texts: Was Shankara a bhakta of Saguna Brahman Narayana or did he consider Nirguna Brahman to be supreme?

texts: If Shankara considered Nirguna Brahman superior, or in other words, if he was a promoter of Nirguna Brahman, then why did he mention the name of Narayana (as his ishta devata) in the introduction of his Bhagavad Gita commentary (Gita Bhashya)?


texts: What is prayaschitta for breaking the promise made to Lord Shiva?

texts: I broke a promise made to Lord Shiva that I won't mastrubate for a month and I broke and to do prayaschita I again took promise and said him to make me child less if I broke this again but again I broke it now what should I do.


texts:
What is the story of Ashwathama cursing Parents of Lord Swaminarayana?

I read it on wikipedia. But I would like to know what is the source of this story? Which Hindu scripture describes this incident?


texts: Ancient rishis were married, was sanyasa invented by Buddhists and Jains?

texts:
Ancient Vedic rishis (seers, sages) seem to be married householders e.g. Agastya was married to Lopamudra, Atri was married to Anasuya, Vasishtha was married to Arundhati, Jamadagni was married to Renuka.  Children of rishis became rishis too e.g. Durvasa was son of Atri, Vyasa was son of Parashara.

Was sanyasa (renunciation of worldly life, monasticism) then a concept invented by the shramana movement including Buddhists and Jains, and later imported into Hinduism?


texts: Reuniting in After Life for unnatural death

texts:
1.Does two suicide soul (two person who committed suicide but not at a same time) can meet in after life?

2.Do soul recognize each other after death?

3.Do they hold any memory of this earthly life? (referring to unnatural-suicide)


texts: Significance of giving Rs. 51 or 101 as donation

texts: What is the significance of giving cash as donation, gifts or dakshina in numbers such as 51, 101, and 501?


texts:
In Hinduism dogs have a great importance lord Kalabhairva's mount is a dog.can one features exactly the

Importance of dogs in Hinduism

and

How are they even related to gods


texts: How many sons did Kesari have, other than Sri Hanuman?

texts:
Shuka, Ravana's aide, describes the individual strengths of the various commanders in the army of monkeys, mentioning their names one by one, in detail, in Yuddha Kanda of Srimad Ramayana.
While describing Sri Hanuman, Shuka says that Sri Hanuman was the eldest son of Kesari.

ज्येष्ठः केसरिणः पुत्रो वात आत्मज इति श्रुतः |
हनूमान् इति विख्यातो लन्घितो येन सागरः || ६-२८-१०
This monkey, by whom the ocean was traversed, is the eldest son of Kesari. He is known as the son of wind-god and famously called as Hanuman.

Can anybody tell me how many sons did Kesari have, other than Sri Hanuman?


texts:
Kubera is also called dhanadena. It can be seen from first sarga of Bala Kanda of Valmiki Ramayana

  विष्णुना सदृशो वीर्ये सोमवत्प्रियदर्शनः |

  कालाग्निसदृशः क्रोधे क्षमया पृथिवीसमः || १-१-१८

  धनदेन समस्त्यागे सत्ये धर्म इवापरः |

  viirye = in valour; vishNunaa sadR^ishaH = comparable to
  Vishnu; somavat priya-darshanaH = attractive in look like the moon;
  krodhe = in anger; kaala-agni-sadR^ishaH = matchable to the world
  ending fire; kShamayaa pR^ithvii samaH = equals to the Earth in
  forgiveness; tyage = in benevolence; dhanadena samaH = equal to Kubera
  [God of Wealth]; satye = in candour; aparaH = with no rival; dharmaH
  iva = like Truth personified. [18, 19a.]

What is the meaning of dhanadena and why is he Kubera called so?


texts: What is the Apasthambha sutra? And is eating cow meat considered holy according to it?

texts:
According to this comment on a nice Quora answer, the Apasthambha sutra considers eating cow meat as a holy ritual. Does this particular scripture really sanction the consumption of beef?

This is not a duplicate of this question, but it asks about the Apasthambha sutra and it's views on beef.


texts:
In this Shlokha, which talks about the geography of the Ancient India?

Sloka as follows:

  Jambudveepe Bharatha Varshe Bharata Khande

Here I got some different views from Different scholars consider it variously as either the 'Indian sub-continent' or the 'Asian continent'

However we can see, none of them come even close to the TRUTH!! Let me share some of the important scriptural references here for you:

Markandeya Puraan describes Jambu-dvip- as being depressed above and below and broad in the middle just like a Globe.
Srimad Bhagavatam points out that on Jambu-dvipa, night prevails diametrically opposite to a point where it is day and Sun sets at a point opposite to where it rises.
Mahabharat describes the Universe as a series of shells divided in two by an earth plane called the Bhu-mandala; Jambu-dwip- is the central landmark on this plane.
Jain and Buddhist cos- mologies indicate Jambū-dweep at the centre of Madhyaloka or the middle part of the universe, the place where Human-beings reside.

And last but not least, It describe Bharat Varsha or India as just ONE of the NINE divisions of Jambu-dweep? Jambudvipa was divided into nine varshas (geographical regions) of which one was Bharatha Varsha. The other eight varshas were Ketumula Varsha, Hari Varsha, Ilavrita Varsha, Kuru Varsha, Hiranyaka Varsha, Ramyaka Varsha, Kimpurusha Varsha, Bhadrasva Varsha.

My question was What is the real meaning of Jambudweep? These all 9 varsha's represent ancient time continents? or Nine Planets on our Solar system?


texts: What are the different sources that describe vedangas or limbs of the vedas?

texts:
What is scriptural source (preferably vedic) of the term vedAnga?

or

In which acaryas' writing do we find the description that there are six limbs of the vedas or six Vedangas and what they enlist?


texts:
What is the purpose of sending a soul to Svarga or Narka? if ultimately it has to return back to Earth to get over whatever Karma it did in the previous lives.
Link from Wikipedia here says:

  Yama sends the virtuous to Svarga to enjoy the luxuries of paradise.
  He also assesses the vices of the dead and accords judgement,
  assigning them to appropriate hells as punishment commensurate with
  the severity and nature of their sins.A person is not freed of samsara
  (the cycle of birth-death-rebirth) and must take birth again after his
  prescribed pleasure in Svarga or punishment in Naraka is over.


texts:
Why do some hindu men wear black strings around their waists?

Even i do, but i don't know the significance of it.


texts:
I read on random source about Kartik month which just started. It was written on behalf of Skanda purana that this month is very dear to Lord Vishnu. In this month we gets more merits than other months by doing any good work (charity, devotion etc). In this month, whatever we offer to Gods, they will sure accept it.

I don't know whether this information about importance of kartik month from random source was how much correct Or there is really mentioned in Skanda purana about Kartik month?

Does Skanda Purana really convey Kartik month as favorite month of Lord Vishnu? Any other scriptures says something about the importance of this month?


texts: In which talk/scripture Swami Vivekananda tells to keep telling yourself that you are Brahman?

texts: I can’t really remember. But I read somewhere where he says to keep telling yourself “Aham Brahmasmi”....and other mahavakyas until it becomes the living reality


texts: Is the Virata war an interpolation according to BORI scholars?

texts:
As I know, in Mahabharata, Vyasa says there was no fight between Karna and Arjuna after the first one got Vasavi Shakti. But, Bhishma, Kripa, Shalya and Dhritarashtra narrate about the failures of Karna in the Virata War.

But, other versions of the Mahabharata such as Jaimini Bharata or Kumara Vyasa Mahabharata do not mention the event. While according to Romesh C. Dutt's translation, Arjuna simply defeated Duryodhana while dodging the other warriors.

On this Facebook page, they mention some versions that do not contain the Virata War, and mention that Washburn Hopkins considers most of Virata War or the whole parva an interpolation.

Although it is currently included in the BORI Critical Edition, I want to know if BORI scholars acknowledge that Virata War could be an interpolation.


texts: Which scriptures state Vishnu teaching principles of Vaishnavism to his four disciples?

texts:
In many questions asked on this site, I frequently see a line about Vishnu teaching principles of Vaishnavism to his four disciples:

  Vishnu is said to have taught the principles of Vaishnavism to four disciples: Lakshmi, Brahma, Shiva and Sanatkumara. And in turn they started the four main Sampradayas or traditions of Vaishnavism: Sri Sampradayam, Brahma Sampradayam, Rudra Sampradayam, and Kumara Sampradayam.

So, I want to know which scriptures mention this thing? I know it's not mentioned in Valmiki Ramayana and Mahabharata of Vyasa. Neither it's mentioned in Srimad Bhagavata, Vishnu and Padma Purana as far as I know There is possibility that it's mentioned in other Puranas like Varaha and Narada.

Most probably it's mentioned in Pancharatra Agamas. If it's mentioned, I want to know which Samhita and Chapter of Pancharatra Agamas mention it? Also when did Lord Vishnu do this teaching?


texts: Is the Kaliyugada Kalpataru available online?

texts:
The book Kaliyugada Kalpataru, written by Raja Gururajacharya, (who was the son from the poorvashrama of Sri Raghavendra Swami), is a complete biography of Sri Raghavandra Swami.

While writing my answer for a question asking about the previous incarnations of Sri Raghavendra Swami, I searched online, but I was not able to find it.

Is there an online copy of the book available?


texts: Materials to be avoided during Chatur Masa Vrata?

texts: What are the materials  should be discarded each month in this 4 month vrata  period?  Like dal,cumins,milk, curd etc, Vegetable, fruits.


texts: Are Kodanda and Sharanga bows same and how did Lord Rama get it?

texts: Kodanda is the bow of Rama ( not sure if it has any other names). Is it same as Sharanga of Vishnu? How has Rama come in possession of Kodanda?


texts: Can a vow of celibacy for 2 months be taken back?

texts: I took a vow that I would not masturbate for 2 months. Only 6 days into this, I cannot deal with this any longer.Please note that I have Obsessive compulsive disorder so it is possible that I took my vow because of that. I am not sure of it myself


texts: How Kurus in mahabharata were considered Kshatriyas when they were descendants of rishi vedvyas (a Brahmin)?

texts: With due respect, On what account were the Kuru lineage after Dhritrashtra and Pandu considered Kshatriya varna in Mahabharata when Dhritrashtra and Pandu themselves were born from a brahmin sage vedvyas ?


texts: If Shiva Linga is worshiped in all yugas then what curse did Rishi Bhrigu give to Lord Shiva?

texts:
EXPLANATION :

Shivalinga is said to be the Formless Brahman and is worshiped from the beginning.
There is also a story of Bhirgu rishi cursing Lord Shiva when he visited Kailash.
It was misunderstood that because of Bhrigu rishi's curse Lord Shiva is worshiped in the Linga form.
Bhrigu rishi would have been fully aware of the fact that Shiva Linga was worshiped from the beginning and there is no chance of cursing Lord Shiva to be worshipped in Linga Form

QUESTION :

If Shiva Linga is worshiped in all yugas and if Bhrigu rishi didn't curse Shiva to be worshiped in the  Linga form,  then what was the curse?


texts: Why sons of Lord Shiva & Devi Parvati are only worshipped?

texts:
As we know Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya are sons of Lord Shiva & Devi Parvati. Every Hindu know this. But there is no source which would tell who are sons of Lord Vishnu and Devi Lakshmi. Here is a answers about son of Lord Vishnu and Devi Lakshmi. Bit confusing.

Son of Lord Ram & Devi Sita ⇒ Luv, Kush

Son of Lord Krishna & Devi Rukmani ⇒ Pradyumna.

But there is no worship for them or son of any other Gods other than Ganesha
and Kartikeya.

Why Lord Shiva & Devi Parvati's sons are worshipped? And sons of other Gods are not worshipped like Ganesha and Kartikeya.


texts: What is the story of Devi Chhinamastika?

texts:
One of the Mahavidyas is named Chinnamastika/Chinnamasta devi , I want to know about her.

What is her story of origin and why did she appear as one of the Mahavidyas?


texts:
I would like to know whether God works on the basis of certain Laws. For example, consider the chanting of mantras. People chant them in order to invoke certain deities. However, some people can read them wrongly (by mistake aka mispronouncing) unconsciously. People say that when we do so, God will not be pleased or you might invoke wrong entities like Rakshasas.

Why should it happen? If the devotee incorrectly reads a mantra unconsciously why should he be punished for that? He has done it unknowingly, doesn't god know it?

Next, people say Lord Shiva likes Bel leaves, Lord Vishnu likes tulsi leaves. But it is said that there is nothing god specifically likes because everything is a manifestation of him. Can it be Bel leaves or leaves of some other plants.

Does God work on the basis of certain laws or act independently preserving the core laws? All of the Gods laws or deeds cannot be known by any Sage is right, but still can we at least assume that there are certain laws for him on which he does those deeds.

For example, courage is positive energy and we are able to do things when we have it. When we are frightened we will not be able to do them. No matter whether his devotee is frightened or not, won't he receive help from the God?

Discourage and fear are negative energies and those who don't have it are said to be dearer to the Supreme being (as from Bhagavad Gita).

Doesn't the man with fear get his desire fulfilled?


texts: Reference of scientific principle of multi verse in the Hindu mythology

texts: There have been references of many scientific and ultra modern discoveries in Hindu mythology like Time dilation in Mahabharata while Lord Krishna was giving the speech on Geeta .Also accurate measurement of speed of light etc. Is there any reference to the Multi verse  theory in the Indian scriptures.


texts: What is the story Of River Narmada from Puranas and significance of Narmada Parikrama?

texts:
गङ्गेच यमुने चैव गोदावरी सरस्वति । नर्मदा सिन्धु कावेरी जलेऽस्मिन्
  संनिधिं कुरु ॥

  "Gange Cha Yamune Chaiva Godavari Saraswati,   Narmada Sindhu Kaveri
  Jalesmin Sannidhim Kuru"

  Meaning  O Holy Rivers Ganga and Yamuna, and also Godavari,
  Saraswati,  Narmada, Sindhu and Kaveri; Please be Present in this
  Water Near Me (and make it Holy).

Meaning While performing Puja -:

  I call for the presence of divine waters   from the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Saraswati, Narmada, Sindhu and Kaveri.  The rivers
  are goddesses and I pray to them  for their blessings.

This shloka is also recited during taking bath in these sacred  rivers. This article tells us more about "Narmada Parikrama"

My questions are About Holy Narmada River -:

1) What is the story of Narmada River and its origin from puranas ?

2) What is the significance Of "Narmada Parikrama" told in our scriptures ?


texts: Do Vedas or Shruti describe Lord Shiva as Sattva (सत्व)?

texts:
There are many misconceptions that Lord Shiva is Tamasic God and scriptures of Him are Tamasic Scriptures. Some people even suggest not to read His stories as they are ostensibly believed to be tamasic puranas. This concept of Tamasic Puranas can be refuted.
Shiva Purana clarifies this by saying Rudra as Taamasic outside but Satvic inside.

परं ब्रह्माद्वयो नित्योऽनन्तः पूर्णो निरञ्जनः।  अन्तस्तमो
वहिःसत्त्वस्त्रिजगत्पालको हरिः।। ५९॥ अन्तः
सत्त्वस्तमोबाह्यस्त्रिजगल्लयकृद्धरः।। ६० ।।
I am the Supreme Brahman the eternal one, endless, perfect, complete
and spotless. Visnu, the protector of the three worlds, has tamas
inside, but Sattva outside. Hara who causes dissolution of three
worlds has sattva within, but tamas outside.
अन्तर्बहिरजश्चैव त्रिजगत्सृष्टिकृद्विधिः।  एवं गुणास्त्रिदेवेषु
गुणभिन्नः शिवः स्मृतः।। ६१।।
Brahmā on the other hand having rajoguna inside as well outside,
creates the three worlds. Thus all the three gods have their
respective qualities while Siva is different from all the gunas.

But those people say this could be an interpolation. Indeed there are many contradictory statements in Smriti (in all Puranas). Words of Shruti are considered as ultimate Truths. When Smriti contradict each other, people resort to Sruti to know the truth.
So, do Vedas or Shruti describe Shiva or Rudra with gunas other than Tamas?


texts: Why is suicide criticized in scriptures when it is part of the prarabdha?

texts:
Scriptures and saints have unanimously criticized suicide as it ends human life which is very rare to get. As this answer says, those who commit suicide become ghosts.

But because suicide involves death, it must be part of prarabdha and that which is prarabdha is bound to happen. So why is suicide criticized?


texts: Which scriptures talk about the Kurma avatar of Vishnu?

texts:
I would like to know more about the Kurma avatar of Vishnu. I know that Vishnu took the form of a tortoise to facilitate Samudra Manthana. Although, no other details are known. The Wikipedia article is not of much help.

Astrologically, Kurma avatar is associated with Shani Graha.

Are there any scriptures which go into more details about this Avatar of Vishnu?

For those interested, here is a question which talks about the temples of Kurma avatar.


texts: On what grounds did RAmAnuja wished to accept KAnchipurNa as a guru?

texts:
It is known that Kanchipurna was one of the gurus of Ramanuja.

Kanchipurna was a non brahmin and Ramnuja was from a brahmin family.

  At another instance, Kanchi Purna refused to accept Ramanuja as his
  disciple, stating that Ramanuja was a Brahmin well versed in the
  shatras, while Kanchi Purna was just an ignorant old Sudra. To this
  Ramanuja replied, " If the knowledge of the Sastras only brings about
  pride instead of devotion to God, then it is false knowledge, better
  is ignorance than this. You have verily tasted the real essence of the
  Sastras; other scholars merely carry the burden, like the ass that
  carries the load of sandalwood. So saying, he fell at the feet of
  Kanchi Purna and began to weep.

  iLayAzhwAr wanting to accept the uchchistam (sEsha prasAdham/food
  remnants) of thirukkachi nambi, once invites him to his thirumALigai
  (home) to accept his thadhIyArAdhanam. thirukkachi nambi obliges and
  iLayAzhwAr runs back to his thirumALigai (home), informs his wife
  about this with great joy and instructs her to prepare a great feast,
  performs his nithya karmAnushtAnam, completes his thirumanjana thIrtha
  kainkaryam for dhEva perumAL and returns home.

Does Vedanta allow one to have a non brahmin (varna) guru ?
(Because I have heard something opposite to this from the Vedanta sutra).

On what grounds did he wish to accept him as a guru?
(this also created some issues in his personal life also because of difference of varna).

As per Vedantic and other scripture is it allowed for brahmin Varna to have a guru of Shudra varna?

Now some are raising a point that he was not mantra guru etc. But whether he taught mantra or not. He was the guru in vaishnavism or vedanta which is quite obvioius.


texts: Procedure for getting mantra siddhi without Guru initiation

texts:
In general, guru is mandatory for mantra initiation. Siddhi may never happen without (physical, living, human) guru initiation.
But recently I heard that, if there is no availability of physical living guru, then a person can write matra on a paper and after keeping it at the feet of lord Siva can start chanting the mantra.
Which scripture describes this procedure of attaining mantra siddhi without any initiation from 'physical, living, human' guru?


texts: On the existence of the gods and the relevance of prayer

texts:
I am a European philosophically convinced by Hindu metaphysics (more particularly by advaita vedanta in the tradition of Adi Shankara that I discovered via René Guénon).  I say this to explain that I came to Hinduism by reason, not by faith in the Scriptures, so this argument of authority does not convince me on its own.

There is one thing I don't understand; why pray to gods, and believe that gods exist?

Not only do they seem not to exist in themselves, and that I see no reason other than blind faith to believe in them, but even in the idea that they exist they are only illusory forms of the Brahman who is impersonal, so prayer becomes even more useless.  I have difficulty understanding how one can believe in Brahman from a "vedantine" point of view (with the identity of Being and Consciousness and impersonal non-dual reality) and believe in the gods and actually pray to them.

I hope I'm clear, thank you.

edit : I do not doubt the Brahman but precisely the mutiple and personal gods, I see no reason other than blind faith to believe in them, (I am not talking about Brahman, I repeat it, but about Ishvara, Shiva, Krishna etc), and that even if they exist from the vedantin point of view they are illusions of an impersonal reality so prayer is always useles, so this subject is not a duplication of the other one that talks about Brahman's existence


texts: Are there instances in Hinduism where Dharma is cited to both support and oppose an act?

texts:
For example - the killing of Duryodhana is condemned by Baladeva and celestial beings showered flowers on the fatally wounded Duryodhana when he chastised Krishna for his acts of treachery throughout the war.  Krishna himself admits that the Pandavas could not have won without adharmic acts of war - what Krishna says renders the word Dharma meaningless:

http://www.krishnapath.org/Library/Mahabharata/Mahabharata-By_Kisari_Mohan_Ganguli.pdf

  "Sanjaya continued, ‘Upon the conclusion of these words of the intelligent king of the Kurus, a thick shower of fragrant flowers fell from the sky. The Gandharvas played upon many charming musical instruments. The Apsaras in a chorus sang the glory of king Duryodhana. The Siddhas uttered loud sound to the effect, "Praise be to king Duryodhana!" Fragrant and delicious breezes mildly blew on every side. All the quarters became clear and the firmament looked blue as the lapis lazuli. Beholding these exceedingly wonderful things and this worship offered to Duryodhana, the Pandavas headed by Vasudeva became ashamed. Hearing (invisible beings cry out) that Bhishma and Drona and Karna and Bhurishrava were slain unrighteously, they became afflicted with grief and wept in sorrow. Beholding the Pandavas filled with anxiety and grief, Krishna addressed them in a voice deep as that of the clouds or the drum, saying, "All of them were great car-warriors and exceedingly quick in the use of weapons! If ye had put forth all your prowess, even then ye could never have slain them in battle by fighting fairly! King Duryodhana also could never be slain in a fair encounter! The same is the case with all those mighty car-warriors headed by Bhishma! From desire of doing good to you, I repeatedly applied my powers of illusion and caused them to be slain by diverse means in battle. If I had not adopted such deceitful ways in battle, victory would never have been yours, nor kingdom, nor wealth! Those four were very high-souled warriors and regarded as Atirathas in the world. The very Regents of the Earth could not slay them in fair fight! Similarly, the son of Dhritarashtra, though fatigued when armed with the mace, could not be slain in fair fight by Yama himself armed with his bludgeon! You should not take it to heart that this foe of yours hath been slain deceitfully. When the number of one’s foes becomes great, then destruction should be effected by contrivances and means. The gods themselves, in slaying the Asuras, have trod the same way. That way, therefore, that hath been trod by the gods, may be trod by all. We have been crowned with success.

and yet a poster cites

  The accomplishment of one's vow is one's duty. Formerly Bhima had vowed in the midst of the assembly that he would in great battle break with his mace the thighs of Duryodhana. The great Rishi Maitreya also, O scorcher of foes, had formerly cursed Duryodhana, saying, 'Bhima will, with his mace, break thy thighs!' In consequence of all this, I do not see any fault in Bhima!

Are there instances like this from the Itihasas and Puranas where diametrically opposing views are justified citing Dharma?


texts:
Who are they? where do they come from?
What did they did and do now.
why south indians always take stand against them


texts: Will non-vegetarians won't get liberation?

texts:
It is said that non-selfishness(nishkaama karma) lead to liberation by Sri Krishna in bhagavad gita.

Then there are so many people (some crores of people) arround us, killing animals and then eating them i.e. doing bad to them for the selfishness, do they all not eligible for liberation?


texts: Does Hinduism support the concept of "continued charity"?

texts:
Concept of charity does exist in Hinduism and is termed a Daana.
But does Hinduism support the concept of continued charity??

Continued charity :-
Effect of charity which remains till its demolition.
Eg. Suppose a person donates Rs.5000/- for school construction.
Then he will get its punnya according to his contribution not only once, but till the school building gets demolished.

Note :- School is just a example of good work we can consider other examples like Water Pump in remote village, mandir construction etc. through which many people will continuously be benefited.


texts: What do Hindu scriptures say about gambling?

texts:
Is gambling considered righteous or is it a sin?

Are Kshatriyas allowed to gamble?

Do Kshatriyas have accept a gambling invitation compulsarily? (The Mahabaratha answer seems to say so)

Is addiction to gambling righteous?

Who are all the characters from different Hindu stories that gambled?

Please quote different scriptures.

I already asked a question on gambling in Mahabharata, but this is for all other scriptures and Hinduism in general.


texts: Mentions of Barbarik or Yalambar in Mahabharata

texts:
Is there any story of Barbarik(Bheem's grandson). I see many stories related that Barbarik was King Yalambar(from Kirat Kingdom of Kathmandu Valley) who was the great warrior who could end Mahabharat War in one minute.

My Questions are
Is King Yalambar same person with Barbarik of Mahabharat?
If so, in which part he was mentioned in Vyas's Mahabharat.


texts: How are daily horoscopes written and published in newspapers and magazines? Can they be same for people under one zodiac sign (i.e rashi)


texts: What happened with the dead body of Lord Shree Krishna?

texts: In the Mahabharata, I know how Lord Shree Krishna had the end of material life as well as his body, but what happened to his body?


texts: Were there any other religions during the treta and dwapar yuga?

texts:
I know that sanatana dharma is the oldest religion. But are there any evidences or any mentions of other religions in the vedas?
If yes,what were the religions?


texts: Request to identify swastika motif/yantra seen at temple in Hawalbagh, Almora

texts: I have seen this picture at Hawalbagh, Hawalbagh is a Village and block in Almora District of Uttarakhand State, India. Local people told me that it is a Chakravyuha of Mahabharata where Abhimanyu died. If anyone know anything about this please answer.


texts: Is the "Ishanya" direction connected with Siva?

texts: Ishanya refers to the Northeast direction in Vastu Shastra and "Ishana" is a name of Siva.  Is there a connection?


texts: Can we make every Ekadashi fast as Nirjalaa ekadashi?

texts: Nirjalaa Ekadashi is the one Ekadashi in which people does fasts without even drinking water for whole day and night. But if one wants to do this kind of fast on every Ekadashi, will it be fine? Is eating something in Ekadashi fast is mandatory like many other fasts?


texts: Christianity talks of the golden ratio. I have read about it from the Da Vinci Code. Is there anything similar to the golden ratio in Hinduism?


texts: What mantras are given in Vinayaka samhita of sama Veda?

texts: According to this page, vinayaka samhita of sama Veda glorifies Ganesha. what 4 hymns are present in the following samhita?


texts:
Moksha is the main goal of human life, people who do good karma attain Moksha.
Is it true that if supreme lord kills someone then she/he will attain Moksha?

The story of Pūtanā is an example


texts: According to Sri Vaishnavism, whenever there is a conflict between prapanna duties and non-prapanna duties, which takes precedence?

texts:
According to Sri Vaishnavism, whenever there is a conflict between duties enjoined for prapannas and duties enjoined for ashramas or varnas, which takes precedence?

For example, suppose there is a verse (there probably is) in the Pancharatra Agamas that says:

  A prapanna should live at the site of a temple.

And then there are verses in the Dharma shastras that say:

  A Sannyasi should live in the forest.

But what if you're a sannyasi and also a prapanna? You can't live in both the forest and the temple site at the same time, so what takes precedence?


texts: What exactly happens to Prarabhdha karma while performing "Yoganidra" in Meditation?

texts:
I came across a term "Yoganidra" in one of spiritual book. And I came to know that "Yoganidra" can experience during Meditation.

My questions are:

What is the meaning of "Yoganidra"? Are there any Types of "Yoganidra"? Briefly
How to perform "Yoganidra"? Can I get a spiritual reference for it?
Can we perform "Yoganidra" by Own or Does we need a spiritual "GURU" for this?
What exactly happens to Prarabhdha karma while performing "Yoganidra" in meditation?
What is the significance of "Yoganidra" in Spiritual Growth (Adhyatmik pragati) of a sadhaka?
Are there any benefits doing "Yoganidra"?

And I found that "Yoganidra" is different from sleep.

Is it means that we can't experience "Yoganidra" while sleeping? If Yes/No How to know it?


texts: Is Kashyapa gotra same as Koushika gotra?

texts: In the Mahabharata Kaushika gotra is mentioned and kashyapa gotra might have mentioned. Are the two gotras same?


texts: What happens to the soul if a womb is aborted?

texts: What happens to a soul if the womb is aborted?  Does the soul take another birth or it attains salvation?


texts: Do any non-vaishnavite scriptures say well-known Gods are only positions attained by Jivas?

texts: this seems to be a uniquely vaishnavite concept.  I don't recall Siva worshipers, Ganesa worshipers et al claiming that Gods they consider subordinate are Jivas.


texts:
I got to know from a relative that Shani has 2 sons - Maandhi & Kuligan.

Just like Shani, they are supposed to create malefic effects according to Jyotisha. What is the story behind them? Very little seems to be known about them.


texts: What are the after-effects of insulting gods or goddesses?

texts:
I'm witnessing upsurge in sacrileges, such as—

Demolishing idols of devatā-s or devī-s.
Profane acts targeting iconography of devatā-s or devī-s.
Making abusive versions of epics, purāṇa-s, etc.

I wonder, what are the consequences of such actions? or in other words, what are the sins attached to blasphemy?


texts: Who is the goddess Ahoi worshipped on Ahoi Ashtami?

texts:
Today is Ahoi Ashtami in northern India in which women keep fasts for their children's well-being just like they do for their husbands on Karva-chauth. While they break the fast on Karva-chauth after seeing the moon on Ahoi or 'Hoi' as it is locally called they break the fast after seeing the evening star.

The detailed stories and rituals can be read in this Drikpanchang page but I am more concerned with the identification of the Goddess Ahoi. She seems to be similar to Goddess Shashthi in the sense that she is worshipped for keeping children healthy but the latter is associated with the 6th day not 8th and am not sure if they are the same.

So my question is - Do any scriptures mention the story or give clues to the identity of Goddess Ahoi who is worshiped on Ahoi Ashtami?


texts: What is the Birthstar of Goddess Bhoodevi?

texts: Please let me know the birthstar of Goddess Bhoodevi Nachiyar. I have once heard that she is born under Revathi Nakshatra. I want to know because, my sister got an alliance and the boy belongs to Shravana Nakshatram.


texts: Rangoli (Kolam) according to shastra and tradition

texts:
What powder is the ideal to put rangoli?

Is current rangoli colors are tradition? If not what is natural and tradition substitute for colors?

Which location is the ideal to put rangoli? In front of altar? In front of courtyard? Or in front of Tulasi? Or anywhere we like?

Are there any restriction on symbols which we use in front of home because outside home mean anyone may step on it?

Are peacock, dolls etc rangoli designs tradition and according to shastra?

Are there any shastra references on these information?

Also any shastra references on what type of rangoli designs are ideal?


texts: What is the exact story of the origin of goddess Annapurna?

texts: Which scripture talks about goddess parvati taking the form of Annapurna? Did she take this form on the auspicious day of Akshay tritiya? Why did Lord Shiva beg in front of her? I want to know the story behind this.


texts:
Krishna is popularly called as Jagadguru.

Rama is also an purnavathara of Vishnu. Why he is generally not called as Jagadguru? Is it true that he is Jagadguru?


texts: Question about Sarasvati, mother of Sarvabhauma

texts:
It is mentioned in the Srimad Bhagavatam that in the period of the eighth Manu, the incarnation of the Supreme Personality of Godhead appears as the son of Devaguhya & Sarasvati.

  देवगुह्यात् सरस्वत्यां
  सार्वभौम इति प्रभुः
  स्थानं पुरन्दराद् धृत्वा
  बलये दास्यतीश्वरः

  devaguhyāt sarasvatyāṁ
  sārvabhauma iti prabhuḥ
  sthānaṁ purandarād dhṛtvā
  balaye dāsyatīśvaraḥ SB 8.13.17

  In the eighth manvantara, the greatly powerful Personality of Godhead Sārvabhauma will take birth. His father will be Devaguhya, and His mother will be Sarasvatī. He will take the kingdom away from Purandara [Lord Indra] and give it to Bali Mahārāja.

The Sarasvati that is mentioned here - Is it Goddess Saraswati ? Who is Devaguhya ?


texts: I watched the movie the other day named "pataal bhairavi " but in the movie, she looked like Maa Kali. Is there any goddess named Pataal Bhairavi?


texts: Discrepancy in the timeline of compilation of the Srimad Bhagavatam and the Mahabharata

texts:
According to the Mahabharata, it seems that all the eighteen Puranas were compiled by Rishi Vyasa before the Mahabharata itself was written:

  aṣṭādaśapurāṇānāṃ śravaṇād yat phalaṃ bhavet |
  tat phalaṃ samavāpnoti viṣṇoḥ nātra saṃśayaḥ ||” (MBH 18:06:97)

  One devoted to Vishnu acquires (through reading this Mahabharata) that merit which is acquired by listening to the eighteen Puranas. There is no doubt in this.

However, in the Srimad Bhagavatam (which is one of the eighteen Puranas), it is said that Vyasa even after compiling the Vedas and writing the Mahabharata was still sad and Narada visits him to write the Srimad Bhagavatam:

  jijñāsitaṁ susampannam api te mahad-adbhutam |
  kṛtavān bhārataṁ yas tvaṁ sarvārtha-paribṛṁhitam || (SB 1:5:3)

  [Narada said]: Your inquiries were full and your studies were also well fulfilled, and there is no doubt that you have prepared a great and wonderful work, the Mahābhārata, which is full of all kinds of Vedic sequences elaborately explained.

  śrī-nārada uvāca | bhavatānudita-prāyaṁ yaśo bhagavato ’malam |
  yenaivāsau na tuṣyeta manye tad darśanaṁ khilam || (SB 1:5:8)

  Śrī Nārada said: You have not actually broadcasted the sublime and spotless glories of the Personality of Godhead. That philosophy which does not satisfy the transcendental senses of the Lord is considered worthless.

  yathā dharmādayaś cārthā muni-varyānukīrtitāḥ |
  na tathā vāsudevasya mahimā hy anuvarṇitaḥ || (SB 1:5:9)

  Although, great sage, you have very broadly described the four principles beginning with dharma, you have not described the glories of, Vāsudeva.

  tvam apy adabhra-śruta viśrutaṁ vibhoḥ |
  samāpyate yena vidāṁ bubhutsitam |
  prākhyāhi duḥkhair muhur arditātmanāṁ |
  saṅkleśa-nirvāṇam uśanti nānyathā || (SB 1:5:40)

  Please, therefore, describe the almighty Lord’s activities which you have learned by your vast knowledge of the Vedas, for that will satisfy the hankerings of great learned men and at the same time mitigate the miseries of the masses of common people who are always suffering from material pangs. Indeed, there is no other way to get out of such miseries.

This discrepancy in the timeline of compilation of the Mahabharata and the Srimad Bhagavatam has been often used by Shaktas to claim that Devi Bhagavatam is the true Bhagavata Purana and not the Bhagavatam dedicated to Krishna.

So does it prove the Shakta claim of Srimad Bhagavatam being inauthentic? If not, what is the possible reason for this discrepancy?


texts: What scriptures discuss why the sky appears blue?

texts:
As I discuss in this question, by far the most popular school of Hindu philosophy is the Vedanta school.  But there are five other Astika or orthodox schools of Hindu philosophy: Purva Mimamsa, Samkhya, Yoga, Vaisheshika, and Nyaya.  My question is about Vaisheshika, according to which atoms are the cause of the Universe.  The defining text of the Vaikeshika school is the Vaisheshika Sutras, composed by the sage Kanada Kashyapa.

In any case, in Adhyaya 2 Pada 1 Sutra 5 of the Vaisheshika Sutras, Kanada argues that Ether, the substance that the sky is made of, does not possess color or the other sensory attributes that other elements possess.  Now in this excerpt from his commentary on the Vaisheshika Sutras, Shankara Misra answers the objection that the sky appears to possess color:

  If it be asked, "How does the perception arise that Ether is as white as curd?" we reply that it is due to the impression created by the perception of the white coloura of the rays of the sun.  If it be asked "How then does the perception that Ether is blue?" we reply that it is due to the impression created in the minds of the observers who are looking at the radiance of the emerald peak lying largely extended over the south side of Sumeru mountain.  It has been opined that it is due to the impression created by the eye when after traveling to a long distance it turns back and reaches its own pupil.  This is not a sound opinion, because those who possess jaundiced eyes also have such impressions.

So Shankara Misra discusses two potential explanations for why the sky appears blue:

It's the blue glow of the emerald peak of Mount Meru
It's just the eye seeing a reflection of itself

Now Shankara Misra accepts the first explanation and rejects the second, but my question is, does Hindu scripture offer any other explanations for why the sky is blue?  Or is this the only text that mentions this subject?

Note that, keeping with the rules of the site, I do not want people to engage in scientific speculation.  I just want factual references like "the Vishnu Purana says the sky is blue because...",  not attempts to show that Hindu scriptures have prefigured some modern scientific theory.

EDIT: The Yoga Bhashya, the commentary on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras attributed to Vyasa, gives the same Meru explanation:

  [Sumeru's] peaks are or silver, coral, crystal, gold and jewels. There the Southern portion of the sky being colored by the radiance of emerald, is blue like the leaf of blue lotus.

Note that Jambudvipa is to the south of Mount Meru, so assuming Jambudvipa is all of Earth the southern portion would cover the whole sky.  In any case, this is all the more indication that the Meru explanation might be mentioned somewhere in Hindu scripture.


texts:
Parakaya pravesa is a well known in sanathan dharma in which a jiva can enter in to another person body.
So, it may also be possible that two persons can swap their Jivas.
But, are there any such instances in scriptures?


texts: What scriptures describe Lakshmi’s serpent Kalyana?

texts:
The Sharanagati Gadyam is a prose hymn by the famous Sri Vaishnava Acharya Ramanujacharya on the subject of Sharanagati, complete surrender to the lotus feet of Sriman Narayana as a means to attain Moksha.  In the first verse of the Sharanagati Gadyam, Ramanujacharya invokes Vishnu’s wife Lakshmi to intercede with Vishnu on his behalf:

  bhagavannārāyaṇābhimatānurūpasvarūparūpaguṇavibhava
  aiśvaryaśīlādyanavadhikātiśaya asaṅkhyeyakalyāṇaguṇagaṇāṃ padmavanālayāṃ
  bhagavatīṃ śriyaṃ devīṃ nityānapāyinīṃ niravadyāṃ devadevadivyamahiṣīṃ
  akhilajaganmātaramasmanmātaramaśaraṇyaśaraṇyāmananyaśaraṇaḥ
  śaraṇamahaṃ prapadye ॥

  Having the form, beauty and splendour in consonance with and similar to that of Lord Narayana, having innumerable and unlimited amounts of wonderful and auspicious features such as wealth, splendour, glory and such groups of divine qualities, having the garden of lotus for her residence, Bhagavati, one who is always with the Lord, one who has no flaws, who is the queen and consort of the Lord of Lords, mother of this universe, our mother, refuge of the refugeless, I surrender to and seek refuge of that Sridevi and nobody else.

Now in his Rahasya Raksha, which contains a commentary on the Sharanagati Gadyam, Vedanta Desikan discusses two meanings for the word Vibhava or wealth here.  The first meaning is that it refers to the fact that both Lila Vibhuti the realm of Samsara and Nitya Vibhuti the realm of Moksha belong to Lakshmi, just as they as they belong to Vishnu.  The second meaning is that it refers to the fact that Lakshmi has her own unique ornaments and attendants, just like Vishnu does.

  sva-asadharana-vibhushadikam ca vibhavah “nidhih padmonidhih shankhuh chaturdandi gajastata kalyana sarpah pancasyah sikshito griharakshakah” iti ca purana prasiddhana anurupam iha yadarham grahyam

  And her wealth is her own unique ornaments.  The Puranas celebrate her with the verse “She has two treasures called Padmanidhi and Shankhanidhi, and a four-tusked elephant, and a five-headed serpent named Kalyana, and trained guards for her palace”.  In this verse she is shown to be suitably equal to Vishnu in her wealth.

I’m interested in the part in bold.  My question is, what scriptures describe Lakshmi’s five-headed serpent Kalyana?  It seems to be a counterpart to Vishnu’s serpent Adiseshan.

And does anyone know what Purana the verse quoted by Vedanta Desikan comes from?


texts: Do scriptures allow embalmmemt as an alternative to dispose of Hindu dead bodies?

texts: I believe both cremation and burial are allowed in Hinduism.  Is there any mention of preserving corpses to be viewable for posterity or at least for a long time?  There is only one claim as far as I know of embalming a Hindu religious figure - Ramanuja.


texts: Does the concept of Evil Spirits occur in Hinduism?

texts: Some of the western religions have evil spirits like devils and demons.  Does the concept or belief in evil spirits occur in Hinduism?


texts: who is Audulomi who appears in Brahmasutras?

texts: What is the history of Audulomi who appears in Brahmasutras of Vyasa


texts: I am looking for a pdf version of Skanda Purana, in Sanskrit "and" its translation (either English or Hindi) in the same book. Its quite important! Please let me know!


texts: What is the difference between Dhyana Mantra and Mantra?

texts: Have come across the phrase Dhyana Mantra several times in context of Durga puja, Kali puja. But what is the difference between a Mantra and a Dhyana Mantra? Can it be different for the same deity? What is the concept behind Dhyana Mantra?


texts: Do idols that receive worship in temples lose power over time and have to be re-energized?

texts: I have seen an idol re-energized.  Yagnas were conducted with kalashas filled with water placed next to the fire.  The idol was then bathed in the energized water. Are procedures like this mentioned in Agama shastras?


texts:
As mentioned in the Mahabharata:

  Vaishampayana said, "Then Valadeva, O king, proceeded to Vinasana where the Sarasvati hath become invisible in consequence of her contempt for Sudras and Abhiras. And since the Sarasvati, in consequence of such contempt, is lost at that spot, the Rishis, for that reason, O chief of the Bharatas, always name the place as Vinasana

When did Saraswati express contempt for Sudras and Abhiras and how did it make her invisible?

What is the basis for Vaishampayana's claim that the Saraswati became invisible because of her contempt for Sudras and Abhiras?


texts: Is there any description of Bharatavarsha in Hindu Scriptures?

texts: I've read about Bharatavarsha in many books, but only found the origin of the term Bharatavarsha. Is there a description of Bharatavarsha (i.e., what constitutes Bharatavarsha), in a holy book?


texts: Are there Shankaracharyas outside of Adi-Shankara's direct lineage?

texts:
I even read online somewhere (don't have the link handy, will dig it out) that there are many shankaracharyas who basically claimed links one of the 4 seats set up by Adi-Shankara.

Who might they be?


texts: When you achieve Advaitic realization are you freed of all Karma?

texts: from observing known realized souls like Ramakrishna - they are not in Samadhi all the time.  Do they incur fresh Karma after realization until Mahasamadhi?


texts: Is Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Mangalagiri one of the eight sacred places of Lord Vishnu in India?

texts:
Wikipedia of Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Mangalagiri says it is one of the eight sacred places of Lord Vishnu in India.

  Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is a vaishnavite temple and one of the eight
  sacred places of Lord Vishnu in India

But this website about "Ashtakshara kshetras" didn't list this temple.

I was confused with this temple.


texts: In the Mahabharata ,most people married more than once. Then why is there a Hindu law now which prevents Hindus from marrying more than once?


texts: What does Hinduism say about protection of nature?

texts:
Sanathana Dharma is one of the rarest culture in history of mankind which emphasize on the protection of nature. Here in India, Hindus respect the value of life in Nature. They respect trees, animals and all other living beings.

Before cutting one tree, they  apologize and ask permission from the tree being cut. I have seen this practice in Kerala, where tree cutters and carpenters ask for permission of tree. Also there is a saying like 'One tree is equal to 10 sons', which shows the importance of trees. Also forests are an essential part in the life of Hindu according to Varnasrama dharma.

In a general view, most of the Hindu scriptures deals with the nature. In ancient times, there were no question of nature protection since people were keeping their values and considered earth as equal to mother. But this is Kaliyuga and everything has changed a lot. People all over the world is looting nature and destroying the forests. My question is in concern with all these activities against nature. What does Hinduism say about nature protection? Which of the particular Hindu scripture deals with the protection of nature? Or is it like all of them deal with it?

Also as an additional question, does anyone know about the origin of the practice which is about asking permission to trees before cutting them down?


texts: What does the Ramayana say about floating stones of Ram Sethu?

texts:
According to the Ramayana epic, Lord Rama built a bridge across the sea to Lanka to rescue Sita from Ravana. I could see many images of Ram Sethu between Sri Lanka and India in Google Maps and it is said to have been there for millions of years. I have heard that this bridge, Ram Sethu, is made up of stones that never sink in the water.

How was Ram Sethu built according to the Ramayana?

P.S.: I recently saw a video in which villagers were putting big stones in water and those stones were floating in water. But I never expected that such stones still exist. See the video here.


texts: What is the reason behind Sri Ahobila Mutt having two acharya parampara branches?

texts:
Ahobila mutt is a prominent muth in the Vadakalai sect of Sri Vaishnava tradition. The exponder of this sect is Sriman Vedanta desika.  Acharya Lineage(parampara) is one of the important characteristics of Sri Vaishnava tradition.
Ahobila Mutt has two different lineages. The branches are listed as Samasrayana Parampara and Kalakshepa Parampara with the acharya lineage branching after Swami Bhashyakarar. Click here for reference.

What are samashrayana parampara and Kalakshepa parampara?
What is the reason behind two different lineages?


texts: How many shlokas are there in Valmiki Ramayana?

texts:
Bibek Debroy in the article 10 Sanskrit texts everyone must read says:

Valmiki Ramayana - Valmiki was the first Sanskrit poet. He invented the shloka. In roughly 25,000 shlokas, this is the first work of Sanskrit literature, though other Sanskrit texts pre-date Valmiki. This is beautiful poetry, especially in the first 6 kandas, and unlike classical Sanskrit literature, it is simple in structure, easily understood. Yes, the Ramayana is about Rama's journey and it has religious significance. But it is much more.

And the homepage of valmikiramayan.net says:

Ramayana contains 24,000 verses [sloka] arranged into numerous cantos [sarga] which are contained in 6 books as mentioned earlier.

So what is the correct number of shlokas in Valmiki Ramayana including the Uttara Kanda?
When they say 24,000 or 25,000 verses, does it generally include the Uttara Kanda?

PS. I'm looking for well-researched answers, not copy-paste answers from random blogs.


texts: does all three bodies cease to exist in turiya?

texts: does all three bodies cease to exist/merge with brahman in turiya state? If so, is it not possible for astral travel or projection since subtle body no longer exists, but merges with brahman?


texts: Is the word "Mleccha" mentioned in the Vedas?

texts: The controversial word "Mleccha" is used to denote foreigners and barbarians in Hindu scriptures. This word is present in most Puranas and Dharmasastras. Is this word also present in the Vedas?


texts: Why women were not allowed to offer prayers at Shingnapur Shani Temple?

texts: As question says, why women were not allowed to offer prayers at  Shingnapur Shani Temple, which is in Maharashtra? Was there any reason for this tradition or was this just a superstition?


texts: How many son(s) and daughter(s) did Vibhisana and Indrajit have?

texts:
Did Vibhisana have any son and daughter? and Did Indrajit have any son and daughter? Any mention in Ramayan?

Did Vibhisan have any son/daughter after marring Mandodari?


texts:
In the Kurukshetra war of the Mahabharata, Krishna prompted Bhima to falsely say that Ashwatthama was killed, when Drona was found to be superior to all warriors. Krishna prompted so knowing very well that Drona might even kill Arjuna that day.

My question is:

Why did Krishna took the side of a lie? He himself taught Arjuna about the right principles in the same battlefield. Is there any hidden meaning?


texts: What is the earliest reference of three truths doctrines found among Advaitin's literature?

texts:
As of today, almost all Advaita VedAntins espousing three truths theory using below terms

prAtibhAsika satya
vyAvahArika satya (Relative truth)
pAramArthika satya (Absolute reality)

Does any Adi Sankara's work talk about these three truths? If not, What is the earliest Advaita VedAntin's work found to use the three truth doctrines and using what Sanskrit terms?

Also, As a side note, Two truths doctrine (corresponds to so-called relative and absolute truth) is found in Buddhism - a reference before Adi Sanakara. In Nāgārjuna's Mūlamadhyamakakārikā the two truths doctrine is used to defend the identification of dependent origination (pratītyasamutpāda) with emptiness (śūnyatā):

  The Buddha's teaching of the Dharma is based on two truths: a truth of
  worldly convention and an ultimate truth. Those who do not understand
  the distinction drawn between these two truths do not understand the
  Buddha's profound truth. Without a foundation in the conventional
  truth the significance of the ultimate cannot be taught. Without
  understanding the significance of the ultimate, liberation is not
  achieved


texts:
Why the rituals pertaining to birth, upanayan, marriage and death are different among the Hindus? Is there a different sanction when it comes to rituals? Even among the Brahmins there is NO uniform code of conduct. Is it more influenced by the local culture rather than the scriptures? How this is possible?

And is there a common code of conduct, which has been flouted from ages so much so that there is no standard to go back to.


texts: Asking questions against creation and doings of God in hinduism?

texts:
God gave Humans brain and the ability to think. So my question is it right or wrong to question the creations and doings of God by a human?

I mean will it be considered a sin?

Please help me out, I am bit confused.


texts: How did Bhadra conceive children from the corpse of her husband?

texts:
Mahabharata Sambhava Parva Section CXXI mentions an interesting story of a king Vyushitashwa who dies without siring any child. His wife lamenting on his death bed hears her dead husband's voice asking her to lay down with her on a certain day at a certain time:

  Then she was addressed by an incorporeal voice in these words, "Rise up, O Bhadra, and leave this place. O thou of sweet smiles, I grant thee this boon. I will beget offspring upon thee. Lie thou down with me on thy own bed, after the catamenial bath, on the night of the eighth or the fourteenth day of the moon.' Thus addressed by the incorporeal voice, the chaste Bhadra did, as she was directed, for obtaining offspring. And, O bull of the Bharatas, the corpse of her husband begat upon her seven children viz., three Salwas and four Madras.

My questions are - Is this related to some Aghori or Tantrik practice? Are there any other instances of such impregnation of a wife by her dead husband in the scriptures?


texts: Did Yudhiṣṭhira sacrifice old women (female slaves) as part of his aśvamedha-yajña?

texts:
From Aśvamedha-parva of Mahābhārata, Ch. LXXXV:

  Then the mighty-armed Bhimasena, at the command of the king, sent out messengers to the great kings of the Earth. Those best of kings, came to the Horse-sacrifice of the Kuru monarch for doing what was agreeable to him. And they brought many gems with them and many female slaves and horses and weapons.

And later from the same chapter:

  Many sacrificial stakes also were set up, made, according to the directions of the scriptures of wood, and adorned with gold. Endued with great effulgence, these were duly planted and dedicated (with scriptural Mantras). The king saw all animals, again, which belong to land and all those which belong to water, collected there on the occasion. And they also beheld many kine and many buffaloes and many old women, and many aquatic animals, many beasts of prey and many species of birds, and many specimens of viviparous and oviparous creatures, and many that are filth-born, and many belonging to the vegetable kingdom, and many animals and plants that live or grow on mountains. Beholding the sacrificial compound thus adorned with animals and kine and corn, the invited kings became filled with wonder.

  Large heaps of costly sweet-meats were kept ready for both the Brahmanas and the Vaisyas. And when the feeding was over of a hundred thousand Brahmanas, drums and cymbals were beat. And so large was the number fed that the sounds of drums and cymbals were repeatedly heard, indeed, from day to day those sounds continued. Thus was performed that sacrifice of king Yudhishthira of great intelligence.

Were those women really sacrificed during Yudhiṣṭhira's aśvamedha-yajña or were they just witness to it?


texts: How advait is mayavad as per Vaishnav ideology?

texts:
I know the argument is that it leads to impersonal idea of God but where does Maya comes into the play as per their theology ?

https://youtu.be/hN9KpDg9X0g


texts: What is the meaning of Gita ch.14 verse 27?

texts:
Gita ch.14 verse 27

brahmano hi pratisthaham
amrtasyavyayasya ca
sasvatasya ca dharmasya
sukhasyaikantikasya ca

What does this verse mean?


texts: What is phalashruti for Bala Kanda parayana of Valmiki Ramayana

texts: In which text the phalashruti for parayana of Balakanda of Valmiki Ramayan has been mentioned? And what is it?


texts: Is there any scriptural support for Ramakrishna's avatarhood?

texts:
Sri Ramakrishna mission and the devotees claim that Sri Ramakrishna was an Avatar. Even Sri Ramakrishna declared that he was an Avatar. However, Puranas mentioned only 10 avatars of Vishnu. The only Vishnu avatar yet to come is the Kalki.
Even Gaudiya Vaishnavas, who claim Lord Chaitanya was an Avatar of Vishnu, show passages from Srimad Bhagavatam supporting the lofty claim.
What scriptural support is there in favour of the declaration of the Ramakrishna Mission?


texts: Do any Hindu scriptures explain the science behind the astrology?

texts:
Somehow I am not challenging Astrology & I am amazed how some people are able to predict your nature & your future so accurately just by your time of birth & place of birth.

I already met some great astrologers who are amazing in their job & can tell you your past without knowing you & even predict future accurately with knowing you.

Astrologers have most accurate knowledge of cosmic events (more accurate & before than NASA)  like Lunar Eclipse & solar eclipse in next 1000 years. They know about all planets, their cycles long before even Galileo propose Heliocentric.

Is this like they are so advanced in science & knowledge of universe that we still can't imagine and they have equation to predict time as dimension to predict best possibility of future.

What is actual science behind astrology? Do any Hindu scriptures explain this science?

NOTE: I know astrology is not fake except for some fakers who exist even in science as scientists.


texts: Do any scripture portrays Lord Kartikeya (Murugan) to be the Supreme God?

texts: Just like this question here, I would like to know whether any scripture portrays Lord Kartikeya (Murugan) to be the Supreme God.


texts:
Is there any authentic data captured by a reputed institute or organization, that clearly shows which Hindu God/Deity has highest no. of temples in India?

Does any Government body or NGO keep track of this information?

I know it is challenging to categorize what is a temple and what is not, but I feel there has to be some standard to define this and have this info. kept somewhere.

Why am I asking this question? Here is my rationale.

This information can throw up interesting insight into the minds of those who are not much familiar with Hindu religion. For example: Why is there a God like Brahma who is a well-known figure in Trinity, but whose temples are rare to find?
It may generate more interest in a god whose temple count is more and people may want to explore more info. about the god. This way, stories will be exchanged and discussion may begin bringing more info. to the surface!

Any hints?


texts: How could everything happens is for good only?

texts:
Whatever has happened has happened for the good. What is happening is also happening for the good. Whatever will happen will be for good also.

Reading the above translated text may be taken from Gita (I am not sure, but I gave reference link below) is quite understandable. But I want to know how did lord Krishna explain this "All for the good theory" which satisfy for each and every kind of individual?

Shall we consider it happened for the good if someone intentionally kills someoneone with out any reason?

Edit : reference


texts: Can I read Bhagavata Purana? If yes, what are the procedures and rules to be followed?

texts: I wanted to know if I can read Srimad Bhagavatam on a daily basis at home. Either in morning or in evening. If yes, what are the procedures to be followed while reading?


texts: We all know that Brahma is the creator of Universe and this is why Universe is also called as Bramhand(universe). But why has he created Bramhand? What was the purpose behind?


texts: Why was the punishment of Jayadratha’s sins given to his father?

texts:
Krishna ordered Arjuna to kill Jayadratha and make his head fall in the lap of Jayadratha's father, Vridakshatra. When Vridakshatra put Jayadratha’s head on the Earth, Vridakshatra's head burst into 100 pieces.

Why was the punishment of Jayadratha's sins given to his father?

When Vridhakshatra gave a boon to Jayadratha, he didn't know that his son will commit so many sins. So why did Vridakshatra get punished when he just gave a boon to his child, as many Gods have gave boons to Demons in the Past.

Isn't Krishna committed Adharma in the above case?


texts: Did Valmiki ever meet Lord Rama prior to the Ashwamedha?

texts: I came across a question on this site about Veda Vyasa, the author of Mahabharat, meeting Lord Krishna and I was wondering if similarly Valmiki also met Lord Rama sometime. They have met at the time of the Ashwamedha Yagna when Luv and Kush defeated Lord Rama's army but I want to know if they ever met before in life?


texts:
What are the ultimate objectives in Hinduism?

Is Moksha the only ultimate objective?


texts: Can one know what he was in his previous life?

texts:
Is it possible to know what a person was in his previous life.
Male, female , person's likes and dislikes, his interests and what was his good and bad karma??


texts: The above images shows Swatika in the centre with different astras and a deity around it. What does it signify? Please provide the scriptural reference.


texts: Any prayaschitta for people who have beaten up their parents?

texts: Is there any prayaschitta in the scriptures for people who have physically hurt  their parents? (Please do not assume things. I am asking this for a particular individual.)


texts: About different ramayna by different authers and different thinking

texts:
There are so many versions of Ramayan by different authors
Is there any difference we can't accept?

Which one is correct and most accurate?

Kin authers ne supernatural power Ke Karan Ramayan likhi...kya other version only modification h ?

In Ramayan life of RAM is very tough, and even each character's life was tough, is it possible, can we follow their path in today's circumstances, and in which cases?


texts: How did Indra use deception to defeat Prahlada's son Virochana?

texts:
In the Shalya Parva of the Mahabharata, right before Bhima's famous mace battle with Duryodhana, Krishna tells Arjuna that Bhima should fight unfairly, as that's the only way to defeat Duryodhana.  He tells Arjuna that even the gods have resorted to deception in fighting against the Asuras:

  If he were to fight fairly, Bhimasena will never succeed in winning the victory. If, however, he fights unfairly he will be surely able to slay Duryodhana. The Asuras were vanquished by the gods with the aid of deception. We have heard this. Virochana was vanquished by Shakra with the aid of deception. The slayer of Vala deprived Vritra of his energy by an act of deception. Therefore, let Bhimasena put forth his prowess, aided by deception! At the time of the gambling, O Dhananjaya, Bhima vowed to break the thighs of Suyodhana with his mace in battle. Let this crusher of foes, therefore, accomplish that vow of his.

I'm familiar with how Indra used deception to defeat the demon Vritrasura, but my question is, how did Indra use deception to defeat Virochana?

For those who don't know, Virochana was the son of Prahlada, the one by Vishnu's incarnation Narasimha, and the father of Mahabali, the one defeated by Vishnu's incarnation Vamana.  My understanding is that good and evil alternated in that lineage: Hiranyakashipu was evil, Prahlada was good, Virochana was evil, Mahabali was good, Bana was evil, etc.  But the only story involving Indra and Virochana I know in Hindu scripture is the one found in the Chandogya Upanishad, but as I discuss in this question that story just involves Brahma imparting knowledge to both Indra and Virochana, with Indra correctly interpreting the lesson and Virochana misinterpreting it.

In any case, I wouldn't put it past Indra to engage in deception against Virochana; Indra lists various acts of deception in this chapter of the Kaushitaki Upanishad:

  Know me only; that is what I deem most beneficial for man, that he should know me. I slew the three-headed son of Tvashtri; I delivered the Arunmukhas, the devotees, to the wolves (sâlâvrika); breaking many treaties, I killed the people of Prahlâda in heaven, the people of Puloma in the sky, the people of Kâlakañga on earth. And not one hair of me was harmed there.

I discuss in this answer how Indra used deception to retake Devaloka from Prahlada.  But does anyone know any scriptures that describe Indra using deception to defeat Prahlada's son Virochana?


texts:
In this section of Mahabharata it lists Karna as one of pupil of Drona.

Then Drona endued with great prowess taught the sons of Pandu (the use of) many weapons both celestial and human. And, O bull of the Bharata race, many other princes also flocked to that best of Brahmanas for instruction in arms. The Vrishnis and the Andhakas, and princes from various lands, and the (adopted) son of Radha of the Suta caste, (Karna), all became pupils of Drona.

But all normal stories say that Drona declined to teach Karna, and Rama was his teacher.
Which one is correct?
Similar question here but no relevant answers there.


texts: Is Shiva father of Devi Manasa/Bishahari?

texts: Manasa or Bishahari is a very well known Devi in eastern and western Indian states. She is a Devi of snakes and mother of snakes. My question is about her father. Somewhere it is said that Shiva is father of Devi Manasa. I don't know if it is true. And also some say that her father is sage Kashyapa and her mother is Kadru. So which version is correct?


texts: Which was the red sea that the Pandavs visited on their journey to attain Swarga?

texts:
The Book 17: Mahaprasthanika Parva Section I mentions the Pandavs visiting a red-sea. This is where Arjun returned his divine bow and arrows to the Lord of the Ocean:

Setting themselves on Yoga, those high-souled ones, resolved to observe the religion of Renunciation, traversed through various countries and reached diverse rivers and seas. Yudhishthira, proceeded first. Behind him was Bhima; next walked Arjuna; after him were the twins in the order of their birth; behind them all, O foremost one of Bharata’s race, proceeded Draupadi, that first of women, possessed of great beauty, of dark complexion, and endued with eyes resembling lotus petals. While the Pandavas set out for the forest, a dog followed them.
"Proceeding on, those heroes reached the sea of red waters. Dhananjaya had not cast off his celestial bow Gandiva, nor his couple of inexhaustible quivers, actuated, O king, by the cupidity that attaches one to things of great value. The Pandavas there beheld the deity of fire standing before them like a hill. Closing their way, the god stood there in his embodied form. The deity of seven flames then addressed the Pandavas, saying, ‘Ye heroic sons of Pandu, know me for the deity of fire. O mighty-armed Yudhishthira, O Bhimasena that art a scorcher of foes, O Arjuna, and ye twins of great courage, listen to what I say! Ye foremost ones of Kuru’s race, I am the god of fire. The forest of Khandava was burnt by me, through the puissance of Arjuna and of Narayana himself. Let your brother Phalguna proceed to the woods after casting off Gandiva, that high weapon. He has no longer any need of it..’

My question is Is it possible to identify this sea of red waters?


texts: How practical it is for a person to give up material needs and become spiritual?

texts:
What do the Vedas and Bhagavad Gita say about how, one, who wants to devote himself completely to God and give away material success and happiness, should earn a living just enough to have food two times a day and fulfill other basic needs?

In other words, how practical it is for a person to give up material needs and become spiritual?


texts: Did Draupadī ridicule Duryodhana calling him 'Blind Son of a Blind Father?'

texts:
There is one rumor that spread far and wide. That in the Maya sabhā, Draupadī ridiculed Duryodhana calling him the blind son of the blind father. One user also mentions it in his answer here:

  Now it would be surprising to say that Pandavas were destroying Dharma. A few evidences are here below;

  1] When Draupadi ridiculed Duryodhana saying 'Blind son of a Blind Father', she trampled Dharma. It was her human weakness, that made her say it.

There are other people who truly believe the above (doubtful) event has triggered the whole Mahābhārata war!

Here's how they have shown the scene on TV:

1988 TV series Mahabharat
Suryaputra Karn, 2015 (Sony)

But the truth is, only four Pāṇḍavas (Bhīma, Arjuna, Nakula & Sahadeva) laughed when Duryodhana fell into a pool of water mistaking it for land. Even then, they didn't insult Duryodhana nor did they say anything remotely close to 'blind son of a blind father.' As for Draupadī, she was not even in present in the sabhā at the time:

  That bull among men, Duryodhana, continued to dwell in that, assembly house (of the Pandavas). And with Sakuni, the Kuru prince slowly examined the whole of that mansion, and the Kuru prince beheld in it many celestial designs, which he had never seen before in the city called after the elephant (Hastinapore). And one day king Duryodhana in going round that mansion came upon a crystal surface. And the king, from ignorance, mistaking it for a pool of water, drew up his clothes. And afterwards finding out his mistake the king wandered about the mansion in great sorrow. And sometime after, the king, mistaking a lake of crystal water adorned with lotuses of crystal petals for land, fell into it with all his clothes on. Beholding Duryodhana fallen into the lake, the mighty Bhima laughed aloud as also the menials of the palace. And the servants, at the command of the king, soon brought him dry and handsome clothes. Beholding the plight of Duryodhana, the mighty Bhima and Arjuna and both the twins – all laughed aloud. Being unused to putting up with insults, Duryodhana could not bear that laugh of theirs. Concealing his emotions he even did not cast his looks on them. And beholding the monarch once more draw up his clothes to cross a piece of dry land which he had mistaken for water, they all laughed again. And the king sometime after mistook a closed door made of crystal as open. And as he was about to pass through it his head struck against it, and he stood with his brain reeling. And mistaking as closed another door made of crystal that was really open, the king in attempting to open it with stretched hands, tumbled down. And coming upon another door that was really open, the king thinking it as closed, went away from it. And, O monarch, king Duryodhana beholding that vast wealth in the Rajasuya sacrifice and having become the victim of those numerous errors within the assembly house at last returned, with the leave of the Pandavas, to Hastinapore.

So how did the rumor that Draupadī laughed at and ridiculed Duryodhana originate? Which scripture contains this version of the story?

What are the actual verses or their translation from the scripture that narrate the story of Draupadī laughing at Duryodhana?


texts: Are there any flowers that are not supposed to be offered to Lord Vishnu?

texts: There are certain flowers that should not be offered to a specific deity. For example, Tulasi is not offered to Ganesha and Ketaki or Champa is not offered to Lord Shiva. Are there any flowers, mentioned in scriptures, that should not be offered to Lord Vishnu?


texts: What is actual difference between Pranan and Prana?

texts: Can anyone site Yogic references with Pranan and Prana? As of now, I know Prana is a Vayu among 10 Vayus but few days back I came across the word Pranan and it is stated its different from Prana vayu. If so, what is the difference between them and what is the function of Pranan?


texts: What is the meaning of "bhīma-karmā vṛkodaraḥ" in Gita 1.15?

texts:
In Gita 1.15 Bhīma is called "bhīma-karmā vṛkodaraḥ", or something along the lines of "tremendous-deeds wolf-bellied".

Are there any particular stories about Bhima's tremendous deeds and voracious hunger behind this?

What is the case of "karmā"? It looks related to the root "karman" but doesn't seem to be identical to any case of its declension.


texts: What did Hindu's call themselves before 'Hindu'?

texts:
What did Hindu's call themselves before they were referred to as 'Hindu' from other cultures?

I read that it was foreigners that referred to people from India or near the Indus river as 'Hindi' or Hindu.


texts: If Sati's body was fully burned, then how 51 shaktipeeth came into existence?

texts:
I have read that (according to Shiva Purana) Sati's body was turned into ashes.

  6-7. She desired to cast-off her body due to her anger with Dakṣa. She desired to burn off the body and retain the pure wind by yogic means. In this posture she remembered the feet of her lord and nothing else.

  Her body divested of its sins fell in the yogic fire and was reduced to ashes, O excellent sage, in accordance with her own wish.

  Source; Chapter 30 - Satī’s casting off of her body and the subsequent disorder

  https://www.wisdomlib.org/hinduism/book/shiva-purana-english/d/doc226050.html

If that is true, how did Shaktipeethas come into existence?

I'm little bit confused about it.


texts: Is Brahman (as described by Adi Shankara) mentioned in the vedas?

texts:
I was having discussion with in vedanta study group and there was an argument stated that "Brahman" as mentioned by Adi Shankara was not a concept mentioned in any of 4 vedas and that Shankara had a different interpretation of maya.

My question is:
1. Which vedic verses describe Brahman as stated by Adi Shankara?
2. Is Vedanta imparted from Buddhism? (sometimes Adi shankara is called as mayavadi or shoonyavadi).

Glad if you could give Vedic verse references to your answers.


texts: How much does the divinely created statue of Ramanujacharya resemble him?

texts:
The Alwars are a group of 12 ancient Vaishnava saints who lived in Tamil Nadu and are famous for their poetry in praise of Vishnu. The collection of their 4000 poems, known as the Naalayira Divya Prabhandam, is considered by many to be the "Dravida Veda", or South Indian Veda. The Alwars are crucially important figures in the history of Vaishnavism; it's the beliefs and principles embodied in the Alwars' poems that ultimately gave rise to the Sri Vaishnava sect (of which I'm a member).

Now as I discuss in this answer, one of the most famous Alwars was Nammalwar, who spent his short life under a Tamarind tree in the town of Kurugur, modern-day Alwar Thirunagari.  Despite his young age, however, Nammalwar had a disciple, another Alwar called Madhurakavi Alwar, who was an old man.  One of their notable stories goes roughly as follows.  One day Madhurakavi Alwar asked Nammalwar for a small statue of Nammalwar so he could remember him.  Nammalwar instructed him to boil water from the nearby Tamaraparni river, and when Madhurakavi Alwar did so a statue emerged.  Nammalwar said that the statue was of a future Vaishnava Acharya who would follow in Nammalwar's disciplic succession.  To this day, the statue is there in the Bhavishyadacharya (future Acharya) temple in Alwar Thirunagari.

Sri Vaishnavas believe that the statue is of the famous Sri Vaishnava Achararya Ramanujacharya; he was taught by five disciples of Yamunacharya, grandson of Nathamuni, who is said to have been a shishya of Nammalwar as I discuss here.  My question is, how much does the statue resemble Ramanujacharya?  Thankfully, Ramanujacharya's body has been preserved in the famous Udayavar Sannidhi in the Sri Rangam temple, so it's possible to easily compare the two with photos.


texts: Is there any alternative to using honey in making Panchamrita?

texts:
Panchamrita is a mixture of five foods used in puja which are usually honey, jaggery, milk , yogurt and ghee. However, is there any alternative for honey when making Panchamrita?

The reason I am reluctant to use honey is that it is made by bees to store food for winter and it seems like we, humans are stealing their food. Many scriptures themselves say ''food stolen from others should not be offered to God''.I don't think God would like us to offer stolen food. It seems very unethical and immoral to me. So is there any alternative to using honey in making Panchamrita?


texts: Help me to find out the verse : "Brahma satyam jagat mithya, jivo brahmaiva naparah"

texts:
According to wikipedia, The Famous verse from Vivek Chudamani (विवेकचूडामणि) is:

Brahma satyam jagat mithya, jivo brahmaiva naparah
Translation: Brahman is the only truth, the world is unreal, and there is ultimately no difference between Brahman and individual self

But I can't find that verse from vivek chudamani. I have a vivek chudamani of Gitapress Gorakhpur (book code:133). You can also find it from sanskritdocuments : sanskrit pdf.
So, Where can I find the verse : Brahma satyam jagat mithya, jivo brahmaiva naparah?
Note: Verse no. 20 of vivek chudamani is not exactly this (though it contains first part of the quoted verse)
Also visit the related question.


texts: Did Swami Vivekananda believe the Vedas were composed or Apaurusheya?

texts:
Did Swami Vivekananda believe that the Vedas were composed or Apaurusheyatva?

Please cite some of his conversations.


texts: How is the exaltation degree and the exaltation rashi determined for a graha?

texts: It's a common knowledge that BPHS (Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra) assigns a specific Rashi and degree for the exaltation and debilitation of every graha. For instance, moon gets exalted at 3 degrees of Taurus, or Mars gets exalted at 28 degrees of Capricorn. Can any expert from jyotisha shashtra explain how these degrees and signs are arrived at?


texts: What is the Patra and Mukha mentioned in Isha Upanishad?

texts:
Ishavasya Upanishad of Shukla Yajurveda (actaully it's the last part of the Samhita itself) has the following verse-15:

Quoting with Adi Shankaracharya's Bhashya from Wisdom Library:

  हिरण्मयेन पात्रेण सत्यस्यापिहितं मुखम् ।
   तत् त्वं पूषन्न् अपावृणु सत्यधर्माय दृष्टये ॥ १५ ॥

  hiraṇmayena pātreṇa satyasyāpihitaṃ mukham |
  tat tvaṃ pūṣann apāvṛṇu satyadharmāya dṛṣṭaye || 15 ||

  15. Truths face is covered with a golden lid;
  remove that, O Pūṣan, that I, Truth’s devotee, may see It.

              Śaṅkara’s Commentary

  Hiranmayam =seeming golden, resplendent tena =by such. pātrena =lid, as it were, satyasya i.e., of the Brahman residing in the Solar disc, apihitam =covered. mukham= entrance. tat= (that); tvam =(you); he-pūṣan =O Sun, apāvṛṇu =remove. satyadharmāya i.e., to me who am through meditation on you who are Truth. Or this expression may mean “one that practises true piety” Dṛṣṭaye i.e., for reaching you whose essence is Truth.

As you can see the verse says Mukha of Satya (Truths face) is covered with a Hiranyamaya Patra (golden lid) and requesting Pushan to remove/open that Patra so-that I obtain the Satya!

This looks very mysterious and interesting spiritual preaching. I want to know more what is the face of truth and what is the (Hiranyaaya) Patra (mentioned in the verse) by which the face of truth is covered/hidden and one whose approach is Satya (that is called SatyaDharma in the verse) is preached to pray Pushan to open the cover.

Btw, This is the title song of one very useful show on Upanishads published in the form of TV Serial named Upanishad Ganga: (I watched all the 52 episodes but this verse is not included/explained in any episode.)

And Adi Shankaracharya's Bhashya doesn't elaborate much on that verse.


texts: What kind of knowledge is required to attain Moksha according to advaita vedanta?

texts:
According to this answer, advaita vedanta goes for the path of knowledge.
What kind of knowledge is required to attain Moksha?
Is it scientific or spiritual knowledge.


texts:
What are the Rishi, Chanda, Mantra Devata, Bija, Shakti and Kilaka of the Chamunda Navarna Mantra?

Although aware of the popular opinion, this site mentions a completely different set of mantra-angas, unlike this one which confirms the traditional system.

Does the addition of Om change any of the above details (Rishi, Mantra devata,etc.)?

Some sources indicate that addition of the Pranava (Om) changes the mantra to the dasakshari Rama Tarana Mantra which was used to kill Ravana, and therefore changes some mantra-angas.


texts: What is the story of Kalighat Temple in Kolkata,West Bengal?

texts: In Kolkata which is the capital of West Bengal,there is a big temple named ''Kalighat'' which is a temple of Goddess Kali and in this temple there is also a Shakti Peetha. What is the story of this temple?


texts:
I am looking for exact purpose/reason on why one should worship God? Is it because we are in god's depth as he offered us a life or is it just because god is supreme, creator of world around us?

Is this reason or purpose explained in any scriptures?


texts:
We start with the basic assumption that Maya is all that we see, our perspective on reality, and that includes the jiva and the Prakriti as well.

Do the Upanishads provide any insights into why should this illusory be logical at the same time
Why 2+2 will always be 4 and why simple mechanical laws are ubiquitous & that nature will never violate them? This may have something to do with the karmic model that without a karana no result can happen.
Logic seems to be the bridge between cause and effect. But could it not have been otherwise?

In other words couldn't Maya simply act in random ways so that somethings would never happen however logical it might seem: For example let's assume maya is of the mischievous kind and whenever I try to pour me a glass of water, she refuses to let the water fall under the influence of gravity exclusively for me, but not for everybody else, indicating a grudge with me. I know for a fact that this is far from how nature is built. Even if we might have different perspectives on the same matter, nature does allow for the existence of objective properties over which science and rationality stand. Nature, however chaotic she might be, always provides a logical causal chain for everything we observe, no matter how convoluted and it didn't have to be that way necessarily.


texts: Does the concept of ahimsa make knowing and/or influencing thoughts, emotions and feelings of others paapam?

texts:
Does the concept of ahimsa make knowing and influencing thoughts, emotions and feelings of others as paapam?

When I say knowing and influencing thoughts, emotions and feelings of others, I mean knowing and influencing through technologies.

I do not mean something done by Yogic powers.

What punishments are recommended for knowing and influencing thoughts, feelings and emotions of others through technology? And what Karma will they suffer?


texts: Can a Mleccha/Uninitiated person chant 'Om Namaḥ Śivāya'?

texts: Namaskar. My question is related to the mantra 'Om Namaḥ Śivāya'. Can a Mleccha/uninitiated person chant it fully or should he/she just chant 'Namaḥ Śivā'? Even without the 'Om' in the beginning, 'Namaḥ Śivāya' is still a Vedic mantra (Panchakshari mantra) and Mlecchas are not supposed to chant Vedas, so I'm really not sure what to do. And if this mantra is off limits for such people, is there any other mantra which is safe to chant for Mleccha/uninitiated person? Thank you.


texts:
Is it allowed to hug/touch the main idol at a temple?

In Southern India the idol is usually in a garbhagriha and as far as I know only the priest can touch the idol.  I have seen sai baba temples where you can hug the idol.  How about outside the South?


texts: Where was Arjuna for 12 years when he was exiled?

texts:
I heard that Arjuna was not together with his brothers for 12 years when he was exiled and later he joined them in the 13th year of incognito exile.

So where he was for 12 years?


texts: What is the nature of this depiction? Which Gods are presented here?

texts: I found this in an apartment I recently moved into. I've been interested in Hinduism and Buddhism for a number of years but have close to no knowledge of the traditions (I have taken some university courses). I was just wondering which gods are depicted here and what exactly is going on. I suspect the figure at the bottom may be Kali because of the ornaments she's holding, but also I've never seen Kali on a horse so I'm probably wrong. If this question should be directed on a different site please let me know. Thanks.


texts:
The answers to this question point out that Hinduism does not have any permanent hell.

But from the following excerpt from Vana Parva of Mahabharata, a permanent hell exists:

  The Yaksha asked,--'O bull of the Bharata race, who is he that is condemned to everlasting hell? It behoveth thee to soon answer the question that I ask!' Yudhishthira answered,--'He that summoneth a poor Brahmana promising to make him a gift and then tells him that he hath nothing to give, goeth to everlasting hell. He also must go to everlasting hell, who imputes falsehood to the Vedas, the scriptures, the Brahmanas, the gods, and the ceremonies in honour of the Pitris, He also goeth to everlasting hell who though in possession of wealth, never giveth away nor enjoyeth himself from avarice, saying, he hath none.

Thus, Hinduism also has the concept of permanent hell, doesn't it? What am I not understanding, if not? How can we interpret this properly?


texts:
I heard in one upanyasa a vidwan say that we should must continue the activity/work on second iteration; he said "dwitiya nasta" will not result in good outcome.
For example:

if you start reading something today and this is supposed to be a daily routine, you must do it second day. If you dont do it, you are likely to fail in achieving the outcome.
Similarly, if you decide to go to temple every week, you must go second week...

The message is, don't give up at first instance--you may not like it but try one more time before deciding. He was suggesting our views may change on second day.
Now to the question: is there anywhere in scriptures this second day's (iteration's) importance is quoted? Or, any references to stopping 'dwitiya nasta'.


texts: Is it necessary to have a guru to be hindu?

texts:
Where in Shruti (Vedas, Some Upanishads) texts say you must have a guru to be a  hindu?
Besides, one tells every Hindu has a guru by default : his father. So does it mean that everyone has actually a guru, but that's not necessarily a great one ?
Moreover, I found the topic about the initiation of Mantra. The answer is great, that's not the issue. What I am looking for is the Shruti validation, not interpretations.
To finish, how was it in Vedic times for this aspect ?


texts: I want to know rules and precautions to take care while reading Bhagavad Gita. Also I want to know that is it good to read Bhagavad Gita on Phone digitally


texts: Some mantras which require minimal level of efforts to make them siddha?

texts: Please tell some Mantras which require minimal efforts to get Siddhi over them, so that one can feel their miracle and power.


texts: Is those who are practising spiritual they have to sleep after lunch or not?

texts:
I have watched some lecture of Rajiv Dixit on youtube. He was saying  that after  lunch you must have at least a short nap/sleep for 1 hrs.

Once  I read in Swami Sivananda books  that  He was saying that don't sleep in day time and don't waste  even  a single minutes.

These two statement by Swami Sivananda and Rajiv dixt  are opposite to each other

So here I'm confusing that those  who are practicing spiritual  they  have to sleep  after lunch or not ?

I need a right/proper guidance.


texts: What is the Vishnu Sahasranaamam? Why is it important? During what times of day can one recite it? What are the important verses in it? What is the history of it?


texts: Is Ralph T. Griffith's translation of the Vedas reliable and correct?

texts:
Is Ralph T. Griffith's translation of the Vedas reliable and correct.
Can I read Ralph T. Griffith's translation of the Vedas?
If not why?


texts: Why is Parabrahman a supporter of dharma?

texts:
It is well known that Parabrahman takes the form of a human in order to establish dharma.

In order to deliver the pious and to annihilate the miscreants, as well as to reestablish the principles of religion, I advent Myself millennium after millennium.
[8, 4: Transcendental Knowledge, Bhagavad Gita]

But, as per my understanding, Parabrahman should have no biases: either towards dharma or adharma. Parabrahman is beyond the both.
Where am I going wrong? Why is Parabrahman biased towards dharma only?
Note: I need answer from scriptures only.


texts: How to understand these words of Rama regarding Sita?

texts:
Consider the following verse from Valmiki Ramayana spoken by Rama.

  "Without being asked, I myself would have gladly offered even Sita
  with kingdom, even my life, loved ones and wealth."

  [7, Chapter 19, Ayodhya Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana]

How to understand this verse? How can Rama say that he will offer his wife Sita to his brother Bharata?


texts: Is worshipping Vishnu and Rama as Ishta allowed in ISKCON?

texts:
As we know,ISKCON is a Gaudiya Vaishnava organization. Gaudiya is a Krishna centric Vaishnava sect. So their Ishta is Krishna.
For those who don't know, ishta is one's preferred form of God.

Though we know from Chaitanya Charitamrita that Chaitanya himself allowed Murari Gupta to worship Rama as his ishta. But this doesn't mean that ISKCON also follows it. Like Chaitanya also worshipped Durga and Shiva,but ISKCON refers to them as "demigods" which is an UnVedic term.

Regardless I want to know if worshipping Rama and Vishnu (and other incarnations) as Ishta is allowed in ISKCON which is a Krishna centric organization.

UPDATE

As stated in comments, other Vaishnava deities ARE worshipped in ISKCON temples. However, this doesn't necessarily mean that ISKCON also allows their followers to worship other Avatars as their Ishta.


texts: How to restore bhakti after you stopped praying for a long time?

texts:
I am an aspiring Sri Vaishnava in an Asian foreign country with the least minimum Sri Vaishnavas around for guidance and I have never met anyone except the temple priests from the local Perumal temples.

I used to pray and read the needful but one day, after a year or so, I stopped praying altogether for months after I had a personal conflict in my life(which has now resolved). I still listened to Narayaneeyam discourses on YouTube but it's just that. I feel nothing. I even stopped going to the altar in the house or even to the temples. I want to return to the path of devotion again.

Yesterday, I went to our local Venkateswara temple and I prayed but I didn't feel anything. I felt like my heart was dry, devoid of any love towards the Lord or His consort.

Please guide me. I don't have an Acharya as I have not taken Pancha Samskaram yet.


texts: Why is only Earth (Prithvi) chosen for life of human beings?

texts:
According to astrology (Jyotisha), there are nine planets (Graha). Brahma created many planets and among all planets, He made only earth (Prithvi) livable for humans. He established life only on earth, not on any other planet. I want to know why only the current planet is chosen for human beings? Is there any related story or reason described in scriptures?

Note that I'm not talking about Lokas, I'm talking about planets i,e Grahas.


texts: Is it forbidden to unintentionally enter temples during Sutak?

texts:
There was a death in my family (my grandmother's brother), which I was unaware of, when visiting a nearby temple.

I am aware that we should not be visiting temples during the after death rituals, however, in this case I stay in a different place and was therefore completely oblivious of the fact of a family member passing away.

I do feel bad about it now. Is it forbidden to enter temples under such circumstances?


texts: Is a menstruating woman allowed to eat non-veg during auspicious timings?

texts:
It is mentioned in scriptures that one should not eat non-veg food during certain times such as Amavasya, Pournami, Sunday, Ekadasi etc.,
According to scriptures, is it applicable for menstruating women also?
I got this doubt because of the reason that women are generally not obliged to follow many routine/scriptural rituals during menstrual time.


texts:
Prayer for Trideva along with Tridevi:

गुरुर्ब्रह्मा गुरुर्विष्णुः
गुरुर्देवो महेश्वरः ।
गुरुःसाक्षात् परब्रह्म
तस्मै श्रीगुरवे नम: ॥

This Prayer, Mantra has Trideva only, any verse which has both Trideva along with Tridevi?

I want to Pray Trideva and Tridevi.


texts:
Is there any shloka in scriptures, which says "justice for all" (sabhi ke liye samaan nayaya) ?

Quotes from vedas will be preferred, but any other scripture will also be good.


texts: How many sampradaya are there of lord ram?

texts: I know few like Ramdasi, Ramanandi, Ramsnehi so want to know a full list of names & if possible some basic info of those each sampradaya


texts: Scriptual reference for causes of being born in the Kaliyuga

texts:
The Kaliyuga is, especially by Puranic sources, considered to be the deteriorating state of humanity where ethtics, morality and intelligence are spiralling out of control.

For example, at the end of the Shiva-purana is told that the sages observed how this current Kali age slowly defiled everything:

  Then Sūta blessed them and left. The righteous sages fixed their abode permanently at the outskirts of Vārāṇasī after performing the sattra at Prayāga when they perceived that everything was being defiled by the advent of the Kali age.
  (source)

Presumably, those sages came into existence before the advent of Kali age.

What references are there for ascribing reasons to souls being born in the Kali-yuga? Is it based entirely on Karma? What kind of Karma? Are we supposed to gradually re-incarnate our way out of this kali-yuga?


texts: Did Goddess Vaisno Devi live without food during her 9 months stay in the cave in Ardhakuwari?

texts: The legend of Sri Vaishno Devi temple says, Matha Vaishno Devi stayed in Ardhkuwari, Katra,Jammu and Kashmir  for 9 months in this cave, so was it without taking any food?


texts: Why tirupathi's doors are not allowed to be widened?

texts: As I was watching series about Tirupati Tirumala Documentary on National Geographic, as per them they are following some aadama shastra and as per that even if they want they won't be allowed to widened or make bigger gates of the temple entrance. Why is that so ?


texts: Difference between Naishtika Brahmacharya and Sanyasa

texts: What is the difference between Naishtika Brahmacharya and Sanyasa. Specifically in the context of 'Agni'. Since Sanyasa involves 'agni-tyaga'. Does Naishtika Brahmacharya also involve 'Agni-tyaga'?


texts: Is yoga an independent philosophy as classified in shad-darshan? or was it later incorporated in Tantra? or is it a part of tantra itself?

texts: There is a separate school in Āstika tradition of Sanatana dharma as "Yoga". Also, the tantrik texts consists a section as Yoga itself. So how does the yoga as mentioned in Shad-Darshana differs from the one mentioned in Tantrik texts, both in terms of practise and philosophy? I once happen to see Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati of Bihar Yoga say "Tantra is the father of Yoga." So how did this system of Yoga originate in Tantra per se.


texts: Where is the mention of 'Shiva is Supreme Lord of Vishnu and Vishnu is Supreme Lord of Shiva'?

texts:
There is a popular verse:

  शिवाय विष्णुरूपाय शिवरूपाय विष्णवे ।
  शिवस्य हृदयं विष्णुर्विष्णोश्च हृदयं शिवः ॥
  “Shivaya VishnuRoopaya , Shivarupaya Vishnave , Shivasya hirdayam VishnurVishnoscha hridayam Shivah “

  Shiva is in the form of Vishnu, as Vishnu is in the form of Shiva . Shiva is in the heart of Vishnu as Vishnu is in the heart of Shiva.

However, Some people are always in debate regarding Supremacy of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. In the Puranas also Shaiva Puranas call Shiva as Lord of Vishnu and Vaishnava Puranas call Vishnu as Lord of Shiva.

Is there some statement in scripture calling Vishnu as Lord of Shiva and Shiva as Lord of Vishnu ? If it is, where is it stated ?


texts: Is Prophet Muhhamad mentioned in the Bhavishya Puran? If he is mentioned is he presented as good or evil?

texts: I am really confused about this, please help me!