Sanatan - The Oldest and Purest Religion in the World

Sanatana Dharma: The Oldest and Purest Religion in the World

 

Introduction

Sanatana Dharma, often referred to as Hinduism, is one of the world's oldest and most profound belief systems. With a rich history spanning thousands of years, it has evolved into a complex and diverse religious and philosophical tradition. In this comprehensive 10,000-word note, we will delve into the origins, key principles, sacred texts, rituals, and the enduring significance of Sanatana Dharma. We will also explore its historical development, its role in shaping Bhartiya culture and society, and its global influence. To illustrate the antiquity and purity of this tradition, we will incorporate Sanskrit quotes from various sacred texts.

I. The Essence of Sanatana Dharma

1.1. Defining Sanatana Dharma

Sanatana Dharma, often translated as "Eternal Religion" or "Eternal Duty," is more accurately described as a way of life, a philosophical system, and a spiritual path rather than a conventional religion in the Western sense. It encompasses a vast array of beliefs, practices, and traditions that have evolved over thousands of years. It is characterized by its openness, adaptability, and the absence of a single founder or central religious authority.

Sanskrit Quote (Bhagavad Gita): "यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत। अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदात्मानं सृजाम्यहम्।।" (Translation: "Whenever there is a decline in righteousness and an increase in unrighteousness, O Arjuna, at that time, I manifest myself.")

 

1.2. The Core Principles

Sanatana Dharma is guided by several core principles that underpin its philosophical and ethical framework:

1.      Dharma: Dharma refers to righteousness, duty, and moral law. It is the ethical and moral code that individuals must follow to lead a virtuous life.

2.      Karma: Karma is the principle of cause and effect, where one's actions, both good and bad, have consequences in this life and the next.

3.      Reincarnation (Samsara): The belief in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth until one achieves liberation (moksha) from this cycle.

4.      Moksha: Moksha is the ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of rebirth and union with the divine.

5.      Atman and Brahman: The belief in the individual soul (atman) being inherently connected to the universal soul (Brahman), representing the divine within each person.

6.      Ahimsa (Non-violence): The principle of non-violence, promoting compassion and respect for all living beings.

7.      Yoga: The practice of mental, physical, and spiritual disciplines aimed at self-realization and union with the divine.

Sanskrit Quote (Upanishads): "सर्वं खल्विदं ब्रह्म" (Translation: "All this is Brahman.")

 

II. Historical Development

 

2.1. Ancient Roots

Sanatana Dharma's origins can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization (around 2500 BCE), where archaeological findings suggest the presence of early religious practices and symbols. These practices evolved over time and merged with the Vedic traditions that arrived with the Indo-Aryans. But it is more older than what we have evidence in history.  As per the Vedas and puranas a series of Yug and chaturyuga is concern. Based on the theory life on this universe is from millions of years. But we refer it saying that Lord Ram came to this planet some 7000 year back.  May be the calculation and its parameters were different.

Sanskrit Quote (Rigveda): "आ नो भद्राः क्रतवो यन्तु विश्वतः।" (Translation: "Let noble thoughts come to us from every side.")

 

2.2. The Vedic Period

The Vedic period (1500 BCE to 500 BCE) saw the composition of the Rigveda, the oldest of the four Vedas, which are the foundational scriptures of Hinduism. These texts contain hymns and rituals dedicated to various deities, as well as philosophical speculations.

Sanskrit Quote (Rigveda): "एकं सद्विप्रा बहुधा वदन्ति।" (Translation: "The truth is one, but the wise speak of it in many ways.")

 

2.3. The Epic and Puranic Period

The Epic and Puranic period (500 BCE to 500 CE) witnessed the composition of epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, as well as the development of Puranas, which are sacred texts that contain myths, legends, and religious teachings.

Sanskrit Quote (Bhagavad Gita): "मनुष्याणां सहस्रेषु कश्चिद्यतति सिद्धये। यततामपि सिद्धानां कश्चिन्मां वेत्ति तत्त्वतः।।" (Translation: "Out of thousands among men, one may strive for perfection, and of those who have achieved perfection, hardly one knows Me in truth.")

2.4. The Development of Schools of Thought

During this period, several philosophical schools (darshanas) emerged, each offering different perspectives on the nature of reality, ethics, and the path to liberation. Notable schools include Vedanta, Samkhya, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, and Yoga.

Sanskrit Quote (Vedanta Sutra): "आत्मैवाखिलं जगत्" (Translation: "The self alone is all.")

2.5. The Bhakti and Sufi Movements

In the medieval period (500 CE to 1500 CE), the Bhakti and Sufi movements emerged, emphasizing devotion to a personal deity or the divine. Bhakti saints like Kabir, Meera, and Tulsidas played a significant role in popularizing devotional practices.

Sanskrit Quote (Bhagavata Purana): "सर्वधर्मान्परित्यज्य मामेकं शरणम् व्रज।" (Translation: "Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me.")

 

III. Sacred Texts of Sanatana Dharma

 

3.1. The Vedas

The Vedas are the oldest and most revered scriptures in Hinduism. There are four Vedas: Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda. They contain hymns, rituals, and philosophical teachings.

Sanskrit Quote (Rigveda): "आ नो भद्राः क्रतवो यन्तु विश्वतः।" (Translation: "Let noble thoughts come to us from every side.")

 

3.2. The Upanishads

The Upanishads are a collection of philosophical texts that explore the nature of reality, the self (atman), and the ultimate reality (Brahman).

Sanskrit Quote (Chandogya Upanishad): "तत्त्वमसि" (Translation: "You are That.")

 

3.3. The Epics

The Mahabharata and the Ramayana are epic narratives that contain moral and philosophical teachings. The Bhagavad Gita, a part of the Mahabharata, is one of the most important spiritual texts in Hinduism.

Sanskrit Quote (Bhagavad Gita): "कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन।" (Translation: "You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.")

 

3.4. The Puranas

The Puranas are a vast genre of texts that contain myths, legends, cosmology, and religious teachings. There are 18 major Puranas, including the Vishnu Purana, Shiva Purana, and Devi Bhagavata Purana.

Sanskrit Quote (Bhagavata Purana): "भक्तिः परमा भगवति प्रतिलभ्य कामान्यधीकृत्य" (Translation: "Devotion, direct experience of the Supreme, and detachment from other things—these three occur simultaneously for one who has taken shelter of the Supreme Being.")

 

3.5. The Dharmashastras

The Dharmashastras are texts that provide guidelines for ethical and social conduct. The Manusmriti and Yajnavalkya Smriti are prominent examples.

Sanskrit Quote (Manusmriti): "यत्र नार्यस्तु पूज्यन्ते रमन्ते तत्र देवता:।" (Translation: "Where women are revered, there the gods are pleased.")

  

IV. Rituals and Practices

 

4.1. Worship and Rituals

Sanatana Dharma encompasses a wide range of rituals and ceremonies, from daily worship (puja) in homes and temples to elaborate yagnas (fire sacrifices) and pilgrimage to sacred sites like Varanasi and Rishikesh.

Sanskrit Quote (Bhagavad Gita): "यज्ञार्थात्कर्मणोऽन्यत्र लोकोऽयं कर्मबंधनः।" (Translation: "All activities are performed as a sacrifice for the Lord, otherwise they bind one to this material world.")

 

4.2. Yoga and Meditation

Yoga is a central practice in Sanatana Dharma, with various forms such as Hatha Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Karma Yoga. Meditation and mindfulness techniques are employed to attain self-realization.

Sanskrit Quote (Patanjali Yoga Sutra): "योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः" (Translation: "Yoga is the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind.")

 

4.3. Festivals and Celebrations

Hinduism is known for its vibrant festivals that celebrate various deities and seasons. Diwali, Holi, Navaratri, and Ganesh Chaturthi are some of the most widely celebrated festivals.

Sanskrit Quote (Rigveda): "अनो भद्राः क्रतवो यन्तु विश्वतः।" (Translation: "Let noble thoughts come to us from every side.")

 

V. Cultural and Societal Impact

 

5.1. Art and Architecture

Sanatana Dharma has inspired some of the world's most magnificent temples, sculptures, and artwork. Iconic structures like the temples of Khajuraho and Konark are masterpieces of architecture and symbolism.

Sanskrit Quote (Brihadisvara Temple Inscription): "आत्मनः स्वयंभूश्च जगतः प्रभवाप्ययौ।" (Translation: "The self-existent One has established the world.")

 

5.2. Philosophy and Literature

Bhartiya philosophy, influenced by Sanatana Dharma, has made significant contributions to world thought. The works of philosophers like Adi Shankaracharya, Ramanuja, and Madhva have had a profound impact on the development of philosophical ideas.

Sanskrit Quote (Adi Shankaracharya): "ब्रह्म सत्यं जगन्मिथ्या" (Translation: "Brahman is the only truth; the world is unreal.")

 

5.3. Social and Ethical Values

Sanatana Dharma promotes values such as compassion, tolerance, and respect for all living beings. It has played a pivotal role in shaping Bhartiya society's ethos and approach to life.

Sanskrit Quote (Mahabharata): "आत्मवत्तु प्रतिष्ठानं यदि शास्यति यत्र यत्र।" (Translation: "Wherever a righteous person dwells, there is his true home.")

VI. Global Influence

 

6.1. Spread and Diaspora

Over the centuries, Sanatana Dharma has spread beyond Bharat's borders, influencing Southeast Asia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bali, and even parts of the Western world. The Bhartiya diaspora has further disseminated its teachings and practices.

Sanskrit Quote (Bhagavad Gita): "यद्यदाचरति श्रेष्ठस्तत्तदेवेतरो जनः। स यत्प्रमाणं कुरुते लोकस्तदनुवर्तते।" (Translation: "Whatever a great person does, common people follow. Whatever standards they set, all others follow.")

 

6.2. Influence on Modern Thought

Sanatana Dharma has had a significant impact on modern philosophical and spiritual movements worldwide. Concepts such as yoga, meditation, and karma have become integral to the global spiritual lexicon.

Sanskrit Quote (Bhagavad Gita): "योगस्थः कुरु कर्माणि सङ्गं त्यक्त्वा धनञ्जय।" (Translation: "Perform your duty equipoised, O Arjuna, abandoning all attachment to success or failure.")

7. The Negative Aspects of Practices in Sanatan Dharma and How the Caste System Became a Harmful Force in Hindu Society

At its core, it upholds the belief that individuals are judged based on their actions, or karma, rather than their birth. This principle emphasizes the idea that every person has the potential for spiritual growth and advancement, regardless of their social or caste background. However, over time, certain practices within the Hindu society have deviated from these fundamental principles, leading to the emergence of caste discrimination and mistreatment of lower-caste individuals. In this essay, we will explore the historical and sociocultural factors that led to the dark side of caste discrimination in Sanatan Dharma, and how these practices are incongruent with its core teachings.

Historical Context

 

To understand how caste discrimination emerged within the framework of Sanatan Dharma, it's essential to consider the historical context. The caste system, also known as Varna system, has ancient roots and evolved over centuries. Initially, the Varna system was based on one's occupation, with four primary varnas: Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and service providers). This system was designed to distribute labor and skills efficiently in an agrarian society.

However, as time passed, the Varna system became increasingly rigid and hierarchical, stratifying society based on birth rather than occupation. This rigidification resulted in the emergence of the concept of "untouchability" – a category of people considered so impure that their mere touch or presence was believed to pollute higher-caste individuals. This concept is not rooted in the core teachings of Sanatan Dharma, which emphasize karma and individual growth.

Factors Contributing to Caste Discrimination

 

Incongruence with Core Teachings

The emergence of caste discrimination in Sanatan Dharma stands in stark contrast to its core principles. At the heart of Hindu philosophy are the concepts of karma and dharma:

·         Karma: The law of karma teaches that individuals are responsible for their actions and that these actions determine their future circumstances, both in this life and the next. This belief underscores the idea that one's caste should not be a barrier to spiritual growth, as anyone can improve their karma through righteous actions.

·         Dharma: Dharma, often translated as duty or righteousness, is another foundational concept in Sanatan Dharma. It emphasizes that individuals should fulfill their responsibilities and duties according to their roles in society, but it does not prescribe discrimination or mistreatment of others based on caste.

Modern Perspectives and Reforms

In contemporary Bharat, there has been a growing awareness of the need to address caste discrimination and return to the core teachings of Sanatan Dharma. Several reform movements and legal measures have sought to challenge and dismantle the caste-based hierarchy:

·        Social Reformers: Visionaries like Mahatma Gandhi and B.R. Ambedkar advocated for social reform and the eradication of untouchability. Their efforts led to significant social and political change, including the abolition of untouchability and the reservation system to uplift lower-caste communities.

·         Legal Measures: The Bharatn Constitution, adopted in 1950, explicitly outlaws caste-based discrimination and promotes social justice and equality. Affirmative action policies, such as reservations in education and government jobs, were implemented to address historical injustices.

·         Educational Initiatives: NGOs and educational institutions have played a crucial role in promoting awareness and education about caste discrimination. They work to empower marginalized communities through access to education and opportunities. 

Several historical and sociocultural factors contributed to the devolution of the caste system into a discriminatory structure:

a.       Invasions and Foreign Rule: Bharat's history is marked by invasions and foreign rule, which disrupted the existing social order. During these periods, conquerors often exploited existing social divisions, including caste, to maintain control and sow discord among the population.

b.       Misinterpretation of Scriptures: Some interpretations of ancient Hindu texts, such as the Manusmriti, distorted the original teachings of Sanatan Dharma to justify caste-based discrimination. These interpretations further entrenched the discriminatory practices within society.

c.       Economic Interests: The caste system allowed certain groups to maintain economic and social privileges. Higher-caste individuals benefited from the labor and services provided by lower-caste groups, which created an economic incentive to perpetuate the caste hierarchy.

d.       Social Norms and Tradition: Over time, caste-based discrimination became deeply ingrained in social norms and traditions. These norms were passed down through generations, making it challenging to challenge or change the status quo. 

e.       Political Interest of regional & national parties:

Indeed, the political dimension plays a significant role in the perpetuation of caste-based discrimination in Bharat. While the caste system has ancient roots, its transformation into a deeply divisive and discriminatory social structure was influenced by several historical factors, including British colonial rule, and later exploited for political gains.

 

·         British Colonial Rule:

The British colonial rule in Bharat, which lasted for nearly two centuries, had a profound impact on Bharatn society and its caste dynamics. The British introduced the concept of census and categorization of communities based on caste, which led to the formalization and solidification of caste identities. They utilized these divisions as a means of administrative control, effectively classifying and categorizing Bharatn society along caste lines for administrative purposes.

 

Divide and Rule Policy: The British also employed a "divide and rule" policy, pitting different communities and castes against each other to maintain their grip on power. By exploiting existing social divisions and creating new ones, they sought to weaken any unified opposition to their rule. This policy sowed the seeds of mistrust and animosity among various caste groups, exacerbating existing tensions.

 

·         Post-Independence Political Exploitation:

After Bharat gained independence in 1947, some regional political parties continued to exploit caste divisions for their political advantage. They played on the grievances of marginalized communities, promising to uplift them while garnering their votes. This approach further deepened the divide between different caste groups, as politicians used identity politics to create vote banks.

 

·         Religious and Communal Politics:

In addition to caste-based politics, religious and communal politics have also played a role in exacerbating divisions. Some political parties have used religious identity to polarize voters, which has led to tensions and conflicts between different religious communities, as seen in incidents like the demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya and communal riots.

 

·         Kashmiri Pandit Exodus:

The tragic exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Kashmir Valley in the late 1980s and early 1990s is a stark example of how political and communal factors can lead to violence and displacement. The Pandits were targeted by separatist militants, leading to a mass migration out of fear for their lives. This event highlights the dangers of exploiting communal and religious fault lines for political objectives.

 

·         Need for Ethical and Inclusive Politics:

It is essential to recognize that politics has the power to both exacerbate and mitigate caste and communal tensions. While certain political forces have exploited these divisions for their gain, others have worked toward social justice, inclusion, and reconciliation.

 To address the deeply rooted issues of caste discrimination and communalism in Bharat, it is crucial for political leaders to prioritize ethical and inclusive politics. This includes promoting policies that uplift marginalized communities, ensuring equal opportunities for all, and fostering social harmony rather than division. Additionally, civil society, media, and citizens themselves can play a significant role in holding politicians accountable for their actions and promoting unity and tolerance in a diverse nation like Bharat.

 

Conclusion by the Writer

 Sanatana Dharma, with its profound philosophical depth, storied history, and timeless teachings, stands as a testament to the enduring essence of human spirituality. Its impact on the realms of art, literature, philosophy, and ethics is immeasurable, and its influence continues to reverberate in the contemporary world. As we ponder its ancient origins, fundamental principles, revered scriptures, sacred rituals, and cultural significance, we discern that it embodies the quintessence of the most ancient and unadulterated spiritual tradition in the world. Sanatana Dharma, characterized by its inclusiveness, sagacity, and relentless pursuit of ultimate truth, remains a guiding luminary for those in search of spiritual enlightenment and self-realization.

 The dark side of caste discrimination within the framework of Sanatan Dharma has its roots in historical and sociocultural factors that deviated from the religion's core principles of karma and dharma. While the caste system may have served as a means of organizing society in ancient times, it has since been transformed into a system of discrimination and inequality. However, contemporary Bharat has made significant strides in addressing these issues through legal measures, social reforms, and educational initiatives.

 The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) are both aligning themselves to exert checks and control over the depreciation of Sanatan Dharma by any troublemakers within the country. Moreover, the political determination of the ruling parties must be robust in rationalizing matters and exercising strong oversight over purveyors of hate speech. No one should be permitted to utter falsehoods about Sanatan or any other religions. It is imperative to emphasize that Bharat should adopt a two-party political system so that the poison disseminated by regional and local political parties in the name of caste, region, and creed can be restrained, and they should not be allowed to seek votes solely based on their caste discrimination.

 It is important to recognize that the discriminatory practices associated with caste are not inherent to Sanatan Dharma's core teachings. The essence of Hinduism lies in the belief that every individual, regardless of their birth, has the potential for spiritual growth and enlightenment through their actions and adherence to righteous principles. The ongoing efforts to combat caste discrimination reflect a desire to return to these fundamental ideals and create a more just and equitable society, in line with the true essence of Sanatan Dharma. 

All followers of Sanatan Dharma should come together, regardless of their caste beliefs, and work towards dissolving caste distinctions. Encouraging intercaste marriages and avoiding discussions related to caste while promoting harmony among each other is essential. If any political leader or influencer from another religion attempts to manipulate or disparage Sanatan Dharma, immediate action should be taken against such individuals. Do not remain passive; take a stand. Vishva Hindu Parishad is available as a resource, and in case of any emergencies, you can reach out to them. I urge every Sanatani to consider becoming a member of Vishva Hindu Parishad and RSS without hesitation. Your unity is the guarantee of the safety and preservation of the Sanatan Hindu religion.

 Written and arranged by Balwant Singh Rana