texts: What is the Ekayana sect criticized by Pillai Lokacharya's father?

texts:
By far the most famous commentary on Nammalwar's Thiruvaimozhi is the Eedu, aka the 36000 Padi, which was composed by the Sri Vaishnava Acharya Vadakku Thiruveedhi Pillai, father of Pillai Lokacharya.  Now in the introduction to the Eedu, Vadakku Thiruveedhi Pillai lists 17 schools of Indian philosophy which either reject the Vedas or misinterpret the Vedas in his view.  The first 16 are recognizable: the Charvaka school, Jainism, Vaibashika Buddhism, Sautrantika Buddhism, Yogachara Buddhism, Madhyamika Buddhism, the Nyaya school, the Vaisheshika school, the Pashupata Shaivite sect, the Samkhya school, the Yoga school, the Bhatta school of Purva Mimamsa, the Prabhakara school of Purva Mimamsa, Advaita, Aupadhika Bhedabheda, and Svabhavika Bhedabheda.  But here is what he says about the 17th one:

These [last three] systems have accepted Brahman as the cause of the creation of the Lord and they accept the Vedas as authoritative.  The system of the Ekayana (who accepts Narayana only without Lakshmi to be the Highest) holds that Brahman is associated with certain energies (responsible for creation etc., and not with Lakshmi as the creative energy).  And that is its peculiarity.
Thus all these seventeen systems are outside (the authority of) the Vedas, or they have interpreted the Vedas in a wrong manner.  And they are all futile.

My question is, what is this Ekayana sect or school criticized by Vadakku Thiruveedhi Pillai?  And what were its beliefs?
Was it a Vaishnava sect which believed that Lakshmi was a Jiva as opposed to Paramatma? The Sri Vaishnava sect itself does not have a unified view on this issue; Thenkalais believe Lakshmi is a Jiva (a Nitya Suri to be precise), where Vadakalais believe she is Paramatma just like Vishnu.  Now Vadakku Thiruveedhi Pillai lived before the Thenkalai-Vadakalai split, but he seems to have subscribed to the Vadakalai position on Lakshmi.  So was he criticizing people who viewed Lakshmi as a Jiva?
Could this have some connection to the Ekayana Shakha of the Shukla Yajur Veda?  That is the Shakha associated with the Pancharatra Agamas, which Sri Vaishnavas follow, so it would be odd if Vadakku Thiruveedhi Pillai was criticizing members of the Ekayana Shakha.


texts: Are there any mantras similar to the Mahā-Mṛtyunjaya Mantra, but dedicated to deities other than Rudra (Śhiva)?

texts:
The Mahā-Mṛtyunjaya Mantra is one of most famous mantra, said to provide immediate protection to the devotee from death and other problems, and ultimately bestow Moksha to the chanter, if chanted properly.
My question is - If similar kind of Mantras exists for deities other than Śhiva (Rudra) too, which are said to bestow exactly similar benefits like the Mahā-Mṛtyunjaya Mantra? If yes, please provide references.
I ask this because just like there are several Sahasranāma and Gîtās dedicated to almost all major deities, however for both, the Viṣhṇu Sahasranāmam and the Śhrīmad BhāgavataGītā of the Mahābhārata, remains the most popular recensions in the "mass imagination", so similar thing might be possible for the Mahā-Mṛtyunjaya Mantra too, maybe?


texts: Who was the warrior in Mahabharata who had his eyelids taped to prevent sleeping?

texts:
I remember reading about a very aged warrior in Mahabharata who had his eyelids taped open to prevent him from sleeping .

He was killed by Arjuna in the Kurukshetra war. Arjuna who was unable to defeat him, under the advise of Krishna cut the tape that held his eyelids open and then finally killed him.

I am unable to recollect his name .
Any help would be appreciated.

Thx


texts: Was the boar killed by Lord Indra in Brahmanas same as Lord Varaha?

texts:
According to this source, there is a story in Brahmanas where Lord Indra kills a boar who has stolen the treasure of the asuras, then gives its carcass to Lord Vishnu, who offers it as a sacrifice to the gods.

It further states that the story has been retold in Charaka Samhita where the boar is described as a form of Prajāpati, and is credited with having raised the earth from the primeval waters, and that the same boar is described as an avatar of Lord Vishnu (Varaha) in Mahabharat and Ramayan.

I'm skeptical about this translated version, especially since it is from 1897, a period notorious for incorrect and biased translations by colonialists.

So I wanted to ask, are these two boars the same? Do we have any more information in original texts?


texts: Who is oldest form of God to be worshipped?

texts: Who is the oldest form of god to be worshipped? Is it Lord Siva or Lord Vishnu or Goddess Shakthi?


texts: What is the etymology reason for the swarupa order in the construction of the word "Sat-chit-ananda"?

texts: Why are the swarupas of the word Satcitananda constructed in this way in relationship wit Brahman and not Ananda-chit-sat? Are the order of these swarupas like stepping stones of realization?


texts: Why is Saraswati shown with Ganesha and Lakshmi?

texts:
Picture frames, especially the one in Diwali, Lord Ganesha is shown with Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Lakshmi.

Why is that so? I know the story of Lakshmi adopting Ganesha as his son from Parvati.

So that make sense for Lakshmi portrayed with Ganesh but why Goddess Saraswati is also portrayed with them?


texts: Did Lord Vishnu have any avatar in other parts of world as well?

texts:
People believe Krishna was God. And it's not a fiction, it was reality.

So when it's reality, we must admit he saw whole world by same eyes. And he is/was Dharma. He is/was everything.

Personally I believe God can't do partiality. And God can't be just for Hindus.

So is there any evidence/book source where his avatar or stories are mentioned in other parts of world in history?


texts: Were there public events for sports and recreation which were followed in Ancient India?

texts: In both Ramayan and Mahabharath, there are references to marriage alliance being made through tests of skill. If so, were there public events like the Olympics or World Cups of today which were specifically designed for display of skill and challenging others in tests of skills?


texts:
Every major religion has several different belief systems (sects) that have the same general core belief, but have a significant enough different to have be separated from each other.

What are the major (3-10) sects of Hinduism?  How are they different from each other?


texts: Are there any scriptural references of the trinity "Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh(Shiva)" as depicted in popular culture?

texts:
Brahma is typically depicted as an ancient deity with multiple heads
[& hands] in various directions.
Vishnu is depicted in form of a deity sleeping in the midst of an
ocean over a big snake (Shesha nAga) or sometimes as a person
spread in the universe.
Maheshwara (Shiva) is depicted in form of "Shiva Linga", where a male penis penetrates a female vagina

Are there any accurate or approximate scriptural references for displaying these trinity the way they are, in the popular culture?
Partial answers are also welcome.


texts:
I would like to know what is karma to a person in samadhi. Because, anyone in samadhi isn't involved in the worldly activities and Karma relates with those worldly activities.

For example, consider that his Karma has to let him be cheated in a business. However, this man, with the practice of yoga went into samadhi and isn't wishing to come out of it. Now will he get his karma? If so, how?

Will he get out of samadhi willingly abiding to the law of karma, do business and get cheated?


texts: Does the Ramacharitamanas Prashnavali concept have any basis in Scriptures?

texts:
The Ramacharitamanas Prashnavali or Sri Ramashalaka Prashnavali

  The answers/predictions in Ramacharitamanas Prashnavali or Sri
  Ramashalaka Prashnavali (राम शलाका प्रश्नावली) are based on the
  Chopais (couplets) from 'Shri Ram Charit Manas' or "Ramayana" written
  by poet-saint Tulsidas. Ramayana Prashnavali is used to get answers to
  your questions, predict the outcome of new endeavors, overcome
  double-mindedness, resolve doubts and select the right path since
  Vedic times.

How does it work:

  Ramayana Prashnavali is a grid of 15X15 Hindi alphabets.
      Each square in the grid has one Akshar (Hindi alphabet) from nine Chopais (couplets) of Shri Ram Charit Manas.
      Seeker has to select a grid with closed eye. The Akshars from every ninth square starting from the selected square are taken and
  joined in a sequence.
      This creates one Chopai from "Shri Ram Cahrit Manas".
      The answer to the question asked is derived from this particular Chopai.

Things to remember while using the Ramcharitramanas Prashnavali:

  Keep your mind free from all negative thoughts
      Ask only one question at a time
      You must pray to Lord Rama before asking your question
      Ask questions that are pertinent to you and your life only
      Do not ask vague questions
      The Prashnavali only shows you the path to solve your problem
      You should use the Prashnavali only if you have devotion and complete faith in it
      The grid is covered with 'OM' image so that you can select the character with open eyes without looking or knowing the character you
  select.
      You can click anywhere on the image below.
      The prediction for your query/question will be based on the square you clicked, hidden behind the OM image.
      Never use this as a game or for amusement purposes

Questions-How did this concept evolve?Does it have any basis in any of our Scriptures?


texts:
Here is the reason why we celebrate Naag panchmi. The answerer although embedded the way to celebrate the same very swiftly as -

  If one remains austere on that day, give us all that is sour in food and bathes the images of Nagas in milk, they become friendly towards him.

I am interested to be informed the complete ritual to follow on the day. Can anyone impart from a valid source?


texts: "If you talk of righteousness, spiritualism, then India comes first". Why?

texts:
I've transcribed words pronounced by Ramanand Puri during the Kumbh Mela 2001:
(Source: see this video from 1:50 to 2:25)

  "Every place, every society, every country is famous for its specialization.
   If you talk of righteousness, spiritualism, then India comes first.
   If you talk of electronics then Japan comes first.
  In richness, America is very powerful."

Question: Why India "comes first"?

If I stop the post here, it would sound a bit "not politically correct" and "primarily opinion-based".

Nevertheless, the last Maha Kumbh Mela (2013) welcomed more than 100 million people !
The sages are very respected in India. A completely naked sādhu can cross a modern city and this is normal for most people, and sometimes, a suit dressed man, seeing the sādhu in the street, goes to him for a pranāma before joining his workplace, and this is also normal.

So, through this post, what I really want to understand is:
 Why the spirituality is so respected, so "alive" in India (compared to other countries)?
 Are there historical or geographical explanations?

Why do most of the avatars took place in this country? Why so many sages and gurus was born India? Is there any special mentions about these in scriptures?


texts:
Did Kauravas admit that their path was that of Adharma?
Also what determines if something is Adharma?


texts: I read it somewhere that Ravana's great-grandfather was Brahma, is that true? Are there any valid proof that proves this fact? Heard this for the first time. Got to know about this while researching about 'Shiva Tandava Stotram' which was written and sung by Ravana.


texts: In Gujarat as well as other states like Maharashtra there is a tale " Hari ichcha bhali hashe" or "Hari's will shall be for good." What is the reason/myth/story behind that?


texts:
Yudhishthira father was Dharmaraja
Bhima father Vayu
And Arjuna father was Indra

But all of them vayu, yamraj and Indra are Devas (Non humans)
How is this possible?

And karna Father was surya.

How is it possible that someone father is Sun?


texts:
I would like to know information on Sri keyuravati of Kashmir shaivism who was a central figure in krama lineage.

Would like to know about life. Important events and books written if any.

Also about guru and sishyas


texts: Which chapters of Bhagavad Gita should be read for Shanti of the departed ancestors?

texts: What are the specific chapters of Bhagavad Gita that should be read for the Shanti of the departed ancestors/ family members ?


texts: Why is Krishna/Vishnu's viswarUpa so fierce?

texts:
I have a very straightforward question. This is pertaining to the ViswarUpa displayed by Krishna to Arjuna in the course of the Bhagavad Gita. Krishna/Vishnu is a shAnta and soumya roopa, a very benevolent God. Why then is his ViswarUpa so fierce that even a brave warrior like Arjuna got scared? I am assuming most people here know this episode, so I am not giving any references from the Gita. That the ViswarUpa was fierce and Arjuna got scared on seeing it, is well-known. The question is - Why is a very benevolent God's Viswarupa so fierce?

PS: Please do not bother giving answers like - ViswarUpa is not actually Krishna/Vishnu but some other god xyz. Also please dont convert this into a Vishnu/Krishna vs other gods thing. Further, please dont convert this into Krishna vs Vishnu thing. Thanks for your understanding.


texts: Why does Srikalahasti Temple remain open during an eclipse?

texts: As we all know, temples remain closed when there is an eclipse. But the Srikalahasti temple remains open even during eclipses and they also do special pujas on these occasions. Please share the story/reason behind this.


texts: Will Yashoda's soul be Krishna's mother again in the next Dwapara yuga? Do relationships with God's incarnations remain same across yugas?

texts:
It is clear from Geetha that a soul takes rebirth until it attains moksha state.

It is also clear from Geetha that Krishna reincarnates as himself for the establishment of dharma.

Do Krishna's relationships with other souls (when they too are reborn) repeat or vary from one yuga to other?

To put it clearly, let's say soul S lived as wife of Krishna in Dwapara yuga, and S also takes rebirth when Krishna reincarnates, will Krishna take S as his wife or can he take S as his mother, brother, sister, friend etc.?

E.g., Yashoda was the mother of Krishna in last Dwapara yuga. Suppose Krishna and Yashoda take rebirth, then is it always going to be a mother-son relation? Similarly, Subhadra was the sister of Krishna earlier and if they both take rebirth, are they again going to be sister-brother?

My doubt is:

Is there any evidence in our texts that says god can or cannot change his relations with other souls during his incarnations?


texts: What do we gain from chanting the names of Lord Shiva?

texts:
There are various scriptures enumerate the results one can obtain by chanting the name of Lord Shiva and it is believed that Lord Shiva is pleased very easily as compared to Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma, if remembered by heart. Apart from a summary of the benefits we can gain from chanting the name of Shiva,I want to know if there is any specific gain associated with the chanting which is not available with other forms of worshiping Lord Shiva such as offering water and flowers on Lingam.

Om namo Shivaya- is the most popular way to chant the name of Lord Shiva. Is there any other such effective way to chant the name of Lord Shiva?


texts:
Yudhistira is known to be a well virtuous person in Mahabharata.
Did Yudhishtira ever have any misconception?
Misconception in the sense that he has wrong perception/interpretation on something and changed himself after guidance from someone. I need answer from Vyasa Mahabharata only.


texts: What are some of major Shiva temples in Karnataka?

texts: I'm planning for a trip to visit major Shiva temples in Karnataka. I have done some research and there are close to 54 prominent ones. Which are the ones which holds much importance in Puranas or mentioned in the Veda Puranas ?


texts: Can aatmakaaraka be considered while match making

texts:
I have not heard any astrologer take into account the aatma karaka planet while doing horoscope matching for bride and groom.

But in my experience, aatmakaraka planet's behaviour is very much visible in the life of a person, therefore should be taken into consideration along with Ashtakoot matching


texts: Are Hindu scriptures pro- or anti-dowry?

texts:
Do Hindu scriptures discuss the topic of dowry (which Google defines as "property or money brought by a bride to her husband on their marriage")?

Do they take pro or anti stance on this practice?

NOTE:

This is not a duplicate of the other question (Origins of the dowry system) which is about the origin of the dowry system i.e., how did this idea or practice develop over time, what was the original intention behind this idea, etc. This question however simply asks for direct references from scripture i.e., if there's a scriptural sanction for dowry.


texts: There is a famous quote which is circulating online that according to Hinduism, soul transmigrates through 8.4 million or 84 lakh bodies before reaching human form. Now, if we remove 4 lakh human species from the quote, only 80 lakh species are available. But science says 87 million species are discovered, and still 80% of the world species are not discovered. So, as only places in India are mentioned in Hindu epics, only Indian species have souls or the other way around?


texts: What does three steps of Vamana avataar symbolize?

texts:
I very well understand the story of Bali and Vamana but as a common man I would like to understand what exactly does three steps of Vamana (Vishnu avataar) symbolize?
Any commentaries on this topic by a renowned spiritual personality will be acceptable.


texts:
I am a pure vegetarian and against non-veg and often I try to justify for this to my friends using scientific or logical proof.
I have seen in Bhagavat Gita and Manusmriti that vegetarian diet is preferred. But is there any justification given?

One reason I could find that. Plants dont have brain so that cannot feel the pain.
Are there any other reasons?


texts: What is this verse in Garbha Upanishad trying to say?

texts:
Garbha Upanishad mentions following:

  If the father’s seed is more potent, it becomes male; if the mother’s
  seed is stronger, it becomes female. If the seeds are equal, it
  becomes an intersexual.

So how is the gender related to whether male or female seed is stronger?


texts: Is the discovered city of Dwarka related to Lord Krishna

texts:
Many Hindu Blogs and videos claim that the Dwarka which is discovered by National Institute of Oceanography scientist S.R Rao is related to Lord Krishna. Many people are giving fake information on social media. But the dates given by Archeologist are parallel to that of the Mahabharata and Hindu scriptures. As per the survey of National Institute of Oceanography Dwarka sunk underwater around 3500 years ago (1500BC). The image is taken from the PDF of the survey given on their official site I quoted above.

Another research paper Journal of Marine Archeology Vol 5-6 (1995-1996) page 64 gives the date of 1700-1600 BC.

Another report published in Times of India says that Dwarka sunked 9000 years ago.

  The city was also extremely well planned: divided into six sectors which were in turn divided into residential, commercial areas. The city was home to beautiful large roads, gardens and artificial lakes. It is said that it was submerged in the big flood 9,000 years ago.

Now as per the Mausal Parva Dwarka sunked years after the Kurukshetra war and strating of kaliyug which should be around 3000bc or 5000 years ago. can anyone give any scientific proof which could prove that the discovered city related to Lord Krishna?


texts: Which saints or Yogis from history are recorded to have done Parakaya Pravesha successfully?

texts:
Parakaya Pravesha is an advanced level Yogic Siddhi (accomplishment) obtained by certain adept Yogis. By virtue of which these Yogis can enter other's bodies.

Adi Shankaracharya mastered this Siddhi and entered the body of a king.

I want to find out the names of more such saints and Yogis (from history and not from scriptures) who also had achieved this Siddhi and had successfully entered other's bodies.


texts:
As per the Baudhayana Dharmasutra (BD)

A man who ejaculates his semen in any place other than the vagina
becomes equal to a thief and to a murderer of a Brahmin. [BD 3.7]

AND also
The Gautama Smriti (GS) says:-

He who has been guilty of cheating, of caluminating, of acting
contrary to the rule of conduct, of eating or drinking things
forbidden, of ejaculating inside a Shudra woman or in any place other
than the vagina, and even of performing magic rites with intent (to
harm his enemies), shall bathe and sprinkle himself with water,
reciting the texts addressed to the Waters, or those addressed to
Varuna, or other purificatory texts. [GS 25.7]

Now, Infertility is a common problem these days and as such requires scientific - medical interventions to beget a progeny in case, if it's implicitly incurable in parents, in the form of IVF treatments, etc.
A common step before that, requires testing for Infertility which requires the the laboratory conducted test of Seminogram in males.
Now, as it turns out the test definitely requires the discharge of seed inside a laboratory given collectible box.
Thus, as per the above cited verses from BD, GS, and several other treatises, this fertility test stands as a violation of dharma and thus implicate a Sin. Or will it not?
Considering:

It involves the very act of masturbation which is forbidden and thus a sin.
The seed is being deposited inside a non-vagina              (ayonija - अयोनिज).

So tl;dr:
Is the act of discharging seeds via masturbation in a laboratory collectible box for Seminogram test justified and thus not to be considered a sin? How to interpret such a situation with the dharmic lens ?

Also, as far as I recall, the remedies in the ancient past for such situation as per dharma may either be:

Niyoga in case husband is not functional.
A second marriage for husband if wife is not functional.
Adoption (dattaka santãn) when both husband-wife become non functional.

So, Besides the above three remedies, are there any other remedies prescribed in the dharmic treatises for the 'Infertility induced situation of no progeny' ? Which of the remedies can be considered dharmic and practical in the present day modern contexts?


texts: Is it wrong to do covers of stotras? I see people talk against music covers of some famous stotras. Some of the common ones are trance covers of shiva stotras and rock cover of arigiri nandini and some videos have head banging and other things which some people find disrespectful. Is it just a bunch of people who can't accept it or are these covers actually doing injustice to the purpose of stotras? Is it breaking any hindhu laws?


texts: Did Hindu scriptures predict Muhammad and/or Jesus?

texts:
There are some claims that ancient Hindu scriptures have mentioned Jesus Christ or the Prophet Muhammad.

BBC - "Hinduism: Jesus in Hinduism"
"Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in Hindu scriptures" at Islam101

I would like to know what is the stance of Hindu experts on these claims? Does the Hindu consensus accept that the Bhavishya Purana had "predicted" the Prophet Muhammad?


texts: How are these contradictory statements of Vishnu Purana harmonized?

texts:
The first chapter of 5th Canto of Vishnu Purana makes following statements:
VP 5.1.2-4:

MAITREYA.— I wish now to hear a more particular description, holy Ṛṣi,
of the portion of Viṣṇu that came down upon earth, and was born in the
family of Yadu. Tell me also what actions he performed in his descent,
as a part of a part of the supreme, upon the earth.
Parāśara said:— I will relate to you, Maitreya, the account which you
have requested; the birth of a part of a part of Viṣṇu, and the
benefits which his actions conferred upon the world.

The same chapter Lord Vishnu says:
VP 5.1.59-65:

When Brahmā had ended, the supreme lord plucked off two hairs, one
white and one black, and said to the gods, “These my hairs shall
descend upon earth, and shall relieve her of the burden of her
distress.
Let all the gods also, in their own portions, go down to earth, and
wage war with the haughty Asuras, who are there incorporate, and who
shall every one of them be destroyed. Doubt not of this: they shall
perish before the withering glance of mine eyes. This my (black) hair
shall be impersonated in the eighth conception of the wife of
Vasudeva, Devakī, who is like a goddess; and shall slay Kansa, who is
the demon Kālanemi.” Thus having spoken, Hari disappeared; and the
gods bowing to him, though invisible, returned to the summit of mount
Meru, from whence they descended upon earth.

In the same chapter (5.1.76), Lord Vishnu says

I will myself become incarnate in the eighth conception of Devakī; and
you shall immediately take a similar character as the embryo offspring
of Yaśodā.

While disagreement among different puranas can be set aside for now, here we see there are three contrary statements in the same Purana and in the same chapter that can be summarized:

The first statement implies Krishna is incarnation of very tiny part of Vishnu. It has 3 sub statements . Krishna as :
A. incarnation of portion of Vishnu
B. incarnation of part of part of Vishnu.
C. incarnation of part of part of supreme.

The second statement implies Krishna is incarnation of Vishnu's black hair.

The third statement implied Krishna is incarnation of Vishnu himself.

How can these statements be harmonized in the light of Vishnu Purana itself?
Is Krishna incarnation of part of Vishnu/ part of part of Vishnu/ part of part of supreme/ Vishnu's black hair/ Vishnu himself?


texts: Translations for Vamadeva Samhita & Kapila Samhita required

texts: Can anyone please direct me to the links for english translations of Vamadeva Samhita and Kapila Samhita along with the original Sanskrit verses.


texts: Was Valmiki (writer of Ramayana) 24th Vyasa?

texts:
Vishnu Purana:

English Translation: (Source)

  In the twenty-fourth, Riksha (also can be written as Riksh or  Ruksh or Ruksha), the descendant of Bhrigu, who is known also by the name Válmíki

Kurma Purana:

English Translation: (Source)

  Thereafter 24th Vyasa was Valmiki.

Now my questions are as below:

1. Was this same Valmiki who wrote Ramayana?

2. Does 24th Vyasa means Vyasa from 24th Maha Yuga?

3. If answer of above two questions are Yes then is it true that there is no Kalpa Bheda in Rama's story from Vayu Purana and Rama incarnation happened in 24th Maha Yuga of current Kalpa->Manvanatra?

4. Does that also mean that Rama incarnation didn't happen again in 28th Maha Yuga as Vayu Purna mention next incarnations as Krishna Dvaipāyana?


texts: Did Yama and Shani ever confront each other?

texts: As Yama and Shani are brothers and even have similar kind of work (to judge our karmas), did they ever confront each other while performing their duties? Is any such event explained in our scriptures?


texts: Why the main festivals are in chaturmas if god is sleeping in that period?

texts:
Ok, this might be very silly question but i couldn't find answer from my elders, I thought this could be right place to get my answer.

I know the scientific reason that in the rainy or monsoon season, for good health, we can do Upavas and other Vratas.

But what could be possibly reason, If god does sleep on Devashayani Ekadashi and wakes up on DevUthi Ekadashi, why does our all main festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, Navaratri lie in these four months ?


texts: Did Arjuna conquer Russia and where are the Nishkuta and white mountains?

texts:
Before Yudhishthira's Rajasuya, the four other Pandavas extract tribute from the kings in all cardinal directions. Arjuna travels north, Bhima east, Sahadeva south, and Nakula west.

In this section of the Mahabharata, Arjuna travels north of the Indian subcontinent into central Asia, and possibly even beyond.

  Then the son of Indra, endued with great prowess, after pressing them with great force, brought the Valhikas [Balhikas or Bactrians of Central Asia] always difficult of being vanquished, under his sway. Then Falguna, the son of Pandu, taking with him a select force, defeated the Daradas along with the Kambojas [Afghans or central asians]. Then the exalted son of Indra vanquished the robber tribes that dwelt in the north-eastern frontier and those also that dwelt in the woods. And, O great king, the son of Indra also subjugated the allied tribes of the Lohas, the eastern Kambojas, and northern Rishikas [beyond Bactria]. And the battle with the Rishikas was fierce in the extreme. Indeed, the fight that took place between them and the son of Pritha was equal to that between the gods and the Asuras in which Taraka (the wife of Vrihaspati) had become the cause of so much slaughter. And defeating, O king, the Rishikas in the field of battle, Arjuna took from them as tribute eight horses that were of the colour of the parrot's breast, as also other horses of the hues of the peacock, born in northern and other climes [climates] and endued with high speed. At last having conquered all the Himalayas and the Nishkuta mountains, that bull among men, arriving at the White mountains, encamped on its breast."

Where are the Nishkuta and white mountains?

Interestingly, after Arjuna crosses the white mountains, he encounters kingdoms inhabited by celestial races:

  That heroic and foremost of the Pandavas endued with great energy, crossing the White mountains, subjugated the country of the Limpurushas [Kimpurushas] ruled by Durmaputra, after a collision involving a great slaughter of Kshatriyas, and brought the region under his complete sway. Having reduced that country, the son of Indra (Arjuna) with a collected mind marched at the head of his troops to the country called Harataka, ruled by the Guhakas [Guhyakas or Yakshas]. Subjugating them by a policy of conciliation, the Kuru prince beheld (in that region) that excellent of lakes called Manasa and various other lakes and tanks sacred to the Rishis. And the exalted prince having arrived at the lake Manasa conquered the regions ruled by the Gandharvas that lay around the Harataka territories.


texts: Where does Rig Veda say that Shiva is the God who grants Moksha?

texts:
Me and my friend had a debate on whether Vedas talks about Moksha or not. My friend told me that there is a verse in Rigveda which tells Shiva grants Moksha.

Is it true? Does Rigveda really mention that Shiva grants Moksha ?


texts: In the uponayana ceremony, the boys should take 3 steps. Why the boys are stopped at 2.5 steps to remains at home? Is that mean we are not following the actual procedure?


texts: What are the details of the story of Indra giving the Crest-jewel(chudamani) to king Janka?

texts:
The son of the wind-god,Hanuman, apprised Sri Rama(avatar of god Vishnu) about the discovery of Sita(avatar of goddess Lakshmi),on  returning  to Kishkindha (from Lanka).Then Hanuman delivered to  Sri Rama the jewel for the head(Chudamani), earlier handed-over by Sita as a token:-

  Then, untying the bright divine jewel for her head tied in her garment, Seetha gave it to Hanuma, saying that it might be handed over to Rama….5-38-69

Hanuman also conveyed Sita’s message to Sri Rama. Sita’s words:-

  This beautiful jewel for the head has been well-guarded by me. You also ought to recall a mark indeed painted by you (by slip) on the curve of my cheek with powder of an orange-red rock, when my former mark on my forehead got effaced." 5-65-22

Sita, further said:-

  This beautiful jewel, which has its origin in sea-water, has been sent to you. Seeing this in my grief, I am feeling always happy as though I am seeing you."-shloka 5-65-23.

Sri Rama, on seeing that excellent jewel,spoke to Sugreeva as follows:-

  This excellent jewel was presented by my father-in-law to Seetha when she had become a bride and was tied to her head in such a way that it looked additionally beautifying.—shloka 5-66-4

Sri Rama, further described the jewel, as under:-

  The jewel, which was found in the waters and recommended by the pious, had been presented to him(king Janaka) earlier by the intelligent Indra the lord of celestials, who was highly pleased in Yajna, a sacrificial rite (intended to propitiate him).--shloka 5-66-5

From the foregoing, it can be inferred that the jewel for the head or the Crest-jewel(Chudamani) worn by  Sita was earlier obtained during the Samudra Manthan(churning of the Ocean of Milk) and kept with demigod Indra. And Indra, at a later date, gave it to king Janaka on completion of a yajna(sacrificial rite) by king Janaka  to propitiate him.

Which  specific yajna(sacrifice ritual) was conducted by king Janaka to propitiate demigod Indra?

What are the details of the story of Indra giving the Crest-jewel(Chudamani) to king Janaka?

Reference- Valmiki Ramayana,Book Five-Sundara Kanda


texts: Is the argument that "Narayana" can only denote Vishnu correct?

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Among Vaishnavite sects - only Sri Vaishnavites claim this, as far as I know.  The argument is that while Sanskrit doesn't usually have proper nouns a Paninean rule makes "Narayana" an exception.

But this webiste offers a refutation:

https://jagatgurublog.wordpress.com/2018/06/24/is-narayana-actually-only-a-proper-noun/

This site has an example of Brahma being called "Narayana".

Also Siva is called "narayana" by Vishnu while worshiping him in Siva Purana and by the Devas in the Varaha Purana.


texts: Is there any mention of evil ghost or atma or spirits in the Vedas, Upanishads and Gita?

texts:
Is there any mention of exorcism in the Vedas, Upanishads and Gita?
Can a ghost attack a human?
Can a ghost have a gender?
Can they remember their life(when they were living)?
Can they interfere with the living world?


texts: Why does Vishnu marry two wives since in Rama avatar, when the demoness asks him if he will marry her he says that he already has a wife?


texts:
While one can easily read up on the differences between these two schools of astrology on the web, I am more interested in understanding their popularity through the ages.

Which of the two is older?
Around which time period in history did Parashara school get more more popular ? Any evidences on the schools of astrology followed by Hindu kings in medieval era ?


texts: In which scriptures are the verses ''aham brahmasmi" and ''shivoham'' found?

texts:
In which scripture are the following verses found:

  Aham brahmasmi
  Meaning: I am Brahma

  Shivoham
  Meaning: I am Shiva


texts: What is Pratyaksha PramANa to be precise?

texts: Can anyone tell what is pratyaksha pramANa? What does it include? Only 5 sense organs or even intellect or mind also? Can apprehension power be termed as Direct Perception aka Pratyaksha pramANa?


texts: When did Sri Krishna worship Goddess Durga?

texts:
In the Argalastotra of Sri Srri Chandi (which is a part of the Markandeya Purana) we get:

कृष्णेन संस्तुते देवि शश्वद्भक्त्या सदाम्विके
Meaning : O Goddess! Lord Krishna worshipped you regularly with extreme devotion.

The rishi of this mantra is Vishnu Himself.
My question is: Is there any reference in our holy scriptures of Lord Krishna or Vishnu regularly worshipping the Mother Goddess?


texts: Spiritual and Scientific rationale behind fasting

texts: On ekadasi day Vaishnavites and saivites observe fasting. That too if it is vaikunta ekadasi vaishnanivites will be very strictly adhering. Is there any puranic evidence on fasting? Comparison of spiritual and scientific rationale needed.


texts: Which Hindu scripture contains the story of a desperate man hanging from a tree branch?

texts:
A friend forwarded me the following story of a man clinging to a tree branch amidst a lot of troubles and still manages to sip honey from a hive. I've also heard this story before from others.
What's the source of the story? Is it taken or adapted from another story within some Hindu scripture?

We are way too engrossed with the worldly pleasures, depicted as the honey drops, and so we miss God.
The elephant, our past karmas is holding us down in our current life and we are paying for our past actions.
The snakes, are waiting to bite back in the future life times, if we continue to indulge only in pleasures and wrong doings.
Our current reality is the only thing which decides our future. Burn all past karmas by doing penance and embrace Dharma.


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After reading a lot of articles on different websites and watching videos concerning different philosophies and views, I seek to ask a question here to get an emphatic and most importantly, a true answer.

In the modern world, light is portrayed as the elimination of depression and sadness, and the source of happiness and joy. Many say that God is the most pure, divine and brightest shining light ever while others say that God is complete darkness. And by this they do not mean that God is evil or unholy, they just say that God is darkness because God created light and before light, there was nothing but darkness. And this kind of makes sense.

So, the exact questions that I need answers to are stated below.

Is God light or did God create light? And if He created light, then what is God? Darkness?
Scientifically, light is a thing and the absence of light is known as darkness. Darkness is not a thing. Hence, by this explanation, I would assume that there was darkness before light and that God is darkness. Or maybe my assumption is wrong. But regardless of that, if the answer to the first question is "light", then what is your explanation for this scientific fact?

And please present any scriptural verses regarding your explanation. That will be very helpful!


texts: How concept of sisters of Sita: Urmila, Shrutakeerti and Mandavi can be reconciled with concept of Mahalakshmi?

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We know, Sri Rama was Avatar of Lord Vishnu, Lakshama was one quarter portion of Vishnu [a] or avatar of Adisesha. Shatrugna and Bharatha were incarnations of Sudarshana Chakra and Panchajanya Shankha respectively.

These three brothers, Lakshamana, Shatrugna and Bharatha married Urmila, Shrutakeerti and Mandavi respectively. Rama married Sita who was incarnation of Goddess lakshmi. As portions of Vishnu were present in His brothers, portions of Goddess Lakshmi must be present in Sita's sisters.

So, how can be three sisters of Sita reconciled with concept of Goddess Lakshmi?

[a] Chapter 106 of Uttarakanda


texts: Alchemy is the study of transmutation of matter, conversion of base metal into gold and development of the elixir of immortality. I have heard that Tantra talks about alchemy and I wish to do some research on this topic. Can anyone recommend me the relevant texts dealing with alchemy?


texts: Does Purva Mimamsa believe that the law of Karma is intended to increase faith?

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As I discuss in this question, by far the most popular school of Hindu philosophy is the Vedanta school, which bases its tenets on the doctrines laid out in the Brahma Sutras, a work by the sage Vyasa that summarizes and systematizes the philosophical teachings of the Upanishads. (You can read the Brahma Sutras here.) But the Vedanta school didn't always have the dominant position in Hindu philosophy; before the time of Adi Shankaracharya the dominant school of Hindu philosophy was the Purva Mimamsa school, which I discuss here. In contrast to the Vedanta school which is devoted to analyzing the Jnana Kanda of the Vedas, i.e. the Upanishads, Purva Mimamsa focuses on analyzing the Karma Kanda of the Vedas, i.e. the Samhitas and Brahmanas.

Now the Agama Pramanya is a work composed by the early Sri Vaishnava Acharya Yamunacharya to demonstrate the scriptural authority of the Pancharatra Agamas (which I discuss here).  In this excerpt from the Agama Pramanya, Yamunacharya discusses an unnamed Bhashyakara or commentator who pretended to criticize the Pancharatra Agamas:

  Therefore, even if there were a conflict between the Bhagavan's doctrine and the Veda, there still would be option between them; but we have already expounded that there is no conflict between them at all. Objection: However, how can the venerable author of the Bhashya state that those parts which are in conflict are invalid: "If there be conflict, it is carefully eliminated." Refutation: This statement means that those of frail minds, who are to strong enough to plunge into the deep ocean of rules of interpretation, must not be disrespectful to the Vedas. This is comparable to the venerable Jaimini's exposition that the fruits of acts serve to increase people's faith in the acts.

I discuss the identity of the Bhashyakara in my question here.  But now I'm interested in the statement at the end of the quote.  My question is, what is Yamunacharya referring to when he talks about "Jaimini's exposition that the fruits of acts serve to increase people's faith in the acts"?

For those who don't know, Jaimini is the author of the Purva Mimamsa Sutras, the defining text of the Purva Mimamsa school.  So what statement or statements in the Purva Mimamsa Sutras is Yamunacharya referring to?  And what does "the fruits of acts serve to increase people's faith in the acts"?  Does it mean that the reason that actions like Yagnas bear fruit is to increase people's faith in doing Yagnas?  Or does it mean that the Vedas describe the fruit of Yagnas to increase the people's faith in Yagnas, or something else?

And what does Yamunacharya mean by saying that the Bhashyakra's statement is "comparable" to Jaimini's statement?  Does he mean that just as the Bhashyakara was only pretending to criticize the Pancharatra Agamas, Jaimini also pretended about something?  And if so what did Jaimini pretend about?  This may be related to my speculation in this answer that Jaimini didn't sincerely believe in the Purva Mimamsa school.


texts: Did Shri Rama break Parashurama's Dhanusha during the Swayamvara? If so, how did Parashurama respond to this?

texts:
I have heard different versions of this story, especially Parashurama's response. Hence, this question. I would like to know the original story mentioned in Valmiki's Ramayana.

This question discusses why they engaged in a duel (assuming that they did) but does not talk about the story of the assumed duel itself, which I am interested in.

Also, this question talks about the reasons why Shri Rama was able to lift the Dhanush, without talking about the original story itself.


texts: Actual meaning of विद्युद in Mahabharata shloka

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Consider the following Shloka from Mahabharata

तत्र चासीद अमेयात्मा विद्युद अग्निसमप्रभः
भौवनः सुमहावीर्यः सॊमस्य परिरक्षिता (Adi Parva chapter 28)
tatra cāsīd ameyātmā vidyud agnisamaprabhaḥ
bhauvanaḥ sumahāvīryaḥ somasya parirakṣitā

The translation contains the word electric for विद्युद

And amongst those that guarded the Soma was Brahmana (the celestial architect), of measureless might, effulgent as the electric fire and of great energy.

What is meant by विद्युद here? Does it refers to electrifying (intensive) fire or any other meaning?


texts:
In the Bhagavatam, 9th Canto, 13th Chapter, we find this verse:

  SB 9.13.19 — The son of Śīradhvaja was Kuśadhvaja, and the son of Kuśadhvaja was King Dharmadhvaja, who had two sons, namely Kṛtadhvaja and Mitadhvaja.

Here Shiradhvaja is Maharaja Janaka, so called because of his emblem, the furrow, as an embodiment of his daughter being born from one.
In the Ramayana, Kushadhavaja is said to be his brother. But here it is said, "Kushadhvajas Tasya Putro", meaning Janaka's son.

Even so, it would mean that either there was some mistake in copying the original sloka, which would imply that Mandavi and Shrutakeerti had a brother called Dharmadhvaja, who by extension, would be Sita's brother.

So, the question: Is he mentioned anywhere else? (Of course not in the Ramayana, but elsewhere?)


texts:
In Jyotisha, stories are used to make astrological concepts easier to learn and remember. This wiki article describes the story of Chandra as such:

  Budha, a beautiful child, was born to Tara. Chandra claimed to be the
  father of Budha, but Tara kept silent. Budha himself got angry over
  this tussle and asked his mother to tell the truth. Tara said that
  Chandra was the father of Budha.

  Chandra was a student of Brihaspati, the Teacher of devas. Tara was
  the wife of Brihaspati. Chandra one captured Tara and forcefully
  married her. Brihaspati became angry and eventually, a war started
  between Chandra and Brihaspati. Shukracharya, the teacher of the
  Asuras, joined Chandra in the battle, while The devas joined
  Brihaspati. As the battle was due to desire for Tara, it was known as
  Tarakaamayam. Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, feared the war
  might abolish the world. Hence, he came down and stopped the war. He
  convinced Tara, took her away from Chandra, and gave her back to
  Brihaspati.

Can this story be traced back to a Hindu text? If so, what is the story?


texts: Doubts regarding Nara-Narayana & previous lives of Pandavs

texts:
This link talks about Karna's past life and the story of Dambodbhava who has a fight with Narayana rishi -

Which previous karma made Karna's life full of sorrow despite his benevolent nature?

My questions are --> If this is in Treta Yuga. Which Treta Yuga are you talking about? Because there is no mention of such an avatar of Vishnu (Nara and Narayana) in this Tetra Yuga? Nara and Narayana are beyond the 10 avatars of Lord Vishnu... Also why did Nara and Narayana both did not do penance together for 1000 years? Why did only Narayana do it? They could have done the penance together right?

According to this blog --> http://hindumythologyforgennext.blogspot.com/2012/09/karnas-karma.html

To fulfil the promise to destroying Sahasrakavacha, Narayana and Nara were reborn – this time as Krishna and Arjuna.

How can that be possible? Krishna was born because of Kansa...

And Arjuna was born along with his four brothers then where is this story coming from?

If Nara's story is true, what was the past life for the other 4 brothers?


texts:
Can anyone tell a good book of Mahabharata in English version?

The one I know is The Mahabharata: Complete and Unabridged (10 volumes) by Bibek Debroy (www.exoticindiaart.com)

Are there any other versions available?

I know this is a meta question but don't have enough reputation to ask in meta.


texts: Where is it mentioned that Krishna and Rama Worshipped Shiva Lingam?

texts:
My Guruji Sri Sri Ravi Shankar claims that Krishna worshipped the Shiva Lingam, and so did Rama. Does anyone know if this is recorded in the shastras? I have not seen it.
Sri Sri Ravishankar Said:

  "You will not find anything related to practice of installing idols for worship in the Bhagavad Gita or the Ramayana.
  Only the Shiva Linga (Shankar Linga) was installed. That is why only the Shiva Linga was there in the ancient period, which was worshiped by Lord Krishna, Lord Rama and everyone else. "

source: http://www.artofliving.org/worshiping-gods


texts: What secret was Swami Vivekananda saying about in this phrase?

texts:
At The Parliament of Religions in Chicago 1893, Swami Vivekananda spoke about Paper on Hinduism. A part of it contains this:

  There is another suggestion. Taking all these for granted, how is it
  that I do not remember anything of my past life ? This can be easily
  explained. I am now speaking English. It is not my mother tongue, in
  fact no words of my mother tongue are now present in my consciousness;
  but let me try to bring them up, and they rush in. That shows that
  consciousness is only the surface of the mental ocean, and within its
  depths are stored up all our experiences. Try and struggle, they would
  come up and you would be conscious even of your past life.

  This is direct and demonstrative evidence. Verification is the perfect
  proof of a theory, and here is the challenge thrown to the world by
  the Rishis. We have discovered the secret by which the very depths of
  the ocean of memory can be stirred up — try it and you would get a
  complete reminiscence of your past life.

What is this secret of revealing our past lives that Swamiji was talking about?


texts: Who was the rightful heir to Kuru throne? Pandavas (Yudhishthira) or Kauravas (Duryodhana)?

texts:
How is a king chosen according to Hindu dharma?

Who among Duryodhana and Yudhishthira (Dharmaraja), was the ideal contender for the next king considering hereditary or inheritance rights?

NOTE: Please explain 'how' or 'why' citing scriptures than your personal opinions.


texts: How true is the myth of Moola nakshtara effecting Father in law?

texts: It been mentioned panchangas that moola nakshatra effects fatehr in law, how true is this? can anyone who has knowledge on the topic guide me


texts: Since "india" is Bharat, what is the scriptural term for Indian?

texts:
From what I understand, India is a term that Britain put on Bharat (And in "india", the natives call it Bharat)..

So the name of your land (in your native tongue/language), is Bharat, but what is the term in scripture, for what in English is "an indian" or "indians" ?


texts: Were both Valmiki Ramamyana and Vyasa's Mahabharata contemporaneous accounts?

texts:
I think Valmiki appears in Ramayana and Vyasa in Mahabharata.

Is it true that they recorded what they saw directly and were not retelling what they had heard?


texts:
Before anyone flag this post as duplicate of why-gods-name-to-people let me clarify that this question is specific to name Shantanu and I am not asking why people name their kids with Hindu God's names  hence I think it is not duplicate.

As many of us already know, it is very common that Many of Hindu people have their names starting from Hindu God's names.

And the reason to follow this practice is : the sin destroying effects the Lord's names.

But to the best of my knowledge, and most will agree with me, that the most famous Hindu character with the name Shantanu is in the epic Mahabharata, where Shantanu is best known for being the father of Bhishma (and not God or any incarnation of god).

His own identity is not that special when compared to his successors like his Son Bhishma or Arjuna later in his family.

Wikipedia does mention some good qualities of him, but that does not substantiate him to god-like status.

Also, Meaning of name Shantanu is: Whole (Does not sounds  god-like name)

Now Still I found many people with name Shantanu in Hindu community and that also includes few famous personalities too.

What is so special Shantanu did(either in Mahabharata or any other incidence) which influenced Hindu community in general, to use his name for naming their own kids?

Or is there any other character with Name Shantanu who was god-like figure?


texts: Are the words inside Bhagvad Gita exactly the same words used in actual conversation (ie, used By Lord Krishna and Arjuna)?

texts:
In Bhagvad Gita most of the slokas are in Anushtup chhandas (except a few which are in Trishtup chhandas)..

i.e., each verse of Gita  consisting exactly of 32 letters, arranged in 4 quarters in a specific pattern of Laghus and Gurus..(except for a few verses in Trishtup meter.)

During the real verbal discussions of Bhagvad Gita did Lord Krishna and Arjun actually speak this way in direct speech? (32 letters arranged in 4 quarters  with specific arrangement of Laghu and Guru syllables ?)

OR, did Sage Veda Vyas re-format  their conversation in Anushtup meter for the purpose of indirect narration or record of Mahabharat ?

ie, I mean to ask if delivered words of Lord Krishna and Arjun actually  verbatim ? or did Veda Vyas convert their dialogue into such a poetic meter?

For chandas information here is a rule for Anushtup meter

  अनुष्टुप्छन्दसि चत्वारः पादाः भवन्ति प्रत्येकपादे च अष्ट > अक्षराणि।श्लोके षष्ठं गुरु ज्ञेयं सर्वत्र लघु पञ्चमम्।
  द्विचतुष्पादयोर्ह्रस्वं सप्तमं दीर्घमन्ययोः॥
  अस्य छन्दसः षष्ठम् अक्षरं गुरु पञ्चमम् च लघु। सप्तमम् अक्षरं प्रथमे तृतीये च पादे गुरु, द्विचतुष्पदयोः सप्तमम् अक्षरं लघु भवति। सप्तमम् अक्षरं यथाक्रमम् परिवर्तते,
  प्रथमपादे गुरु द्वितीयपादे लघु तृतियपादे गुरु चतुष्पादे लघु।
  पृष्ठ ३६, सरलसंस्कृतसरणिः प्रथमो भागः,

  Anushtup meter has 4 quarters, each quarter has 8 letters, 6th letter of each quarter is Guru(deergha) and 5th letter Laghu (hraswa ). The 7th letter of 1st and 3rd quarters is a Guru and of 2nd and 4th quarters a Laghu. Thus the 7th letter is converted to (Guru, Laghu, Guru, Laghu) pattern in the 1,2,3,4 quarters respectively.


texts:
I am a practicing Hindu from Kerala, India. I and my parents are vegetarians. Hindus from my part of the country, however, (Kerala) do eat beef, excluding certain upper castes, pujaris (from all castes) and some Hindus who are vegetarian by choice.
I am unaware as to whether this is because of the presence and influence of Communists/Marxists/Non-Hindus in Kerala or if this is actually a historic practice.

What do our smritis and shrutis have to say about gomaamsam (beef)? Is it tamo bhakshanam? Or is it left to personal/regional preference?


texts: Many puranas like Vishnu purana and Padma purana mention that Goddess Lakshmi took birth as daughter of Sage Bhrigu and his wife Khyati and hence Lakshmi is also called Bhargavi. Does any purana or Agamic scripture elaborate why Lakshmi became Bhrigu's daughter?


texts: Names of other languages which existed during Dwapara Yuga

texts:
From the following excerpt from Adi Parva, it is clear that there exist multiple languages during Mahabharata times

When the city was built, there came, O king, numerous Brahmanas
well-acquainted with all the Vedas and conversant with every language,
wishing to dwell there. And there came also unto that town numerous
merchants from every direction, in the hope of earning wealth. There
also came numerous persons well-skilled in all the arts, wishing to
take up their abode there.
[Section 209,  Viduragamana Parva, Adi Parva   The Mahabhara]

Along with that, there is also a mention of foreign language in a conversation between Vidura and Yudhishtira.
Are there any further mentions in any scriptures related to the names of the languages of those times or any other details regarding the other languages used by people?


texts: Why only water is used to give Arghya to Sun (Surya)?

texts:
I know that offering arghya to Sun (Surya) is a way of saying thank you to Sun (Surya) for provide such enormous amount of light & energy.

My question is why only water is selected to offer arghya to Sun?


texts: Does the presence of Vanaras render the Ramayana a work of fiction?

texts:
Suppose we believe that the Ramayana actually reported events that unfolded in that era. How do we explain the presence of Vanaras that could fly, that could communicate with human beings, that could help build bridges, etc? Like the Dwarka city found submerged, are there evidences of fossils that give evidence to the existence of such monkeys in those ages? Or do we have evidence for coexistence of two different species of men, of which Vanaras were a less evolved version?

More generally, if we believe in the occurrence of the events in Ramayana, how do we justify the Vanaras to a skeptic?


texts: How sexual relations with multiple partners affect us? What are after effects of promiscuity?

texts:
I want to know how promiscuity affects us? How it binds? What are the after affects of making many sexual partners? I think Runanbandha sheds light on this?
I want to know the hinduism point of view?


texts: Is there a sequence or order to perform Shatkarmas?

texts:
In the yoga, as a physical body cleansing mechanism, we have Shatkarmas - 6 kriyas.
Namely -

Neti,
Douti,
Nauli,
Basti,
Kapalabhathi Pranayama,
Trataka.

I would like to know is there a order in which these kriyas needs to be performed as per yoga shastra?
Like, I have heard Bhastrika Pranayama needs to be performed after Neti. And it makes logical sense, because, after the Neti, water residue would be there in nasal passage. So doing Bastrika pranayama after that helps in removing that residual water content from the nasal passage.

Likewise, is there an order/sequence for all the Shatkriyas?


texts: Which mantras of Krishna and Vishnu does not require initiation and does not have any rules to follow?

texts: Mantras of Krishna and Vishnu which does not require any initiation, does not have any rules to follow, can be chanted anytime and anywhere. Please don't include Hare Krishna Maha mantra in your answer as it requires initiation according to Radha Tantra. All the mantras should be backed by scriptural references, download links (if any). A humble request to people who are Krishna and Vishnu devotees or people knowledgable of mantras to answer this question. Many thanks in advance.


texts: Is Vishnudharmottara the second part of Vishnu Purana?

texts:
Every Mahapurana states that Vishnu Purana has 23 thousand verses but if we count the actual no. of verses there are only around 7000. So about 16 thousand verses are missing.

I found another purana, the Vishnudharmottara, on Exotic India which appears related to Vishnu Purana. So I have the following questions:

Is Vishnu Purana a composite of 2 or more puranas?
Was Vishnudharmottara originally the second part of Vishnu Purana?


texts: How many Brahmanas and Aranyakas are there in the Vedas?

texts:
I know about the four Samhita texts and the later Upanishad texts. However, each Veda has Samhita, Brahmana, Aranyaka and Upanishad.

How many Brahmanas and Aranyakas are there under each Veda?

What are there names? (I just know few names like - Satapath Brahmana, Aitareya Brahmana, Aitareya Aranayaka and Sankhayana Aranyaka).

Can anybody give a full list?

English translation available or not? If available, where from I can get?


texts: Is Karma transferable from one person to another according to śruti (Vedas, Upaniṣads, etc.)?

texts:
The Mahābhārata narrates the story of King Somaka and his chief priest who conduct a human sacrifice but only the priest is seen spending time in hell for his actions. And as the conversation between the king and Yama Dharmarāja shows, fruits of one's actions cannot be transferred to another.

The saintly king thus spake to the god who meteth out punishments to departed souls,

I shall enter here. Set free my officiating priest; this revered man is being grilled by hell-fire on my account only.

[Yama] Dharmaraja thereat answered thus,

One cannot enjoy or suffer for another person's acts.

But do śruti texts (Vedas, Upaniṣads, etc.) agree with this notion?


texts: Lord Siva penned this stotram on Lord Narasimha  and said that if this is recited in the morning, afternoon and evening with devotion they will attain peace, blissful and healthy life.In total there 13 slokas. If found in any puranas with meaning can somebody share to sharpen my knowledge?


texts: In the Chaitanya Charitamrta (Madhya Lila, Chapter 21), we hear of Brahmas with hundreds of heads. Are there any Puranic reference for the same?


texts: What do Hindu scriptures or Gurus say on How to Introduce Hinduism to Children?

texts:
I am aware that this question is more a parenting question.

The reason I ask the question is, to me and many young children around me, it was just told that idol worship in a temple is holy and wish-fulfilling. Some think is a very narrow definition of religion and feel there has to be a better way. Also, teaching them meditation and such may not be appropriate till they attain a reasonable age.

While children don't question our opinions and will accept what we say, have any Hindu rishis, saints or gurus thought about this and found a mature way of introducing Hinduism to children in various stages of their upbringing?

Do any of our scriptures also prescribe a way to do this i.e., how to introduce Hinduism to children?

Note: I'm not looking for personal opinions of users on this website!


texts: What would be the Sankalpa Mantras if Tarpana should be performed in Bangkok?

texts: I am a tamil brahmin from chennai going to live in Bangkok for 3 months. I must do the Amavasya tharpanams. What is the Sankalpam to be followed.that is I am looking for substituion to Baharatha varshe Bharatha kande etc. Kindly suggest me the sankalpam


texts: Why is there no patent system in Hinduism Scriptures in ancient time?

texts: Why is there no patent system in Hinduism scriptures in specific branch like Ayurveda, Yoga etc. in ancient time?


texts: Did any Rishi tell that Lord Hanuman would compose Brahma Sutra Bhashya?

texts:
I read somewhere, that in Valmiki Ramayana, a Rishi predicted that Lord Hanuman would compose Brahma Sutra Bhashya in future.
Is this true?
Where exactly in Ramayana is it mentioned?


texts: How to arrange the components of the ritualistic platter?

texts: What is the right way to arrange the components of the ritualistic platter?


texts: Would justice, punishment accomplishment and dharma establishment take place irrespective of which side Krishna fought for and which side won?

texts:
If you see some of my old questions, you might find that I just can't admit why Krishna should support Pandavas in Mahabharata.

It's a very big dilemma for me, for last 1 month.

So to clarify it, I want to ask it in a different manner.

According to Star Plus and BR Chopra Mahabharat, it is shown that Krishna considered Yuddhisthir betting Draupadi and Arjuna not stopping Yuddhisthir from betting was adharma. According to Krishna, the war was a must for justice (not sure whose justice), punishment to people who did adharma and to establish dharma again.

Let me explain it with an assumption:

So suppose, if Krishna would be on Kaurava side, say Duryodhana's chariot, and Kaurava would win the war, keeping Duryodhana, Dushasana, Bhishma and Drona alive and All 5 Pandavas dead, would it still be called dharma yuddh, would the justice be achieved, would punishment of adharmis considered accomplished and dharma would be established?

PS: I'm pretty sure that I'm just making an assumption, but at the same time I'm pretty sure that the question is not opinion based. I see the assumption fair enough. If anyone here have knowledge about the dharma yuddh, the justice and punishment being talked about and establishment of dharma, this question can be answered easily :)

EDIT: Clearly not a duplicate. Answer to the question which claims to be original of this question, doesn't have points which I need answers for. The answer their clearly doesn't answer what I'm asking.


texts: What is the scriptural reference of the 'Dadhivamana' Form of Vishnu?

texts: What is the source of the 'Dadhi-VAmana' Form of Sri Vishnu? Why did He take this particular Form?


texts: What is asana siddhi and its importance based on vedic srutis or smritis

texts:
What is asana siddhi and importance?

It would be better to back it up with references from the vedic literatures.

Also it would help to provide some scriptures that mention the importance and also may be the method to achieve.


texts:
In many chalisa like Gayatri chalisa and hanuman chalisa I heard this verse.

  Ashta Sidhdhi Nav Nidhi ke data

What are these 8 Sidhdhis and 9 Nidhis?


texts: What are the hindu views about destiny, and karma

texts: I am wondering about the idea of 'destiny', if such a concept exists within hinduism, and how then one can accept the idea of karma and reincarnation based on karma, when desinty implies your life is already planned out. And how can one achieve moksha under such circumstances. This is contradictory, so i am asking for clarity on how destiny and karma relate to one another in hinduism. Thank you.


texts: which scripture says "parokshakama hi devah", and what does it mean?‘

texts: Does it mean the Gods have caused scriptures to be composed in a way that they are hard to understand?


texts: Boat on water vs boat on land story, as allegory to religion

texts:
Background

Many years ago I heard a TV presenter talking about religion, and I remember him saying something like:

  Like [ guru name ] said, religion is like a boat. It is very useful to to cross a river, but only a fool would drag the boat along with him/her after reaching the otherside.

I was curious about the Guru who would state that religion was in a sense fungible. I went to do some research today, but the only quotes I found seem to be very clearly not saying that at all:

  But without true love and devotion entering into it, it remains like a boat without water. It is not difficult to push a boat that is floating in water, but extremely hard to drag the same boat on dry land. In the same way, if our life’s boat floats on the waters of true love and devotion, we can sail easily in it.
  http://www.hinduism.co.za/stories-.htm (possibly not the best source)

So it seems I mixed up the TV presenter's analogy, with the words of the Guru (that he was quoting).

However I thought I would check here -

Question

Does anyone know of a Guru who did use the boat on water/land analogy to propose "Use religion while it is useful, then discard it"? Thanks


texts: What is the exact motive of the "yagya" which is done by Rishi-munis?

texts: Rishi-munis did the 'yagya' many times due to an order of his king. they did because fulfil their king's wish. So, was there any benefits or importance for common society people for yagya?


texts: God murugan is considered as tamil god. Is he known to all hindus?

texts: God Murugan is known as lord Shiva's son and also called as Kartikeya. He used to be called as Tamil god and famous in Tamil Hindus. Is he known to all Hindus?


texts: What mantras for pursuing kama/artha life?

texts:
I was taught gayatri mantra at a young age and I do it daily as it helps a lot with my daily meditation
In hinduism, moksha is the ultimate goal. But also there is the role of artha, kama, and Dharma. I was wondering what mantras I should/could add to my daily practice to pursue a more stable career/dating life? More specifically I have specific life goals to achieve through charity work in my lifetime that I can only achieve with a stable marriage and successful career
I was taught Mahamrityunajay mantra (om tryambakam yajamahe etc.)
And mahadevi mantras as well (Sarva Mangala Mangalye Shive Sarvaartha Saadhike Sharanye Trayambake Gauri Narayani Namostute etc.)
I am assuming that mahamrityunjaya is for protection and the mahadevi mantra would be for wealth/prosperity? so they would both be beneficial for this goal?


texts: What are the three types of languages of the scriptures?

texts:
In a book I got mention of the three types of languages used in scriptures:

  samAdhi-bhasha prathmA loukiki_iti tathA parA/ tritiyA parakiyapA_ iti shastrabhasha tridhA smrita//

Meaning : There are three types of languages of a scripture: Samadhi language, Loukiki language and ParakiyA Language.

What are the implications of these three types of languages as per the scriptures?


texts: I have met a couple of shaivites who have vaishnavite names ( ramakrishna, giri, venkatraman) though I have never encountered a vaishnavite family with predominately shaivaite names. Is there any reference in any of our scriptures to this? What is the reason behind this - I.e. Shaivites naming their children after God Vishnu?


texts: Do any scripture tell us of Lord Vishnu giving boon to asuras?

texts: In puranas, we frequently see Lord Shiva or Lord Brahma giving boon to some danava or daitya for their austerities which usually causes some problem in future which needs to be solved in some inventive way. Has Lord Vishnu also given such a boon to any danava or daitya which lead to trouble afterwards?


texts: Can You Tell me where from I get the Ribhu Gita in Sanskrit-Hindi Translation/Transliteration. I searched everywhere in markets and also on Internet.Help me if you know This rarest book?


texts: Is it true that many of the jaina tirthankaras were born in the lineage of lord rama, and also some are closely related to hindu deities such as krishna.


texts:
Sada Shiva is eternal . Sada shiva and lalitha devi are parents of Universe.
At the start of every kalpan Vishnu borns .From Vishnu brahma borns. From brahma's anger rudra(incarnation of shiva.) emerges from his forehead.
Brahma has life span of 100 brahma years (each brahma day is a kalpa).
Vishnu has a life of 1000 brahma life spans.

Sada Shiva is eternal.


texts: Is Krishna mentioned in the Chandogya Upanishad?

texts:
This chapter of the Chandogya Upanishad makes a rather curious statement:

  taddhaitadghor āṅgirasaḥ kṛṣṇāya
  devakīputrāyoktvovācāpipāsa eva sa babhūva
  so'ntavelāyāmetattrayaṃ pratipadyetākṣitamasyacyutamasi
  prāṇasam̐śitamasīti tatraite dve ṛcau bhavataḥ  ॥

  Ghora Âṅgirasa, after having communicated this (view of the sacrifice) to Krishna, the son of Devăkî -- and he never thirsted again (after other knowledge)--said: 'Let a man, when his end approaches, take refuge with this Triad: "Thou art the imperishable," "Thou art the unchangeable," "Thou art the edge of Prâna."'

Now it's common knowledge that Vishnu's incarnation Krishna was the son of Vasudeva and Devaki.  So my question is, is the "Krishna Devakiputra" mentioned in the Chandogya Upanishad the same as the famous incarnation of Vishnu, or is this just some bizarre coincidence?

The translator claims no Hindu work has ever noted this coincidence:

  The curious coincidence between Krishna Devakîputra, here mentioned as a pupil of Ghora Âṅgirasa, and the famous Krishna, the son of Devakî, was first pointed out by Colebrooke, Miscell. Essays, II, 177. Whether it is more than a coincidence, is difficult to say. Certainly we can build no other conclusions on it than those indicated by Colebrooke, that new fables may have been constructed elevating this personage to the rank of a god. We know absolutely nothing of the old Krishna Devakîputra except his having been a pupil of Ghora Âṅgirasa, nor does there seem to have been any attempt made by later Brahmans to connect their divine Krishna, the son of Vasudeva, with the Krishna Devakîputra of our Upanishad. This is all the more remarkable because the author of the Sândilya-sûtras, for instance, who is very anxious to find a srauta authority for the worship of Krishna Vâsudeva as the supreme deity, had to be satisfied with quoting such modern compilations as the Nârâyanopanishad[.]

And indeed, Adi Shankaracharya's commentary on this verse doesn't point out anything noteworthy about Krishna Devakiputra:

  This - Philosophy of the Sacrifice, - the sage Ghora - by name Angirasa - by Gotra - having expounded to Krishna, the son of Devaki - his disciple, said to him... Krishna, on listening to this philosophy, became thirstless... By this the text means to eulogize the Philosophy of the Sacrifice-Man as being so effective as to have relieved Krishna-Devakiputra of thirst for all other sciences.

Madhvacharya doesn't discuss who Krishna Devakiputra is in his commentary either.  So did these Acharyas somehow not notice the coincidence, or did they find the fact that it referred to Krishna to be too obvious to note, or did they find it too obvious to note that they're different people?

And assuming it's the same Krishna, who is this "Ghora Angirasa" who would be Krishna's guru.  Krishna had gurus like Sandipani and Garga, but I don't know of any guru of his named Ghora.  In any case, this Wikipedia page says that some Jains believe that Ghora Angirasa is another name for their Tirthankara Neminatha, whom they claim Krishna studied under:

  In the Chandogya Upanishads, the sage Ghora Angirasa relates the life of a man to the Soma sacrifice, and the daksina (alms) to austerity, liberality, simplicity, non-violence and truthfulness. In the process, he contributes the first recorded mention of ahimsa in the sense of non-violent behaviour. These values are common to Jainism and some claim Ghora Angirasa as a Jain sadhu instructing Krishna. The word Ghora Angirasa seems to be an epithet given to him because of the extreme austerities he undertook. It may be possible to suggest that Neminatha was his early name and when he had obtained Moksha after hard austerities, he might have been given the name of Ghora Angirasa.

But is there any basis for that in Hindu scripture? And does anyone know of any work by any Hindu Acharya or writer discussing the identity of this Krishna Devakiputra of the Chandogya Upanishad?


texts: Is there a set of practices that have been established for Brahmavadinis when they come out of their monthly asaucha periods? Are there any smritis which describe what their duties should be and if they can study (veda-adhyayana) during these times? If not, do the smritis declare what practices they should do to restart the study?


texts:
Was Ganga Devi married to someone?

Is she a wife of Lord Shiva, because he adorns Ganga Devi on his head which could mean that she is Shiva's wife?

I've also heard that Bhishma Pitamaha from Mahābhārata is the son of Ganga but unfortunately I've forgotten his father's name.


texts: Is breaking of glass and fire going off from lamps a bad omen?

texts:
We often see in Movies and Television series that shows few incidents in which something bad/negative happens if the glass breaks or fire goes off from the lamps which are lightened in temples or pooja room. And that is considered as apshagun/bad omen.

Is it true or superstitious?
Is there any reference from scripture?


texts: On atoms, diatomic and triatomic molecules - Vaisheshika Sutra

texts:
Vaisheshika Sutra is the most prominent text of the Vaisheshika school of thought, one of the Shad Darshanas in Hinduism. It was written by Maharshi Kanada.

This wiki article says that it talks about atoms, diatomic molecules and triatomic molecules.

I would like to know the Shlokas where these are mentioned, if anyone has read the text.


texts: Living in Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga and Dwapara Yuga

texts:
It is said in all Vedas and Puranas that everything happened in and around India during Treta Yuga and Dwapara Yuga.

Then what about the rest of the world during that time?

Was it barren? Was nobody living there?

I have heard about the Aztec World and the Pyramids of Egypt. Were they present the same time as Treta and Dwapara Yuga?

Also, in Satya Yuga, who lived? Were there human beings or just Manu and the 7 sages? And did they live on Earth or somewhere else or spread across the entire universe?


texts: what is significance of symbol U on forehead?

texts: I have seen in many pictures and temples that there is U symbol on forehead of lord Hanuman and other gods and some people also use it. I came to know that it is called vrindavan. But what is its significance? What does it mean?


texts: Does intent matter when it comes to Karma?

texts:
I can't understand the role intent has to play when it comes to Karma.

Let's just say I am giving to charity (in line with the norms laid down). But I know at the back of my mind that I am doing good karma, so I will reap benefits - maybe in this lifetime or next one. So does the fact that I am armed with this knowledge negate the act of charity?

In my humble opinion intent should not if it were the above scenario. But then where does one draw the line ? I mean how does the expectation that I will get benefits in this life or next one any different than a quid pro quo arrangement with the said charity's chairman ?

As always will be most helpful to get scripture references.


texts: as per different sects/philosophies, what was the order of creation/projection for ex: say- nirguna brahman-> aum-> ishwara -> maya-> ..... ->manu

texts:
Each sect have their own beleives about creation/projection.

Can we separately list as per each major/minor philosophies, what was the order of creation/projection of say: "nirguna brahman, aum, ishwara , maya,Rtam,Dharma,brahma,jivatma,hiranya garbha, kaal(time), triguna(sat,rajas,tamas), earth,cosmic man(purusha)(as per rigveda's purush sukta),manu,sur(devas),asuras,......." ?

Just for example of what I am looking for is something like below. Say, as per a 'hypothetical shaivite' named Sect1 creation order was as following:

1) Parashiva is nirguna brahman [Ref: ... Agama , Shloka ..]
2) He created Aum. [Ref: ..Veda , Shloka ..]
3) Then out of aum, "Shankara"(purusha) emerged. That is same as "Ishwara"(saguna brahman) and "Prakriti" also emerged [Ref: Agama named .., Shloka ..]
4) Shankara created vishnu [Shiva purana , Shloka ...]
5) from vishnu navel a lotus came out, from which brahma emerged
6) from prakriti, came out Parvati(consort of shiva), lakshmi(consort of vishnu came out).
7) from Brahma , saraswati came out
8) Vishnu created maya
9) In that maya , brahma created Rtam  and created hiranya garbha
10) from that hiraya garbha, all these stars and planets came out, including earth
11) from reflection of ishwara in maya , various jivatma appeared/projected
12) then brahma created triguna(sat,rajas,tamas)
12) brahma created Manu out of one of those jeevatma
13)  Then vishnu took form of cosmic man(purusha as per purusha sukta of rigveda) and then out of his head the brahmana emerged , from arms kshatriya emerged ,....  - from those earlier created jivatma.
14) Out of those Brahmanas, one sage was named Kashyapa . From Kashyapa and wife Aditi, the Suras came and from Kashyapa and Diti the Asuras came.

Now, as per "Hypothetical dvaitavaadi vaishnavite sect" named sect2, creation order is something like this:

.....

Now, as per "Hypothetical shakta sect" named sect3, creation order is something like this:
..

Now, as per "advaita vedanta" , projection order is something like this:
...

Now, as per "Smarta sect" named sect5, creation order is something like this:
...

Now, as per "sankhya" named sect6, creation order is something like this:
....

Now, as per "ISKCON krishnaite sect" named sect7, creation order is something like this:
....

Now, as per "tripurasundari(Shakta) sect" named sect8, creation order is something like this:
....

(note; I know that in above example of Sect1 creation hypothesis, I mish- mashed various sects philosophies in shiavite and other world view, but that was 'just an illustrative example' of what I am looking for..).


texts: What are the meal timings according to Smritis?

texts:
While there is Intermittent Fasting and Time Restricted Feeding buzz going on in the fitness community, I want to know what is the take of Smritis regarding

Time of Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Of what part of the day is prohibited to eat and in what part of day is eating recommended.

Sleep and Wake prohibitions and recommendations

Please answer only from Smritis like Manu, Parashara, Yagnavalkya etc with citations.
You can also answer from any Gruhya sutras if there is such information in them.
Edit 1: When exactly do have dinner?? I have heard that Smritis prohibit earing before 9pm. I dont know the exact source. But it is attributed to Paitinasi

Edit 2: Referred from Sanathan Samstha

6. Meal timings
6A. Do’s and Don’ts regarding meal timings

Meal timings should be fixed.

Have a meal within 3 hours of sunset. Do not eat at sunrise, sunset, at 12 noon and at midnight.

Whenever possible, have lunch before 12 noon and dinner before 9 p.m.

It is very hot between 12 and 4 p.m. If food is eaten during this
period, there is a likelihood of physical distress because of the high
intensity of jatharagni in this period. Similarly, after 9 p.m.,
movement of negative energies increases in the environment. Having
dinner during this period increases the likelihood of attacks by
negative energies. If food attacked by negative energies is eaten,
there is a likelihood of distress due to negative energies. Therefore,
whenever possible, have lunch before 12 noon and dinner before 9 p.m.


texts:
Many mantras have "swaha" Or "Namah"  at the end of them. I know that, we chant Swaha at the end of some mantra while performing  "havana" or "homam"
(as some sort of havan ahuti) like om shrim maha lakshmiyei swaha. And Namah type mantra is also use to chant at the end of some mantras like om gam ganapataye namah.
As I am going through Devi ARGALA STOTRAM (THE HYMNS OF ARGALA) came across Swadha term with swaha.

Om Jayanti Mangala kali Bhadrakali Kapalini Durga Kshama Shiva dhatri swaha swadha namostute.
Meaning: O Goddess Jayanti (who wins everyone), Mangala (who gives salvation), Kali, Bhadrakali (who is benevolent to devotees), kapalini. Durga, Kshama (who tolerates everyone) Shiva, Dhatri, Swaha and swadha, salutations to you.

My Questions:

What is the difference between Swaha and Namaha type mantras?
What is the meaning of Swadha? Where does it used for?
What is the meaning of Swaha and Swadha in Devi Stotram?


texts: What is Paramapadam? Is it different from Vaikunta?

texts: Can someone please elaborate what is Paramapadam and where it is? Are Vaikunta and Paramapadam one and the same?


texts: What does Parashara Smriti tell about untouchability?


texts: Who is the biggest god in hinduism? I mean the god who is not created by other god or the god who exist before all of other gods? The purpose to ask this question is to identify the the biggest character in Hinduism. As other religious peoples consider the God is the one not created by others and he is the one existing before each and every creation. So the answer may help to identify who is the god in hinduism equal to the god in other religion.


texts:
I am from Tripura.Our (unofficial) state goddess is Tripura Sundari devi.

Due to the similarity in appearance, people of our state think that she is an another form of Kali.

But Wikipedia says that she actually gave birth to all other gods and goddess.

So,Who is our state goddess actually?


texts: What happened to the body of elephant whose head was attached to Lord Ganesha?

texts: What happened to the body of elephant whose head was attached to Lord Ganesha and what is the name of the place where the head of Lord Ganesha fall?


texts: If the Purva Mimamsa school doesn't accept the corporeality of the Devas, then how does it explain their actions?

texts:
The Purva Mimamsa school doesn't accept that the names of individuals or gods in the Vedas actually refer to corporeal beings, but are limited to their etymological meaning, as explained in this post. For example, "Pravahani" means "one who carries things in an excellent manner", and does not actually refer to a person named Pravahani as the "son of Pravahana".

So if they don't accept Rishis, kings, and Devas as actual beings, then how does it explain their actions and behavior in the Smritis, Puranas, Mahabharata, Ramayana, etc?


texts: Humanity is at the advent of developing Self Aware Artificial Intelligence. What do ancient scriptures, sayings, traditions etc. Tell us about the definition of being a living entity? Will self conscious machines be "living" in the eyes of ancients?


texts: How did the Navagrahas come into existence?

texts: I know very little about the navagrahas we see in our temples. To my understanding sukra is sukracharya and guru is Brahaspathi. Does other grahas have respective gods or rishis associated with them as well ?? Can someone provide a source or a link may be to know our navagrahas ???


texts: is proselytization into hindu-dharma consistent with bhagavad gita?

texts:
श्रेयान्स्वधर्मो विगुणः परधर्मात्स्वनुष्ठितात् ।
स्वधर्मे निधनं श्रेयः परधर्मो भयावहः ।।3.35।।
3.35 - It is far better to discharge one’s prescribed duties, even though faultily, than another’s duties perfectly. Destruction in the course of performing one’s own duty is better than engaging in another’s duties, for to follow another’s path is dangerous.

The dictionary says

dharma, as, am, m. n. (rarely n.; the older form which occurs in the Ṛig-veda is dharman, q. v.; for 2. dharma see p. 451, col. 3), that which is to be held fast or kept, ordinance, statute, law, usage, practice, custom, the customary observances of caste, sect, &c.; religion, piety; prescribed course of conduct, duty, (thus ‘giving alms’ &c. is the dharma of the house-
holder, ‘administering justice’ of a king, ‘piety’ of a Brāhman, ‘courage’ of a Kshatriya); right, justice, equity, anything right, proper, or just; virtue, morality, morals, merit, good works; nature, character,"

In modern times - Hindu-dharma is being spread in the west where the notion of dharma has been different or perhaps not even applicable.  Is this consistent with bhagavad gita?


texts: Death in family - does a marriage need to be postponed?

texts:
I recently had a death in the family. My paternal grandmother (father's side) died at the ripe old age of 87 after a short battle with cancer. We are Hindu/Iyengaars. I am supposed to marry my fiance (who is American and non-hindu) in June but this untimely and unfortunate death of my grandmother will probably postpone our wedding by a year as per some people.

I have been looking around for official texts or something close to an official text that would tell me if and when a marriage would need to be postponed post a death in the family and what "kriyas" or acts may be performed to circumvent this.

Would anyone know something about this, perhaps pertinent to the iyengar belief system?


texts: Who are these learned rishis mentioned in the Mahabharat?

texts:
The Anushasan Parva of Mahabharat mentions many dignitaries that are praiseworthy and names a few rishis:

  After this I shall recite the names of those foremost Rishis who are known as Manavas. They are Yavakrita, Raibhya, Arvavasu, Paravasu, and Aushija, Kakshivat, and Vala the son of Angiras. Then comes Kanwa the son of the Rishi Medhatithi, and Varishada.

I found the stories of the first four here and know about Kanva, and Aushija seems to be another name of Kakshivat (since his mother was Ushija) so I want to know more about the remaining rishis Vala and Varishada.

If it is any help the text further states:

  They have sprung from Rudra and Anala and the Vasus. By reciting their names people obtain great benefits. Indeed, by doing good deeds on earth, people sport in joy in heaven, with the deities. These Rishis are the priests of Indra. They live in the east.


texts: Is Dristhi (Evil Eye) Pottu,Photos and other activities are said in our scriptures?

texts:
Dristhi pottu for new babies are applied as a black dot in their cheek to escape from Evil Eye.
Industries have scary photos in its gate as to escape from Evil eye .
When a person looks very jealously or other bad emotions about the other persons wealth,beauty,fame is said to be an Evil eye.
It is said that these evil eyes can cause Harm to the person by health,wealth,beauty or even accidents.

QUESTION :

Is these practices to escape from Dristhi or evil eye is said in our scriputres ?
Explain how can one man's look can cause the problem to others ?


texts: What are the different theories related to Ramayana?

texts:
Good evening folks. I just got a bit interested in our epic The Ramayana. Turns out our renowned scholar Mr. DevDutt Pattnaik disclosed that there are many forms of Ramayana. With so many renowned scholars on Hinduism, I am really excited to know how they vary from each other. Some I could hear about was that Ravana is given as the role of antagonist in one of the Ramayana.

Would anyone explain how many forms we have of Ramayana? And are they really differing from each other like I explained above??
Thank you.


texts: Why Manushya bali (Human Sacrifice) was practised in ancient times?

texts:
Recently, I read an article which describes rituals like Manushya bali (Human Sacrifice) known as पुरुष-मेध (Purusha Medha). That article also claims that this practice is defined in the Vedas.

Why were these kinds of things practised and what were their consequences?


texts: What is the meaning of Tamil saying "Begin with Ganesa and end up with Anjaneya"

texts: Wiki page on Panchmukhi Hanuman says that there is Tamil saying "Begin with Ganesa and end up with Anjaneya". Can someone please explain what is the meaning of this?


texts:
This particular passage from the Mahabharat pertaining to the Shraadh ritual mentions the names of gods called Vishwedevas:

  Those names at Vala, Dhriti, Vipapa, Punyakrit, Pavana, Parshni, Kshemak, Divysanu, Vivaswat, Viryavat, Hrimat, Kirtimat, Krita, Jitatman, Munivirya, Diptaroman, Bhayankara, Anukarman, Pratia, Pradatri, Ansumat, Sailabha, Parama krodhi, Dhiroshni, Bhupati, Sraja, Vajrin, and Vari,--these are the eternal Viswedevas. There are others also whose names are Vidyutvarchas, Somavarchas, and Suryasri. Others also are numbered amongst them, viz., Somapa, Suryasavitra, Dattatman, Pundariyaka, Ushninabha, Nabhoda, Viswayu, Dipti, Chamuhara, Suresa, Vyomari, Sankara Bhava, Isa, Kartri, Kriti, Daksha, Bhuvana, Divya, Karmakrit, Ganita Panchavirya, Aditya, Rasmimat, Saptakrit, Somavachas, Viswakrit, Kavi, Anugoptri, Sugoptri, Naptri, and Iswara:--these highly blessed ones are numbered as the Viswedevas.

I want to know who these gods with even vedic hymns dedicated to them actually are?


texts: Many people say that we should not keep individual Anjaneya photo in our house for worship. He should always be with Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana. Any evidence from age old puranas or scriptures supporting this sentence?


texts: Where is it mentioned about sister of Lord Shiva in religious texts?

texts:
I came across a page on internet that has a story of Lord Shiva's sister Devi Asavari. The article said that since Devi Parvati felt lonely on Mount Kailash being the only lady there, so she asked Lord Shiva to create a female companion or a sister-in-law for her. Lord Shiva obliged to that on the condition that Devi Parvati has to keep her female companion happy, to which Devi Parvati agreed. Thus, Lord Shiva created a lady similar to him in knowledge and powers who was later came to be known as Devi Asavari. Initially Devi Parvati was happy with her but later she disliked her for her heavy eating habits and rude nature.

The story is given on link :
https://googleweblight.com/i?u=https://www.newsgram.com/know-why-goddess-parvati-asked-lord-shivas-sister-devi-asavari-to-leave-kailasha/&grqid=SaFe96JS&hl=en-IN

Can anyone please tell me whether is is an authentic story and taken from any puranas or other religious text or its just a folklore. Also, if there is any other story(s) or mention of her anywhere else, then please let me know the same.


texts:
I'm Hindu and I've noticed that in some places, Sravan month ends a few weeks earlier (eg. in Nepal it's already over), than for other places (e.g my town). Why does this happen?

Sravan month is just one of the examples; these happen during most of the festivals.

I've tried to ask some religious people but have not been satisfied by the answers.

What's the need for so many different calendars? Why can't we have one that will make our religion more powerful and less doubtful? This QA addresses two calenders only, but I've noticed there are more than two.

Normal calendar made by religious experts.
Vaishnava calendar (varying from 1 city to another).
North Indian calendar (again made by some other religious experts).
For some other South Indian States like Tamil Nadu (made by their experts).

There might be many others about which I'm not aware.

Why, what's the need for all these variety?


texts: How can Goddess Lakshmi appear before her creation

texts:
It was mentioned in Sri Bhagavatam, that even goddess Lakshmi feared to approach Lord Narasimha (reference) after Lord Narasimha killed Hiranyakasyapu.
Bhagavatam also mentions the formation of goddess Lakshmi, which occurred during the churning of Milk ocean.(reference)

At the time of churning of the demons headed by Bali Maharaj (see here)

At the time of killing Hiranyakasipu his son Prahlada is a child.

Linking these two and by additional fact that Bali Maharaj is Grandson of Prahlada(reference), how can Godess Lakshmi who was appeared/created by churning of milk ocean (i.e at the time of Bali Maharaj) can appeare at the time of killing of hiranyakasyapu (when prahlada was a child and so Bali maharaj was not even born)


texts: Have there than any recorded prophecies in the Bhagavad Gita or other major Hindu writings that, according to a significant number of Hindus, was later fulfilled in an event known to history?


texts: What is the proper translation of Rig Veda 10.95.15?

texts:
Rigveda 10.95.15, translated by Ralph T Griffith, is as follows.

Nay, do not die, Pururavas, nor vanish: let not the evil-omened wolves devour thee.
With women there can be no lasting friendship: hearts of hyenas are the hearts of women.

What is the proper translation of this verse? Multiple translations/interpretations also can be provided if they exist.


texts: Which Incarnation of Vishnu faced a lot of difficulties?

texts: Which Incarnation (probably among Dashavatar) of Vishnu had thoughest life, had to face a strong opponent, had to face a lot of Challenges.


texts: In Hinduism, which of our actions make god angry against us?

texts: Which actions of ours are offensive towards gods? (Drinking, Dating, Masturbation, eating non veg etc). Can anyone provide me a list with some explanation? Are these sins?


texts: About this Goddess -Skull Cup and Paasam in HER hands

texts:
Has any one heard about this Goddess, who is having "Paasam" in one hand and
"Skull-cup" in another hand  and having 3 eyes and sitting on a Lotus.
"kamalaasanastham" ...
Is this goddess a Roudramoorthi/Thaamasika bhaava moorti?


texts: Do followers of Madhwa consider him to be an incarnation of Vayu?

texts: Is that something he claimed himself? or did his followers consider his incarnation to be revealed in scripture?


texts: What is the role of Jainism and Buddhism in introducing Vegetarianism to Hinduism?

texts:
It is said on multiple occasions that initially Hinduism was not a vegetarian society. From Was Lord Rama a non-vegetarian? :–

  I know meat eating is not restricted to any Hindu Caste, while in
  general South Indian Brahmins practice vegetarianism. Bengali Brahmins
  eat fish, Kashmiri Brahmins eat meat.

and this

  There are many references of Sri Rama having meat in the Valmiki
  Ramayana. It was a common practice in the Kshatriya clan then. Even
  not many Kshatriyas have non-vegetarian diet.

It is said that Jainism and up to some extent Buddhism brought the vegetarian movement to Hinduism. As far as I know, Vaishnavism is also responsible for spreading vegetarianism, so my question is how did this movement spread to Hinduism?


texts: I took a shiva diksha today at my local temple. I have been a non-vegetarian all of my life. Today the priest at the local temple who initiated me told me that I had to give up eating meat. I agreed and then he gave me a basic shiva diksha and mantra to chant. I now find it difficult to give up eating meat, like chicken and goat. If I eat non-veg after taking this diksha, will I be punished by the gods? I am a very religious person, but I am bengali so my cultural food is very non-veg. Is there any way I can reverse the diksha and go back to the way I originally was without any negative consequences? I want to be a tantrik and follow kashmiri shaivism, but I want to be non-veg. Is this possible? Ravan was a shiva devotee but he ate meat. Why can't I worship shiva and eat meat at the same time? Please help. I would appreciate it if a qualified religious priest pandit expert answered it.


texts: While praying to Lord Narayana, is it necessary to pray aloud, or can we pray silently through our thoughts?

texts: I'm referring to simple prayers, for eg. 'I should do well in exams' or 'Please save me from difficulty'.


texts: What is the reason/story behind Lord Sri Venkateshwara called as Balaji?

texts:
There are many names with which the Lord Venkateswara is called. Of course the sahasranama is devoted to Lord Vasudeva and all his avatars and the one in the question is definitely included.  Leaving that behind He is also called as Govinda, Thiruvenkatamudayan, Srinivasan etc and many solkas and archana mantras enumerate his names.  But none of these seems to have the name Balaji listed but still it is very popular especially with North Indians.

Usually every name will have some sort of anecdote however small or big it might be. What is such with the name Balaji?


texts: Does the vow of prostitutes involve sex with a Brāhmaṇa?

texts:
The Padma Purāṇa lays out the Dharma of prostitutes. Prostitutes must follow a vow which purifies them of sins. This vow includes worship of Viṣṇu, as well as service of a Brāhmaṇa for 13 months:

Having thus worshipped Govinda, the lord of the form of Anaṅga, the lady having made an offering with sandal, flowers, and incense, and then having invited a Brāhmaṇa...

She should bear in mind that the best brāhmaṇa, who has eaten well according to his sweet will, is Kāmadeva meant for Rati. The lady should do whatever the best brāhmaṇa desires.

She, speaking with a smile, should offer herself with all sincerity (to the brāhmaṇa)....

Thus till the thirteenth month arrives, she should gratify a brāhmaṇa and then send him to his house

This (vow) I have especially narrated to you, since this is the duty that should be always performed by the prostitute

My question is, does this vow really involve having sex with a Brāhmaṇa? I thought Brāhmaṇas are not allowed to have sex with prostitutes.
Or does this mean Brāhmaṇas are allowed to have sex with prostitutes who are following this vow?
If that is what is actually enjoined, then it follows from the idea that the dharma for all castes involves serving Brahmins and the Lord through what is permitted for their castes. For example, Kṣatriyas protect Brāhmaṇas and Yajñas, Vaiśyas farm and acquire food for Yajñas, Sūdras serve brahmins, wives serve their husband as the lord, etc. So along those lines, this vow might have prostitutes serve Brāhmaṇas through sexual service. But I am looking for stronger descriptions of this vow to confirm this.


texts: What scripture or text is the source of this verse on living on others money such as a woman's wealth?

texts:
Uttamam  swArjitam vittam madhyamam putrArjitam
  adhamam bhrAtru jAyAdi stree vittam adhamAdhamam

  Meaning: One's own income/wealth is the best to live on, it is moderate to live on son's income, living on brother's income is bad, and it is worst to live on a women's income/wealth.

What text is the source of this verse on living on others money as women's wealth?