texts: What is the Mimamsa's commentary on Rig Veda 1.114.5?

texts:
Suparnam viprAh kavyo vachobhir ekam santam bahudhA kalpayanti.
The wise seers describe the one existence (ekam santam) in various words (bahudha vachobhih).[Rig Veda 1.114.5.]

What is the Mimamsa's commentary on this verse.
Because this verse looks more similar to advaita vedanta.


texts: Does bacteria and virus have souls in them?

texts: Even bacteria and virus have souls in them.? According to vedas how many living species are in to this world?


texts: What does Tarka shastra say about consistency in accepting statements in Pramana?

texts:
Tarka shastra is ancient-day 'Logic'. Lack of contradiction is one of the key pillars to establish any point of view. Below is an example.
A book written by author X, 5000 years ago, states "A+B = 5. B+C = 1000"
None of us met X. None of us know the values of A, B & C. None of us have any easily verifiable historical proof (like photographs) of X.
Now, suppose there are 4 persons - Shyamu, Somu, Karthik & Kumar.

Shyamu says "I believe both A+B=5, and B+C=1000, because I trust author X which is because my elders trust him, just like their elders before them..".

Somu says "I believe A+B=5 because it's written in the book. But I don't believe B+C=1000, because it just seems unlikely according to my thinking".

Karthik says "I believe B+C=1000 because it's written in the book. But I don't believe A+B=5, because it just seems unlikely according to my thinking".

Kumar says "I neither believe A+B=5, nor B+C=1000, because I don't trust author X because I think for myself and don't care what elders say"

IMO, persons 1 & 4 - Shyamu & Kumar are both scientifically consistent, even though they have opposite viewpoints.
But 2 & 3 - Somu & Karthik are not consistent, because they pick & choose according to their convenience/intellect/trust.
What does Tarka shastra say about sources of truth (Pramana) and logical consistency in accepting statements in that Pramana.


texts: When can karmaphal transfers from one person to another person?

texts: Can karma phala transfers from one person to another person. Some acupuncture doctors are saying that they getting pain on the particular area after treating patient. Eg.If patient has leg pain doctor also getting leg pain after treating and They told they are doing particular chinese meditation before starting work to avoid karma pala transfer. If karma phala can transfer explain with logic.


texts: Is "Vishishtadvaita" a scriptural term? Is there any instance where it is used in scriptures?

texts:
There is a philosophy having the name Advaita and there is also a philosophy called Dvaita.

Both these terms- Advaita, Dvaita- are found in scriptures, including the Upanishads.

Now, there is yet another philosophy having the name "Vishishtadvaita".

So, is this term too a scriptural one? Are there any instances where the word is used in any of the scriptures?

Since, the philosophy was propounded by the Vaishnavas and is followed too by the Vaishnavas, so we can assume that at least some Vaishnava scriptures might be making mentions of the word.


texts: The story behind Pashupatinath temple in Nepal

texts:
Long ago I have heard the story about Pashupatinath temple located in nepal, it was related to Mahabharata, when the Pandavas were on their way to Heaven, they wanted to find lord Shiva and lord shiva was in form of bull in group of bulls, and when Pandavas detected which bull is shiva than Bhima tried to catch shiva and shiva went inside the soil (ground) and his head came out from nepal (which is now called the Pashupatinath temple), is this story right or just a tale? want to know more about it.

EDIT : Also tell why the Pandavas were in search of Lord Shiva? And why lord Shiva was hiding from them?


texts: Karma, Maya, Atman, Brahman, Moksha, Reincarnation and Indriya Nigraha (Sense Control) are they present in Vedic Samhitas? (Not Upanishads only Samhitas)


texts: Do the Four Elements shown in Avatar Airbender series have any basis in Hinduism?

texts:
Do the four elements (fire, water, earth and air) shown in the Avatar (The Last Airbender) series have any basis in Hinduism?

Is this just a fun way to represent in Hinduism or are there verses in Hindu scriptures to back it up?


texts:
It is a very controversial thing about this verses along the religious websites, especially non-Hindu websites, they are claiming that idol worship is prohibited in Hinduism.

They are arguing with this verse.

  They enter darkness those who worship natural things (for e.g. air, water, fire, etc.). They sink deeper in darkness those who worship sambhuti i.e. created things.
   (Yajurved 40:9)

Now , what is the reality of this argument?


texts: What will happen if everyone gets liberation (moksha)?

texts:
The creation, preservation and destruction of the (different) universe continue infinitely.

One who gets moksha will never return. Then what will happen if all gets moksha? Is it impossible? If possible then what about the further universes?


texts: Is love and marriage all part of Destiny?

texts:
If a person has marriage written in his/her destiny, does it make sense for that person to make effort and find the right person to marry?
Or can the person sit back and let destiny play its role to unite the two people when the time is right?


texts: Are there any asura that asked for a boon/wish and they didn't became evil?

texts:
There are many asura's that asked for wishes and became evil. Example ravan.
So are there asura's that were good even after there wish were full filled. Any examples of those asura who's boon itself was about power and strength.


texts: Was Sukracharya ever the guru of the gods?

texts:
In the Adi Parva of the Mahabharata, Vaishampayana describes to Janamejeya the lineage of the gods, Asuras, and other beings, and in particular he says this about Sukracharya:

  The learned Sukra is Bhrigu's son. And the learned Sukra becoming a planet and engaged according to the command of the Self-existent in pouring and withholding rain, and in dispensing and remitting calamities, traverses, for sustaining the lives of all the creatures in the three worlds, through the skies. And the learned Sukra, of great intelligence and wisdom, of rigid vows, leading the life of a Brahmacharin, divided himself in twain [two] by power of asceticism, and became the spiritual guide of both the Daityas [Asuras] and the gods.

Sukracharya is the guru of the Asuras and god of the planet Venus.  But my question is, why does Vaishampayana say that Sukracharya "divided himself in [two]" and became the guru "of both the [Asuras] and the gods"?  Isn't Brihaspati the guru of the gods?

This isn't the only indication that Sukracharya was on the side of the gods at some point. Multiple verses of the Vedas seem to indicate that Sukracharya was involved in the creation of Indra's Vajra or lightning-bolt weapon; here is what Rig Veda Book 1 Hymn 51 says:

  The might which Uśanā [Sukracharya] hath formed for thee with might rends in its greatness and with strength both worlds apart....  When Indra hath rejoiced with Kāvya Uśanā [Sukracharya], he mounts his steeds who swerve wider and wider yet.

And here is what Rig Veda Book 1 Hymn 121 says:

  Mount Indra, lover of the men thou guardest, the well-yoked horses of the wind, best bearers.
  The bolt which Kāvya Uśanā [Sukracharya] erst gave thee, strong, gladdening, Vṛtra-slaying, hath he fashioned.

So did Sukracharya ever serve as guru of the gods?  As I discuss in this answer, there was an occasion when Tvashta's son  Trisiras temporarily served as guru of the gods because Brihaspati had abandoned them.  But are there any other scriptures which say that Sukracharya played a similar role?  And what's the story of him splitting in two?


texts: What is the difference between Prana and Akasha?

texts:
Prana is said to be an energy and is said to be universal.
Akasha is said to be very subtle form of energy.
Both of these two are subtle to see and are present in all places.

MY QUESTION :

How do we find the difference between Akasha and Prana ?
Is Akasha is Essential to live as like Prana is essential ?


texts: What happens after death according to Vedic samhitas?

texts:
I could not find references to rebirth in Vedic samhitas i.e.,  Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Yajur veda and Atharva veda.

I would like to know what happens after death according to Vedic samhitas (Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Yajur veda or Atharva veda).

I heard that the Rig Veda describes how after death a man's eyes get merged in sun, breath in air, ashes in plants, but is this true? If not, then what exactly happens after death according to Vedic samhitas (Rig Veda, Sama veda, Yajur veda or Atharva veda)?


texts: Why "Panchagavya" is considered holy in Hinduism?

texts:
In Hinduism Cows are considered holy.

Afflicting them with pain is considered as one of the gravest possible offences.

It is stated in Scriptures that cows are the best among animals,swan the best among birds and sweet the best among tastes.

The Panchagavya is the mixture of five things obtained from a cow viz:
1)Dung(gomaya).
2)Urine(gomutra)
3)Milk
4)Curd
& 5)Ghee.

Apart from having ayurvedic significance the mixture is considered holy in Sanatana Dharma and is used for Abhisekhams of God's idols including the Shiva Lingam.

  Five products derived from a Cow viz. Gomoothra (cow urine), Gomaya
  (cow-dung), Goksheera (cow milk), Godadhi (cow-curd), and Goghrutha
  (cow ghee). Mixture of these five ingredients is known as Panchagavya.
  Since time immemorial Panchagavya is used in all the traditional Hindu
  rituals; considered as highly sacred and believed to provide spiritual
  purification. It is also used in Hindu families for purification of
  self as well as sprinkled across the house after asoucha.

Source

Question-Why "Panchagavya" is considered holy?


texts: Why we are not allowed to touch anything after having haircut?

texts: At least in the Brahmin households, still the practice of not touching anything and anyone after having haircut until taking bath is followed. What is the reason for this? Any scriptural reference?


texts: Is there any method to reduce belly fat and flatten your stomach?

texts: Is there any shortest and easiest way to reduce weight. Please suggest to me. Thanks in Advanced.


texts: How many sons and daughters did Karna have?

texts:
It is known that Karna had sons who actively participated in Kurukshetra war. They assisted his father in battle. Arjuna killed one of Karna's sons in front of Karna as a revenge of his son Abhimanyu's death in Padmavyuha.

How many sons and daughters (if any) did Karna have and what are their names?


texts: Did the Churning of the Ocean happen again in the Vaivasvata Manvantara?

texts:
One of the most famous incarnations of Vishnu is Kurma the tortoise, who helped the gods during the Churning of the Ocean.  Now I had always assumed that the story of the churning of the ocean only took place in the Chakshusha Manvantara.  For those who don't know, the four Yugas together make up one Mahayuga, and a thousand Mahayugas make up one Kalpa or day of Brahma.  But as I discuss in this answer, a Kalpa is also divided into fourteen periods called Manvantaras, and during each Manvantara humanity is ruled by a different Manu, there is a different Indra ruling the three world, there is a different set of Saptarishis, etc.

Now we are living in the seventh Manvantara of the present Kalpa, known as the Vaivasvata Manvantara.  And I thought that the Churning of the Ocean only took place in the Chakshusha Manvantara.  For instance, this chapter and subsequent chapters of the Srimad Bhagavatam describes the story of the Churning of the Ocean which took place in the Chakshusha Manvantara:

  The son of Cakṣu known as Cākṣuṣa was the sixth Manu. He had many sons, headed by Pūru, Pūruṣa and Sudyumna.  During the reign of Cākṣuṣa Manu, the King of heaven was known as Mantradruma. Among the demigods were the Āpyas, and among the great sages were Haviṣmān and Vīraka.  In this sixth manvantara millennium, Lord Viṣṇu, the master of the universe, appeared in His partial expansion. He was begotten by Vairāja in the womb of his wife, Devasambhūti, and His name was Ajita.  By churning the Ocean of Milk, Ajita produced nectar for the demigods. In the form of a tortoise, He moved here and there, carrying on His back the great mountain known as Mandara.

But now I think this may not be the only time that the story of the Churning of the Ocean took place.

In this chapter and subsequent chapters of the Bala Kanda of the Ramayana, Vishwamitra tells Rama and Lakshmana a story about the Churning of the Ocean:

  Oh, Rama, I tell of the legend of Indra as I was told and listen to it as I tell. What really chanced in this country, oh, Raghava, that be listened in its quintessence. *Once in Krita era, oh, Rama, the sons of Lady Diti were extremely energetic ones in their brawniness, whereas the sons of her younger sister Lady Aditi were venerable, vigorous and highly righteous ones.**  Oh, tigerly-man, Rama, there was a thinking to those great-souls then, as to 'how we shall [thrive] deathless, ageless and wasteless...' Thus thought the sons of Diti and Aditi. For them who were thinking thus on that subject a thought occurred to those masterminds, 'on churning the Milky Ocean, therein we get its elixir, indeed.  Then on deciding to churn the Milky Ocean, they made Vasuki, the mighty King of Snakes, with thousand heads, as the churning rope and Mt. Mandara as stirrer and those who have unlimited energy started churning the Milky Ocean.

Now the Adityas, i.e. the sons of Aditi, were not the gods who ruled in the Chakshusha Manvantara, rather they're the gods ruling right now in the Vaivasvata Manvantara.  So my question is, did the Churning of the Ocean happen again in one of the Satya Yugas of the Vaivasvata Manvantara?

If it did happen more than once, that would explain a long-standing confusion I've had: Garuda transported mount Mandara to the ocean of milk, and the churning of the ocean produced the flying horse Ucchaishravas.  Yet before Garuda was born, Garuda's mother Vinata and her co-wife Kadru had a bet over the color of Ucchaishravas' tail as he was flying through the sky.  Perhaps this sort of thing can be explained by the Ucchaishravas that Vinata and Kadru bet on being from a previous Churning of the Ocean.

On a side note, given that Vishwamitra is telling the story of the Churning of the Ocean to Rama, is it possible that the story is described in the Vedas?


texts: I would like to know about Lalleshvari Devi, also known as Lal Ded from Kashmir shaivism who was a central figure in poetic lineage. Would like to know about her life, Guru, and her work.


texts: Why Devi Tara is shown standing over Shiva?

texts:
I know the story of how Devi Tara feed her milk to Shiva to make him conscious again after drinking poison but why did in all the pictures she is shown standing over Shiva?

I know why Kali depicted with foot over Shiva but why did Tara?


texts:
According to Hindu mythology, Parashurama is the sixth avatar of Vishnu. He appeared during the last Treta and Dwapara Yugas, he also played important role in the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Are there any chances of Parashurama reappearing in Kaliyuga?


texts: What is the age at which a child can be cremated instead of being buried or attend a funeral?

texts:
I have 2 questions regarding age limit for funeral:

1.) Children are not allowed in a funeral ceremony. What is the earliest age at which a person can attend a funeral?

2.) Children are buried and not cremated. What is the earliest age at which a dead person can be cremated? (I hope this question is not confusing)


texts: Is there any esoteric meaning of Hanuman Chalisa?

texts: Is there any esoteric meaning of Hanuman Chalisa ?


texts:
Just like the titles Paramahamsa and Siddha, Arihant also denotes spiritual progress. But why is someone called Arihant and at what stage of spritiual progress?

The earliest reference to Arihant is found in Rig Veda X.12.166 :

  0 Rudra-like Divinity ! do thou produce amongst us, of high descent, a Great God, like Rishabha Deva, by becoming Arhan, which is the epithet of the first World Teacher; let Him become the destroyer of the enemies !

Arihant is very common in Jainism, in fact all their tirthankaras were arihant(Rishabha was 1st tirthankara). Similarly Buddhism defines Arihant as one who is a perfected being. But anyone who gets realization can be called a perfected being, in Advaitic terms, such a soul is called Jivanmukta and Paramahamsa.

So who exactly can be called Arihant? I think a Jivanmukta who decides to teach the world is called Arihant and once he leaves his body, he becomes Siddha.


texts: What is the eligibility for reciting shiva sahasranama stotram?

texts:
Shiva Sahasranama is a "list of a thousand names" of Shiva, one of the most important deities in Hinduism.

Is there any eligibility for a person to recite it? If yes, what is the eligibility to do  stotram?

In short, who is eligible to recite Shiva sahasranama stotram?


texts:
Who was Dhasharatha's second wife?
Sumitra or Kaikeyi?
Some tell it is Kaikeyi but others say it is Sumitra. Please clarify.


texts: Why "Radha-Krishna" and not "Krishna-Radha"

texts:
I hear people saying "Radha-Krishna", "Sita-Ram" etc. People tend to put the name of the male diety after the name of their female consort. Is their any meaning for this order of saying the names?
One more thing to notice, I don't hear "Parvathi-Shiva" but I hear "Shiva-Parvathi". It seams the Shiva-Parvathi couple is an exception to the above mentioned order. Anybody knows why?


texts: Is there any instance of Shiva showing his vishwaroopa in the Mahabharata?

texts: In Mahabharata, Krishna/Vishnu shows his vishwaroopa four times. Is there a similar instance of Shiva showing his vishwaroopa? This question is specific to Mahabharata.


texts: Has Siva spoken in favor of the varnashrama system?

texts: What has Siva said about the caste or varna system?


texts: In Vaishnavism, are other Gods enlightened?

texts: According to Vaishnavism, and more specifically in Advaita Vedanta, are Gods other than Vishnu enlightened beings that have attained moksha or are they unenlightened and, if so, does that mean that at some point they are destined to be reborn on Earth again one day to attain moksha?


texts:
If there is any Vasthu dosha then the learned people tell to get the things proper by renovating or rectifying on contructional level.

So to rectify Vasthu dosha , can Yagnas, Veda chanting would help ?


texts: In Hinduism, what does "immortal" mean? Is there a limit on an immortal's lifespan?

texts:
I would like to clarify that this question is not about immortals, or about how to become an immortal. It is about the word immortal in Hinduism.

We have a very brief idea, that an immortal is only a supreme being and we know one day the whole universe will end. Therefore it is clear that no one is truly immortal (as they speak in English).

What I actually wanted to ask is what is the limit of an immortal's life? a Yuga, a Mahayuga, a Kalpa or something larger? If my assumption is true, do these vary with every immortal?


texts: Where does the Sri Vaishnava Acharya Ghatikasatham Ammal discuss Radha?

texts:
Unlike the Gaudiya Vaishnava and Pushtimarga sects, the Sri Vaishnava does not place much emphasis on Krishna’s lover Radha.  This is for multiple reasons.  First of all, Sri Vaishnavas emphasize the Vishnu Purana and the Srimad Bhagavatam, neither of which mention Radha.  So the Sri Vaishnava Acharya Chinna Jeeyar Swami and the Sri Vaishnava lecturer U. Ve. Velukkudi Krishnan Swami say that Radha did not actually exist as a Gopi during the time of Krishna, but instead is a personification of the Gopis’ Bhakti towards Krishna.  Second of all, Sri Vaishnavas believe in a similar figure to Radha, Krishna’s cowherd wife Nappinnai, whom I discuss here and here.

But I just found out that one Sri Vaishnava Acharya has sung about Radha.  Here is what the Sri Vaishnava lecturer U. Ve. Ananthapadmanabhachariar Swami says in the 3 minute mark of this lecture:

  Jayadeva, Lilasukha, and Ghatikasatham Ammal have all sung beautifully about Radha, the personification of Krishna's mercy.

Now Jayadeva was the author of the Gita Govinda, a 12th century poem epic poem about Radha and Krishna.  And Lilasukha was the author of the Krishna Karnamrita, a 13th century collection of poems in praise of Krishna.  These works are venerated by Gaudiya Vaishnavas, though the predate the founding of the Gaudiya Vaishnava sect.

But Ghatikasatham was a Sri Vaishnava Acharya.  He was a shishya of Brahmatantra Svatantra Jeeyar, founder of Parakala Matham, and guru of Adivan Sadagopan, founder of Ahobilam Matham.  (Parakala Matham and Ahobilam Matham are major Vadakalai Sri Vaishnava Mathams.)  My question is, in what work does Ghatikasatham Ammal discuss Radha?


texts: Why was Lord Rama exiled for 14 years in the Ramayana? Why not 13 or 15?

texts:
We know Lord Rama was exiled for 14 years by obeying his father's command in the Ramayana.

Why was Lord Rama exiled for exactly 14 years? Why not more or less than 14 years?

Same as in Mahabharata, the Pandavas were exiled for 13 years. 12 years of Aranyawas and 1 year of Agnyatwas.

What is significance of respective years of exile in both case?


texts: How many people have written commentaries on Brahma Sutras?

texts:
Is there a mention of commentaries on the Brahma Sutras before Adi Shankaracharya? How many commentaries on these works have survived?

Please provide list from the existing commentaries as well as the lists cited by previous commentators.


texts: Why people of Bengal worship Durga also during Basanti Puja?

texts: There is a festival in Bengal region named Basanti Puja in which Bengali people worship Goddess Durga but why they worship Maa Durga in Basanti Puja also,whereas they have time to worship Goddess Durga in Durga Puja? Is there any reason or story behind this?


texts: Can we do gayathri mantram instead of sandhyavandanam?

texts:
Can we do Gayathri Mantram instead of sandhya-vandanam?
If yes, May I know how many times does the Mantram need to be chanted?


texts: During the festival season of Navrathri it is a custom of keeping Marapachi dolls in Gollu (Navrathri Golu), a custom which is widely practiced in the southern states. What is the significance of these dolls in Navrathri?


texts: Different dharmas of different aspects of our existence

texts:
I heard something like below

Hunger, thirst, increasing, decreasing, etc., are the dharmas of the
body. Sad, happy, etc., are the dharmas of manas........................

I didn't remember the whole list of all aspects and their dharmas. Where can I find them?


texts: Did Lord Vishnu fight battles in the company of Indra Deva?

texts: Rig veda describes Lord Vishnu as an ally of Indra dev, so is there any story where they have fought battles together or is it an indication to Vamana avatar?


texts: Is it possible to travel to different Lokas in turiya?

texts: In turiya, is it possible to travel (teleport like narada) to different Lokas, such as Vishnu, deva loka? Like how devas went to Vaikunta, begged Vishnu to reincarnate to get rid of Ravana and other rakshasas on the Earth. Also are all Ashta siddhis achieved automatically when one reaches turiya?


texts: In Hinduism, is it commanded to change clothes everyday?

texts: If we wear the same clothes for more than a day, is it unclean according to the culture? I know in general, that one should change his clothes everyday if possible, but what does our culture say regarding this matter?


texts:
Quoting Shastras from reputable sources:
"Manu Smriti says:

1.85. One set of duties (is prescribed) for men in the Krita age, different ones in the Treta and in the Dvapara, and (again) another (set) in the Kali, in a proportion as (those) ages decrease in length.

1.86. In the Krita age the chief (virtue) is declared to be (the performance of) austerities, in the Treta (divine) knowledge, in the Dvapara (the performance of) sacrifices, in the Kali liberality alone.

The Dharma for Krita is therefore performance of austerities (Tapas) which isn't possible without Indriya Nigraha and restraint in eating for a long period of time.
But the nature of Kali Yuga is such that beings of this age are dependent on food. They are also attracted towards sensual pleasures to a great extent. So, naturally it is not possible for them to follow the Dharma of Krita Yuga.

But since the men of the Kali Age are full of greed, lust, gluttony, they will on that account neglect sidhana and will fall into sin, and having drunk much wine for the sake of the pleasure of the senses, will become mad with intoxication, and bereft of all notion of right and wrong (61). Some will violate the wives of others, others will become rogues, and some, in the indiscriminating rage of lust, will go (whoever she be) with any woman (62). Over eating and drinking will disease many and deprive them of strength and sense.
(Mahanirvana Tantra's Chapter 1 verses)"

QUESTION: Is this the reason why all around me is Adharmic?
If I stop to be Dharmic will I stop to suffer then?


texts:
I have read that kaliyuga is the last yuga which will end with catatrophism, and then again satyuga will start,
Now my question is is this tetrad (of satyuga, tretayuga, dwaperyuga, kalyuga) was the first one or there were early kaliyugas also


texts: Are today's Rajputs descendants of Kshatriyas of previous yugas?

texts:
Are today's Rajputs descendants of Kshatriyas of Dwapara Yuga and Treta Yuga?

In Short are Rajputs descendants of Shri Rama, Shri Krishna and Pandavas?


texts: Will someone be punished again after death after once being already punished on the earth?

texts: If someone did papa karma and got punishment for his karma on the earth. May be jailed for entire life,  or death punishment or any type of punishment, then will he be again punished for that?


texts: Possible contradiction between Gita and Vedas regarding rituals?

texts: There seems to be possible contradiction between Gita and Vedas regarding rituals. Gita is supposed to be a condensed, easy to understand summary of the teachings of the Vedas. In the Vedas, there are numerous mentions and instructions of ritual sacrifice and holding yagnas and ritual worship. In the Gita, there is no mention of rituals or how to properly do yagnas. Why would Gita not mention ritual worship and yagnas which is central to the Vedas? Why does Gita not prescribe specific rituals while Vedas does?


texts: Are there mantras that should be chanted by me for curing a person (not me)?

texts:
My teacher is in a very critical condition and i want to pray for his health,  but I don't know which mantras should be chanted at this time for healing him.

I know about the Mahamritunjaya mantra but how should it be chanted in order to benefit him? Please help.


texts: What are the key differences between Achintya Bheda Abheda and Vishishtadvaita?

texts: I am trying to find the key philosophical differences between the Gaudiya Vaishnava Philosophy of Achintya Bheda Abheda & the Sri Vaishnava philosophy of Vishishtadvaita. Can anyone tell me the key differences between Achintya Bheda Abheda and Vishishtadvaita?


texts: Why humans commit sins when you are around us Uddhava to Lord Krishna

texts:
Uddhava was friend of Lord Krishna right from childhood. While departing from earth , Lord Krishna said to Uddhava  that -many  persons has benefitted from me during my  this avatara , by asking I need wealth; I need health  etc. But you have not asked anything. What is in your mind ask me

Then Uddhava asked-:

Krishna You are saying all the time I am with all the human beings. But why we commit sins if you are around us? What was Krishna's reply for this?


texts: Do the Vedas allow Shudras to do undergo Upanayanam or perform Yajnas?

texts: Can Shudras do Upanayanam or perform Yajnas as per Vedas?


texts: Aputrasya gatir naasti svargo, naivaca..naivaca

texts:
Since gender of children is not decided by parent but by probability with chromosomes etc., is not the above indictment hard/unfair on those parents who did not beget male offspring?
Is it put down to unverifiable karma? How to overcome denial of sad-gati for occurences not in one's own control? Does Garuda Purana also suggest a satisfactory remedy?
If by puthra is meant children.. why were other words like santhati etc. not used?
Can this be reconciled with today's laws?


texts: Which scriptures describe the chariot of Sun God?

texts:
सप्ताश्व रथमारूढम् प्रचंडम् कश्यपात्मजम् |
   श्वेत पद्मधरम् देवम् तम् सूर्यम् प्रणमाम्यहम् ||

  saptāśva rathamārūḍham pracaṁḍam kaśyapātmajam |
  śvēta padmadharam dēvam tam sūryam praṇamāmyaham ||

  The sun God who is mounted on a chariot driven by seven horses, the resplendent one, the son of sage Kaśyapa, holds a white lotus in the hand, I offer salutations to Him.

The above is one of the eight verses of Surya Ashtakam, a stotra on Aditya.  It is said that the chariot has only one wheel and is pulled by seven horses. Anūra drives the chariot.

Many artists and some sites say that the seven horses indicate the colors of a rainbow i.e., VIBGYOR.

My questions :

Which scriptures describe the chariot of Sūrya  (Sun god)?
Do those horses have any color?


texts:
Where are the details about the 7 chakras mentioned in Hindu scriptures?
What is their significance?


texts:
What was the reason for King Dasharath to kill Shravan Kumar?

Which curse was given by Shravan Kumar's parents to King Dasharath when they were separated from their son?


texts:
Does God really punishes or take revenge from humans? For eg- If someone asked something from God and took a vow that if he gets that thing, he will do something. He gets that thing but he did not fulfil his vow to God.
Now..will God punish really him or take revenge to him?


texts: What do Sri Vaishnava commentaries say about Dasharatha's use of "śrīmān"?

texts:
In the Ayodhya Kanda of the Ramayana, when Dasharatha decides to make Rama the Yuvaraja or crown prince, he makes the following announcement to the people of Ayodhya:

  caitraḥ śrīmān ayaṃ māsaḥ puṇyaḥ puṣpitakānanaḥ ।
  yauvarājyāya rāmasya sarvamevopakalpyatām ॥

  This is the glorious and auspicious month of Chaitra, in which the forests bloom with flowers. Let all arrangements be made for the coronation of Rama as crown prince.

Now at 29 minute mark of this video, the Sri Vaishnava lecturer U. Ve. Pudukottai Vasu Swami says there is a deeper significance to Dasharatha's use of the word "śrīmān" (translated from Tamil):

  Dasharatha said, "caitraḥ śrīmān ayaṃ māsaḥ puṇyaḥ puṣpitakānanaḥ". When?  When Dasharatha decided to do a coronation for Rama, he called the people of Ayodhya together and told this verse ""caitraḥ śrīmān ayaṃ māsaḥ".  He called the month "śrīmān māsaḥ".  He could have said "the month of Chaitra".  He said "śrīmān māsaḥ".  If it is asked why he said "śrīmān māsaḥ", it's to celebrate the month since it's the month in which the supreme lord of all who is the master of all these Jivatmas is obtained.

I think the idea is that Dasharatha is praising the month of Chaitra because it is the month in which the people of Ayodhya are going to obtain Rama, who as an incarnation of Vishnu is the supreme lord of all the worlds, as their Yuvaraja.  I'd like greater clarity on this though.  So my question is, what do Sri Vaishnava commentaries on the Valmiki Ramayana say about this verse?

The Sri Vaishnava Acharyas Periyavachan Pillai and Govindaraja both wrote commentaries on the Valmiki Ramayana.  Do either of them discuss the use of the word ""śrīmān" in this verse?


texts: What is 'dhuni', is it mere burning firewood?

texts: I would like to know something about 'dhuni' and its association with the 'Nath' tradition. Any references from some authentic resources would be helpful.


texts: What is the difference between sAdhAarA diksHA and nirAdhArA diksHA?

texts: What is the basic difference between sAdhArA and nirAdhArA diksHA as per the scriptures?


texts: Do scriptures mention Indra's age when he destroyed Shambhara?

texts:
While reading the Atharva Veda I came across this interesting hymn to Indra that mentions:

  He who discovered in the fortieth autumn Sambara dwelling in
     the midst of mountains:
    Who slew the Dragon putting forth his vigour, the demon lying
     there, He, men, is Indra.

I want to understand what the number forty refers to here. Is it the age of Indra at the time of the encounter with the dragon? DO any scriptures mention the age of Indra at the time of this encounter?


texts: Please try to help us all to ‘see more clearly now’ the great teaching of Advaita Vedanta - ‘Sat cit ananda’

texts:
‘Sat cit ananda’ meaning, as translated by Warwick Jessup, in his book translating a Shankara teaching 'The Eternal Way' is ‘being-consciousness-bliss’. Jessup is a life-long student of Sanskrit and Head of Sanskrit in a London School.
PROBLEM/s There appears to be widespread agreement on the second and third parts i.e ‘consciousness and ‘bliss’ - but the first of the first of the three constituent parts has at least 4 translations. To ‘being’ we can add as alternatives from other translations ‘truth’ ‘reality’ and ‘existence’.
My first tentative solution is to say that since being, truth, and existence are all inherent in ‘reality’ the first of the constituent parts should be reality - or even ‘ultimate reality’
Wider questions
Is sat-cit-ananda intended as a description of a causative, step-by-step sequence?
Is sat-cit-ananda simply three essential developments within each of us, all of which are needed to reach a certain level before awakening occurs.


texts: What is the scriptural origin of Shakti Panchakshri mantra Om Hrim Namah Shivaya?

texts: Shakti panchakshri mantra is Om Hrim Namah Shivaya


texts: How should Hindus treat people of other religions?

texts: What are the teachings of Hinduism for dealing with other religions and their followers? To be more precise, what does Hinduism teach its followers about how to treat other people like Muslims and Christians?


texts: Do any scriptures say that the hunter Jara was a rebirth of Vali?

texts:
As I discuss in this answer, Krishna departed the Earth after he was shot by a hunter named Jara.  Now there's a popular story that this Jara was actually the next birth of Sugriva's brother Vali, whom Rama shot from behind.  (Rama shooting Vali was fully morally justified, as I discuss here.)  So the story goes that either through a boon of Rama or a curse of Vali (depending on the version), it was decided that Vali would shoot Rama from behind in a future birth.

My question is, does this story have any scriptural basis?  It isn't mentioned in the Valmiki Ramayana.  Is it there in some Purana?  The only thing I could find is a local Orissa legend which says that Jara's previous birth was Vali's son Angada, not Vali himself.  But the explanation given is the same: Angada is said to have been reborn to avenge his father's death.

Are there any scriptures that describe the previous birth of Jara?


texts: Who are the 5 terrestrial Rishies that were mentioned in Rig Veda II.34.14?

texts:
Rig Veda II.34.14, dedicated to Maruts, narrates briefly about 5 terrestrial rishies

  तानियानो महि वरूथमूतय उप घेदेना नमसा गर्णीमसि | तरितो न यान पञ्च
  होतॄनभिष्टय आववर्तदवराञ्चक्रियावसे ||

  tāniyāno mahi varūthamūtaya upa ghedenā namasā ghṛṇīmasi | trito na
  yān pañca hotṝnabhiṣṭaya āvavartadavarāñcakriyāvase ||

Translation of H.H. Wilson (P.179) is as follows:

  Imploring them for ample wealth. and (having recourse to him) for
  protection. we glorify them with this praise: like the five Chief
  Priests whom TRITA detained for the (performance of) the sacrifice.
  and to protect it with their weapons.

This mantra is referring to

5 Chief Priests, who TRITA detained
for protection of his sacrifice with their weapons
TRITA was used in other mantras to indicate a MAHARSHI

My questions are:

Who were the 5 Chief Priests, who protected the sacrifice of TRITA?
Was this protection of a sacrifice allegorical and/or a forerunner to protection of Yagna, performed by Sage Viswamitra by Sri Rama and Lakshmana, with their weapons?


texts:
It's mentioned Srimad Bhagavatam has 18000 slokas but if I count them chapterwise it's around 14000+
Please clarify


texts: Is the hierarchy of scriptures discussed in any scripture or in the works of Acharyas?

texts:
Once I debated with someone regarding the superiority of Darshana Sutras vs Puranas. Because of my interest in philosophical scripture, I argued that Mimansa Sutras are written/based on Samhita & Brahmana part of Vedas which are most authoritative but he argued that Puranas are more authoritative than Darshan Sutras. So, I got the idea of asking this question, let me frame it:

We know that Hindu Scriptures are classified as Shruti & Smriti, but more precisely, Scriptures can be classified as follows (related Ashtadash Vidya):

Shruti (Including Samhitas, Brahmanas, Aranyaka & Upanishads)
Upaveda (Ayurveda, Dhanurveda, Gandharvaveda, Arthashashtra)
Vedanga (Shiksha, Vyakaran, Nirukta, Chhand, Jyotish, Kalp)
Kalpa Sutra, Grihya Sutra, Srauta Sutra etc. Sutras
Darshana Sutras (Shada Darshana Sutras viz. Yoga Sutra, Brahma Sutra etc.)
Dharma Sharshtras (i.e Manu Smriti, Yajnavalkya Smriti etc.)
Puranas (18 Puranas and Upapuranas)
Itihasa (epics like Ramayana, Mahabharata etc.)
Agamas and Tantras
Works of Acharyas

We know that Shruti is more authoritative than Smriti, but I want to know the hierarchy of these broadly classified Scriptures.

So, is there any scripture that gives the hierarchy of these scriptures? Or (as these scriptures have been written over yugas e.g Vedas are ancient and Works of Acharyas are comparatively recent) is there any work of any Acharya (may be recent like Vivekananda) discuss it?

Note that I'm not looking for hierarchy in deeper level (i.e between Dharma Shashtras or between Puranas) just want to know the hierarchy of different levels/categories mentioned above or as possible as available.


texts:
The great Parashara exception is that:
 "A planet debilitated in 3rd or 6th house confers good results."(sometimes Neecha Bhanga Rajayoga is also a criteria for this exception)
Marc Boney had written a book on it.

Say for example (Aries ascendant) Venus in 6th house is not considered good and the nature of the spouse/marriage quality is likely to be bad.(not always).

What if venus is debilitated in 6th house and has a neechabhanga raja yoga? What would be the nature of spouse then?

To be more precise is this exception confined just to produce a raja yoga or does it also alter basic interpretations of a birth chart?


texts: Wouldn't most of the incarnations of Devi be of Sati, not Parvati?

texts:
As discussed in this question Parvati Devi married in the Vaivasvata Manvantara, before which Shiva was married to Sati Devi. Since most asura wars happened in previous Manvantaras, would that mean that Sati Devi was the one who took all those incarnations? Also to be noted is that many of the asuras slain by Durgadevi took part in the Samudra Mathana War.

What does the Devi Mahatmya say about the name of Lord Shiva's consort? Does it list her as Parvati or Sati (Dakshayani)?


texts: What are the other ways of giving birth to children (or full-fledged adults) in Hindu scriptures?

texts:
We have the famous children of Kunti that were born to Kunti and gods. In fact it is hard to think of famous Hindu religious figures in ancient times that were born through normal means.

Apart from normal pregnancy through normal means, how many other ways were children born in Hindu scripture?


texts: What are the 21 meters known to Rig Vedic seers?

texts:
The known major Vedic meters are:

Gāyatrī, Uṣṇih, Anuṣṭubh, Bṛhatī, Pankti, Triṣṭubh and Jagatī

Rig Veda IV.1.16 narrates 21 meters/chandas, as known to the seers of Rig Veda.

  The Milch-cow's earliest name they comprehended: they found the
  Mother's thrice-seven noblest titles. This the bands knew, and sent
  forth acclamation:with the Bull's sheen the Red One was apparent.

Can anyone quote the remaining Vedic meters?


texts: In what circumstances Yagnopavita must be changed?

texts:
Janeu the sacred Yagyopavita thread is worn by any dwija who wishes to follow some set of rules. So,

what are those rules and in which scripture they  are described?
In what circumstances a Yajyopavit has to be changed?


texts: I am from shaiva sect but i like and love Krishna . And my bramhopadesham in madhwa style can I change to madhwa does madhwa community accept me ?


texts: Where can I get PDF of Srimad Bhagavata by Swami Tapasyananda?

texts: I am looking for PDF of Swami Tapasyananda's (of Ramakrishna Mission) commentary on Bhagavatam Purana.


texts: Sometimes people have a certain wish that they want to be fulfilled. I've read and heard that God can grant any wish. How does one ask or approach Him to grant a wish. If you chant His name numerous time everyday almost all the day will that work? Sometimes people are in situations where they feel only a miracle can help them and some people believe God can make miracles happen. Is there a particular way to meditate or worship Shiva to ask Him to grant wishes?


texts:
The thing which is the basis of my question is law of karma.
Like, if one do good karmas, he gets his next birth at better place.
While, the one who does the opposite gets his birth at worse place.
And our birth is determined by our karma.
And also shastras(purans escpecially) give reason of some events of someone in stories that are told there that this was related to his previous birth.
Doesn't our whole life is influenced by our previous karmas? Because our mind is conditioned of the place where we grow up and certain events. These things shape our mind and by that we take our other decisions. Those decisions than lead to good or bad karmas.
And as our previous births were influenced by karmas of further previous births and this goes on and on. And we dont really have a starting point where our karmas were zero or neutral to decide our future as we have concepts of kalpas. By this even our first birth of a kalpa will be influenced by births of previous kalpas.
I don't see us having any free will here.
Isn't we influencing our own karmas a lie?
What does shastras say about it?


texts:
In Christianity a dove symbolizes peace.

Does it have a similar meaning in Hinduism if any meaning at all?


texts: Are the Realized Guru and Jivanmukta omnipresent?

texts: We know that he is not omniscient in the sense of knowing everything simultaneously, only that he has access to all knowledge when he wants it, at least according to Hariharananda Baba. So how is he then omnipresent; how does he know he is omnipresent if he only perceives something from one location? And what about the jivanmukta? Is he omnipresent as well?


texts:
Life after death is found in Hinduism, the Atmans are taken by Yama then they are judged and go either to heaven (abode of Indra) or to hell (abode of Yama), however this residence is temporarily and not eternal then they will reincarnate again at the end.

Can gods like Yama and his assistants have bodies while the judged Humans are just Atmans without bodies?

So, the question is: Do gods like Brahma, Vishnu, Indra and Yama, in their Lokas, have bodies or are they just Atmans?


texts: What are the rules mentioned in vedas for people?

texts:
Samhitas do not mention dharma but rta what acts really supports rta according to vedic samhitas daily life, manners etc.

Note:—please mention from rigveda and samaveda after that yajurveda and these three only. Please mention from rigveda and samaveda in pletny verses.


texts: I want to know about tantra, but I don't know which books to go to. Can anyone tell me which books should I refer to for learning more about tantra?


texts: Does the Yoga Vasishta prohibit idol worship?

texts:
Does the Yoga Vasistha, written by Sage Valmiki, strongly discourage or even prohibit idol worship?
How can idol worship be then reconciled with the Yoga Vasistha?

Men in vain rely on mantras and medicines, on austerities and
charities, and on the adoration of idols for relief; while their
bodies are subject to diseases like the sea to its surges. - Yoga
Vasistha 3.73.27
The pure spirit of the eternal, infinite and all powerful, cannot be
the object of ritualistic worship, which relates to finite gods or
idols. - Yoga Vasistha 6.40.10
Therefore O sage! retract your sight from idols and idolatrous
worship, and adopt your view to spiritual adoration; and be of an
even, cool and clear mind, be dispassionate and freed from decay and
disease. - Yoga Vasistha 6.40.13
It is the infantine ignorance which raises up this idol of egoism,
though it is found to exist no where; just as little children make
dolls and images of gods and men, that have no existence at all. -
Yoga Vasistha 7.57.4


texts: what is the philosophy of bhagvat gita, advita or dvaita?

texts:
What is the philosophy of bhagvat gita, weather it is dvaita, dualistic and the world is real.
Or it is advita, non dualistic and the world is an illusion.


texts: What is the reason behind lokas in Hinduism?

texts:
In the Puranas, and already in the Atharvaveda, there are fourteen worlds, seven higher ones (vyahrtis) and seven lower ones (patalas), viz. bhu, bhuvas, svar, mahas, janas, tapas, and satya above and atala, vitala, sutala, rasaataala, talatala, mahaatala, patala and naraka below.

Source: this Wikipedia article.

What are those lokas meant for? As we already have a place called earth and it's possible to do all duties that are performed in those lokas on earth as well, just like we are doing now?

Are those lokas cosmic (which humans can never see) or physical (which we can see, but not with the available technology)?


texts: Is science any different from religion? Especially when it comes to falsifiability of claims?

texts:
Scientists claim that the underlying notion of a theory is falsifiability i.e. the ability to disprove a statement by performing an experiment laid out by the scientist.
Rishis claim that the underlying notion of a shastra is falsifiability i.e. the ability to disprove a statement by performing an experiment laid out by the rishi.
E.g.
SCIENCE:
Theory - Sky is blue
How to disprove it ? - Open your eyes. If sky is green, theory is disproved.
If I am blind, or I refuse to open my eyes, or I look at the earth instead of looking up - all those are my faults. If I am faulty, and still claim that the scientists are fake, no scientist will change his claim because of some faulty experimenter.
RELIGION:
Theory - Yagna produces rain
How to disprove it ? - Perform yagna. If rain doesn't pour, theory is disproved.
If I am sinful, or I refuse to perform yagna, or don't follow the thousands of rules/regulations required - all those are my faults. If I am faulty, and still claim that rishis are fake, no rishi will change his claim because of some faulty experimenter.
Is there any difference between these two claims?
The Flying-Teapot or Flying-Spaghetti-Monster argument is commonly presented as an example of a 'non-falsifiable' claim - something whose existence is very hard or impossible to verify. It is often used to deride the religious believers.
However, it is very simple to deride scientific rationalists using the same argument. I can call any scientific statement ('Atoms exist' or 'Vaccines save lives') as 'non-falsifiable' because it is very hard or impossible for me to verify (doing Physics PhD/postdoc for 10 years or doing pharmaceutical double blind trials for 20 years).
Can anyone, especially the scientific/rational/atheists, give a single example of a non-falsifiable claim in Vedas, or Vedanga like Jyotisha (Astrology) ?


texts: Did Lord Shiva and Lord Rama ever meet in person?

texts:
I am reading Shiva and Sati's story where I can see that Prajapati Daksha, Lord Shiva and Sati all lived in the Treta yuga.

I can also recall that Bhagavan Sri Ram also lived in the Treta yuga.

Were there any incidents in the Ramayana which suggest that these supreme Gods met in person?


texts: Does ISKCON identify itself as a Hindu organization?

texts:
Koenraad Elst in Who is a Hindu? claims the following:

  6.7. Are travelling gurus Hindus?

  ...

  The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) generally denies that it is Hindu, in spite of practising purely Hindu rituals and a purely Hindu lifestyle in the service of a purely Hindu god. That this policy is guided by petty calculations of self-interest is clear from the cases where ISKCON exceptionally does claim to be Hindu, viz. when collecting money from Hindus.

  A former ISKCON member explains: that ISKCON is non-Hindu “is clearly evident in the writings and lectures of Srila Prabhupada, ISKCON’s founder, as well as in the day-to-day preaching statements of its members and current-day leaders.  What is especially troubling is that ISKCON periodically does claim to be a Hindu organization.  Unfortunately, these claims on the part of ISKCON occur when, and only when, it serves the legal and financial interests of the sect. Thousands of unsuspecting Indian Hindus have been persuaded to contribute funds to the group with the reassurance that they were supporting ‘Hinduism’, ‘Hindu’ temples and the printing of ‘Hindu’ books.”

My question is, how does ISKCON currently identify itself? Does it still consider itself, Hindu, at times and at other times, non-Hindu?


texts: How do non-advaitians interpret Bhagavata Purana 12.5.11?

texts:
This verse 12.5.11-12 is found in the final teachings of Sukadeva Goswami. It seems Advaitic in its meaning and essence.
Suka instructs King Parikshit:

अहं ब्रह्म परं धाम ब्रह्माहं परं पदम् एवं समीक्ष्य चात्मानमात्मन्याधाय निष्कले।।
"I am Brahman. I'm the supreme abode. Brahman, the highest goal, is I myself" having realized this and absorbing yourself in the self (supreme self), which is beyond the limits, you will see neither Takshaka snake nor your body nor the world as being distinct and different from your own Atman"

Source: Bhagavata Purana 12.5.11-12


texts: How did the powers of Gods change from Rig Veda to the puranas?

texts:
In particular, I am interested in mobility and war making.  Puranas depict supernatural mobility (flying machines with no energy-source mentioned, Hanuman, Kartikeya going round the world, varaha carrying the whole earth) and of course weapons which are described as being capable of ending the whole world.

As far as I know, Rig Veda mostly depicts ordinary human mobility (vishnu's three steps only describing the sun) and only slightly exaggerated powers of war-making.


texts: Are all men created equal according to Hinduism? Is this predominant western belief in agreement with the Vedas?

texts:
Are all men created equal according to Hinduism? Is this predominant western belief based on the Vedas?

This belief is fundamental to most modern Western countries, and it is the second sentence of the US Declaration of Independence:

  We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal...

This belief has its origins from the Enlightenment Liberalism philosophy of  Europe.

  Liberalism—both as a political current and an intellectual tradition—is mostly a modern phenomenon that started in the 17th century

But is this also in agreement with the Vedas?


texts: From where can I get Malayalam translation of Srimad Bhagavatam?


texts: Why Agni is called 'twice born' in Rigveda?

texts:
Agni is called twice born in RigVeda

  abhi dvi janma tri rochanani vishva rajansi shushuchano asthat |
   hota yajistho apam sadhaste".(RV.1.149.4) -

Griffith translates as -'He, doubly born, hath spread in his effulgence through the three luminous realms, through all the regions,Best sacrificing Priest where waters gather.

However, in Hinduism Brahmins and Kshatriyas are called 'twice born. My question is why Agni is called twice born in RigVeda at the first place. Secondly, is there any co-relation between the two different designation of 'twice born'?


texts: Which Scripture tells the Complete Story of Lord Hanuman?

texts:
We can know about Lord Hanuman from Ramayana but it states only a small portion of his life.
Is there a scripture that tells about Lord Hanuman's story completely ?


texts: Why there should be degradation of dharma with the change in the yuga?

texts:
It a well known fact that there are four ages satya, treta, dwapara and kali.

But why there is a demarcation in the ages, one explanation is that there is decline of dharma.

The dharma stands on four legs in satya and declines to one leg in kali.

But why should the dharma decline with ages? Who decided it?

Why should the mindset of the people should change with ages?


texts: Jayadratha followed his duty by stopping Pãndavas during Mahãbhãrata war; Why did Arjuna harbor grudge against him?

texts:
According to the story, Jayadratha encashed a boon granted by Lord Shiva, where he can hold back all the Pãndavas except Arjuna for a whole day during war. Thus, during the 13th day of the war he became indirectly responsible as he stopped all Pãndavas (except Arjuna and Lord Krishna), when Abhimanyu was being slain by multiple Kaurava warriors in a deceitful way.

However, it's important to note that Jayadratha was neither present during Abhimanyu's death nor did he participate in the cheating. In fact, attacking the lone son of Arjuna was decided on the spot observing his invincibility.

Later on, instead of taking an oath to kill the Kaurava warriors most responsible for Abhimanyu's death, Arjuna went for "Mission Jayadratha"! Had he failed, he would have burned himself on the battlefield in front of all the warriors.

What wrong did Jayadratha do to face the wrath and animosity from Arjuna? Or was it just pure emotions which led Arjuna to take such an unwanted risk?

Side question: Before Jayadratha's death, there was a Solar eclipse in the sky to make it dark, which resulted temporarily in declaring end of the day. How long did the Solar eclipse (dark) last?


texts: I heard Amruth Manthan today. I do not know what it means. Can anyone explain me the story of Amruth Manthan?


texts: Bhagavatam mentions Hari fulfills material desires and other place it says He does not fulfill. How to reconcile?

texts:
In the 4th Canto of Srimad-Bhagavatam, Dhruva is told by his mother (4.8.19) and Narada (4.8.41) that

  By worshipping  Sri Hari one can fulfill the material desires as well as the desire for liberation.

In the 10th Canto of Srimad-Bhagavatam, King Parikshit (10.88.1-2), Sukadeva Gosvami (10.88.5-7) and Sri Hari Himself (10.88.8-11) say that

  By worshipping Hari one can never fulfill any material desire.Moreover the worshipper loses every material possession.

How to reconcile the above two sayings?


texts: Why bengali brahmins are non-vegetarians?

texts:
I have seen that bengali brahmins are non-vegetarians whereas their counterpart in the rest of India are strictly lacto-vegetarians.

Can you tell me why this difference in their culture?


texts: Is there any relation between Revati nakshatra and goddesses Revati

texts:
Revati is one of the nakshatra in Hinduism, especially astrology.

Revati is a goddess in Hinsuism and is a wife to lord Balarama.

Is there any relation between the Revati goddess nd the star Revati?


texts: Which text describes 16th secret syllable of sri vidya?

texts: Shodashi has 16 syllables. Which text describes it and how is this mantra different in effects from 15 letter one ?


texts: At Hindu temples outside India, do people have to go barefoot outside on the grounds?

texts:
At Hindu temples in places that get really cold (e.g. New York City or London), do people have to go barefoot outside on the temple grounds?
I know many temples in the United States are all indoors. But some (such as the BAPS temples) have extensive grounds outside. (And an article on BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London mentioned "barefoot women in saris going up the stone steps"--is that only when it's warm out?)


texts:
I need some clarification about the ontological claims of Dvaitha Vedanta.

Who created Jada and Jeevatma, did Ishwara create these or were they always existing? i.e anadhi?
Did Vishnu create the Vedas, or Vedas were only revealed by him, but existed eternally and were not created by Vishnu?
Can Ishwara (Vishnu) change Jada to Jeevatma? If yes then it's not Athyanthika bheda, if no, Ishwara is not omnipotent. In that he can't do anything everything.

Please give appropriate citations.


texts:
I have gone through some translation of the following verses of the shiva gita:

तस्यैवांशो जीवलोके हृदये प्राणिनां स्थितः ।
विस्फुलिङ्गा यथा वह्नेर्जायन्ते काष्ठयोगतः ॥ २८॥
अनादिकर्मसंबद्धास्तद्वदंशा महेशितुः ।
अनादिवासनायुक्ताः क्षेत्रज्ञा इति ते स्मृताः ॥ २९॥

According to one translation by P.K Sundaram, the translation for above reads:

and another translation(in hindi) says:

The second line in the second translation is pointing toward the confusion. The atma(supreme self) is supposed to the the kshetragya, but the atma is pure, then why does it say that the kshetragya is said to be filled with mortal desires?


texts: It is well known that Vedanta Sutras prohibit Shudras from Jnana by saying Smritis prohibit them from having Upanayana. But Bhagavad Gita is a book which contains Vedantic statements. As Vedanta Sutras prohibit Shudras from acquiring Vedanta knowledge, can't they read the Bhagavad Gita?


texts: What is the use of chanting Aditya Hridayam?

texts:
How to chant Aditya Hrudayam?
How does it help in life?
What is the story behind this?


texts: In which Purana the story of Madhyandina Maharshi appears?

texts: In which purana the story of Madhyandina Maharshi appears ? Whether  both Madhyandina Maharshi and Vyaghrapada are same ?


texts: In which war of devas and asuras did Yaduvamsis participate?

texts:
This answer says

  The mythology says after the destruction of the Yaduvamsis in the course of the devasura sangrama several thousand wives of Lord Krishna were abducted...

Now, my questions are

Scriptures (like Mahabharata, Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam) mention different story of the destruction of Yadavas. Is this story of the destruction of the Yaduvamsis in the course of the devasura sangrama (war of devas and asuras) valid? If yes then,

In which war did the Yadavas participate?

Why did this war happen?

Which side did Yadavas fight for? Is it devas or asuras?


texts: How does God undo destiny when one surrenders?

texts:
Whether it is the Gita or saints like Ramakrishna, Shirdi Sai Baba and Ramana Maharshi, surrender is described as the ultimate means of undoing or coping with destiny.
My question is, how does God undo destiny when one surrenders? Isn't it the same as going against his own rules of karma?
Some references:

Bhagavad Gita: Chapter 18, Verse 66: Abandon all varieties of dharmas and simply surrender unto me alone. I shall liberate you from all sinful reactions; do not fear.

Ramana Maharshi:

M.: “All right. What need be said has been said. Well. What is destiny? There is no destiny. Surrender, and all will be well. Throw all the responsibility on God. Do not bear the burden yourself. What can destiny do to you then?”
D.: Surrender is impossible.
M.: Yes. Complete surrender is impossible in the beginning. Partial surrender is certainly possible for all. In course of time that will lead to complete surrender. Well, if surrender is impossible, what can be done? There is no peace of mind. You are helpless to bring it about. It can be done only by surrender.
D.: Partial surrender – well – can it undo destiny?
M.: Oh, yes! It can.
D.: Is not destiny due to past karma?
M.: If one is surrendered to God, God will look to it.
D.: This being God’s dispensation, how does God undo it?
M.: All are in Him only.
(Source: Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi, Talk 244)


texts: How do you get a name (apart from birth) in the scriptures?

texts:
As I know, there are characters that have the name "Dhananjaya" (Arjuna) to conquer many kingdoms, but I have not seen that Karna, Nakula, Sahadeva, Bhima or Bharata have that name.

Also that one of the names of Bhurishrava is "Bhuridakshina" for his donations, but Karna made donations as well but does not have a name like that.

So my question is, how do you get a name in the scriptures other than the birth name?


texts: How did Hanuman get the 8-Siddhis and 9-Nidhis?

texts: What should one do to achieve  8-Siddhis and 9-Nidhis?


texts: Is it possible that all sects of Hinduism could be right about their Parabrahman?

texts:
Different sects of Hinduism declare different God's as Parabrahman. Is it possible that all are true if Parabrahman takes different forms in each Kalpa?
Since Parabrahman can take any form, is the same form (eg. Shiva according to Shaivism) taken repeatedly during all Kalpas or is possible that the form is changed?


texts: How can I stop thoughts when meditating?

texts:
How do I stop thoughts when meditating ?

Meditating (on breath, etc) itself is a thought and I want to be occupied with it, however, I find myself constantly humming a song or thinking about the next thing I want to do after meditation. Even though I constantly remind myself that breath is what I want to focus on, still the other thoughts preoccupy my mind while another parallel thought is watching the breath/etc.

I am interested to know what the Hindu scriptures say about this.


texts:
This question came to my mind when I heard/noticed about Indradhanush (hindi/Sanskrit name for Rainbow). So If Indradhanush is really Bow of Indra does it have a significance?

Scientifically Indradhanush is made by Surya and Varuna i.e. Sunlight and Rain Droplets, is it  mentioned in Hindu scriptures with same scientific accuracy?


texts: How is the mantra pronounced for Vishnu?

texts:
I need some correction for a mantra which I heard recently but unable to find the script. So I am putting down on what I heard but it may not be the correct in terms of language but it would give an idea of the mantra that I am talking about ...so the mantra is

SRIMATE NARAYANA Ahinmam khirma khetre parvate hema utchiktaya rangathaya ......

There are mistakes in script but I would like to know the correct form of this mantra for the presiding deity Pooja. It would be great if you can respond with the correct version of it.


texts: What is the difference between the immortality of the devatās and the immortality of the brahman?

texts:
This Purusha who wakes when all sleep, creating what was desired is
certainly ‘the pure,’ that is Brahman and that is said to be
immortal. All worlds are fastened on that; none passes beyond that.
This verily is that.(Katha Upanishad 2.2.8)
Root up and branches down is this ancient asvattha tree, that (its
source) is pure. That is Brahman and that alone is called
immortal. On that, do all worlds depend and none passes beyond that.
This verily is that. (Katha Upanishad 2.3.1)
The purusha alone is all this universe—Karma and Tapas. All this is
Brahman, the highest and the immortal; who knows this as seated in
the cavity of the heart, unties the knot of ignorance even here, Oh
good looking youth! (Mundaka Upanishad 2.1.10)

So these verse are say Brahman is immortal.

WISELY have I enjoyed the savoury viand, religious-thoughted, best to find out treasure, The food to which all Deities and mortals, calling it meath, gather themselves together. 2 Tlou shalt be Aditi as thou hast entered within, appeaser of celestial anger. Indu, enjoying Indra's friendship, bring us—as a swift steed the car—forward to riches. 3 We have drunk Soma and become immortal; we have attained the light, the Gods discovered. Now what may foeman's malice do to harm us? What, O Immortal, mortal man's deception?

The verse RV 8.19 calls Agni the immortal god:

SING praise to hiin, the Lord of Light. The Gods have made the God to be their messenger, And sent oblation to Gods. 2 Agni, the Bounteous Giver, bright with varied flames, laud thou, O singer Sobhari- Him who controls this sacred food with Soma blent, who hath first claim to sacrifice. 3 Thee have we chosen skilftillest in sacrifice, Immortal Priest among the Gods, Wise finisher of this holy rite.......... 24 The God, the Friend of man, who bears our gifts to heaven, the God with his sweet-smelling mouth, Distributes, skilled in sacrifice, his precious things, Invoking Priest, Immortal God.

Again Rig Veda Verse 10.91 states:

11 When mortal man presents to thee Immortal God, Agni, his fuel or his sacrificial gift, Then thou art his Adhvaryu, Hotar, messenger, callest the Gods and orderest the sacrifice.

Devatās are immortal, Brahman is immortal.
MY QUESTION : What is the difference between the immortality of Brahman and the immortality of the devatās?


texts: Where is the verse of Sukracharya quoted by Krishna?

texts:
In the Shalya Parva of the Mahabharata, before Bhima faces Duryodhana in the mace battle, Vishnu's incarnation Krishna warns Arjuna about how formidable Duryodhana will be, since Duryodhana has just been defeated in the war:

  This old verse uttered by Usanas hath been heard by us. Listen to me as I recite it to thee with its true sense and meaning! "Those amongst the remnant of a hostile force broken flying away for life, that rally and come back to the fight, should always be feared, for they are firmly resolved and have but one purpose!" Shakra [Indra] himself, O Dhananjaya, cannot stand before them that rush in fury, having abandoned all hope of life.

For those who don't know, Ushanas is another name of Sukracharya, guru of the Asuras, because his mother was Bhrigu's wife Ushana AKA Kavyamata, whom I discuss here.

So my question is, where is this verse of Sukracharya quoted by Krishna from?  Is it from the Vedas?  The Rig Veda Anukramani provided in  my answer here mentions a few hymns which were heard from the gods by Sukracharya, but at first glance I couldn't find this verse there.  Is it from something other than the Vedas?


texts: Where can I read the Pancharatra Agamas online in English?

texts: I would like to begin reading the Pancharatra Agamas in English. Can anybody provide me the relevant links or PDFs for them?


texts:
Is there any rule of separation after marriage in Hinduism? Might be the case both (husband and wife) thinking is totally different, so they fight every day and they feel they cannot live together. Then what is the way to get rid  of this situation?

Is there any rule in any Hindu religious book?


texts: How many verses are there in Sri TantrAloka?

texts:
Sri tantrAloka is a magnum opus text in the Kashmir Shaivism.

How many verses and chapters are there?

Are there any commentaries available ?


texts: Did Swami Vivekananda, Paramhamsa Yogananda, & Osho Rajneesh really attain Moksha according to Vedic scriptures?

texts:
Below slokas from the Gita are actually a bit mystical in nature:

BG 8.23-8.26

  — O best of the Bhāratas, I shall now explain to you the different
  times at which, passing away from this world, the yogī does or does
  not come back.

  — Those who know the Supreme Brahman attain that Supreme by passing
  away from the world during the inﬂuence of the ﬁery god, in the light,
  at an auspicious moment of the day, during the fortnight of the waxing
  moon, or during the six months when the sun travels in the north.

  — The mystic who passes away from this world during the smoke, the
  night, the fortnight of the waning moon, or the six months when the
  sun passes to the south reaches the moon planet (but) again comes back.

  — According to Vedic opinion, there are 2 ways of passing from this
  world – one in light and one in darkness. When one passes in light, he
  does not come back; but when one passes in darkness, he returns.

Vivekananada and Yogananada, both the Yogis left their body and departed during the night time. Same thing goes for Osho Rajneesh who left during the evening.
 Note: Though Ramkrishna Paramahamsa died during early morning.

Now the followers of all the above 3 Yogis believe that they attained Moksha or Mahasamadhi or the Supreme abode.

Does that mean that above slokas actually don't make much sense?
With general rule of probability, 50% of people are likely to get
Moksha. Is it Justified?


texts: In Which Upanishad Can I Find The Story of the Creation of the Universe by Brahman?

texts:
I only know a very basic narrative of the Brahman mythology - Brahman splits itself into Trimurti (Brahma, Shiva, Vishnu) and Trimurti give rise to countless other forms and consciousness.

Specifically, I am most interested in this story of creation, and so I have 2 questions:

1) Where can I read the original story of Brahman splitting itself to create the universe (but an English translation)? Which Upanishad deals with the story aspect?

2) Please provide links if you can, because there are many translations out there and I would love to hear from you which you think are the best ones.

Thank you so much!


texts: Do grave sinners attain moksha if they remember Lord Vishnu?

texts: How to surrender to god? For attaining moksha.in kaliyuga?


texts:
Yagnopavitam or Janeu is generally worn as a white cotton thread amongst brahmins, but some people wear yellow-colored thread (by applying turmeric).

I have following questions

What is the correct color of yagnopavitam?
Is it acceptable to wear yellow colored yagnopavitam?
Why do people generally wear white yagnopavitam, is it based on varna?

 Note: I am expecting citations from Dharma shastras if possible.


texts:
Did Swami Vivekananda eat fish and meat before he turned a sannyasi?

Did he continue eating fish and meat after?

What were his views on consumption of vegetarian or non-vegetarian food?

PS. Please don't answer citing blogs or Wikipedia.


texts:
Are dreams created by Jivatma or Paramatma? What is the take of Badarayana as per Brahma Sutras and the three principal commentators on it viz. Ramanuja, Shankara and Madhva?

Please provide relevant quotes from genuine scripture and commentaries and don't indulge in scientific explanations or speculations


texts: What is the main reason for worshipping Hanuman ji?

texts:
We worship Hanuman ji. He is a great great devotee of lord Shri Rama. He is considered as an avatar of lord Shiva

What is the main reason that Hanuman ji is worshipped?

Is it because he is avatar of lord Shiva?

Or

Is it because he is such a great devotee?

Or

If there was any boon granted to him that he will be worshipped?

There are other great devotee avatars like Narada ji but they are not widely worshipped like Hanuman ji. Hence my question.


texts: Can human beings be reborn as deities after living an ethical life?

texts: I read that many Hindu traditions believe that a human being has the potential to be reborn as a deity by living an ethical life and building up good karma.


texts: Does kalpa bheda explanation for reconciling different narrative in puranas have scriptural basis?

texts:
Some sects use kalpa bheda or manvantara bheda to explain contradictions in the events narrated differently in different puranas and when there exists no way to reconcile them.

Does such explanation have any scriptural basis?


texts: We all know that the Mahabharat was written by Ved-Vyas, but what many of us don't know is that Ved-Vyas was not the name of the person but the title. This title is given to the one who add/modify/delete the original Ved, Puranas and Epics. Ved-Vyas, the author of Mahabharat was actually named 'Krishna-Dwaipayan' and he got the title of Ved-Vyas. I want to know about who else were the other sages holding the same title. Please also specify the sources from where you get the information.


texts: Are women considered spoils of war according to Kshatriya Dharma?

texts:
Historically, the armies of the Mlecchas, Asuras, and Rakshasas after defeating the army, killing the king, and conquering a city, would kill all the civilian men, rape all the women, make their children their slaves, loot all the property and wealth, and burn the remains of the city.
For example, in the Christian/Jewish Old Testament, Book of Numbers, God orders Moses to exterminate the Midianites for worshipping false gods:

9 The Israelites captured the Midianite women and children and took all the Midianite herds, flocks and goods as plunder.
10 They burned all the towns where the Midianites had settled, as well as all their camps.
11 They took all the plunder and spoils, including the people and animals

Now what is important is the next part:

13 Moses, Eleazar the priest, and all the leaders of the community [the Israelite assembly] went to meet them [the Israelite warriors] outside the camp.
14 Moses was angry with the officers of the army—the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds—who returned from the battle.
15 “Have you allowed all the women to live?” he asked them.
...
17 Now kill all the boys. And kill every woman who has slept with a man,
18 but save for yourselves every girl who has never slept with a man.

So here we have one of the earliest recorded mentions of women being considered spoils of war as well as a religious sanction of kidnapping virgin girls in warfare and making them wives.
Is this allowed as per Hindu, Kshatriya Dharma?
The Manusmriti says this:

7.96 - Chariots and horses, elephants, umbrellas, wealth, grains, animals, women, all goods and baser metals belong to him who wins them.
rathāśvaṃ hastinaṃ chatraṃ dhanaṃ dhānyaṃ paśūn striyaḥ |
sarvadravyāṇi kupyaṃ ca yo yaj jayati tasya tat

However, the commentators don't say anything about the mention of women.
There is also a form of marriage permitted by Hindu texts that only Kshatriyas can do, called the Rakshasa Vivaha, or the Kshatra Vivaha, in which the girl is won through fighting. It is named after Rakshasas because this form of marriage is characteristic of them.

Manu 3.33 - The forcible abduction of the maiden from her home, while she is crying out and weeping, after having beaten and wounded and pierced [her guardians],—is called the “Rākṣasa” form.
Āpastamba-Dharmasūtra (2.12.2).—‘When the girl is taken away after attacking her guardians, it is the Rākṣasa.’
Vaśiṣṭha (1. 34).—‘When they suddenly attack with force and take away the girl, it is the Kṣātra form of marriage.’
Hārīta (Vīramitrodaya-Saṃskāra, p. 856).—‘It is the Rākṣasa form of marriage when, with the king’s support, the girl is obtained by attacking and chastising her guardians.’
Āśvalāyana- Gṛhyasūtra - 'He may carry her off, killing (her relatives) and cleaving (their) heads, while she weeps and they weep: this (is the wedding called) Râkshasa.'

However, I don't think it refers to all women because caste restrictions and adultery rules would still apply, so that Kshatriyas can't abduct Brahmin girls because they are of a higher caste than him and can't abduct Vaishyas or Shudra women because they cannot do a Rakshasa vivaha, and the Kshatriyas also cannot abduct women who were already married to another man, even if she is a widow, and even if she is the widow of a warrior that was slain by him, because that would be adultery.
So I think the mention of "women" as spoils of war in the Manusmriti verse refers to unmarried, Kshatriya, virgin girls whose fathers were slain in the battle.
Do any scriptures or commentaries talk about this?


texts: Can anyone provide download/reading links of Charvaka Scriptures in English?

texts: Can anyone send links of Charvaka scriptures in English to either read or download for free onine?


texts: Does yoga support raw food over cooked food?

texts: According to yoga scriptures, is intake of raw food recommended over cooked food?


texts: What is the name of the mudra which is used in upasthaanam portion of maadhyanika sandhyavandhanam?

texts:
While performing Sandhyavandanam during noon, a particular mudra is used in the upasthaanam part to see the sun.  An exhaustive list of mudras are given at MudraGuide.com but it does not cover the one I am asking about.

Shamelessly I took this image from Google search:

What is the name of that mudra?


texts: Why do only the mounts of Shiva and Vishnu have actual names (Nandi and Garuda)?

texts: Do the VAhanas of Durga (lion), Ganesha (mouse), and Skanda (peacock) have names of their own, just like Shiva's mount is named "Nandi"?


texts: Is meditation the only technique for self-realization?

texts: Apart meditation is there other paths that one can take to understand oneself?


texts: According to Hindu scriptures, what are some of the great sins that God never forgives?

texts: Are there any sins that are not forgiven by God?


texts: What are the Pravaras used at the time of sankalpam?

texts:
What are the Pravaras used at the time of Sankalpam? I used to utter srimukh shandilya gotrah Tri Pravarah.
Is there any scripture which define Pravara?


texts: Mantra-Can anyone recommend me a mantra of devi or the adi-para shakti or the feminine aspect of God?

texts:
I want to chant the most true and the best mantra of devi---Maa Kali ,Maa durga,Maa Saraswati?
I do not know whether their is any generalized mantra for the feminine aspect of god?
Can anyone recommend from experience?


texts: How do sri vaishnavas justify Krishna's Behaviour

texts: Krishna's behaviour in his life was full of adharma tactics like, Running from the battlefield when fighting Kalayavana (despite being kshatriya) which in Kurukshetra he says it is not a way of kshatriya to arjuna. Now There is no justification given by Ramanujacharya on his behaviour. So how do sri Vaishnavas justify krishna's behaviour despite being an incarnation.


texts: Are the 10 Mahavidyas an expansion of Goddess Sati or that of Goddess Shakambhari?

texts:
There are two broad stories about the origins of the Mahavidyas:

The Shakta Mahabhagwat Puran states that they emerged from the body of Sati:

  Sati, the daughter of Daksha and first wife of god Shiva, feels insulted that she and Shiva are not invited to Daksha's yagna and insists on going there, despite Shiva's protests. Shiva refused and even forbade her from going at which the enraged Sati transforms into the Mahavidyas.

The second, from the Devi Bhagwat Puran states that they emerged from Devi Parvati when she had to face the demon Durgam, the demon after killing whom she received the name of Durga.

  Goddess Parvati (who had first turned into Shakambhari) again transformed her appearance and now she looked ferocious. She was well equipped with all sorts of lethal weapons and was mounted on a lion. She thundered loudly and challenged Durgamasur.................At this moment, came out of the body of the Devi, the principal Shaktis named Kali, Tarini, Tripura-Sundari,  Bhuvaneshwari, Bhairavi, Chinnamasta, Dhumavati, Bagalamukhi, Matangi and Kamalatmika.

Of course both Sati and Parvati are different forms of the same goddess and the Mahavidyas may have appeared more than once but which of these two is more likely to be the original 'origin' story?


texts: Who travelled southwards first? Agastya or Parashurama

texts:
In Hindu Puranas, there are two mentions of southward spread of vedic civilization, one was by Agastya Muni and the other by Parashurama after he decimated 21 generations of Kshatriyas.

Is it known about the chronological sequence of these two unrelated events?


texts: What are the do's and don'ts a Hindu (or any human being) should follow in Kali Yuga?

texts:
I am assuming present time which we are living as kali yuga and also it is the last of the four yugas.

These words were taken from here

  It is said that everyone will become godless. Whatever devotees,
  bhaktas, and sages are left on the planet will be so unique in
  character and peculiar compared with the rest of society that they
  will be ridiculed and hunted down in the cities for sport like
  animals.Thus, they will flee the cities to live underground in caves
  or high up in the mountains, or simply disengage from the earthly
  plane of existence. In this way, they will disappear from the face of
  the earth. That is the time when the dark influence of the age of
  Kali-yuga will become so dominant that its full influence will
  manifest without hindrance.

I know we cant prevent the ultimate fall to dark ages but Is there any duties which a Hindu or a human being should follow in this yuga.


texts: Why Devraj Indra was chosen as the king of the Devas?

texts: How Devraj Indra became the king of all Devas? I mean how and why he was chosen as the king?


texts: Is it not obligatory for a householder to try begetting children?

texts:
I know that a similar topic has been discussed in the link below, but my position is different.

Is it necessary for one to have children?

I know that this can be a very subjective topic, and therefore I want to make this as specific as possible. Consider the position of a householder who has willingly married, who is working for a decent company making good money and has a good wife. In other words a fairly normal family. Now can he and his wife together decide not to even try for having a child ? Does Dharma allow such a position as lawful ? Is it not considered escapism from responsibility ? It is important to note here that they are by no means in the vAnaprastha state of mind (giving up all pleasures and comforts etc…) Does Dharma allow one to consider having a child to be a karmic bandhana and therefore avoid it despite not being in vAnaprastha ?


texts: What do sciptures say about partial fasts in Kaliyuga?

texts:
I have seen almost every people in today's time don't do fasts with shastriya vidhi OR we can say they don't follow full rules of fasts. For example: If we read fasts vidhi about any fasts then we came to know that there is lots of samagri that we need to give
to Lord i.e. In Satya Narayana fasts there is a full list of samagri but I have seen people doing that fasts without full samagri. They just made churma and put bananas in it for and made charnamrit and gave it to Lord. Out of big list of samagri
they gives only few things to Lord.

Another aspect is, when people uses those drinks on even those fasts where drinking is forbidden.
As an another example if we talk about some nirjala fasts i.e. Karwachotha, In this fasts devotee can't drink water. But I heard people saying that if elder will say then we can drink tea. Same goes to Ganesha's nirjala fasts (don't remember name of fast).
In that Ganesha's fast also we can't drink water but heard a lot now days people started to drink and says if any elder say then we can.

So There are two aspects now. One is, when we don't use full list of samagri of fasts, instead we use only few items from samagri list (as shown in Satya Narayana fast example). Second is, when one drinks something in those fasts where drinking is forbidden by saying our elders says so.

Both are little different cases. What I want to know is.. I know this is kali yuga. It's not easy for people to follow full fasts rule. But my question is, what is the result of these partial fasts?

I mean, if people offer only few items from list of samagri then, will we still get full merits of fasting (since it's kaliyuga) OR we will get partial merits OR we will get no merits at all (since we didn't offer full list of samagri to Lord but instead offers only few items from it).

And as per second case, if people of kaliyuga really started to believe that they can drik tea or water on nirjala fasts then will it destory their fasts or it will still remain.

NOTE: I have shows name of fasts just for example purpose. I am not asking question about certain fasts. So consider my mentioned fasts name just as example. This post is not dedicated to particular fast/fasts.


texts:
Western Indologists say that Asuras were once good Devas that later rebelled against the Devas and became evil gods or anti-gods.
For example, Michael Witzel in his paper Autochthonous Aryans says:

The gods are depicted as engaging in constant and yearly contest with
their --originally also divine-- adversaries, the Asura, a contest
which the gods always win, until next time.

And many other Indologists:

Alain Daniélou states that Asuras were initially good, virtuous and powerful in Indian mythology. However, their nature gradually changed and they came to represent evil, vice and abuse of power. In Shiva Purana, they evolved into anti-gods and had to be destroyed because they threatened the gods.
A much-studied hymn of the Rigveda states Devav asura (Asuras who have become Devas), and contrasts it with Asura adevah (Asuras who are not Devas). - Wikipedia

Is there any evidence from Smriti, like the above mentioned Shiva Purana reference, that says that Asuras were once Devas who rebelled?


texts:
What is 'Datta Navaratri'?

I only know that on its first day, 'Krishna-Veni' pooja is observed, but do not know the details of this navaratri.


texts: Is Srimad Bhagavatham the only commentary written by Vedavyasa himself on the Vedanta Sutras?

texts:
Vedanta-sutra is the original work of Vyasadeva, which contains the summary of four Vedas, 108 Upanisads, 18 Puranas. As stated in Garuda Purana, Srimad Bhagavatham is the natural commentary of Brahma Sutras written by Vedavyasa himself.

artho 'yaṁ brahma-sūtrāṇāṁ bhāratārtha-vinirṇayaḥ
gāyatrī-bhāṣya-rūpo 'sau vedārtha-paribṛṁhitaḥ
purāṇānāṁ sāma-rūpaḥ sākṣād-bhagavatoditaḥ
vādaśa-skandha-yukto 'yaṁ śata-viccheda-saṁyutaḥ
grantho 'ṣṭādaśa-sāhasraḥ śrīmad-bhāgavatābhidhaḥ

The meaning of the Vedānta-sūtra is present in Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. The full purport of the Mahābhārata is also there. The commentary of the Brahma-gāyatrī is also there and fully expanded with all Vedic knowledge. Śrīmad Bhāgavatam is the supreme Purāṇa, and it was compiled by the Supreme Personality of Godhead in His incarnation as Vyāsadeva. There are twelve cantos, 335 chapters and eighteen thousand verses.

Is there any other Purana or Vedic scripture that claims to the commentary of Vedanta Sutras?


texts: In which Mahayuga and Manvantara, did King Bharatha, after whom India is called Bhārath, live?

texts:
Vishnu Purana says:

उत्तरं यत्समुद्रस्य हिमाद्रेश्चैव दक्षिणम् ।
वर्षं तद् भारतं नाम भारती यत्र संततिः ।।
uttaraṃ yatsamudrasya himādreścaiva dakṣiṇam
varṣaṃ tadbhārataṃ nāma bhāratī yatra santatiḥ
The country (varṣam) that lies north of the ocean and south of the
snowy mountains is called Bhāratam; there dwell the descendants of
Bharata.

Now my questions are:

In which Mahayuga (with Manvantara) did Bharatha live?
What was name of Bhāratam before the rule of the King Bharatha?


texts: Does Krishna claim identity with Vishnu as supreme being in Bhagavad Gita?

texts:
He of course claims that HE is supreme.  The question is does he recognize other supreme beings and claim he is one with them and they are one with him.  When he says "Among Adityas I am Vishnu" “Aditya” refers to 12 sons born to Aditi and her husband Kashyapa.  This Vishnu is not the supreme being of Vishnu Purana, Bhagavatam and so forth.  Interestingly, the word "Narayana" does not occur in Gita.

(1) This specific question is not answered in response to the other question.  The "Vishnu among Adityas" is not an answer.

(2) Arjuna addresses him as"Vishnu" but that is not the same as Krishna claiming to be Vishnu.


texts:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmWRpP_V5q0

It sounds like a modern composition that imitates authentic Vedic Yagnas.


texts:
I know of Marathas and Rajputs using bhagwa flags as their official hoists, but is there some older (Puranic) legend in associating the bhagwa flag with Hinduism?

I'm very specific about the origin of the flag; I already know the symbolism behind the bhagwa color.

From Wikipedia:

  The Bhagwa Jhanda (Hindi: भगवा ध्वज, "saffron flag", or Bhagwá Dhwaja) is a saffron color flag that has been used by a number of Hindu-oriented political entities in the history of India.

  The flag historically served as the flag of the Marathas, "it is swallow-tailed and of a deep orange colour emblematic of the followers of Mahadeo."


texts:
According to the Matysa Purana, the events of the Srimad Bhagavatam took place during the Sarasvata Kalpa.

When was the Sarasvata Kalpa? Currently, we're in the Sveta Varaha Kalpa.

And who is it referring to by "degraded men"?


texts:
Why should one believe in astrology?
Does the moving of planets really affect a person?


texts: What is the actual name of these mysterious goddesses?

texts:
In the Gondwana region of India, which stretches from Madhya Pradesh to Chhattisgarh, I read about few mysterious Goddesses in the tribal area. The tribes make use of the powers acquired by these goddesses in tantric rituals.

Few such names are: Goddess Marhi, Goddess Banjari etc.

I even searched these names in Devi Bhagwat and Durga Saptshati, but there are no such names. I asked few tribes and they say that Goddess Marhi is a form of Goddess Durga, but not Durga. She is one of the fierce form and has seven sisters. Goddess Banjari is one of them.

Has anyone heard the names before? If yes, please let me know what is the actual names of these Goddesses in Shastras.

Though all forms evolved from Goddess Parvathi, but still in Tantra world, these not considered one.


texts: A sadhaka is focused on his or her Ishta devata.  What should be his/her attitude towards other devatas?  What do our scriptures say in this regard?


texts: Which scripture talks about Vidhata Purush?

texts:
http://www.chitradivakaruni.com/excerpt-sister-of-my-heart/

"They say in the old tales that the first night after a child is born, the Bidhata Purush comes down to earth himself to decide what its fortune is to be. That is why they bathe babies in sandalwood water and wrap them in soft red malmal, color of luck. That is why they leave sweetmeats by the cradle. Silver-leafed sandesh, dark pantuas floating in golden syrup, jilipis orange as the heart of a fire, glazed with honey-sugar. If the child is especially lucky, in the morning it will all be gone."

Apparently the child is left alone for Vidhata Purush to write its fate on its forehead.  Does any scripture talk about this?


texts: Marrying people born on new moon day (amāvāsyā)?

texts: I was told marrying people that are born on amāvāsyā (new moon day) will bring harm to your life; you can even die because of their grahan (sin attached to them?) – is this claim true?


texts: Are there exams after studying the Vedas? Does the Guru make sure the student can properly pronounce the Vedas?

texts:
Is there any way the Guru makes sure a student can properly pronounce the Vedas, has committed it to memory, and understands the concepts?

Today, you will get a diploma from an accredited university, which means that you are qualified in the subject and recognized by the professors.

Is there any similar concept in the traditional Vedic schooling?

Also, what does the Guru do about a student who has a speech impairment, is dyslexic, or is unable to grasp Vedic concepts or cannot memorize easily?


texts:
Sri Vishnu as Sri Matsya Avatara or Sri Hayagreeva, Who killed the demon Hayagriva and when?

The story of Sri Matsya Avataram killing the demon Hayagriva is found in Srimad Bhagavatam, Canto 8, chapter 24, verses 7-9 too, according to which, this event happened at beginning of this Sweta varaha Kalpa.

So, maybe, there were two demons with same name and purpose, at different periods and Sri Vishnu took different avatars, suiting those times, to release the Vedas?

Just wondering - Did Sri Vishnu incarnate twice, at different periods, to kill two different demons with same name and same purpose?


texts: Why did Bhrigu got angry with Agni when what Agni said was True, Pauloma was his wife?

texts: I read the story of Pauloma in Mahabharat but couldn't understand the reason of Bhrigu's anger.


texts:
What Sadhana or karmas did Swami Vivekananda do?

This answer said he chanted Pranava regularly.

Did he do anything else?


texts: Which are the 118 worlds as described in Fifteen verses of Wisdom?

texts:
One of the verses from Fifteen Verses of Wisdom (bodhapancadasika) by Abhinavagupta, the great master of all aspects of Kashmir Shaivism, is as follows:

  In this way the Lord, Bhairava, the essence of all being, has held in
  His own way in His own nature, the three great energies: the energy of
  will (iccha-sakti), the energy of action (kriya-sakti), and the energy
  of knowledge (jnana-sakti). These three energies are just like that
  trident which is the three-fold lotus. And seated on this lotus is
  Lord Bhairava, who is the nature of the whole universe of 118
  worlds.

My question: Which are these 118 worlds being referred here?


texts: How can a person with sattva guna live with rajas and tamas people?

texts:
Fighting and killing a person will not be regarded as sattva guna right?Then how come Rama being Sattva guna person killed Ravana. Based on circumstances, can one change from sattva guna to rajas and tamo?

Else is my understanding wrong, that a sattva guna person cannot kill a rajas or tamo guna person?

How can a 21st century sattva guna person mingle with rajas and tamo guna people around him? Are there any suggesions from anywhere?


texts: Should one regard deities as Superior and Inferior as per Adi Shankara?

texts: Adi Shankara is the upholder of Advaita (Non-dual) philosophy. There is popular belief among Advaitins that one shouldn't differentiate between Gods as they all are same. But is this thing explicitly told by Adi Shankara in his works? Also what is the reason to consider that all deities are same?


texts: In which chapter of the Mahabharatha the story of Bhisma giving five arrows to Duryodhana for killing the Pandavas is found?

texts:
There are several posts on the internet that mention that Duryodahan once received 5 arrows that were charged by Bhishma to kill the Pandavas, which Arjuna took away from Duryodhana at the advice of Sri Krishna.

Where does this happen in the Mahabharatha? I believe it will be a part of the Bhishma Parva, Can someone please help me with chapter number?


texts: Do people get birth even they are (almost) eligible for Moksha

texts:
Is it possible for taking birth even the Jeeva is eligible for Moksha?

I'm asking this question for normal human beings, not for the avatar as Krishna, Rama etc.,

If possible, then show an example of such human being, if exists.


texts:
God (Paratma) in Hinduism is beyond the realm of time, as a result of which He is eternal. According to the Hindu philosophy, each living creature possesses a soul (inner core of consciousness) which is a part of this universal consciousness (that of God Himself). The life of a creature is thus a mortal attire which is changed with each birth and death event cycle that a soul passes through, whereas the soul itself being a part of the God exists for eternity.

What does the Hindu philosophy has to say about the Rakshasas (demons or anti-Gods)? Do they also have to pass through birth-death cycles? Do they possess souls and if so are their souls also a part of God? Can they achieve salvation, i.e. do their souls unify with the universal consciousness (paratma) ever?


texts: Has any Acharya or Pontiff of any monastery commented his opinions on theory of Darwinian evolution?

texts: Has any Acharya(Guru who teach Vedas and other scriptures to students) or pontiff hailing from any Sampradaya ever said anything about Darwin theory of evolution, like pope of Vatican accepted theistic evolution?


texts: Was the Purva mimansa an atheist school?

texts: Why purva mimansa school did not believe in existence of vedic gods but were strict believers of Vedas?


texts: Hindus believe in a cyclic nature of time. Here the same key events are repeated forever. Then we should have the same 'Chiranjeevi's born repeatedly. This means, we should have an infinite number of them now. Else, they should die at some point of time. When and how does this death happen?


texts: If some of the early Alwars used to consider Venkateswara as Shiva and Vishnu both then what's the proof of it?

texts:
Venkateswara, AFAIK, is a form of Lord Vishnu. And, Alwars a group of Tamil Vaishnavite saints.

But, the article, Sri Venkateswara on the Kamakotimandali.org, says that initially, the Alwars used to see Venkateswara as representing both Shiva and Vishnu.

  The hill that grants eternal bliss is Venkatachala. Or, Vem refers to sin and kata, to destroy. That hill which destroys the sins is called Venkatadri. The lord of such a hill is called Venkatesha or Venkatadrisha. From time immemorial, the formless Brahman has been worshipped in his saguNa aspect as Shiva, Shakti, Vishnu, Surya, Skanda and Ganapati. Followers of each of these forms claim their chosen deity to be superior over the rest, ignoring the lofty truth of the Upanishads, which proclaim that the Parabrahman is formless and that these murtis represent the saguNa aspect of the same Brahman.

  Does Sri Venkatesha at Tirumala represent Vishnu, Shiva, Shakti or Subrahmanya? This question has been raised, answered and contested by several individuals and sects for several centuries now. Sri Venkatesha has been worshipped by Jains worshipped as Adimuleshwara, Vaishanavas as Srinivasa, Shaivas as Harishankara and Shaktas as Sri Bala Tripurasundari. There are enough reasons to associate this mUrti with Shiva, Shakti, Vishnu and Subrahmanya. I will not list the reasons why this mUrti is associated with Srimannarayana as these are already well known.

  Association of Sri Venkateshwara with Lord Mahadeva and his parivAra:

  Early Azhwars [Vaishnavaite saints] praised Venkateshwara as a blend of Hari and Hara. In some of the older pasurams of Azhwars, the lord is said to have worn Chakra and Parashu, signifying Hari-Hara-Samaikya Murti But after the advent of Ramanujacharya, this practice was severely discouraged. By this time, Shaivaites called him Shiva and Vaishnavaites called him Vishnu. This becomes clear after one reads several shAsanas in the name of a local king called Thalalu Gosina Yadava Rayalu. He was a staunch devotee of Ramanuja who beheaded 101 Shaivas who claimed Venkatesha to be Shiva. For his staunch adherence to Sri Vaishnava philosophy, he was honored by Ramanuja with the title Sri Bhashya, to be named after him.

My question is if this is true then what is the proof of it? Which texts related to (or composed by) the Alwars prove this claim?