Bhagavad Gita

Silence is an important aspect of the Hindu tradition. Silence is a preparation, a way of knowing oneself, and also of knowing the world, as is revealed in the tapashyaa(s) (meditation) of the muni(s) (sages). In fact, the word ‘muni’ has its origin in the Sanskrit word ‘mauna’, meaning silence, the maintenance of which is believed to inculcate power and knowledge, as opposed to speech that saps all energy. Silence, as a spiritual entity, is common both in the Buddhist philosophy and in the…

There are different reasons as to why people are attracted to the practice of yoga, considering there are several benefits. These benefits include increased flexibility, increased muscle strength and tone, improved energy, balance and calming of the mind. Each person joins the practice having diverse reasons from one another. On average, I would enter yoga class stressed out with a cluttered mind, but I know as soon as I walk in through the studio doors I am able to leave my stress and worries…

The pull to do something that we know we shouldn’t is a constant in life, and when we give in we often find the situation backfiring. As we deal with the repercussions, those who told us better feel superior and often say that it’s karma. The term karma is rooted in religion, referring to a Hindu and Buddhist concept which says that a person’s actions in this and previous states of existence decides his or her fate in future existences. Over time, karma has been incorporated into common…

Analyzing Ahimsa: Perspectives of Hindu Concepts Power It All One of Hinduism’s influences, Mahatma Gandhi, stated a phrase, changing the way our modern world functions today: “Non-violence is an active force of the highest order. It is soul force or the power of Godhead within us”. Because of this spiritual man’s impact, human evolution has strongly developed. However, some members of society are still pleading for an active right that many are fortunate to possess—world peace—leaving…

CONTEXT- All-India Congress had just ratified the Quit India resolution, India was at a tipping point in terms of freedom from British imperialism, the time was optimal for mobilizing public opinion in favor of freedom. AUDIENCE-Gandhi’s speech, “Quit India”, given on August 1942 in Bombay was geared towards an Indian population, oppressed by British rule (Manas). Gandhi spoke to all social groups in India in this speech, however he selectively addressed the Muslims and Hindus. In fact, a…

The story of Naaman in the Bible is one that boils down to two basic traits: obedience and humility. The Bible concordance defines obedience being submissive to authority and following orders. Whereas humility being the state of being humble, not proud, not arrogant, having a spirit of submission or deference, and a lack of pride. These traits are something that Naaman had to learn the hard way. Obedience to God begins with humility. Naaman had to learn this lesson, and believe that God’s way…

In modern society, karma is a term used to explain events without really understanding why it is being said. It has become more of a slang word than the action to reaching pure self-enlightenment. For example: "Ooh, bad karma!” or "karma is coming back to bite you” or “I hope karma slaps you in the face before I do.” It has become a vindictive comeback to wish upon someone. Karma has become one of the most searched comical videos on social media. Results such as: “Guy receives instant karma!” or…

After the information and knowledge about the Jain religion this lesson has provided I feel that I have a better understanding of what the followers of Jainism believe and the religious practices and major deities that are highly regarded in the religion such as their major teacher and savior. This chapter has also provided valuable information about the early origins of the Jain religion and how it has influenced Indian traditions along with an insight on the two principle sections that the…

is uncertain. Sometimes people consider death as natural, inviting, repelling and beautiful. These four factors remain the center of focus towards death. This essay focusses on the different views on death based on four texts which are Bible, Bhagavad- Gita, Gilgamesh and Hamlet. The word “Death” should be inspected. Death is not just what people consider a way to escape problems, but it is something that changes a person. It is something that represents ego annihilation. How worst a person…

J. Robert Oppenheimer would have disagreed. In addition to being a great physicist and born Jewish, he also extensively studied Hinduism as a philosophy through its principal work, the Bhagavad-Gita. This seems a little strange at first glance, considering Bhagavad-Gita translates roughly into “Song of the Lord”. His interest makes a little more sense considering his words at the first nuclear test, a quotation from the work. “I am become death, the destroyer of worlds.” In…