texts: Is Karma good or bad, dependent on intent or result?

texts:
Sometimes, in this big city, when I travel, I often come across many unfortunate people, beggars, mutilated, helpless.

Sometimes, I want to help them and I do.

But, every time I am left wondering, Is giving to beggars always a good karma?

Think of it this way: Suppose a person is begging, you feel daya and you give something. But, actually that beggar is part of a cruel racket that mutilates innocent orphans to earn by begging.

So, you actually contributed towards evil with your donation. Isn't it? But,your intention was good and arose out of mercy.

What karmic fruit you will get? Because, you were not even aware of truth of that beggar.

Will you get rewarded for good intention or will you be punished for contributing to such a racket?
(This was a specific case.)

Generally speaking,
if a person does something out of good intent but that karma ends up hurting someone. Is that a good karma? And will the actor of that karma get a reward or punishment?

Conversely, if a person out of malice does something bad, but ends up benefiting someone. Is that good or bad karma?


texts: What is the scriptural definition of "Nitya Karma" for a non-initiate?

texts:
Nitya karma refers to the daily obligatory duties performed by the Hindus. Naimittika karmas on the other hand are the occasional rites that are performed with a reason (nimitta). Similarly, we have Kamya karmas which are done to obtain some specific goals. These acts are not obligatory.

Here is a relevant sloka from the Shiva Samhita, a Yoga treatise.

For example, one who has received initiation of the Gayatri through upanayana must perform Sandhya rites each day without fail. So, this is one of the nitya karma for him.

Now, let's take the example of a non-initiate. One who is neither invested with the sacred thread nor had any kind of mantra upadesam (Deeksha) from Guru.

Suppose, such a person daily worships Shiva or any other deity of his choice.

Question 1- Will this act be his nitya karma or  naimittika karma or kamya karma?

This is important to know because naimittika & kamya karmas are said to be fruitless if done without wearing the ring (anguriya) whereas in nitya karmas anguriya is not needed (wearing it does not harm in nitya karmas too but its not compulsory).

Question 2- Except bathing what are  all the nitya karmas for a non-initiate?


texts: Would Narayana listen if someone were to chant his name without going to a temple?

texts: This probably sounds like a dumb question, but I am unable to visit any temples as I don't live in India. That being said, any effort is probably better than none at all. Would Nama jap of Narayana (Vishnu) be helpful like that, even if I don't visit his temple?


texts: In some places Mata Parvati has Ashok Sundari as her daughter and in some places Saraswati and Laxmi? Which one is believed more?


texts:
Based on puranic descriptions, it seems the Devas and inhabitants of heaven party.

For example, they drink alcohol, eat meat, and have sex with Apsaras:

Manusmriti:

  Milk, wine, honey, and clarified butter are the articles which the
  gods are fond of. (38)

Bhagavatam:

  Text 46: An earthly king who protects himself and all citizens by
  removing all sins from his kingdom will certainly enjoy with Lord
  Indra in airplanes as brilliant as the sun.

Also Bhagavatam:

  Text 23: If on earth one performs sacrifices for the satisfaction of
  the demigods, he goes to the heavenly planets, where, just like a
  demigod, he enjoys all of the heavenly pleasures he has earned by his
  performances.

  Text 24: Having achieved the heavenly planets, the performer of
  ritualistic sacrifices travels in a glowing airplane, which he obtains
  as the result of his piety on earth. Being glorified by songs sung by
  the Gandharvas and dressed in wonderfully charming clothes, he enjoys
  life surrounded by heavenly goddesses.

  Text 25: Accompanied by heavenly women, the enjoyer of the fruits of
  sacrifice goes on pleasure rides in a wonderful airplane, which is
  decorated with circles of tinkling bells and which flies wherever he
  desires. Being relaxed, comfortable and happy in the heavenly pleasure
  gardens, he does not consider that he is exhausting the fruits of his
  piety and will soon fall down to the mortal world.

  Text 26: Until his pious results are used up, the performer of
  sacrifice enjoys life in the heavenly planets. When the pious results
  are exhausted, however, he falls down from the pleasure gardens of
  heaven, being moved against his desire by the force of eternal time.

My question is, what are the other enjoyments of heaven not already listed above?


texts: Why did the Sea God (Samudra) not yield to Lord Rama when he was however, willing to help Hanuman using Mainaka?

texts:
In the Sundarakanda of the Ramcharitmanas it is said:

जलनिधि रघुपति दूत बिचारी। तैं मैनाक होहि श्रम हारी॥५॥
Knowing him to be a messenger of Rama, the Sea (Sea God) told Mainaka to become a reliever of Hanuman’s fatigue.

In this context, the Ramayana provides an explanation about the Sea God’s reverence and indebtedness to the Ikshvaku dynasty:

To this Hanuman, who is a follower of the Ikshvaku dynasty, help should be done by me now. Descendants of Ikshvaku are repectable to me. 5.1.96
The ocean was developed by people born in Sri Rama's dynasty. That such ocean is worshipping in lieu of Sri Rama, you who is desirous of Sri Rama's welfare. 5.1.113

The sea god thus attempted at rendering help to the messenger (though Hanumanji himself is god) of Shri Rama but yet on being requested for 3 days, he didn’t yield to Shri Rama’s request to provide a solution to let the army pass, until threatened. (Yuddha Kanda, Setu building time)
Question:
What was the reason that the Sea God helped the messenger but avoided helping Shri Rama himself, the very person (of the dynasty) to whom the Sea God was indebted?
Note: Lakshmana also tells Shri Rama that Devatas can’t be trusted, but that may not be counted as an acceptable explanation here.


texts: Tarkasura's fight with Ganesha, Kartikeya and Vishnu

texts:
Tarkasura got a boon from Brahma that only Shiva's son could kill him.

It is said that Tarkasura defeated Vishnu in that fight.

How can Vishnu get defeated? He is the Supreme Being and everything revolves round him. So how can he be defeated?

Everyone is an ANSH of Vishnu. So Vishnu should be able to control his own ANSH. Isn't it?


texts: Are there advaitic verses in bhagavatam?

texts: Bhagavatam is a Vaishnava text. Are there any advaitic verses in it? If yes, what are they? Verse and translation please.


texts: Was advaita scholar Sri Vidyaranya defeated by Sri Akshobhya Tirtha?

texts: It is said that a debate took place between Sri Vidyaranya of Sankara tradition and  Sri Akshobhya Teertha of Madhwa sampradaya and Sri Vedanta Desikan declared  Sri Akshobhya as a winner. Is it true ?


texts: Analysis of the Brahmasutra which chooses best (according to author) interpretation of a verse from among interpretations of three major schools?

texts: I want to know are there books that try to analyze Brahmasutra from an independent ,non-sectarian perspective or from Western perspective while also specifying views of major Vedantic schools. I know one such book is " The Structure and Meaning of Badarayana's Brahma Sutras: A Translation and Analysis of Adhyaya 1 (English and Sanskrit Edition) " by G.C Adams, but it's only for Adhyay one,is there something like this for entire Brahmasutra?


texts:
I had read a story where a king asked his menstruating wife to have an intercourse with him and she refused; but since he kept on insisting, his punishment would be that he gets casted to hell
This is most probably from Manusmriti but I'm unsure;
Can anyone tell me where this story is from?


texts: Marici (Mareechi), in Jainism and Hinduism. Are they the same?

texts:
Hinduism has Rishi Marici, who is one of the Saptarshis. Wikipedia says that he is the founder of Vedanta. However the first systematized book on Vedanta is the Brahma Sutras, composed by Badarayana. And the pre-Brahma-Sutra Vedantic authors which we find are Ashmarathya, Badari, Audulomi, Kashakrtsna, Karsnajini and Atreya, as quoted by Badarayana himself.

Jainism poses that Marici was one of the previous births of Vardhamana Mahavira.

Is it by any chance that these two characters are in fact one?

Because there are many overlapping theories, which may or may not be true. They also say that Guru Nanak is a later incarnation of King Janaka.


texts: What are the teachings of Sri Jiddu Krishnamurti?

texts:
Can someone please tell me about the principal teachings and methodology of Jiddu Krishnamurti and his approach towards spiritual progress ?
Some people also believe that he was also related to "Maitreya".


texts: Where did Duryodhana and the Pandavas go after their death?

texts:
Where did Duryodhana go after his death? Though he had committed many wrong deeds, I just wanted to know where he went to. Heaven or hell?

Also, what about the Pandavas? Did they go to Krishna's abode or Heaven?

I have heard that Karna went to his father's adobe, Suryaloka.

Can someone give authentic reference so as to where each of them went after death  ?


texts: Why do temples have tortoise figurine at the entrance?

texts: We see tortoise figurine at the entries of almost all the temples. What is the significance and origin of this custom?


texts:
I red in devi baghavatham that a rajaswala is not allowed to cook food and if does, treated as sin.

My doubt is whether is it allowed to celebrate festival during menstruation?

For example, today is Karva Chaut, is it allowed for a rajaswala to do fast and watching moon through sieve for husband? Will it be a sin if rajaswala does it?

Refer authentic text if it denies/ allows a rajaswala celebrating festivals (doing fast, praying gods etc.,)


texts: is Parasurama Kund a holy place and is this the correct location?

texts:
There is a place called Parsuram Kund and I wonder if it has something to do with Lord Parasurama.

This place is on the Brahmaputra River, as you can see on the picture below.

Click on the image for more accurate map from Google maps.

Is there where Lord Parasurama resided\resides?

[]3


texts: Different hair dos & bhakti style of Krishna bhakts and Shiva bhakts?

texts:
I have seen that most all Shiva bhakts have long hair and long beard where as Krishna bhakts have clean shaven heads having long 'choti' at the center towards the backside of the skull.

Secondly, Krishna bhakts are more like into music, bhajans, kirtans whereas the Shiva bhakts are more into extreme activities like torturing of body for long hours etc.

Krishna Bhakt:

Shiva Bhakt:

My question: Are there any scriptures that point out in this direction or is it a mere tradition/ritual?


texts:
Yoga Vasistha is claimed to be written by Valmiki ji.

The first written copy of Yog Vasistha is estimated around 6th century according to Wikipedia.

But I haven't heard about this text like Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, etc. So a natural question arises. Is it authentic scripture?

Did there exist oral tradition of Yoga Vasistha in the past and was written down recently like Ramayan? I tried to contact persons who have posted the text on archive.org to research about its origin. I wanted to know from where did they get it from. All the translators are dead except the one for Lagu Yoga Vasistha. I had no luck. Also I'm surprised why such a profound text is just found in archive.org and not in the limelight. Very very few people know about this text. So is it unpopular just by chance or is it a non authentic scripture?


texts: What do Scriptures say about doing Puja/Archanas in "Mleccha Deshas"?

texts:
First of all, i need to know which countries are referred to as "Mleccha Deshas" in Hindu Shastras.

The Vishnu Purana supposedly prohibits performance of Pitru Shraddhas in "mleccha deshas".

  Na mleccha vishaya shraaddham kuryaat nagacchet mleccha vishayam/
  Kaaveri Tungabhadraa cha Krishna venicha Gautami, Bhaageerathi
  vikhyaatataah Pancha Gangaah prakeertitaah

  (Vishnu Purana suggested that Shraddha Karmas be avoided in Mleccha
  Deshas nor even visit those places.

But that was in the context of performing Pitru Shraddha.What about other religious activities?Are those also prohibited?

Q-What do Scriptures say about doing Puja/Yajnas in "Mleccha Deshas"?


texts: What are the different branches of Shaktism?

texts: There are many different sects in Hinduism,like Vaishnavism,Shaivaism and Shaktism.Some sects,like Vaishnavism and Shaivaism,have different branches like Gaudiya Vaishnavism,which glorifies Krishna and not Vishnu as the supreme lord, and Pasupata Shaivaism,which is the oldest school of Shaivaism which is followed by ascetics.Are there any branches/schools of Shaktism as well?


texts:
I have a confusion over Hanuman being killed by Vajra of Indra, after Hanuman eating the sun. I have read several versions, and in most of these, it was mentioned that Hanuman became unconscious, and was not killed, as shown in the Mahabali Hanuman TV serial.

Let us analyze it further.

Hanuman was an avatar of Lord Shiva, who cannot be killed by anyone in the universe. Hanuman also ate up the entire sun, which is more energetic than the Vajra. So, how Hanuman lost his life on the Vajra hitting him?


texts: Who is Ayan ghosh in Dwapara yuga? Under what circumstances and when Radha got married to Ayan?


texts: On what basis do Hindu philosophies say Atman exist?

texts: Hindu philosophies, especially Vedanta, say there is 'the Self' which is the reason for the existence of our human body. However, science hasn't proven the existence of that. Moreover, according to science it is gene only giving us a particular shape of a body. So, on what basis do Hindu philosophies say that Atman exist?


texts: Can one saint be more intellectual than the other?

texts:
Generally people don't compare the intellects of saints. But sometimes when they talk about them, they say great saints. What does it mean by great saints?

Does any saint has high intellect or know more about the Supreme being over the other?
If every enlightened saint has experienced the bliss then why does intellect vary between saints?
Do they have more enthusiasm to experience the supreme being?
Do they love the supreme being more than others?
Do they be in samadhi for more time than the others?

Take Vyasa Maharshi for example, he is the Guru of the Gurus, the greatest saint living. In a similar cadre are Patanjali, the Sapta Rishis etc.

All saints achieve the thoughtless state and in the state everyone are one and the same. Then why does some saints have more intellect. Is it true to say so?


texts: where is the first reference of Krishna stealing clothes of gopis - esp. in mahabharat?

texts:
Whether "Krishna stealing clothes of gopis" is mentioned in Vyasa's "Mahabharat"? in which chapter?

If not, then which is the oldest purana in which this event is mentioned?


texts: Is there mention of zoroaster or avesta in any of the puranas?

texts:
Zoroaster who started his own religion, language of avesta is similar to Vedas too. Is there mention of him or similar person?

Any such person in bhavishya puran?


texts: Where is the story of Radha being born blind found?

texts: In which scripture is the story in which Radha was originally born blind, and opened her eyes when she met Krishna found?


texts: Why virginity of only women is stressed upon in Hindu scriptures? Is men's virginity not required during marriage?

texts:
Is men's virginity not required?

E.g., Manusmriti says:

  If a man gives a defective damsel, without mentioning the defects, he should be punished by the king himself with a fine of ninety-six ‘paṇas.’—(8.224)

  Commentary:

  Such circumstances in connection with the girl as may be detrimental to morality, to progeny, and to capacity in general are to be regarded as her ‘defects’; e.g., such diseases as consumption and the like, loss of virginity and so forth.

  The marriage -texts are clearly conducive to ‘wife-hood’; and these are to be recognised by the learned as completed at the ‘seventh-step.’—(8.227)

  Commentary:

  There can be no such ‘marriage’ of a girl, who has already had sexual intercourse; and in her case even though the entire procedure, up to the ‘offering of fried grains’ may have been gone through, she does not become a ‘wife.’ So that in this case, a revoking of the bargain is possible, just as in the case of any other commodity.


texts: Why Ahalya,Tara,Mandodari,Kunti and Draupadi are called panchakanyas.

texts: There is a poem written by Tagore on Panchakanyas. All the ladies mentioned above are called panchakanyas. Is there any significance to be called so? Why did Sita didn't make to the list.


texts: According to scriptures, from when is the foetus/embryo considered to be alive?

texts:
According to Hindu Scriptures, from what stage of prenatal development is the human organism considered as being alive?

In particular, do the Vedas talk about this anywhere?

Note: The question here, in principle, asks for when the soul enters the body which is similar to my question since timing of pregnancy can be matched with stage of prenatal development. However, the body of the same question requests various different aspects of exact point of entry of the soul, metaphysics associated with selection of a particular body and point of entry, gender etc,. This vastly deviates from the fundamental point stressed in this question namely regarding which scriptural injunction details from when body is considered to be alive and whether the same is present in the Vedas. This is the point of interest in this question.


texts: What is expiation for breaking Hanuman vrat?

texts: What if we accidentally break the mangalvar Hanumaan vrat by the way of eating some sweets? How can we ask for forgiveness or is it an unforgiving act?


texts: Does any scripture refer to Brahma of five faces without any connection to his beheading by Siva?

texts:
I have always seen references to Brahma of 4 faces (caturmukha Brahma).

There is a story of Siva cutting off one of Brahma's heads - which means that he must have been pancamukha (5-headed) before that.

Does scripture support this?

note: this is not a duplicate of

Why did lord Shiva chop off lord Brahma's fifth head?

it only asks - do scriptures say Brahma originally started off with five faces.


texts: Which species are Urdhvochhishta, Ardhochhishta and Ubhayochhishta?

texts:
The Dharma Kanda (Preta Kanda) of Garuda Purana contains a great detail on description of hell, the journey of our soul after death. It also contains detailed explanation of cremation rites to be performed for the welfare of the soul. It is in the format of question and answer between Garuda and Lord Krishna. One of the queries raised by Garuda is as follows:

  Garuda said:
  102. If a man dies out of station and his bones too are destroyed, then how should the rite of cremation be performed. Tell me, O lord of the world!

This query is regarding tragic death caused due to accidents, suicide, due to animals etc., Lord Krishna says there is no other rite besides Narayana Bali which purifies the soul. Lord Krishna answers the query as follows.

  Lord Kṛṣṇa  said
  104-109. O Garuda, hear. I shall now tell you the great secret about the rite of death for those who die through serpent, tiger, toothed, head.breaking horned animals, disease, stone, water, brāhmaṇa, dog, nails, iron; those who die of hunger, poison, fire and cholera; those who are killed by a bull, a
  thief, a cāṇdāla, a woman in her menses, Śaunaki, Śūdra, washerman; those who commit suicide or die by fall from a tree, bill, wall or precipice; those who die in water, on cot, in firmament, in bondage; those who are killed by Ūrdhvocchiṣṭa, Ardhocchiṣṭa or Ubhayocchiṣṭa; those who die of wounds by
  weapon on horseback.

  [Dharma Kanda chapter 4]

He also mentions those who are killed by Ūrdhvocchiṣṭa, Ardhocchiṣṭa or Ubhayocchiṣṭa (bolded in English translation). Following is Sanskrit verse for the translation in bold.

  ūrdhvocachiṣṭādharocchiṣṭobhayocchiṣṭāstu ye mṛtāḥ /
  śastraghātairmṛtā ye cāsyaśvaspṛṣṭāstathaiva ca // GarP_2,4.109 //

The word Ūrdhva means vertical or higher. Ubhaya means two or bi and Artha means half. From the formation of words, it seems like it is talking about some classification. What is this classification based on? Who/which are these species?


texts: Did the people of Srirangam really fight a war ?

texts:
I've heard from my grandmother that there was a war fought by the people of srirangam most of whom are Iyengars to get the idol of the srirangam temple deity from the Delhi sultan. I know that there are generally two deities in the temple : The stone one (serpant) and the bronze idol. I also heard that there is actually one more statue which was made when the original was taken away. Also that there is a place in the temple dedicated to the Muslim princess- the daughter of the Sultan.
What exactly is the story behind this temple ? I mean right from the start : Who got the idol done in the first place and was there really  a war fought by the people of Srirangam ? There are a few accounts online which I've read and alos the mahatmyam. But none of them are comprehensive. I would be glad if someone can give a comprehensive view of the entire story. If possible, please do add the source of your information so that it can be verified.


texts: Is "dharmosmat kuladaivatam" from the Shastras?

texts:
Dharmosmat Kuladaivatam (translated by the source as, "Charity, Our Household Divinity") is the motto of Malayala Manorama, a leading Malayalam Newspaper.

Is this phrase from a Hindu text?


texts: Is Sri Vaishnavism the only Vaishnavite sect that claims "Narayana" is a proper noun that can ONLY denote Vishnu?

texts:
This is a celebrated case - the claim that Panini's grammar makes "Narayana" with the retroflex n at the end a proper noun and that only the Vaishnavite God can be meant.

Obviously this cannot be a huge issue for Gaudiya Vaishnavas and Ramanandis to whom the supreme God is Krishna and Rama respectively.


texts: What is the definition of Yudhishtira Saka and when does it start with respect to the Mahabharata war?

texts: Yudhisthira Saka is used in many historical texts. Can anyone tell what is the context behind this Saka and the start of the Saka with respect to Mahabharata war?


texts:
Vedas, as we believe are words of God so they should be static, but, I think Rigveda has been corrupted. E.g., Nirukta 7:8 talks of a verse offering an oblation to Vishnu and Agni but the verse is not present in Rigveda anywhere.

Does this mean Vedas aren't well-preserved as thought and the contents changed over time?


texts: Best and easy methods to earn lots of punya

texts: Any method to earn lots of punya which is not required to be done regularly. It should be some sort of one time activity or anything which can be repeated again and again but there shouldn't be any obligation to do it or follow it regularly.


texts: Any references where varna/caste is determined independent of birth/parentage?

texts:
Is there any incidence or statement in the scriptures which shows that varna/caste was not deduced from birth/parentage, and was deduced only from "qualities independent of parentage"(without referring to parentage at all).

The top answer to this question uses this verse as a reference:

  catur-varnyam maya srstam
  guna-karma-vibhagasah - (BG 4.13)

and says that "They substituted heredity in place of qualities", but doesn't provide any reference to a prior system which didn't consider heredity. All authentic commentaries interpret the word "guna" here to mean that "qualities acquired by birth". So, this verse doesn't seem to fulfill my need.

Also, please note that I'm not asking about the flexibility of varna system.

Please cite direct scriptural references(if possible with links).

Edit: It would do if Shruti(Vedic or Upanishadic) references are provided which show that varna/caste was deduced from birth/parentage, and was not deduced from "qualities independent of parentage".


texts:
Sage Suta, is well known for narrating most of the Puranas and the Mahabharata, in the forest of Naimish. (We can read about the importance  of Naimisharanya in this other question Naimisharanya in Puranas).

What his the story of his life? Is he the same as sage, Romaharsana Suta mentioned here?

The wikipedia page on Ugrashravas also mentions that Suta Goswami is Lomaharshana's son.

  He was the son of Lomaharshana (or Romaharshana)

From that, it looks like, "Suta" is a family name to me.


texts: In our house, they say Marigold flower should not be offered to God, Is there any such belief?? What is the significance of particular flower being offered to God?


texts: Wondering if (a) Vedic chants are written down (I know at least in the remote past they were purely an oral tradition), and (b) where they are written down. I'm wondering if there is anywhere online (like a museum or university website perhaps, or something else) which has ancient Vedic chants written down in some sort of sheet music format or something like that. Or perhaps where might even be modern Vedic chants written down in a format.


texts: Does next birth take place instantly after death?

texts:
Personally I feel our thoughts will never be destroyed after death.

Let me explain what I feel: If I die the world won't stop. Now I can't imagine the state after death. I mean it doesn't seem possible to me that everything will vanish and I won't feel/think anything after that. This is why I somewhat believe in re-birth. I haven't read these thoughts anywhere but I guess same would many other people and scientists feel (do they?)

Now, people nearby me say that if one dies it will take birth again. Hinduism says when one dies he spent some time in narak or swarg and then take birth again. I've heard news in papers that a guy could remwber things from past life.

How TRUE the concept of rebirth is and how long it takes for new birth?


texts: Shivarahasya Purana original Sanskrit book free available online?

texts: I have found an English version of Shivarahasya Purana on archive.org. But unable to find the original Sanskrit version.  Kindly share if anyone know of the original Sanskrit book other than scanned manuscripts.


texts: Why didn't Satyaki fight from Kaurava's Side?

texts: Although Sri Krishna promised to Duryodhan that all his army would fight for him except Krishna himself however Satyaki chose to fight from Pandava's side. I think as he was also Yadav, he should have fought along with Kritvarma.


texts: Why all avatars are not equally popular and famous?

texts:
Why all of us do not like or pray to all the avatars or why people have belief in some avatars but not in others?

Why all avatars are not equally popular or famous?


texts: How did Sanjaya get the super power to see the Kurukshetra Battle?

texts:
As we all know, Sanjaya was narrating the Kurukshetra war to Dritarashtra.
How exactly was he seeing the war and how he got that power?


texts: Sri Hayavadana Kavacham (alternately, Sri Hayagreeva Kavacham)

texts:
Sri Hayavadana Perumaal is the Horse headed Avatara of Sriman Narayana. Kavacha Stotram or Kavacham are hymns of Exhortation and/or Reassurance with an usual intended effect of bestowing protection to the reciter/listener. Literally, Kavacham means Divine Armour.

Sri Hayavadana Kavacham or Sri Hayagreeva Kavacham, as can be listened to here and read about here, is a Kavacha Stotram said to belong to the Poorva samhitha of Atharva Vedam (said to be seen or received as revelation by Sage Hayagreeva). This Kavacham focuses on protection of various aspects of the body by exhortation to various divine aspects of the Cosmos with an overarching relational reference to Sri Hayavadana Perumaal, moves next to the guarding of the ten directions by various divine aspects, states that "giving up the body will result in becoming as god of speech" (Yevam nyastha sareero  asou sakshad  Vageeswara bhaved) and as final exhortation seeks Lord Hayagreeva's grace and bestowal of knowledge & wisdom of Shaastras.

I'm interested in the following:

Is the Atharva Veda Shakha(recension) where this Kavacham is from intact even today? Please provide reference to the same.
Who is Sage Hayagreeva?
How should Yevam nyastha sareero  asou sakshad  Vageeswara bhaved be interpreted in the context of the Kavacham in so far as it is related to Viśiṣṭādvaita?


texts: Who was Rishi Atharvan who wrote Atharva Veda?

texts:
I recently came to know about this Rishi Atharvan who is believed to have compiled the Atharva Veda along with Angiras. Wikipedia says he was a Manasputra of Brahma abut when you check the list of Manasputras his name doesnt figure in it. Wiki mentions that he was the father of Dadhichi and belonged to Bhrigu clan but then Bhrigu himself is a Manasputra.

So I want to know who was he really?


texts: Why did Sri Rama banish Lady Sita when he was a witness of her fire-test himself?

texts:
Sri Rama was a great and just king of Ayodhya. There were some rumors reported by his subjects against the purity of Lady Sita.

So, as per the Raja Dharma, Rama had to banish Sita. But was it against Raja Dharma when Rama and his brother were witnesses to Sita's purity (no matter what the episode of Agni Pariksha (trial-by-fire) was)? How is it justified for a just king like Rama not to protect Lady Sita when there were witnesses proving her innocence?

Please note that there was no evidence in favor of the rumors spread by the people. Was it justified to ignore the witnesses of the trial-by-fire? Was it not against Raja Dharma? Was being unjust part of Raja Dharma?


texts: Is there any reference in Hindu or ancient texts to the Deccan Trap volcano eruptions which wiped out life on Earth?

texts:
This article states that gigantic volcano eruptions in the area of Deccan in modern India were the cause of life extinction on Earth 66 million years ago. About 4 subsequent volcano eruptions spewed poisonous gases and ash into the air, blocking sunlight and wiping out most lifeforms on Earth.

How does this period of destruction tally with Kalpa/Yuga theory?
Do Hindu / other ancient texts have any reference to this event?
Is there any connection to Shiva's destructive force?


texts: Are the rules of eclipses (grahaṇa) still valid if the eclipse is not visible from the observers' place?

texts:
There was a recent Lunar Eclipse (Chandra Grahaṇa) - the first for the year 2021.

The full eclipse began at 11.11 am UTC, which was around 4.41 pm IST. But the total lunar eclipse was not visible in India.

Whenever an eclipse is said to be "visible" in a certain place, it's a practice for the people of that area to follow all the "rules and protocols" of a sūtaka and other practices. Like Temples closing their doors, people not going out throughout the eclipse  duration, and not consuming food, etc..
However, many a times, the eclipse is not even visible in several areas. Like this eclipse cited above.  This eclipse wasn't observable from India.
Question - Does the same "rules and protocols" apply to such kind of eclipses too, which are not visible from an "observer's place"? Please give either scripturally sourced answer or the views of "authoritative personalities".


texts: Is the practice of killing a cow for a guest (गोघ्न | goghna) still followed?

texts:
The footnotes of this translation of Āpastaṃba Dharmasūtra says:

  Manu III, 119 and 120; Yājñ. I, 110;: Weber, Ind. Stud. X, 125. A guest is also called goghna, 'cow-killer,' because formerly a cow used to be killed on the arrival of a distinguished guest. The rite is described by Āśvalāyana Gṛhya-sūtra I, 24, 31-33.

Is this custom still practiced in the Indian subcontinent? If not, when did they stop following this and why?


texts: Which time for buying online should be considered as muhurtha?

texts:
Pardon the apparent frivolousness

Which time for buying online should be considered as muhurtha ?

Placing the order date
Delivery date
Payment date (because it can be either COD or Credit/Debit time which differ)

Note: Please understand this question is asked with genuine concern and interest, as there are many people who follow astrology are also on e-commerce buying important things. This question is not an attempt to put down astrology instead is a question seeking answer for modern implications of astrology. It is observed from comments and downvotes that the spirit of the question is completely missed.


texts: Hindu customs to make a normal women to widow

texts: Why the women chew jeera & salt while seeing widow first time in their relatives ? If they don't chew, what will happen ?


texts: What scriptures say about sraddha (श्राद्ध) during pitru paksha for untimely deaths?

texts:
Is sraddha (श्राद्ध) during pitru paksha for untimely deaths such as suicides, accidents prescribed in scriptures? Some random sources say it's not allowed, and few say it should be done on Amavasya. What scriptures say on this matter?

Also does rule change for untimely death of married or unmarried or child or young or old?


texts: What is Jarasandha's military force according to BORI's Harivamsa?

texts:
According to this chapter of that version of Harivamsa, the military force of Jarasandha in his attacks on Mathura consisted of the kingdoms of Hastinapura, Videha (capital of Mithila), Bahlika, Chedi, Karusha, Pragjyotisha, Vidharbha, Paundraka, Vanga, Kalinga, Yavana, Suparshva, Dasharna, Kashi, Madra, Trigarta, Soubha, Darada, Pandya, Sindhu, Gandhara and Kashmir. And this chapter describes that in total there are 20 akshouhinis consisting of the army of Jarasandha and was also supported by Panchala, Bhoja, Shini, Malava, Avanti, Matsya, Kekaya and Nishada.

But, was that information of the military force retained according to BORI's Harivamsa?


texts: Does the time spent in Samadhi and waking up from Samadhi depend on the person's will?

texts:
Vivekananda states the difference between sleeping and Samadi in the following lines from CHAPTER VII: DHYANA AND SAMADHI of Raja Yoga. In short, sleeping does not cause any change in knowledge but Samadi state changes knowledge.

  How, for instance, do we know that a man in Samadhi has not gone below consciousness, has not degenerated instead of going higher? In both cases the works are unaccompanied with egoism. The answer is, by the effects, by the results of the work, we know that which is below, and that which is above. When a man goes into deep sleep, he enters a plane beneath consciousness. He works the body all the time, he breathes, he moves the body, perhaps, in his sleep, without any accompanying feeling of ego; he is unconscious, and when he returns from his sleep, he is the same man who went into it. The sum total of the knowledge which he had before he went into the sleep remains the same; it does not increase at all. No enlightenment comes. But when a man goes into Samadhi, if he goes into it a fool, he comes out a sage.

Time for sleeping depends on the sleeping habits of the person and on average one needs to sleep around at least 6 days in general. Any person can wake the sleeping person or the person may voluntarily wake up after their feeling of sleepiness went.

I have two doubts:

Who decides the time of staying in Samadi state? Is it in hands of the person in Samadi or is there any fixed time to stay in Samadi state?
Can another person wake up a person who is in Samadi state?


texts: Is sankalpam/sankalp important in order to do homam/havan? Can havan/homam be performed without sankalpam/sankalp?

texts: I just want to know if a havan/homam can be performed without sankalp/sankalpam


texts: Can someone chant this mantra without initiation if close to death

texts:
I come acroess a twitter post

For ones with Covid +ve chant this mantra for self or others 108 by
energizing water in a kalash.
"Aim Hreem Shreem Sarva Vyādhi Prasamani Sarva Mrutyu Nivarinyayi
Namaha Shree Lalithambika Pahimam Rakshamam"

Few people were saying that beej mantra should only be chanted after intiation , which is well known fact. So there was one disclaimer at the end of the post.

Adding to it this is a Sharnagati nama mantra with Beej Samputikaran.
Use it for Pandemic situation only and discontinue further once things
are at place.
A rare condition where we have shared a mantra on our Tweets seeing
the need of the hour.

So my doubt is can this mantra can be chanted without intiation?


texts: Which God or Goddess is known as God of Silence in Hindu Religion?


texts: How important is the Bhagavad Gita when compared to other Hindu texts?

texts:
I was raised at LDS (Mormon) in the United States of America. My only real experience with Hinduism is my readings of the Bhagavad Gita this summer (Isherwood translation with introduction by Aldous Huxley).

How central is the Bhagavad Gita to the Hindu religion? How well does it represent Hinduism, standing alone? Is it considered outdated in parts (as the Old Testament is, in Christianity)?


texts:
Who is the supreme God according to the Varaha Purana?
Is Lord Shiva the supreme God in the Varaha Purana?


texts:
The commonly known weapons of Sri Vishnu are five in number - Panchajanya, Sudarshana, Sharanga, Nandaki and Koumodaki. Among the above 5, the Gayatri mantra of the first 2 are used in Pooja vidhana. I am aware of them.

I am interested in knowing the other three. Do any of you have information on this?

Also, for all the 5 (and in general any of the Gayatri mantras of deities), does any one have information of the rishi chanda and devata nyasa that
s to be done? Chanda is of course Gayatri chanda and the deity is something we can figure out but the rishis seem to be unknown.

Note - I have already checked this one. It's not covered


texts:
I found that most of the Hindu scriptures and epics describe places in and around India.

Does any Hindu scripture mention about the Pyramids of Egypt or America or Africa?


texts: How come Lord Hanuman was able to resize his body?

texts:
Lord Hahuman was able to resize his body. When he wanted to cross the sea to get information of Maata Sita, he enlarge his body and cross the sea by jumping from India to Shri Lanka ( Keep in mind that Hauman jumped till Sun in his childhood, so India to Shri Lanka distance is just nothing ). On reaching to Shri Lanka, Hanuman decrease his body size to mosquito to enter into Ravana's Kingdom.

Next time Hanuman increase his body when Laxman got injured by Meghnath while fighting, Hanuman brings vaidya ( doctor ) sushen from Lanka with his full home.

Again Hanuman increase his body when Hanuman broght Sanjivani from a Himalaya mountain, he brought whole mountain.

So How come only Hanuman was able to resize his body as and when require. Does anybody else has this power too ?


texts: Who freed Rambha from Vishwamitra's curse?

texts:
It is well-known that the sage Gautama cursed his wife Ahalya to turn into a rock.  What is less well-known, however, is that the sage Vishwamitra cursed the Apsara Rambha in a similar fashion.  Vishwamitra once engaged in Tapasya for a thousand years, after which Brahma granted him the title of Maharishi.  But Vishwamitta was not satisfied by this, as he wanted to be a Brahmarishi so that he would be Vasishtha's equal.  So he engaged in another thousand years of Tapasya, which was so intense that it caused disruption in the three worlds.  So Indra told the Apsara Rambha to tempt Vishwamitra away from his Tapasya. Vishwamitra was indeed distracted by Rambha, but then he cursed her to turn to stone, as described in this chapter of Bala Kanda of the Ramayana:

  Whereof you tried to entice me who am wishing to win over the wanton and wroth, you unlucky female Rambha, thereof you will become a rocklike statued wastrel [for ten thousand years]. A highly resplendent Brahman who is ascetically powerful redeems you, oh, Rambha, who are now blemished by my anger.

My question, who is the Brahmana who freed Rambha from Vishwamitra's curse?  We know that she was ultimately freed; for instance she's described in this chapter of the Harivamsa as out and about in the time of Arjuna's great-grandson Janamejaya.

The translator says this:

  This ascetically powerful Brahman-saviour of Rambha is none other than the Sage Vashishta, the brainchild of Brahma. Even though Vishvamitra is at loggerheads with Vashishta, he holds Vashishta in high respect.

But does this have a scriptural basis?  If so, what are the circumstances in which Vasishtha freed Rambha?

On a side note, I've had this question for many years, ever since I watched the Dhoordarshan TV serial "Vishwamitra"; they showed Rambha turning to stone but they never showed her being freed.


texts:
In Drona Parva of Mahabharata, Krishna tells Arjuna about his four forms:

  I have four forms, eternally engaged as I am in protecting the worlds. Dividing my own Self, I ordain the good of the worlds. One form of mine, staying on the earth, is engaged in the practice of ascetic austerities. Another beholdeth the good and the evil deeds in the world. My third form, coming into the world of men, is engaged in action. My fourth form lieth down in sleep for a thousand years. The form of mine which awaketh from sleep at the end of a thousand years, granteth, upon awakening, excellent boons to persons deserving of them.

It is generally believed that he sleeps after dissolving all mobile and immobile creatures into himself so how can Lord Vishnu give boon when no one else exists? As said by him, upon awakening he gives boon to deserving persons which means while in sleep, persons already exist which further means that he went to sleep when universe was running.

So why he sleeps in the middle of a running universe?


texts: Is it possible that avatars can be anti-vedic?

texts:
Vedas are highest in hierarchy of Sanathan dharma.
Most celebrated avatars never deny Vedas and in fact followed and authorised Vedas.
Is there any possibility of an anti-Vedic avatar?


texts: About the conception of the Bhagwad Gita

texts: If there was no war in Mahabharata, there would be no Bhagwad Gita. Since Bhagwad Gita is a good thing born out of something bad (the war), should we be thankful that the Mahabharata war took place?


texts: As per my reading from Wikipedia, the mukhya Upanishads discuss the philosophy of vedas. The seeds of advaita and vishishtadvaita philosophies are found in these upanishads as per my limited readings.  Where in samhitas can we find a  correlation of the verses in the Samhita and these propounded philosophies such as advaita and vishistadvaita? Also does the Mukhya upanishads make direct references to Samhitha verses in the exposition of their philosophies?


texts: Examples on the flexibility of Varna in ancient times

texts:
One of the arguments given by people (incorrectly) to show oppression in Hinduism is that the Brahmins were elites and unfairly discriminated against the lower caste people, also known as anti-Brahminism.

The counter argument given is that there have been many Rishis who had parents of lower caste (Sudras or Dalits). Although, due to their knowledge they came to be known as Rishis. Hence, caste was determined back then by merit and not by birth.

This website lists a number of such examples of Rishis with lower caste parents, without any references. Rishi Vyasa, Rishi Valmiki, Rishi Aitareya, Rishi Parashara, Rishi Vashishtha and Rishi Vidura are mentioned.

Can all or any of these examples be traced back in the scriptures?


texts: What is the definition of sin according to Hinduism?

texts: What is a definition of a sin? What are the criteria by which an act becomes  sinful?


texts: What was the age differences between Kauravas brothers?

texts: When we here about Kauravas, we hear a lot of Duryodhana, Dushyasana, and Karna story itself. There were 100 Kauravas, so where were other 98 Kauravas excluding Karna, and what were their roles? What was their age differences?


texts: Did Ravana wear a sacred thread? If I get any sastric reference it will be helpful


texts: Any examples where a Smriti has contradicted a Sruti statement?

texts:
First of all,by Smriti here i mean only the Dharma Shastras  like Manu Smriti,Parashara Smriti etc.

It is very often that i find comments of the following nature here:

"In Hinduism Sruti is the ultimate authority ,so whenever you find a Smriti contradicting  Sruti you have to reject the Smriti in that case."(this is just a paraphrase & not an exact comment )

So,i assume there must be many such instances where a Smriti has contradicted  Sruti.

But in his this speech "Sri Sri Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi MahaSwamiji " says that a Smriti never contradicts Sruti:

  There is no second opinion regarding the fact that what is called
  "Srauta"(directly mentioned in the Vedas) is wholly authoritative. But
  what is not directly mentioned in Sruti but included in Smrti - that
  is Smarta - is not to be taken to be less authoritative. Smarta never
  contradicts Srauta. In some matters Smritis may go beyond Sruti, but
  that too is fully authoritative being based on the inner spirit of
  Sruti

The Manu Smriti also says the same thing that Smriti is based on Sruti only.Those traditions that are not based on Vedas are false .So Manu Smriti being not a false doctrine itself is based on  the Vedas.

  12.95. All those traditions (smriti) and those despicable systems of philosophy, which are not based on the Veda, produce no reward after
  death; for they are declared to be founded on Darkness.

  12.96. All those (doctrines), differing from the (Veda), which spring up and (soon) perish, are worthless and false,

Question

What are the instances where a Smriti Text has contradicted a Sruti statement?


texts: What is the significance of the number of times Jarasandha attacked Mathura?

texts:
From the scriptures, we know that Jarasandha attacked Mathura 17 times and was defeated each time. Finally, on the 18th attack (along with Kalayavana), Lord Krishna moved the Yadavas to the island city of Dwarka.
My question is what is the significance of the 17 attacks ? Why did either side wait for the 17 attacks ?
Why did Lord Krishna wait for 17 attacks to decide to move the Yadavas ? Why not move it after the third or fourth or tenth or twelfth attack ?
Why did Jarasandha attack 17 times before joining forces with Kalayavana ? Why not do so in the first attack (and consequently having a much bigger force) ?


texts: How to offer Naivedyam to Shriman Narayana

texts:
Offering Food or Naivedyam/Prasadam is integral part of Vaishnava lifestyle.
Majority of Vaishnavas follow Pancharatra Agama shastras, therefore I assume Naivedyam procedure is described in those texts.

So the question becomes :

What is the method(from Pancharatra texts) to offer Naivedyam to Shriman Narayana.

If there is a difference in Sri Vaishnava Naivedya procedure them please mention that in your answer.


texts:
How to increase the power of mantra, if we stopped believing the mantra by mistake?

Is there a conductor to increase the power of mantra?


texts: Is Prabhu Jagatbandhu considered a reincarnation of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu?

texts:
Prabhu Jagatbandhu was a nineteenth century Vaishnava saint in Bengal. He was the founder of the Mahanam Vaishnava Sampradaya. Now, according to Wikipedia, he is considered a reincarnation of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu:

  Considered by his followers to be a re-incarnation of Chaitanya, he spent much of his life meditating and preaching in the Sri Angan ashram in Faridpur, British India (present day Bangladesh).

Is Wikipedia correct in saying Jagatbandhu is considered as an incarnation of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. I haven't heard much about him from ISKCON or any Vaishnava.


texts:
Western science rejects every concept until they don't cut and see because its reach is limited and under development and based on one type of intelligence ie intellect. Many of scriptures are lost, Nalanda university was burnt and Somnath was destroyed.  A lot of precious knowledge is lost but somewhere it still exists in other forms or derived forms.

How many types of intelligence or dimension of mind?

My question is different from linked target question. What I mean to ask here is the types of intelligence which come before receiving knowledge not after the knowledge or after effect of bodh, which affect the human body. Hope now it clarifies.


texts:
What are offerings to shivalinga and what are fruits of it? It is said that if we offer water of river Ganga, we attain Moksha after death, similarly milk is offered for long life. But this information is not authentic as I read on websites. Also I could not find similar questions on stack exchange site.

Please provide authentic information of what fruit is obtained by specific offering. I would love to hear the related source or scripture too, for instance Shiva or Linga Purana.


texts: Which famous quotes are wrongly attributed to Bhagavad Gita?

texts:
There are many famous sayings, found in Facebook, WhatsApp & other social media, which are wrongly linked to Bhagavad Gita.

Purpose of this Qn is to link all the duplicates in one place.

Meta discussion: A question related to "Wrong attribution to Bhagavad Gita", should be kept open


texts: What exactly was the Chakra-Vyuha or Padma-Vyuha in the Mahabharata, and why did Abhimanyu fail to break it?

texts:
Given that the great Abhimanyu was an expert at Chakra-Vyuha (a.k.a Padma-Vyuha), why couldn’t he manage to come out of it?

Krishna was also an expert in Chakra-Vyuha at that time, so why didn't he rescue Abhimanyu?


texts: How have traditional Vedic commentators interpreted Shukla Yajurveda 26.2?

texts:
Shukla Yajurveda 26.2 states:

  That I to all the people may address this salutary speech,
  To priest and nobleman, Sûdra and Arya, to one of our own
  kin and to the stranger.
  Dear may I be to Gods and guerdon-giver. Fulfilled be this
  my hope: be that my portion!

The above verse has been used by Neo-Vedantins to claim that everyone is allowed to study the Vedas (or at least hear Vedic chanting).

My question is:

How have traditional Vedic commentators (i.e. Vedic commentators before the nineteenth century) such as Sayanacharya, interpreted this verse?


texts: What scriptures describe Krishna's lover Nappinnai?

texts:
Most people know about Radha, who is said to be Krishna's lover and his favorite among the Gopis, whom Krishna spent time with during his childhood in Vrindavan and Gokulam.  She's revered by many Vaishnavas, particularly those of the Gaudiya and Nimbarka Sampradayams.  Yet the Sri Vaishnava Sampradayam (of which I'm a member) doesn't emphasize Radha.  In part that's because Sri Vaishnavas focus on the Vishnu Purana and the Srimad Bhagavatam, neither of which even mention Radha's name. Yet Sri Vaishnavas do recognize a figure similar to Radha.  Let me explain.

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

In any case, the Alwars discuss a figure named Nappinnai, daughter of Yashoda's brother Kumbagan.  It is said that Krishna married Nappinai after  defeating the seven bulls of Kumbagan.  Sri Vaishnavas believe that Nappinnai is an incarnation of Vishnu's wife Nila Devi.  Most people only know about Vishnu's wives Sri Devi, aka Lakshmi, and Bhu Devi, aka Bhumidevi, but according to Sri Vaishnavism Vishnu has a third wife named Niladevi; the Nila Sukta of the Yajur Veda is addressed to her:

  O thou of the three-and-thirtyfold Stoma, lady of the world,
  Breathed on by Vivasvant, do thou be gracious to us;
  Rich in ghee, O Savitr, through thy overlordship,
  Be the bounteous region rich in milk, for us.
  The firm among the quarters, lady of Visnu, the mild,
  Ruling over this strength, the desirable,
  Brhaspati, Matarisvan, Vayu,
  The winds blowing together be gracious to us.
  Prop of the sky, supporter of the earth,
  Ruling this world, lady of Visnu,
  All-extending, seeking food, with prosperity,
  May Aditi be auspicious to us in her life.

In any case, my question is, apart from the Alwars' poems, are there any scriptures which discuss the story of Nappinnai?

Now this chapter of the Srimad Bhagavatam describes how Krishna wins the hand of his queen Satya after defeating the seven bulls of Satya's father king Nagnajit (not to be confused with this king Nagnajit).  This is exactly how Krishna won the hand of Nappinnai.  So does this have some relation to the story of Napinnai?

Also, I've heard that Yashoda's brother Kumbagan is mentioned in the Harivamsa.  Does anyone know if that's correct?


texts: What is the story of Kumara Swamy or Kartikeya taking the form of Subrahmanya (snake)?

texts: Kumara Swamy or Kartikeya is also worshipped as Subrahmanya swamy (snake form). What is the story behind taking this form? Which Purana states it?


texts: List of scriptures translated by Max Muller

texts:
Translation of Hindu scriptures is not an easy task and requires a lot of knowledge and even experience in different domains. Linguistic expertise is not the only one required to do it. Many of the verses may have a variety of valid interpretations. Context of the verse also plays an important role.
Max Muller is a person who translated Hindu scriptures. He distorted the actual content in his translations.
What are the list of Hindu scriptures translated by him? And into which language he translated?


texts: Did Madhusudhana Saraswathi, in his Advaitha Siddhi depart and deviate from the opinions of Adi Shankaracharya regarding Advaita philosophy?

texts:
BNK Sharma, a well known scholar and author belonging to Dwaita school of Vedanta has written this in his book Advaita Siddhi vs Nyayamrita, an up to date appraisal.
Here's the excerpt

Is this true? Afaik Madhusudhana Saraswathi is one of the orthodox Advaiti, and other Advaitins would consider him as an authority. Andvhis works are regarded as classics.
So did he depart and deviate from original opinion of Shankaracharya?
If so, on what did he differ?
Source


texts: How Sri Raghavendra Swami's Vrindabana was built?

texts:
All, I am a devotee of Guru Raghavendra Swami, as most of you're aware of his moola brindavana is located in Mantralayam, Andhra Pradesh. My query is how the brindavana is built up actually?

Like first Guru did entered the samadhi and on top of the samadhi did they build brindavana or have they followed any other procedure? Also those days we didn't had advanced engineering technologies, if this is the case how can they perfectly carve the stone of moola brindavana?

Can anyone help me? Sorry if it's a silly question, I have seen in movies but different movies shows entering of brindavana in different ways.


texts: Are there any mantras that does not need any guru initiation but gives siddhi?

texts: Do all mantras that gives siddhi needs guru initiation? Or are there any mantras that can give siddhi without the need of guru?


texts: Why did Indra steal a wheel from the chariot of Surya?

texts:
The Rigved verse 5.29.10 talks about an interesting incident:

  9 What time ye came with strong steeds swiftly speeding, O Uśanā and Indra, to the dwelling,
  Thou camest thither -conquering together with Kutsa and the Gods: thou slewest Śuṣṇa.

  10 One car-wheel of the Sun thou rolledst forward, and one thou settest free to move for Kutsa.
  Thou slewest noseless Dasyus with thy weapon, and in their home o’erthrewest hostile speakers.

My question is what is the story behind Indra taking away one wheel of the Sun's chariot for his friend Kutsa?


texts: I read some stories in North India where Lord Kartikeya is said to have vowed not to marry, while in South India, he is seen along with 2 wives. I wanted to know, who are the wives of Lord Kartikeya and which texts contain the story of his marriage?


texts: How should I do Tratak meditation myself safely at home? Does it have any side effects?

texts: How should I practice Tratak meditation safely at home without a guru? What are its side effects if not done properly?


texts: Which scriptures describe about Bhima and Hanuman's Gada (club or blunt mace)?

texts: Is there any scriptures which describes about the name, size, weight of their Gada? And how they got them?


texts: When we talk about liberation among the living i.e the jeevanmukts, is it their aatman which has achieved realization? If not the aatman, that what/who? For those who have done good karma in this birth and are guaranteed escape from the cycle of rebirth, what achieves moksha after loss of body/mind on death?


texts:
In the following verse, 16 names of Vishnu given and mentioned that on which occasion/activity we should chant which name.

  Aushadhe Chintayét Vishnum Bhojané cha Janardanam
  Shayane Padmanabham cha Vivahé cha Prajapatim

  While taking any Medicine one should remember - Lord Vishnu .While Consuming food one should remember – Lord Janardana;While Sleeping one should  remember – Lord Padmanabha, During wedding one should remember –  lord Prajapati

  Yudhe Chakradharam Devam Pravase cha Trivikramam
  Naraayanam Tanur-tyagé Sreedharam Priya-sangamé

  At war one should remember – Lord Chakradhari, While Traveling one should remember – Lord Trivikrama.Death bed one should remember – Lord Narayana, when meeting your loved ones remember– Lord Sreedhara.

  Du-swapne Smara Govindam Sankate Madhusoodanam
  Kaanane Naarasimham cha Paavake Jalashaayinam

  When having Bad dreams one should remember - Lord Govinda , While in trouble times one should remember– Lord Madhusoodana;While In a forest one should remember - Lord Narasimha, In the midst of fire One should remember - Lord Jalashayina

  Jalamadhye Varaham cha Parvate Raghunandanam
  Gamane Vamanam chaiva Sarva-kaaryeshu Madhavam

  In the middle of water (water activities or travel ) one should remember –  Lord Varaha, On a mountain (trekking) one should remember – Lord Raghunandana (Lord Rama). While Travel by foot one should remember – Lord Vamana, when you start any deed remember - Lord Madhava.

  Shodashaitaani Naamani Pratarudhaya ya: padeth
  Sarva-papa-vinirmukhto Vishnu-loke Maheeyate

  One who reads all of these 16 names every morning ,then he will get rid of all the sins and will attain Loka(Moksha) or Heaven.

What I want to know is, why certain names for certain activities. I know reason of some name i.e. Vamana (we should chant while traveling on foot) who use to travel on feet and did cover all lokas with only two steps. So it makes sense that doing dhyanA of Vamana will make traveling on feet benificial. And Varaha (while in water one should do dhayana of Vraha)  also makes sense to me because He saved Earth from ocean, he protect Earth from water, hence he is savior if we are in water (my guess). But not all names makes sense to me because I am not aware about those names. So what's the reason behind those names on those conditions/activities?


texts: Do all Hindu schools of thought believe that bathing at holy places helps clear sins?

texts:
Bathing at pilgrimages like Ganga, Yamuna, etc. helps clear sins. Is this a universal Hindu belief or does it differs across school of thoughts?

As it is commonly believed in our country that bathing at pilgrimages like in Ganges at Haridwar, etc. is good, or at Yamuna or sometimes at ponds of important temples.


texts: Why would Lord Vishnu try to kill himself in the Narada Purana?

texts: Narada Purana III.79.220-5 “The garland of hellish things is your ornament for the chest. The poisonous serpents viz. Vasuki and Sesa are your bangles. Your garments are the quarters (i.e. you are naked); the matted hair is what you have by way of your tresses. The white ash constitutes your unguent, the great bull is your vehicle. Your Gotra (spiritual lineage) and the family are not known. Your parents are unknown, your body is rendered ugly with hideous eyes.’ Even as the daughter of the mountain was saying this Visnu spoke to her angrily. ‘O goddess, why do you censure our lord of the universe, the lord of Devas. O gentle lady due to your nature of not controlling yourself you were not his beloved. You are like the evil vital breaths. O gentle lady, it is my vow that I shall die where Isa is censured.’ After saying this, Hari attempted to cut off his head. Mahesa caught hold of his hand and said, ‘Do not indulge in a risky venture. Everything that Parvati said is pleasing to me, not displeasing.” Tr. G.V. Tagare


texts: What is the importance of knot in sacred thread ceremony?

texts: The sacred thread (Janeva or Yajñopavītam) consists of three cords which are tied together by a knot called Brahma-granthi. What is the importance of this knot?


texts: Do Vedas praise today minor gods as Brahman anywhere?

texts:
Vedas constantly praise Brahman with various names or superimposing attributes of brahman on various dieties. Like Sri rudram praises Rudra as Brahman,In such manner do they praise Agni,Varuna,Aditi,Saraswati,Savitar, Vishnu (though a major god today,exclude Purusha sukta and Narayana sukta please) etc.,anywhere as Brahman?
Indra as brahman can be found here
Though Vishnu as brahman can be found in this answers most of them are from Upanishads and Narayana/Purusha suktas.
By Vedas I mean Shruti (Samhita,Brahmanas,Aranyakas). And not from Upanishads as not all of them are in their genuine form today.
EDIT: I am looking for mantras of  respective dieties, in which they are praised as brahman.


texts: What was the "Purpose" behind Shiva's banishing Brahma's worship?

texts:
We all know Shiva cursed Brahma not to be worshipped. We all know the many stories behind it.

But what is the "Purpose" of this- banishing Brahma's worship?

If Shiva has done this, there must be some deeper purpose of it. Shiva cannot do it just out of revenge of insult.

What is deeper and greater purpose of this?


texts: Who exactly were the Dasyus and are they different from the dasa term?

texts:
As mentioned in previous answer What are some hymns elaborating and explaining about dasas in rig-veda? by B.N.Bhaskar, that 'dasa' itself is neutral term and it is not an enemy tribe and 'dasyu' is for a theif/robber so not a tribe.
But according to various foreign historians and even our one of the most emminent historian PV Kane in his book History of the Dharamshastra states here the arya vs dasa conflict.
So according to the vedas what was this arya vs dasa tribal conflict, if there was a conflict at all?
Also in the wikipedia entry Dasa it is said that Sri Aurobindo gave metaphysical meaning to this term.
Is there a consensus to this term or is it open to interpretations?


texts: What is the relation of Saraswati (Vak) with the River Saraswati and Trinity or Brahman?

texts: What is the relation or connection of Saraswati (Vak - Vani) with the River Saraswati and with the Hindu Trinity or Brahman?


texts: Which verses from Gita were referred by J Robert Oppenheimer (the father of atomic bomb)?

texts:
Julius Robert Oppenheimer was the son of a German Jewish migrant to USA. Under his supervision, the Manhattan project was carried, which ultimately resulted in first modern nuclear weapons. Eventually these atomic bombs were dropped in Hiroshima & Nagasaki.

Many in Germany (including Nazis) were influenced by Bhagavad Gita and had their own interpretations. Oppenheimer also had referred Gita in Sanskrit & he referred few quotes from the same.

Question: Which were the original verses for his references?


texts: Rig Veda as the origin of modern numerical system

texts:
Rig Veda presents complete set of modern numerals

ekam
dvi
tri
catur
panc
sasti
Sapt
asta
navam
dash
ekadash
dvadash

.....etc leading to sahastra (1000).

Yet modern scholars hold that the modern numeral system originated in India in 5th-7th century AD. Why it is so? Even the conservative dating of Rig Vedic Sanhita is 1200 to 1500 BC. Is not it a denial of the depth of Indian historicity?


texts: What was Swami Vivekananda's view on Vedanta? What did He think of Advaita, Dvaita & Vishishtadvaita philosophies?


texts: Who are the 7 sisters of Saraswati mentioned in Rig Veda?

texts:
Rig Veda VI.61.12 says

  Seven-sistered, sprung from threefold source, the Five Tribes'
  prosperer, she must be Invoked in every deed of might.

At another mantra in Rig Veda, seven rivers -  सप्त सिन्धून, were mentioned (RV II.12.3), as being freed by Indra.

My question is, does the word सप्त सिन्धून indicate, seven branches of Sindhu river or seven separate rivers?  And, is Sarswati included in सप्त सिन्धून - seven rivers?


texts: Meeting of Sri Krishnaprema and Sri Ramana Maharshi

texts:
I read about the meeting of two great saints : Sri Ramana Maharshi and Sri Krishnaprema. Sri Maharshi was in tears seeing the idol of Sri Krishna that Sri Krishnaprema worshipped.It is a rare incident where a greatest Jnani met a greatest bhakta.

Could someone narrate the beautiful incident? I read about it in abook written by the renowned scholar late Dr.Govindagopal Mukhopadhyay.


texts: Chidambara Mahatmyam is part of Skanda Purana or Sthala Purana?

texts: Please let me know if Chidambara Mahatmyam comes under Skanda Purana then which khanda it is available and chapter numbers also.  I came to know there are 26 chapters available. Is there any where Sanskrit or Telugu script available for the same.


texts: How can one purify speech? Speech or tongue is part of indriyas and mother Saraswati is the owner of it. So, how to purify one's speech?


texts:
Jesus Christ always considered himself as the son of God - "The Father of Universe". In Gita Bhagavat, Lord Krishna revealed himself - "The Father of All Kinds and Beings" throughout the conversation with Arjun at War.

So, my question here - "Is Lord Krishna "The Father of Universe" as revealed by Jesus Christ?" Or, Lord Krishna is the indication as mentioned by Jesus Christ. Please clarify the connection if any one has valid answer.


texts:
We are under classic assumption that a soul with lot of good karma do spend long time in heaven. It will take long time for it to be reincarnated back on earth.

We also know that pandava heroes are generally had lot of good karmas in their credit.Especially Yudhistira is personification of truth and goodness.Logically speaking he is supposed to spend in heaven for long time.

In Svargarohana parva of mahabharata , indra invites yudhistira as to enjoy pleasentaries in svarga as
http://sacred-texts.com/hin/m18/m18003.htm

  "O mighty-armed one, enjoy now those regions (svarga) which have
  become thine through the Rajasuya sacrifice performed by thee and
  whose felicities have been enhanced by the sacrificial scimitar
  employed by thee. Let the high fruits of thy penances be enjoyed by
  thee. "

But as everyone know , Mahabharata was narrated to janamejaya after death of parikshita. It is also quoted that Parikshita ruled for 60 years before his death.So it was around 60 years, before pandavas died.

Now at the end of svargarohana parva , janamejaya asks sauti , what happened to pandava heroes after their time in svarga is over as below.

http://sacred-texts.com/hin/m18/m18005.htm

  "tell me for what period they remained in Heaven. O foremost of
  regenerate persons, was theirs an eternal place in Heaven? What was
  the end attained to by those foremost of men when their acts came to
  an end? "

Then Sauti explains in detail the final destination , after time in svarga came to end.

  "Every one, O king of men, is not capable of returning to his own
  nature at the end of his deeds. It was explained (to us) by Vyasa of
  mighty energy,celestial vision and great prowess."

Then he goes on explain , yudhistira entered into yama,Drona entered into Brihaspati , Kritavarma entered the Maruts.

So now comes to question ,how exactly yudhistira  a personification of rightousness  , spent just 60 human years in heaven?

I consider 60 years is very less because, 360 human years = 1 year in svarga. So nearly he spent just Two divine months in svarga.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_units_of_time

Based on this logic , most of us common people , should spend much less time in svarga . Does it happen like that?

I have seen multiple modern day  books which details on past life experiences (for ex: Cases of the Reincarnation Type, Vol. I: Ten Cases in India. University of Virginia Press.. By Ian Stevenson) clearly quotes , people are coming back to new life after 100s of years.

I am wondering what I am missing in overall Story.??


texts: What sort of questions perplexed Prince Arjuna before the start of the Mahabharata War

texts:
Prince Arjuna was one of the greatest Kshatriyas(warrior) of the Mahabharata epic.

The prelude to the Mahabharata War, was a   a dynastic succession tangle, between two groups of cousins(the Kauravas and Pandavas), for the throne of Hastinapura.

And, as all efforts at peace-negotiations failed, the  Pandavas and the Kauravas, fought one of the fiercest wars of their times, at Kurukshetra(viz the Mahabharata War).
The Mahabharata war also  involved a number of ancient kingdoms participating as allies of the rival groups.

Arjuna was on the battlefield, ready to fight the greatest war of his lifetime, when he realized that he was facing  the greatest "emotional" challenge of his life.

Arjuna was "besieged" by questions, for which he could not find satisfactory answers.

  अहो बत महत्पापं कर्तुं व्यवसिता वयम् |
  यद्राज्यसुखलोभेन हन्तुं स्वजनमुद्यता: || 44||

  यदि मामप्रतीकारमशस्त्रं शस्त्रपाणय: |
  धार्तराष्ट्रा रणे हन्युस्तन्मे क्षेमतरं भवेत् || 45||

  BG 1.44–1.45:

  Alas! How strange it is that we have set our mind to perform this great sin. Driven by the desire for kingly pleasures, we are intent on killing our own kinsmen. It will be better if, with weapons in hand, the sons of Dhritarashtra kill me unarmed and unresisting on the battlefield.

Arjuna placed his celestial bow, Gandiva, down on earth and said that- he did not want to fight.

  सञ्जय उवाच |

  एवमुक्त्वार्जुन: सङ्ख्ये रथोपस्थ उपाविशत् |

  विसृज्य सशरं चापं शोकसंविग्नमानस: || 46||

  BG 1.46:

  Sanjay said: Speaking thus, Arjuna cast aside his bow and arrows, and sank into the seat of his chariot, his mind in distress and overwhelmed with grief.

Subsequently ,Arjuna found answers to all his questions, through the medium of Gita Upadesha(advice given in the Bhagavad Gita) by Lord Sri Krishna.

What were the sort of questions that perplexed Prince Arjuna, before the start of the Mahabharata war? Please explain in brief.


texts: Where can I get Vrndavana Mahimamrta of Prabodhananda Sarasvati?

texts: The Vrindavana Mahimamrita is wonderful book by the Gaudiya Acarya Srila Prabodhananda Sarasvati. Where can one find the pdf copy of the book?


texts: Why was Lord Shiva called as a Viragi and Lord Vishu as a sansaric vishnu when both are same?

texts: It is said Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are the same and they both are supreme god, then why there is difference between them. Why was Lord Shiva called as a Vairagi and Lord Vishu as a sansaric vishnu?


texts: Is Sachi the name of a position or person?

texts:
It is well known fact in Hinduism that Indra is a person in a position and is not the name of a person. A person gets the position by his deeds.

Is Sachi same as Indra? I mean, is Sachi a person in a position or it is the name of a female person?


texts: Where can I download "An introduction to the commentary on Vedas" by Maharshi Dayananda Saraswati?

texts: I am looking for a book named "An introduction to the commentary on the Vedas" which is the english translation of "RigVedAdi Bhasya Bhoomika" by Maharshi Dayananda Saraswati, founder of Arya Samaj.


texts:
Is the following theory is true ? :-

Astrology has 12 Bhavas viz : Lagna, Dvitiya, Tritiya ..to the Dwadasha Bhava.

If a person does 13 crores of Rama nama japa .

For each 1 crore, his 1 Bhava will get cleaned of Doshas.

Eg. If a person completes a japa of 1 crore then the Lagna will get cleared of its defects.

For the next 1 crores all negative effects of the 2nd Bhava will be destroyed and so on.

12 places in Horoscope are as here


texts: Which scripture mentions the verse "Chandalohpi munisrestha haribhaktiparayanah..."?

texts:
Chandalohapi munisrestha haribhaktiparayanah | Haribhaktivihinashcha dviijohapi shvapachadhamah ||

English Translation: Chandalas with Hari Bhakti are superior to Munis. But if a Dvija is devoid of Hari Bhakti then he is worse than even a Chandala.

I found the above verse mentioned in Hari Lilamrita, the biography of Sri Sri Harichand Thakur, founder of the non-Vedic Matua Vaishnava Sampradaya, written in Bengali:

But it doesn't seem to be originally from that book. A friend of mine believes it's from the Hari Bhakti Vilasa but I haven't been able to find it so far.
So which text originally mentions the above verse?


texts: How to find the lunar day for Pitru Paksha Shraddha?

texts: If we have the date and time of death, how can we find the specific lunar day to perform Pitru Paksha Shraddha?


texts: Did Karna think that it was adharma to not appoint Duryodhana as king of Hastinapura?

texts:
In Star Plus Mahabharata (e.g., S11 E7), it is shown again and again that Karna believed that it was adharma to not appoint Duryodhana as King/Yuvaraja (crown prince) of Hastinapura.

Did Karna really believe so according to the original Mahabharata text? If yes, what reasons did he offer?

Note: This is not a duplicate of Why was Yudishthir considered to be the next King after Dhritrashtra and not Duryodhana? which is a general question about Duryodhana and his rights whereas this is more about what Karna believed and why.


texts: Did any of the warriors of the Mahabharata suffer from PTSD?

texts:
Nowadays, many soldiers suffer psychological trauma (PTSD) after killing in battle.

Does the Mahabharata mention any of the warriors experiencing PTSD after the war?


texts: What a son should do for his father's soul after 10 years of his death?

texts: My father died 10 years ago but his soul was always with us. Recently, he contacted us and we talked. He did not wanted to tell me to do anything for him but told me that he receives whatever I do like Amavasya Offering. So kindly tell me if I can do anything else for him.


texts: What is the correspondence between Khandas and Samhitas in the Skanda Purana?

texts:
As far as I know, the only unabridged English translation of the Skanda Purana is the translation published by Motilal Banarsidass, which you can read here.  As you can see from the Table of Contents here, it is divided into seven Khandas or sections: the Maheshwara Khanda, the Vaishnava Khanda, the Brahma Khanda, the Kashi Khanda, the Avanti Khanda, Nagara Khanda, and the Prabhasa Khanda.  But as this Wikipedia page describes, there's another way to divide the Skanda Purana:

The second type of division of the Skanda Purana is found in some
texts like Hālasyamāhātmya of the Agastya Saṁhitā or the Śaṁkarī
Saṁhitā, Sambhava Kāṇḍa of the Śaṁkarī Saṁhitā, Śivamāhātmya Khaṇḍa of
the Sūta Saṁhitā and Kālikā Khaṇḍa of the Sanatkumāra Saṁhitā.
According to these texts, the Skanda Purana consists of six saṁhitās
(sections):

the Sanatkumāra Saṁhitā
the Sūta Saṁhitā
the Śaṁkarī Saṁhitā
the Vaiṣṇavī Saṁhitā
the Brāhmī Saṁhitā and
the Saura Saṁhitā

The manuscripts of the Sanatkumāra Saṁhitā, the Śaṁkarī Saṁhitā, the
Sūta Saṁhitā and the Saura Saṁhitā are extant. A manuscript of a
commentary on the Sūta Saṁhitā by Madhavācārya is also available.

So my question is, what is the correspondence between the Khandas and Samhitas of the Skanda Purana?  Since there are seven Khandas but only six Samhitas, the average length of a Samhita should be greater than the average length of a Khanda, so at least some of the Samhitas should contain chapters from multiple Khandas.
The reason I ask is because in this question I'm trying to find the scriptural basis for Shiva's incarnation Dakshinamurthi. This forum post claims that Adi Shankaracharya based his Dakshinamurthi Stotram on the Suta Samhita of the Skanda Purana.  So are there any sources that list exactly what chapters of each Khanda belong to each Samhita
Or failing that, is there any English translation of the Skanda Purana which is divided into Samhitas rather than Khandas?  Wikipedia says that there's a manuscript of the Suta Samhita, as well as a manuscript of a commentary on it.  But have either of those manuscripts been translated into English?


texts: Do Upanishads say that they shouldn't be taught to people who don't study or ineligible to study Vedas?

texts:
Mundaka Upanishad 3.2.10 says "This is explained by the mantra “who perform the karma enjoined, who are srotriyas, who are centred in the Brahman (lower) and who with faith, offer oblations themselves to the fire named Ekarshi, perform the vow named Sirovrata (who duly carry a fire on the head); to those alone, let one teach this knowledge of the Brahman."
Does it mean that Non Dwijas and others who haven't studied Vedas are ineligible to study Vedanta??
Note: I am aware of Swami Vivekananda saying " There is no intrinsic sequence between the Vedic Karma-kânda and Vedic Janâna-kânda. It is evident, therefore, that one may attain to the knowledge of Brahman without having studied the ceremonial parts of the Vedas " implying anybody could study the Upanishads. But is his view supported by Upanishads??


texts: Why do the Vedas give multiple figures for the distance between Earth and Devaloka?

texts:
The distance from the Earth to various heavenly bodies is mainly a subject discussed in the Puranas. In this answer, I discuss how the distance from the Earth to Devaloka is given as 100,000 Yojanas in this chapter of the Vishnu Purana.  But there are a few verses in the Brahmanas of the Vedas which also discusses this subject.

First there is this excerpt from the Panchavimsha Brahmana of the Sama Veda (aka the Tandya Mahabrahmana), which says that Devaloka is located at an extremely short distance equal to the height of a thousand cows stacked on top of each other:

  'The world of heaven is as far removed from this earthly world,' they say, 'as a thousand cows standing the one above the other.'  Therefore, they say: 'He who sacrifices with a sacrifice at which a thousand dark shins are given, reaches these worlds.'

Then there is another except from the Panchavimsha Brahmana of the Sama Veda, which says the distance between Earth and Devaloka is the same as the length of the Saraswati river, which is covered by 40 days on horseback:

  At a distance of a journey of forty days on horseback from the spot where the Sarasvati is lost (in the sands of the desert), is situated Plaksha prasravana.  At the same distance from here (from the earth) (is situated) the world of heaven: they go to the world of heaven by a journey commensurate with the Sarasvati.

And then there is this excerpt from the Aitareya Brahmana of the Rig Veda, which says that the distance is the distance covered by 1000 days on horseback:

  A thousand should be recited for one desiring heaven; the world of heaven is at a distance of a thousand journeys of a horse hence; (they serve) for the attainment of the world of heaven, the securing, the going to (the world of heaven).

Finally, to add additional confusion, yet another excerpt from the Panchavimsha Brahmana provides many different figures:

  He who sacrifices with a thousand (cows) (as dakshina) is not deprived of space in yonder world.  Now yonder world (the world of heaven) is as far distance from this (earthly) world as is the distance from here of a thousand cows put above one another.  He who sacrifices with a thousand pervades these worlds.  But the distance (may be) also a thousand yojanas (miles), or a thousand-day's journey on a horse (on horseback or on a chariot), or a thousand-day's journey (on foot).  That he reaches by each successive cow.  These (cows), forsooth, are given in order to tread upon (yonder world).

So my question is, why do the Brahmanas of the Vedas provide so many different figures for the distance between Devaloka?

Is the issue that different routes to Devaloka are of different lengths, or that horses and cows are of different sizes in different Yugas, or that the distance between the Earth and Devaloka changes over time, or what? The last one is a possibility because as I discuss in this question, the Purva Mimamsa Acharya Kumarila Bhatta claims that the Puranass discuss the revolution of the Earth along with the three worlds.

Note that I don't what scientific speculation, I just want to find out if things like Sayana's commentaries on the Vedas shed light on these verses.


texts: Does listening to Hanuman Chalisa every day give the same benefits as chanting the Hanuman Chalisa?


texts: How did Lord Vishnu complete the curse of 100 years of separation from Mahaa Lakshmi?

texts:
I heard a story about Lord Vishnu getting a curse of 100 years of separation from Mahaa Lakshmi. One Mahaa Rishi did put this curse on Vishnu when his wife was being killed by Vishnu. He said in his curse that "like I am suffering from separation from my wife, in the same way you will also suffer from separation with Mahaa Lakshmi.

To complete this curse Lord Vishnu has to suffer from separation of 100 years. As per my knowledge, Lord Vishnu did complete this curse in his eighth incarnation. He took incarnation as Krishna and Mahaa Lakshmi took incarnation as Radhaa.

Both spent their childhood together but they had to separate from each other because of the curse. So one day they got separate.

Now, the confusing part for me here is, Krishna lived on earth for nearly 125 years. He had to separate for 100 years. Out of remaining 25 years, He spent some years with Radhaa And later got married to Rukmini.

But I heard that Radhaa and Rukmani are the same. In this video it is explained in brief how both of them are the same.

Now the question is, if Krishna actually married Radhaa herself who was later known as Rukmini, then how did he complete the 100 years of separation since he lived only 125 years?

I mean, out of the remaining 25 years, how many years Krishna did spend with Radhaa in his childhood and for how many years Krishna was the husband of Rukmini/Radhaa? It is not like that He married Rukmini (Radhaa) after he was 100 years old and spent the married life for few years only. Did they get rid of the curse by any way?


texts: Is there specific timing or general rules to follow while lighting diyas?

texts:
I would like to know, whether any scriptures mentions about rules of diya lighting. Like

When and in which direction to light a lamp (Kuthu vilakku or Panch mukha lamp) - any specification like it has to be lit only during partiular prahar (early morning or evening)
What is the significance of fuel used to light lamp - some use ginger oil, ghee, coconut oil and mixture of several oils - why different oils are used
Can we light single kuthu vilakku or it must always be lit in even numbers (2).

On the whole, where can I find details about what shastra or vedic scripts say about significance of lighting a lamp?.

Thanks


texts: How many Kalpas are there in total and do they occur again in cycle form?


texts:
I have been trying to find information on Ashtavakra gita but in vain.

Where is the text Ashtavakra Gita found? Is it part of any purana/itihasa? If so, which purana/itihasa and which canto and chapter?

Who is the first one to comment on this text? In which century?


texts: Why couldn't the mighty kings of the past sustain their lineage and/or kingdom to the present?

texts: We see in the scriptures that the kings like Rama and Krishna were all knowers and most powerful in the world. Why couldn't they sustain their kingdoms or lineage and the same social systems to this day? Why couldn't they see a deterioration in a relatively short span of a few centuries from what was the golden period?


texts: I want to understand if the effects of Amrit when drunk by a human has ever been mentioned anywhere in the hindu mythology. Has there ever been a human who has consumed it ?


texts: What happened to Amaravati the city of devas?

texts: In satayuga the place where devas used to live was called as Amaravati. What had happened to Amaravati now? Does this place still exist?


texts:
According to hindu scripures one has to suffer for their bad karma .
When i was a child i did pee in a temple by mistake , what will happen to me , will god punish me for this. What should i do ?
The temple was Mohan temple and i was 3 years old and my parents were carrying me in thier lap and as soon as they kept me down i did pee in the floor of the temple .
I think that it is a sin and god will punish me for this bad karma


texts: Did Lord Rama really worship Lord Ranganatha?

texts:
The Sthala Purana (Temple History) of the Sri Rangam Temple in Tamil Nadu states that the divine Vigraha (idol) of Lord Ranganatha originated by itself (Svayamubhu) and was originally worshipped by Lord Brahma in Satyaloka.

It was then handed over to King Ikshvaku on Bhuloka, for the Tapasya he performed. Since then, the divine idol of Lord Ranganatha was worshipped by the Surya Vamsa (The Sun Dynasty, which was originated by Ikshvaku), up until Rama. It is said that Rama worshipped this Vigraha, and after he came back from exile, gifted it to Vibhishana. Vibhishana on his way to Lanka kept the statue on the ground, as he had to perform his Sandhyavandana, and here is where it stays until today.

 In this picture, we can see Lord Rama worshipping Lord Ranganatha.

 Here, Lord Rama gifts Lord Ranganatha to Vibhishana

The story goes onto how the statue was lost in a huge flood and was retrieved by the King Kili Chola, but that is not necessary for this question.

But my question is, are there any scriptures that specifically mention Lord Rama worshipping the idol of Lord Ranganatha? If so, please cite them in your answer.


texts: The two definitions of soul. Which one is true?

texts:
The vaishnavas or dualists claim that souls/jivatmas are separate sparks of light that are distinct from the subtle body and resides within the cave of subtle body/antahkarana/hridaya and upon mukti these souls spend time in vaikuntha keeping their individualities and thus they are eternal.

The advaitins on the other hand holds onto the view that souls/jivas/jivatmas are not just the fragmental spark but includes the subtle body as well.
Here the fragmental spark and subtle body together forms the entity called soul/jiva. And this entity keeps on transmigrating until it attains mukti.
Mukti is attained, when all the mental impressions that are stored in the subtle body are burned out and then only atman remains. In other words, when these imprints are burned out, the subtle body which is the soul or jiva stops existing. The moment that happens our individuality stops existing. And then only atman remains.

These two views contradicts each other.

The vaishnavas says individuality remains after mukti but the monists says individuality ceases. The vaishnavas says jiva is just a spark but the monists says, jiva comprises both the spark & the reflecting medium called subtlebody.

Which one is true? Need some serious answers here.


texts: What is the actual birthplace of Sita ji according to scriptures?

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Recently Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi was in Nepal at the Janaki Temple in Janakpur which is supposed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita and I came to know about this place due to the news coverage his visit got. But there is also a place in India known as Sitamarhi where Sita ji is believed to have been born according to local belief.

I know there are many such places related to Ramayan that have more than one contenders but does the Ramayan or any other scripture tells us clearly about the birthplace of Goddess Sita?


texts: Meaning of साम्ब ("Samba") with Sadashiva

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In some prays to God Shiva, Like "Shiva Aksharmala", there is prefix "Samba" (in Sanskrit सांब) is mentioned.

It seems the meaning of word "Samba" (सांब) is "attended by ambA"  Source: This Link

Now, if we go purely by above meaning, then (सांब ) means one who is attended (probably means accompanied ) by Goddess "ambA".

Is this understanding correct and is there exist any scriptures where Lord Shiva is described as a "Saamba" (सांब)?


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As I am going through Autobiography of a Yogi Chapter -3 The Saint With Two Bodies
 which is suggested by one of our SE fellow Bhrahmagnani in one of his comment to my question. Which tells about Swami Pranabananda, An Exalted Disciple of Lahiri Mahasaya. who has created two bodies by the grace of his guru.

My question:

How does a yogi creates a new physical body? Was this happened with his karmic sharir? or something else?
Was there anyone (except Swami Pranabananda), who also did the similar thing creating a new body of own?
Is this possible to create a new body of others as Swami Pranabananda created his own?


texts: What's the ritual of performing morning pooja at home

texts: I'm trying to get into the habit of doing pooja at home. Can someone give me the essential things that need to be done?


texts: What is the Significance of Brahmamuhurtha

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I have heard about Brahmamuhurtha (Brahma time),  that it is a time where we can do meditation or have good concentration power.

According to India Times:

  Brahmamuhurta is the morning period between 3.30 a.m. and 5.30 a.m. It is suitable for meditation. After a good night's sleep, the mind is refreshed, calm and serene. There is the preponderance of sattva or purity in the mind at this time, as well as in the atmosphere.

Apart from scientific explanation, Is there any mention about this in Hindu mythology? If so, please explain in detail.


texts: According to Gita , how can a person do repentance if he/she cannot fulfill the promise (mannat)

texts: I have seen many people make promises to God in return of personal benefits but they eventually forgot. So is there any way to perform repentance for the failure of fulfilling such promises?


texts: The story behind Names of Hindu calender Months?

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In Hindu traditional calender Their are 12 months (मास)

Chaitra (चैत्र), Vaisakha (वैशाख), Jyaistha (जेष्ठ), Asadha (आषाढ), Sravana (श्रावण), Bhadrapada (भाद्रपद), Asvina (अश्विन), Kartika (कार्तिक), Agrahayana (अग्रहायन), Pausa (पौष), Magha (माघ), and Phalguna (फाल्गुन).

Who have first given the names to Months?

What is the meanig of each Month's name?

Are their any stories related to these Names?


texts: Was the Avadhut and Yogi Lord Dattatreya married & did he have a son?

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As mentioned in the answer to this question according to the Mahabharat, Lord Dattatreya, the son of Rishi Atri, had a son called Nimi. I have never come across any mention of Datta guru as a householder and neither is he ever shown with his consort.

So my question is, was Dattatreya married or is this son someone he had adopted?


texts: Why wouldn't Sita go back to Mithila after she was abandoned by Shri Rama?

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After Sita was exiled by Rama,why didn't she go back to Mithila?
Isn't she Mithila's princess?Even if she didn't go, why couldn't Janaka arrange for his daughter Janaki's protection in the jungle?


texts: I know that Kartikeya (Murugan) was married to Devasena and Valli. Did he have any children with them or otherwise?


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Why Saibaba is worshipped as a deity in Hindu temples? Does Hinduism allow saint or sages to be worshipped too? If yes then why other Hindu saints are not worshipped?

I have seen people performing Aarti of saibaba and having prasad too. Are Saints and sages deities?


texts: Why is Kripacharya known as 'Samitinjaya'

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In the Shrimad Bhagwad Geeta, Chapter 1, when Duryodhana describes his warheads to Dronacharya, he uses everybody's name but he refers to Kripacharya as 'Samitinjaya'. Why does he use Samitinjaya (it means sangramvijayi, 'the victorious in war'), when Bhishma Pitamahaa is also undefeated and why does he use that word specifically for Kripacharya, and no alankars for other warheads?

  भवान् भीष्मश् च कर्णश् च कृपश् च समितिञ्जयः

  अश्वत्थामा विकर्णश् च स्औमदत्तिस् तथ्ऐव च १.८

  bhavān bhīṣmaś ca karṇaś ca kṛpaś ca samitiñjayaḥ

  aśvatthāmā vikarṇaś ca saumadattis tathaiva ca 1.8

Reference: 1, 2


texts: Do other scriptures have different interpretations of Maya from the Tantric interpretation?

texts: Other scriptures would include Bhagavad Gita and Advaitic scriptures.


texts: What was the status of actors in Ancient India ? What were the laws applicable to them ? What rights or restrictions were levied on them?

texts: It is said that in ancient Rome, actors were banned from mixing with common citizens. Certain restrictions were levied on them and they were viewed as one if the lowest rungs of society. I would like to know what was their status in ancient India.


texts: Did Vishnu have three Vamana incarnations as Rupa Goswami says?

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One of Vishnu's most famous incarnations is that of Vamana the dwarf.  The story is told throughout Hindu scripture, as I discuss in this question.  Just to refresh people's memories, the story goes roughly as follows: the Asura (demon) Mahabali, grandson of Vishnu's devotee Prahlada, took over the three worlds by conducting a hundred Ashwamedha Yagnas (horse rituals). Indra went to Vishnu for help, so Vishnu incarnated as Vamana, the youngest son of Indra's parents Kashyapa and Aditi, and then he went to Mahabali's hundredth Ashwamedha Yagna. He asked Mahabali for three steps of land, and then he grew gigantic and used those steps to take back the three worlds for Indra and the gods.

But according to Rupa Goswami, an Acharya of the Gaudiya Vaishnava sect (which the popular organization ISKCON is a part of), this isn't the first time that Vishnu has incarnated as a dwarf; here is what he says in his Laghu-Bhagavatamrita:

  Lord Vamana appeared three times in this kalpa. During the reign of the
  first (Svayambhuva) Manu, He visited the sacrifice performed by Vaskala, the king of the danavas. Then, in the reign of Vaivasvata Manu, and visited the sacrifice performed by Dhundhu. Then, in the seventh catur-yuga of that
  manvantara, He appeared as the son of Kasyapa and Aditi. In this way, to
  accept a donation, He appeared three times as Lord Trivikrama.

The third incarnation is the famous one I discussed above.  But my question is, what is the story of Vishnu's two earlier Vamana incarnations, involving Vashkala and Dhundhu?  Are these described in Hindu scriptures?

Are there any commentaries on Rupa Goswami's work that shed light on this?


texts: Why are Sudras fined very harshly for adultery whereas Dwijas aren't fined much? Also why is killing a Sudra same as killing animal?

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A Dwija is expected to be sincere, honest and self satisfied without seeking any external pleasure. Then why are Shastras fining Dwijas very less for Adultery and Sudras a lot? I know Dwijas have huge punishments if they Drink but that won't justify this law. Please answer with regards to adultery only
If a Śūdra committed adultery with a woman of the higher castes, Gaut. (XII.1-2) prescribed the cutting off of his penis and forefeiture of all his property and if he was guilty of this offence when entrusted with the duty of protecting her, he was to suffer death in addition. Vas. Dh. S.21.1, Manu VIII.366 prescribe death in the case of a śūdra having intercourse with a brāhmaṇa woman whether she was willing
or unwilling, On the other hand, if a brāhmaṇa committed rape on a brāhmaṇa woman he was fined a thousand and five hundred if he was guilty of adultery with her (Manu VIII, 378) and if a  brāhmana had intercourse with a kṣatriya, vaiśya or śūdra woman, who was not guarded, he was fined five hundred (Manu VIII.385)
How is killing Sudras same as killing Birds? Aren't Sudras Human Beings??
Āp.Dh.S. (I.9.25.14-1.9.26.1) says that on killing a crow, a chameleon, a peacock, a cakravaka, flamingo, bhāsa, a frog, ichneumon, musk-rat, a dog, a cow and draught ox the prayaścitta is the same as that for killing a śūdra.


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I am wondering , whether the dhruvaloka which was bestowed to Prince Dhruva by Vishnu is eternal or it will be there only for a kalpa.

Here are the quotes from Vishnu purana

  A station shall be assigned to thee, Dhruva, above the three
  worlds[8]; one in which thou shalt sustain the stars and the planets;
  a station above those of the sun, the moon, Mars, the son of Soma
  (Mercury), Venus, the son of Sūrya (Saturn), and all the other
  constellations; above the regions of the seven Ṛṣis, and the
  divinities who traverse the atmosphere[9]. Some celestial beings
  endure for four ages; some for the reign of a Manu: to thee shall be
  granted the duration of a Kalpa. Thy mother Sunīti, in the orb of a
  bright star, shall abide near thee for a similar term;


texts: Is this true that Gods can not make their own food?

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One of the main process of yajna is to prepare food to be offered to a particular deity which is known as havi. I have read somewhere that in order to maintain balance as being immortals the Gods can not make their food.

That brings humans into picture as they offer food in yajna, and since this is a reciprocal relatinship, Gods in turn give humans the riches of cattle, food and sons.

The reciprocal relationship stems from the following verse of Rigveda which states Indra (also Indra has an epithet 'yajñávr̥ddha') :

aháṃ dāṃ gr̥ṇaté pū́rvyaṃ vásu, ahám bráhma kr̥ṇavam máhyaṃ várdhanam (X, 49, 1) 'I shall give to the singer the ancient boon, I shall make prayer the means of growth for me'.

Also, the food depends on the deity to be pleased. For example Pusan loves porridge since Rudra broke his teeth in one of their altercation hence barley porridge is offered to him in yajna.

My question is that since rigveda tells about this reciprocal relationship does later texts provide any account why Gods can not make their own food?


texts: What is the concept of ritam as per the vedas?

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Ṛta (Sanskrit ऋतम् ṛtaṃ) is the eternal universal truth or order.

In the Rigveda, the term Ṛta appears as many as 390 times, and has been characterized as "the one concept which pervades the whole of Ṛgvedic thought"

Can someone explain the concept in a clear and simple manner so that any lay person would understand it ?


texts: If slavery is immoral, why did Yudhishthira donate slaves to Brahmins?

texts: So, I was browsing here and found a post which supposedly said that Yudhishthira gave female slaves to a bunch of Brahmins. Slavery is obviously immoral and is even condemned in several scriptures so I struggle to think why Yudhishthira would do this. Can someone help me out?