he passed by, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked Him: Rabbi! Who sinned, he or his parents, that he was born blind?” (John 9:1-3).
A natural question arises: when could he have sinned before he was born blind? The answer is clear: only in your past life.
Another episode: 3. Jesus Christ says: (Matthew ch. 11 v. 14)
“And if you want to accept, he is Elijah, who must come.”
4. The disciples ask Him: “How come the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” Jesus answered them: “It is true that Elijah must come first and arrange everything, but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but did to him as they wanted.” Then the disciples realized that He was talking to them about John the Baptist. (Matthew 17:10-13).
In 553 AD, the 2nd Council of Constantinople was convened. At this council, some of the teachings of such theologians as Theodora of Mopsuete, Theodoret and Iva were rejected. Fifteen anathematisms were announced. Most of all, the discussion of the transmigration of the soul found interest in these anathemisms. The same topics were discussed at the last local council in 543. Pythagoras, Plato, Plotinus and their followers all spoke together about the transmigration of souls, and Origen said the same thing. The opinion of the church was as follows: the soul is born simultaneously with the body. The Roman Church did not accept the decisions of this council until the very end of the sixth century.
Just like that. The decision of the Council of Constantinople, knowledge of the transmigration of the soul was - “cancelled” .
Vegetarianism in the faith of Hindus in India is not some peculiarity of the Hindu faith. As we mentioned a little earlier, the ancient Slavs also had a Vedic culture. And they also had their own direct commandments for this:
“Do not bring bloody sacrifices to Alatyr, do not anger your Gods, for it is disgusting for Them to accept innocent blood from God’s creatures.”
“Do not eat food with blood, for you will be like wild animals, and many diseases will take root in you. You eat the clean food that grows in your fields, in your forests and in your gardens, then you will gain much strength, bright strength, and may illnesses and torment and suffering not overtake you.”
Some, supposedly “followers” of ancient Slavic culture, want to interpret the words: “ Don’t eat food with blood.” in such a way that the meat must be bled before eating. This is what the Jews do in their tradition. But then what is said further in the commandment will not make sense: “ You shall eat the clean food that grows in your fields, in your forests and in your gardens.”
That is, in plain text:“...food that GROWS in fields and forests.”
Refusal to eat animal corpses is a rule not only of the Vedic culture of the ancient Slavs and India. This is what Jesus Christ said about this:
469. And therefore he who kills kills his brother.
470. And the Earthly Mother will turn away from him and take away her life-giving breast.
471. And her angels will shun him, but Satan will find his abode in his body.
472. And the flesh of the killed animals in his body will become his own grave.
473. For truly I tell you, whoever kills kills himself, and whoever eats the flesh of slain animals eats the bodies of death.
474. For in his blood every drop of their blood turns into poison, in his breath their breath turns into stench, in his flesh their flesh turns into festering wounds, in his bones their bones turn into lime, in his entrails their entrails turn into putrefaction. , in his eyes their eyes are like a veil, in his ears their ears are like a plug of sulfur.
475. And their death will become his death.
Russian Federation:
In order to enlarge the graph, move the cursor over the picture and click on it with the left mouse button.
Germany:
In order to enlarge the graph, move the cursor over the picture and click on it with the left mouse button.
The graphs (above) show mortality statistics from cancer. If we take into account that the level of medical care in Russia, and especially in Germany, is much higher than in India, and quite a lot of people with cancer are cured, then full statistics – SICK peoplecancer diseases , will make an even bigger difference.
Western countries and also in Russia became aware of Hinduism and the religious direction - “Vaishnavism” through the activities of the religious organization - “International Krishna Consciousness Movement ( God)". You can learn more about this religious movement by reading the article on the site: - —
If you want to learn more about the peculiarities of the paths of spiritual development, I recommend reading or listening to a short lecture by the Indian saint, preacher, Vaishnava, author, translator and commentator of many sacred scriptures of India - Swami Srila Prabhupada, who is known to all theologians of the world for his dissemination of spiritual knowledge. The lecture gives a general principle of spiritual development that can be practiced in modern society.
Srila Prabhupada preached all over the world. The band members knew him and were personally acquainted with him Beatles:
Srila Prabhupada is on the left, George Harisson is on the right.
Below is a short excerpt from Srila Prabhupada's lecture in which he talks about the paths of human development.
Srila Prabhupada:
– Spiritual paths are divided into four. There is real spirituality, and there is mixed spirituality.
For example: such an attitude: “God, send us our daily bread,” this is a mixed spirituality. Man turns to God, God is spiritual. But we ask (from Him) for material benefits. This is a mixed path - matter and spirit.
So, there are four classes. These are “Karmis” who act for the sake of fruits (the results of their activities - admin’s note). They work for material gain. They are called "karmis". For example, you can see how all the people work day and night, driving their cars - here and there. Their goal is to make money. They are called “karmi”.
Then there is “jnanis”. A jnani is one who knows: “I am working so hard. But - for what? Birds, animals, huge elephants. Eight million different species (according to the Vedas, 8 million are species of irrational living beings in the universe, and 400 thousand are intelligent), they do not work. They have no professions, no business. How do they eat? So why should I engage in meaningless work? I have to figure out the problem of life. These people understand the problem of life, death, old age and illness. And they want to solve it, to gain immortality. And so, they come to the conclusion that if I merge with the existence of God, then I will become immortal. or - I will get rid of birth, old age, death and illness. This is jnani. And some of them are “yogis”. They are trying to gain some mystical powers to perform miracles. A yogi can become very small, if you lock him in a room, he will get out and come out of there. If there is even a small hole left, he will come out. This is called "anima". He (a real yogi - admin's note) can fly in the sky. This is called “lagima”. Thus, if someone can show such miracles, he is immediately mistaken for an amazing person.
Modern yogis simply show gymnastic exercises. They have no power. Therefore, I am not talking about these “third-rate” yogis. A real yogi has power. This is material force. And yogis also desire this power. And the “jnanis” want liberation from the hard work of the “karmis”. And “karmis” want material gain. They all want something. However, “bhakti” – devotees – do not want anything. They want to serve God because of love (for Him).
For example: a mother loves her child. She doesn't want material rewards. She just loves. When you reach this level of love for God, it is perfection.
So these different paths: karmi, jnani, yogi and bhakta, if you want to understand God, then from these four methods you have to choose - bhakti. This is stated in E":
“Me, God, can be known only through bhakti.” God never talks about other ways. No. Only through bhakti. So if you are interested in knowing God and loving Him, then you should take the path of devotional service.
Below is Srila Prabhupada's lecture.
Lecture by Srila Prabhupada
Lecture on Srimad Bhagavatam Canto 3 Chapter 26; Text 46, read by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada on January 21, 1975 in Bombay.
You can listen to the lecture. Below is the full text of this lecture. with the necessary explanations.
BEGINNING OF THE LECTURE
Read a passage from the scripture Srimad-Bhagavatam ( recommended to study after reading):
– The properties of the earth are manifested in the creation of sculptural images of the Supreme Brahman, in the construction of houses, in the making of water pots, etc. In other words, the earth is the container of all other elements.
Srila Prabhupada:
– (Reads Sanskrit). This temple is the “Brahmana stanum” – the home of the Supreme Personality of Godhead – “Brahman”. Brahman means Absolute Truth.
The Absolute Truth is realized in three different aspects. The Supreme Brahman is Krishna (“Krishna” is one of the names of the Almighty– approx. admin) – the Supreme Personality of Godhead. As Arjuna (the character of the Bhagavad-gita with whom Krishna spoke) admitted, having realized , he turned to Him: “You are Parabrahman. Brahman, Paramatma and Bhagavan". This is the Absolute Truth. Depending on the level of our awareness, we perceive the Absolute Truth in three different aspects: as the impersonal Brahman (in Christianity referred to as the all-pervading “holy Spirit”), as the localized omnipresent manifestation of Vishnu or Paramatma ( God form, present in every heart of a living being – approx. admin). And the last word in understanding the Absolute Truth is: “ Bhagavan"(from this Sanskrit word comes the word “God” - admin’s note).
– So impersonal Brahman - no one can build any place or house for impersonal Brahman or Paramatma. Because Paramatma is everywhere. So this is the deity that yogis worship - the impersonal Brahman for the “jnani”. ("Jnani Yoga" or "Jnana Yoga" - it is the path of self-realization in which the individual, with the help of his mind, distinguishes reality from illusion and realizes his identity with the all-pervading Brahman. Requires complete renunciation. Cannot be used by a person while remaining living in modern society,– approx. admin).
Srila Prabhupada:
- A "Bhagavan"– The Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is the shelter of Parabrahman, impersonal Brahman and Paramatma. The Vedic Upanishad describes the impersonal Brahman. And yogis, with the help of meditation, try to comprehend the Supreme Absolute Truth - contemplating the form of the four-armed Vishnu ( in your heart – approx. admin).
Yogis and “jnanis” have their own method of comprehending the Absolute Truth. Also the bhakta ( "Bhakti Yoga" – the practice of bhakti yoga is aimed at cultivating love for the Supreme through "bhakti" - serving God with love and devotion. This method is the only one applicable for a person living in modern society. – Note admin) . Bhaktis want to worship the personality of Godhead in a temple. For example, we are trying to build a good temple here. We already have this temple, service is already happening. And we want to prepare a very magnificent place for the Lord. This land is an opportunity to build a temple for the Supreme Personality of Godhead. We have ( means all people) there is a penchant for building houses.
The material world means, first of all, what we have - the desire for sex, the union of a man and a woman. And everything in material life revolves around this. The center of material happiness is sexual urge. This morning, some devotees were saying that people travel from home to Bombay and spend three to four hours on the road. They work there for eight hours, and then spend three to four hours on the way back. And someone asked: “Why should they go home, they can stay in the city?” But no. Because there is a central point. The center is sex.
The life of a materialistic person is wasted on this. Sukadeva Goswami (the saint who about 4.5 thousand years ago expounded the sacred scripture “Srimad-Bhagavatam” to King Parikshit) speaks about this. “At night, they waste valuable time sleeping, or they waste it on sex. And during the day they want to earn money. And if they manage to earn money, they think about how to spend it on relatives.” This is material life. As soon as we connect in sex, after that we want an apartment, or a big house, a field. Previously, people were engaged in agriculture. Industry is now developed.
So this is the use of land. And this tendency can be used by building a temple. Man has a tendency: “I must have a very tall building, a skyscraper.” We have this trend. But if we use this tendency to build, as they say here. Instead of thinking that I will have a big building. If we change this consciousness and decide: “I will build a big beautiful temple to worship the deity there.” This is the correct use of this trend. The first one pleases his senses. The other one does the same. If you are building a temple, you will have to put in the same effort. You need to get a building permit, get cement, bricks, and so on. A lot of things. But this is connected with – Krishna ( to the Almighty). This is Krsna consciousness. Your ability to build something material, a house, if we do it for Krsna, then that is Krsna consciousness. And your life is successful. You are always thinking of Krsna. Even Kamsa (a character in the scripture Srimad-Bhagavatam), he was an enemy of Krishna. And he always thought about Krishna. As the belly ( pregnancy) Devaki increased day by day, she became more and more beautiful, radiating radiance. And Kamsa was waiting: when his sister Devaki would give birth to Krishna (the Supreme in human form), and he would kill Him. That was his intention. He wanted to kill Krishna. First of all, he was ready to kill his sister. When he heard ( prediction): “Your sister’s eighth son will kill you.” And Kamsa thought: “Why wait for the eighth son? I’d rather kill my sister right away.” But Vasudeva saved her. With the help of cunning, a cunning plan. Finally, he said, “Your sister won’t kill you. And the sister’s son, and – who knows whether he will appear, and whether he will live or not.” But Kamsa did not want to listen to anything. It is the husband's duty to protect his wife. And he ( Vasudeva, husband of Devaki - sister of Kamsa) came up with a plan. He said, “My dear Kamsa, my brother-in-law. I will bring you all the children born from your sister. If you want, you can kill them.” So, he saved the situation.
11 minutes 36 seconds of lecture recording.
“And Kamsa was always thinking about how to kill Krishna. This is also Krishna consciousness. He thought differently: “How to kill Krishna.” The devotee thinks ( there is a small break in the recording here)
Prabhupada:
– One thinks positively, the other negatively. One thinks of Krishna with the intention of killing Him, the other thinks of Krishna with the intention of serving Him. And these reflections on how to serve Him are called “bhakti.” And only this is bhakti, and nothing else. Kamsa was thinking how to kill Him. But this is not bhakti.
Bhakti is ( speaks a phrase in Sanskrit). Anukula means positive. Thinking about how to serve Krishna, decorate. How to give Krishna a good place, a good house, a temple. How to preach the glories of Krishna. If you think like this, then this is Krsna consciousness. This is perfect practice - how to serve Krishna. Like Arjuna ( IN ( "Song of God") Krishna (the Supreme in human form) expounds to Arjuna the knowledge of the Absolute Truth, – approx. admin) changed his mind. Arjuna thought about not fighting. But when he listened carefully to Krishna's instructions, he changed his mind. “Krishna wants this. Krishna wants this war, and I must participate in it.” This is the practice of Krishna consciousness. He ( Arjuna) did not follow his decision. His decision was to NOT fight. Vaisnava (“Vaishnava” - devoted servant of the Almighty, Vishnu, -approx. admin), this is his natural inclination. Vaisnava is a friend to everyone. And Arjuna was a Vaisnava, a devotee of Krishna. Naturally, he was not inclined to kill. And he declared, he said, “I will not fight.” But after hearing Bhagavad-gita, he decided: “Krishna wants this battle. He wants me to participate in it. "He ( Krishna - Supreme in human form) speaks: " These people gathered here have already been killed. This is My plan. Just let the credit for the winner go to you.” Although, I made some decision, my own decision. But if I understand that Krishna wants me to do something different, something opposite, I must be ready to do it. And this is “Krishna consciousness” (« Krishna Consciousness“is the consciousness of a person who is constantly engaged in loving service to the Supreme (“Krishna”), – approx. admin). If you serve Krishna positively, that is first-class bhakti ( “Bhakti yoga” is the path of spiritual development consisting of devoted loving service to Krishna (the Supreme) -approx. admin). Negatively, as Kamsa thought, he thought about how to kill Krishna, he also received liberation. Because he was always thinking about Krishna. But he did not receive the liberation of a devotee (liberation from the material world, which devotees of the Almighty (“Krishna”) receive – admin’s note). The liberation of a devotee is different from the liberation of nondevotees - “jnani” (“Jnani yoga” or “jnana yoga” - this is the path of self-awareness, on which the individual, with the help of his mind, distinguishes reality from illusion (material - temporary), and realizes his identity with Brahman. Requires complete renunciation. Cannot be used by a person while remaining living in society,– approx. admin). We have already explained that there are three aspects of the Absolute Truth. One is the impersonal Brahman, the other is the localized Paramatma, or the “Supersoul” (“Paramatma” or – “Supersoul” – aspect of the Supreme, residing (localized) in the heart of every living being, next to the individual soul (atma), – approx. admin). And - The highest level is the awareness of the Supreme Personality of God - “Bhagavan”.
Impersonal Brahman is the goal – “jnani”. Paramatmas – achieve yoga. And the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Krishna, is reached by pure devotees (“bhakti”). Pure devotees, they have no other desires. Others: “jnanis” desire to merge with the existence of the Lord. They want it. And yogis, by the grace of the Supreme Paramatma, want to gain some - sidhi ( powerful possibilities). But they don’t want “bhakti”: neither “sidhi”, nor “mukti” ( “mukti” – what the “jnanis” want is liberation from matter and merging with the impersonal Brahman, – approx. admin). They want to serve the Supreme Personality of Godhead. This is pure devotion. And also, in this life we can use these earthly things. We can use all these material elements in the service of the Lord.
So, from the earth we can make images of the Lord. We can build the temple of the Lord. So many things. It's necessary. This is sattvika. Here it is called “sat vishesha” and “asat vishesha”. This needs to be understood. “asat vishesha”, for example, we have a city, roads, cars, buildings. So many things. This is a transformation of the same land. But all this is “asat vishesha”. This won't last long. Everything here: house, car, road, body, society, friendship, nation, all this is “asat”. The same thing can happen – “sat visheshey”. This temple is sat vishesha, the deity is sat vishesha. Worship of the deity is sat vishesha.
So we can use this. This is the instruction of the Goswami. We are followers of the six Goswamis of Vrindavan. The six Gosvamis of Vrindavan: Rupa Goswami, Sri Sanatana Goswami, Sri Raghunatha Bhatta Goswami, Sri Raghunatha Dasom Goswami, Sri Jiva Goswami, Sri Gopala Bhatta Goswami. These are the six Goswamis. In Vrindavan they began the path of bhakti following the instructions of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu sent his different devotees to different parts of India. And of course He wanted His devotees to go to every corner of the world. But he started in India. Their place of residence was Vrindavan. And they wrote countless books. Nityananda Prabhu went to Bengal. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu - Himself traveled throughout India, especially in southern India. Thus preaching was His main mission, the mission of His life. He left His family life. He wanted to show His mercy to the fallen souls of this Kali Yuga (“Kali Yuga” – a repeating period of life on Earth, the time of the fall of religious principles, began about 5 thousand years ago, approx. – admin). Therefore, as a young man, 24 years old, He (Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu) left His family. He had a wonderful family: a mother, a wife. A very loving mother, a very beautiful wife. But He left everything and went into the forest. That is, He accepted the way of “sannyasa” ( renunciation of the world) to preach and uplift fallen souls. This is the principle of Vaisnavas ( devotees of the Supreme). This means accepting everything as - belonging to Krishna (the Supreme). Mayavadis, at least that's what they say, ( speaks Sanskrit) “mitya” - they say it is false ( about the material world). But the Vaisnavas say: “No, this is not false. This is a by-product of Krishna's energy. If Krishna is the Truth, then how can it be false? They ( Mayawadi) consider this material world to be false. It's temporary. But they (" Vaisnavas - devotees of the Supreme) know how to use this material world for devotional service ( to the Almighty). You can use the same energy, build something with bricks and stones and wood, turning it into a beautiful temple. This was the Vedic culture. Until now, in old cities you will see a lot of temples on the streets. Especially in Kanpuri, even along the alley there are many temples. Radha-Krishna temple, Vishnu temples, Shiva temple. All over India you will find such temples. People were so spiritually advanced, even Muslims too. They built so many mosques. This is a must use.
23 minutes; 51 seconds of recording.
– If we have an inclination to erect houses, to build buildings from stones and bricks, we need to use this ability to build a temple for the Supreme Brahman. We are not giving up anything. Everything belongs to Krishna ( to the Almighty).
(Says a phrase in Sanskrit), “Hari” means God, the Supreme Lord. Him ( God) there is a relationship. Because EVERYTHING is His energy. Therefore, everything is connected: earth, water, air, fire, sky, all these are different energies of Krishna. So, there is a connection between all this. When it is used for Krishna, Krishna's energy is used for Krishna, that is bhakti ( loving devotional service to the Supreme). When Krishna's energy is used for our own enjoyment, it is called demonism. The same thing, you can use it – for Krishna, it is “bhakti”. The same thing, if you use it for your material enjoyment, it is demonism. In reality, you are not capable of this. Everything belongs to Krishna (the Supreme).
Let's say something belongs to me. If you don't use it for me, you use it for yourself, then it will upset me. “How so? Is he using my things for himself!?” Of course, this is a rough example. However, the philosophy is that everything belongs to Krishna. ( Says a phrase in Sanskrit). Krishna said: ( phrase in Sanskrit). He is the Owner. And since He is the owner, my body belongs to Him too. Therefore, all this must be used for Krishna. This is “bhakti”. We must not refuse. You cannot refuse anything. Let's say you dress well. If you give up all this and walk around in only columbine, but this is also clothing. We are forced to use what belongs to Krishna. If we accept it as “prasadam” ( mercy of the Almighty), after – offered to Krishna. Philosophy of "Vaishnavas" ( devotees of the Supreme), if someone is going to use, for example, some new clothes, first of all, he offers them to Krishna. And then he uses it. This is the Vaishnava philosophy. The same applies to food and sleep. We need a home, we need everything. But we need it as “prasad” ( mercy) Krishna. We just have to admit: in the end, Krishna gives us everything! Krishna wants us to accept that we get everything from Him. It's necessary. He gives us everything. Not even devotees. But nondevotees do not accept that this is prasadam ( mercy) Krishna. That by the grace of Krishna I have received this. This is what non-devotees do. And the devotee admits it. This is the difference between: devotee ( to the Almighty) and – not devotees.
So our Krishna consciousness movement ( God)”, is to change consciousness. Everyone thinks differently. Consciousness, we are only trying to transform our consciousness, transfer it to Krishna. Then we will become happy. If we practice this, then we become worthy of ascending to the spiritual world. We have to, we have to leave our body. If at the time of death we can think of Krishna, it is very difficult. But if we practice ( phrase in Sanskrit), if we practice this simple method: “Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna; Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare; Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare" ( This is the Maha Mantra, the main mantra,– approx. admin), then this is possible. What's the difficulty? What do we lose if we ask you to do something? If you think you will lose something, you can refuse. But if you have nothing to lose, and the gain is what you gain - Krishna ( God), then why don't you do it? What is it called: fanaticism, stubbornness. “No, we won’t repeat it, we won’t do it.” This is our misfortune. Therefore, those who have taken the path of “Krishna consciousness” ( God, Most High), and chant the Hare Krishna mantra, they are the most fortunate people in the world. Shastras ( scriptures) they say, even if a person is born into a family of dog eaters ( the lowest class in India -approx. admin), but somehow or other, if he accepts the "Krsna consciousness" movement and chants "Hare Krishna", he deserves - glory! He is truly a lucky person! ( Says a phrase in Sanskrit), it is said that it is worth understanding that in their past life, such people practiced severe asceticism. They are true Aryans.
So this Hare Krsna movement is a very authentic movement. Based on sastra ( holy scripture). And Caitanya Mahaprabhu followed this. Narda Muni followed this. And all the great sages followed this. The sastras say: “In this age, in Kali-yuga,” we are surrounded by various shortcomings that hinder our spiritual advancement. Spiritual advancement is the only human need. Regarding: food, sleep, sex, protection, everyone does it according to their abilities. But this is not our mission. Even birds and animals have this. They are doing this. The only task of human life is to inquire about the Supreme, about Brahman. Always think about Brahman. These thoughts, this activity – this is what is needed! This is the only task. But we have come up with so many other tasks and activities, leaving aside the true mission of life. The Krishna Consciousness movement is teaching all over the world the true purpose of life. If anyone is lucky, they will take advantage of this movement and achieve success in their lives. Thank you.
Religion in India goes back thousands of years. Initially, the main religion on the Hindustan Peninsula was Vedism. At this time, the Indo-Aryan race lived here, they professed a special religious practice described in ancient texts called the Vedas. Later, the sacred texts of the Upanishads, Mahabharata, and Rigveda were compiled. There is no exact time frame for what period the formation took place religions of ancient India. Modern scientists suggest that this took a period of one thousand to two thousand years. These dates are very arbitrary, since it is not possible to rely on any reliable facts during the period of three thousand years BC. Much later. After the exodus of the Aryans from the Hindustan Peninsula. Buddhism came to these territories and settled here for a long time.
Having brought a lot to the new religion Hinduism, which replaced Buddhism. This ancient religion of India has clung to the local population for many centuries and is still practiced by most of the population. Despite all kinds of persecution during the periods of occupation of these territories by various invaders. Carrying with them their beliefs. Hinduism has adapted and adapted Islam and Christianity. At this time in India there are many different religions and beliefs, but the main faith is Hinduism. Almost eighty percent of the population professes it. The second largest faith is Islam, with just over ten percent of believers. Then comes Christianity up to three percent. Sikhism up to two percent, Buddhism in India to one, Jainism to half a percent. Then there are many other religions, but their influence on the population is not great. Since ancient times, people who lived in the territory of modern India. Many different deities were worshiped and many of them retain their influence on human minds to this day. The good news is that these contradictions do not turn into bloody wars for faith in India.
Gods and goddesses of India
Pantheon gods of india very big. Moreover, some of the deities can appear in different forms. It can be quite difficult for an uninitiated person to understand all these intricacies of divine genealogies and reincarnations. Vishnu is the main deity; his title, translated from Sanskrit, characterizes him as having all the virtues. Most often in pictures he is depicted as a man with four arms and blue skin. He is able to be in three hypostases; in each of them, his body acquires some new property, allowing him to perform actions inherent in the gods. When Vishnu lies down to rest, a lotus flower appears from his navel. Brahma comes out of it. Brahma is the same deity as Vishnu. He is considered to be self-born at the very beginning of the creation of the universe. It is he who is credited with the creation of man and the creation of the first sages, to whom the first divine knowledge was transmitted. He can also be in three forms and has four arms, but his skin color is already human and is usually depicted as a gray-haired old man. In addition to four arms, he has four heads and four faces. Perhaps this is the only deity in the pantheon. Which is not depicted with any weapon in his hands. Most often he holds books.
You should definitely travel around India, visiting unique natural places, many of which have retained their original appearance, more details:.
Shiva, another deity of the Indian pantheon, also has three hypostases; he can simultaneously be both a creator and a destroyer. Most often it is depicted as a four-armed man with dazzling white skin. He holds a destructive weapon in his hands.
Lakshmi is the goddess of luck and prosperity, wife of Vishnu. Her usual image is of a magnificent woman with charming forms. Seated on a lotus flower. Sarasati, wife of the god Brahma, is the patroness of the arts.
Goddess of India Porvati, wife of Shiva. During his battles, she helps her husband in the form of a terrible demon devouring her husband's enemies. The divine pantheon of Hinduism is very large; to understand all these reincarnations, you need to be very well versed in religious dogmas. Ordinary Indians worship the chosen god, without particularly going into the possibilities of his reincarnation.
Throughout India there are a very large number of temples dedicated to different gods. But sometimes it may turn out that they are dedicated to the same deity. Only in a different form. Various gods, after creating the earth and humanity on it, gladly descended to people and, taking on human form, made love with the children of men. These events are reflected in many epic tales of ancient India.
Different states worship different gods. There are even temples. Where various sacred animals are worshiped. There may be crocodiles, rats, monkeys and peacocks. Muslims living in India. They profess an orthodox religion. Only here she underwent some changes due to the peculiarities of local life and became more tolerant of other beliefs. More secular. The state, where the majority of Muslims live, has many mosques and fully tolerates other faiths on its territory.
Christianity has also adapted to the characteristics of the population living here. In Christian churches there is the same casteism as in modern Indian society. A thousand-year fusion of different cultures has given rise to a unique society where everyone religions of india They do not compete with each other, but serve the common goals of the state and, despite apparent differences in dogma, they get along well together. Apparently the thousand-year history of this people makes itself felt, professing patience and righteous work for rebirth in a new body with the best qualities of the soul.
Yoga and Ayurveda
These concepts are not religious, but rather philosophical, preaching caring for one’s body and, through improving the body, access to a higher spiritual level. Thanks to this, one can better understand the true purpose of man and his approach to the essence of the gods. Perhaps these philosophical concepts best provide an opportunity to understand how so many different beliefs, sometimes contradictory, can exist together. Without conflicting with each other. Thanks to the fact that practicing yoga, many residents of the country strive to improve the spirit of soul and body. They become more tolerant of other people's misunderstandings. They just go on their way. Not paying attention to various little things.
Religions of India, video:
1. Section 1. The importance of religion for India. Various faiths in Indian religion.
2. Section 2. Orthodoxy in India.
3. Section 3. Holy places in India.
About the religion of India
Almost all people living in India are deeply religious. Religion for Indians is a way of life, an everyday, special way of life.
Hinduism is considered to be the main religious and ethical system of India. In terms of the number of followers, Hinduism occupies a leading place in Asia. This religion, which does not have any one founder and one fundamental text (there are many of them: the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas and many others), originated so long ago that it is impossible to even determine its age, and spread throughout India and throughout many countries of Southeast Asia, and now, thanks to immigrants from India, who have settled everywhere - all over the world.
Each of the numerous Hindu gods carries within itself one of the facets of the omnipresent God, for it is said: “The truth is one, but the sages call it by different names.” For example, the god Brahma is the omnipotent ruler of the world, Vishnu is the preserver of the world, and Shiva is the destroyer and at the same time the recreater of the world. Hindu gods have several incarnations, which are sometimes called avatars. For example, Vishnu has many avatars and is often depicted as King Rama or shepherd Krishna. Often, images of gods have several arms, which is a symbol of their various divine abilities, and Brahma, for example, is endowed with four heads. God Shiva always has three eyes; the third eye symbolizes his divine wisdom.
Among the main tenets of Hinduism is the doctrine of the many reincarnations through which the soul of every person passes. All evil and good deeds have good and bad consequences, which do not always appear immediately, already in this life. This is called karma. Every living being has karma. The purpose of reincarnation is moksha, the salvation of the soul, delivering it from painful rebirths. But by strictly following virtue, a person can bring moksha closer.
Many Hindu temples (and there are a great many of them in India) are masterpieces of architecture and sculpture and are usually dedicated to a single deity. The choice of profession, as a rule, is not a personal matter: traditionally, Hindu society consists of a large number of groups - castes, called jati and united into several large classes (varnas). And everything, from marriage to profession, is subject to special, strictly defined rules. Intercaste marriages are still rare among Hindus. Married couples are often determined by parents when the bride and groom are still in infancy. Also, Hindu tradition prohibits divorce and remarriage of widows, although there are no rules without exceptions, especially in our time.
The bodies of the dead are burned in funeral pyres by adherents of Hinduism.
Hinduism is professed by 83% of the total population of India, i.e. about 850 million people. Muslims in India are 11%. The mass spread of this faith began in the 11th century, and it was introduced by the Arabs earlier, in the 7th century. In most Muslim communities in India, polygamy is prohibited.
One of the oldest religions in the world, Buddhism, originated in India in the fifth century BC. Buddhists believe that enlightenment, that is, liberation from suffering in the endless cycle of rebirth, can be achieved by every living being, and especially by humans, since, according to Buddhism, everyone initially has the nature of Buddha. Unlike Hindus, Buddhists do not recognize castes. Every person who sincerely accepts this teaching can become its follower. Although the birthplace of Buddhism is India, Buddhism in India today is represented either in the Tibetan or (occasionally) in the Sri Lankan version. Hinduism, having absorbed much of the teachings of Buddha Gautama, conceptualized the latter as one of the avatars of the god Vishnu.
If you meet a person on the streets of India in a colorful turban with a thick, thick beard, you should know that he is a Sikh, that is, a follower of Sikhism, a faith that has absorbed and united Hinduism and Islam. Once in a Sikh temple - gurudwara, do not look for images of gods. They are not here, but there are images of Sikh gurus - noble bearded men in turbans, sitting in a pose of contemplation. Sikhs worship the holy book Granth Sahib.
If your neighbor on the train turns out to be a person whose mouth is covered with a handkerchief, do not rush to change your ticket: he is not sick with any dangerous disease. He simply closed his mouth so that, God forbid, he would not accidentally swallow some midge. And know that this person professes Jainism and, most likely, is in a hurry to go on pilgrimage. This faith, like Buddhism, originated in India in the sixth century BC. Jains are opposed to any form of violence. Therefore, Jains eat exclusively plant foods. This also explains the presence of a scarf on the face. Jains never lie, since they all take a vow of truthfulness; this does not prevent many of them from being large businessmen.
The Parsis worship Ahura Mazda, the god of light. Its symbol is fire. This religion is one of the most ancient on earth. It originated in Persia in ancient times, and in the 8th century BC it was reformed by the prophet Zoroaster and received the name Zoroastrianism. Parsis believe in the purity of the elements: fire, water, air, earth. They do not burn the bodies of the deceased, leaving them in “towers of silence.” There, the bodies of followers of this faith become prey for vultures.
"Parsis" in India refers to the people who left Persia (Iran) in the early ninth century AD. in search of a land of religious freedom. They were followers of the ancient faith of the Zoroastrians, and in order to preserve their religion, which was subjected to severe oppression by Muslims, they chose to leave their native lands. The story of their journey to India is told in the Tale of Sanjan, Quissa-i Sanjan, written in 1600.
Guided by the prediction of the priest-astrologer, the Zoroastrians left their native places in the north of Persia, crossed the country and crossed the sea to Div, on the coast of modern Pakistan. They lived there for twenty years before moving again on the advice of an astrologer. On the open sea they were overtaken by a terrible storm that threatened to sink all the ships. They prayed to God for salvation and promised that if they remained alive, they would erect a great Fire Temple as a sign of gratitude.
Their prayers were answered, and the ships washed up on the northeastern coast of India in the Sanjana region. They turned to the local prince for permission to settle in these places. Permission was obtained on the following conditions - they had to speak the local language (Gujarati), observe local marriage customs and not carry weapons. To assure him of their peaceful intentions, the Parsis presented a document of sixteen points (slokas), which set out the main tenets of their faith. In it they emphasized that Zoroastrianism had similarities with Hinduism and that their customs would not harm anyone. The generous ruler even allocated them land to build a temple.
The Parsis consider their journey to India as proof of a divine omen discovered by them in the stars. In response to their prayers, they were able to land safely: to settle in India, they were given minimal adaptation conditions, and their religion could coexist in complete harmony with the faith of the owners of their new homeland. The entire course of history since then only confirms their belief.
During the rule of the Hindus, the Parsis led a calm, safe, sedentary life. In 1297 A.D. Gujarat was overrun by hordes of Muslims. In 1465, the Muslims, in order to finally establish their power in the region, repeated the invasion. The Parsis were afraid of renewed persecution and took up arms on the side of the Hindus, but they were still defeated. Fortunately, the Muslim pressure on the Parsis (and other faiths) in India was nothing compared to what they had to endure in Persia.
British rule
The emergence of European and especially British merchants in the seventeenth century was an event that radically influenced the fate of the Parsis. The British built a powerful trading base on the Bombay Islands. Further
Modern tendencies
In the twentieth century, as the influence of other communities grew, the wealth and power of the Parsis fell into relative decline. But the Parsis remain a respected, highly educated, upper-middle class community. Further
Parsis and Theosophy
Such extremist sentiments could not help but introduce a split in the camp of the orthodox, which, however, took an unexpected form due to the fact that theosophy, a religious movement that arose in the West, called on Indians to renounce Western materialism and uphold ancient traditions, was brought into this issue. This call found a response among many Parsis, who, without formally joining the Theosophical Society, accepted some of its postulates. Further
Joining God's Army
The rite of passage (naujote) is traditionally held at the age of puberty, although nowadays there is a tendency to have it around the age of nine. The ritual is never performed with infants, since its whole essence is that the initiate, of his or her own will, joins the army of God. Zoroastrians do not believe that a child can sin before he knows the difference between good and bad.
Naujote is not a sacramental conferment of title, but rather an initiation into the world of religious duties. The visible side of the ritual consists of putting on the sacred shirt for the first time in public and tying the thread. The white shirt symbolizes the purity of faith and is made of cotton. There is nothing between her and the body. The thread is made from lamb's wool; it is untied and retied at least five times a day, to the accompaniment of traditional prayers. You can ward off the devil by waving the ends of the thread contemptuously: when mentioning the name of the Lord, you should bow your head as a sign of respect; tying a thread signifies a promise to be kind in thoughts, words and deeds. These simple rituals and prayers can be performed anywhere and should be repeated five times a day.