texts: What can one do to enjoy death or the dying process?

texts:
Death is usually very painful as noted in this Wikipedia article on Death:

  Death – particularly the death of humans – has commonly been considered a sad or unpleasant occasion, due to the affection for the being that has died and the termination of social and familial bonds with the deceased. Other concerns include fear of death, necrophobia, anxiety, sorrow, grief, emotional pain, depression, sympathy, compassion, solitude, or saudade. Many cultures and religions have the idea of an afterlife, and also hold the idea of reward or judgement and punishment for past sin.

But what can the dying person do to enjoy their moment of death? What do Hindu scriptures recommend for one's death to be less painful?


texts:
I recently learned about the story of Indra and the ants.

The punchline of the story is that lord Vishnu appear as a boy before Indra and tells Indra that the ants in his palace were previous Indras.

This seems to suggest that Gods are subject to the cycle of death and rebirth.

How can we know when a god dies? (Might we be worshiping a dead god?)

Do gods only die at the end of the universe?

There is already a question on death and Gods here: Do Gods die in Hinduism?
However, I don't fully understand if/how the answers there answer my question.


texts: I have heard that there were two brothers named 'Jay' and 'Vijay'. I have also heard that they were cursed by Lord Brahma's sons. So,what is the story of Jay and Vijay?


texts: Why Hindu Gods never appeared anywhere else on this Earth like America, Japan, China, African continents, Middle east before christ B. C. era?

texts: Why Hindu gods like Vishnu, siva,  and Brahma appeared for people of India in the past before christ. Why they never appeared  to anyone anywhere else on this Earth like America,  Japan,  China,  African continents,  Middle east countries before  christ B.C.  era?  People  assume that  they are made up gods by Indian people.


texts: Scriptural basis for Sadhguru's claim that Yaśodā also became one of the gopīs?

texts:
https://isha.sadhguru.org/us/en/wisdom/article/krishna-women-in-his-life

Yashodha’s relationship with Krishna grew in such a way that she also became one of the Gopis. She was also part of the Raas. She did not like Radhe because she thought this girl was too forward, whatever that meant. Radhe did not have the normal demeanor that was expected of a village girl. She was a little too outgoing. Yashodha felt this girl was hijacking her wonderful son, but she could not help joining the Raas conducted by Radhe after Krishna left.

Does Bhāgavata or any other Purāṇa support this claim?


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According to this site, mantra diksha not taken under a Vaishnava Guru are unqualified in worshipping Lord Vishnu. The site has cited the following verses which are supposedly from the Kartika-Mahatmya of the Skanda Purana (which so far, I have been unable to locate):

"te narah pasavo loke, kim tesam jivane phalam; yair na labdha harer diksa, narcito va janardanah"
English Translation: "Unfortunate people do not accept Mantra Diksha from a bonafide Vaishnava guru in any of these four sampradayas and thus they remain unqualified to worship Lord Krishna. Such people are simply like animals since there is no higher purpose for their human form of life."
"tapasvinah karma nistha, sresthaste vai nara bhuvi; prapta yaistu harer diksa, sarva dukha vimocani"
English Translation: "Those persons who accept Diksha from a bonafide Vaishnava Spiritual Master from any of these four sampradayas are completely delivered from all the miseries of material existence. In this world, they become superior even to the great ascetics and karma-nistha yogis."

Are these verses really present in the Skanda Purana? Are the translations of these verses accurate?


texts: What scriptures describe Shiva whispering Rama's name to those who die in Kashi?

texts:
The Rama Bhujanga Stotra is a hymn to Rama composed by the Advaita philosopher Adi Shankaracharya.  Here is what he says in verse 3 of the hymn:

  yadāvarṇayatkarṇamūle'ntakāle
  śivo rāma rāmeti rāmeti kāśyām ।
  tadekaṃ paraṃ tārakabrahmarūpaṃ
  bhaje'haṃ bhaje'haṃ bhaje'haṃ bhaje'ham ॥

  I adore shrI rAma, the Unity, the greatest one, whose name is uttered in the ears of the blessed devotees in KAshi at the time of Death by none other than Lord Shiva Himself. This form/name of the Lord (tArakabrahma) is capable of rescuing devotees from the ocean of samsAra.

Now I'm familiar with the notion of Shiva whispering other things, like the Pranava mantra, into the ears of those who die in Kashi.  And I'm familiar with the notion of Shiva chanting Rama's name in general.  But my question is, what scriptures mention Shiva whispering Rama's name into the ears of those who die in Kashi?

By the way, the words "rāma rāmeti rāmeti" in the second line echo the famous "śri rāma rāmeti rāmeti" verse where Shiva tells Parvati about the glories of chanting Rama's name.

EDIT: I just found a reference to this notion in Tulsidas' Ramcharitamanas:

  The might of Rama's name is immeasurable ; so tell the saints, the Puranas and the Vedic commentaries ; the immortal Sambhu, who is the lord Siva, the perfection of wisdom and goodness, is ever repeating it: though all the four groups of animate beings in the world attain to salvation if they die in his city Kasi, yet, O king of saints, it is by the virtue of Rama's name; and therefore Siva in his compassion enjoins its use.

ÉDIT 2: @Vishalprabhulawande points out that in this video, the Shankaracharya of Puri also says that Shiva whispers Rama's name into the ears of those who die in Kashi.


texts: There is a demon named Kali on whose name Kaliyuga is there. In which of the Puranas his story is given? What is the story of the demon Kali?


texts:
In Hinduism we say सत्यमेव जयते. What does it mean?
By simple translation it means that truth always wins, but I find many contradictions with this meaning.
If truth always wins why are innocent people jailed while criminals roam free? If truth always wins then why are people who speak truth executed and no one saves them? For example, during coronavirus, those who spoke against the Chinese govt were rooted out? Jack Ma also disappeared because he spoke the truth which was against the interests of Chinese govt.
Innocent sadhus are also killed and we are yet to see justice delivered to them. Murthis are also broken by savages and no harm is inflicted on them.
How does truth exactly triumph?
I believed in this theory literally and faced many hardships because of it. There was scam going on in my college and when I spoke against it, I was threatened. I had to let go of the truth to save myself.
So how do we interpret truth always win because I haven't seen it winning in many cases?


texts: What is the name of YamRaj's wife ? Why Yamraj is considered to be a demi god or Yaksha?

texts: Yamraj is regarded as the God of Death? He is the son of SUN and brother of Shani DEV. To whom was he married? Yami or Yamuna is considered to be her sister.


texts: Where can I get the complete English translation of the Chaitanya Bhagavata?

texts: Though Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's biography: Chaitanya Charitamrita is easily available on the web, I have been unavailable to find the complete English translation of the Chaitanya Bhagavata. Can you guys help me to find it?


texts: What is positive thinking? How is it developed?

texts:
Many philosophers, Gurus and Acharyas stress on "positive way of life" or "positive thinking".
If the "negative thinking" was so bad, then it would have vanished from general populace with time, isn't it?

What is the non-dual meaning of "positive thinking", Is it faith / श्रद्धा?

More importantly, how one develops "positivism" inside the mind?
For example, if someone says that, "be positive!" How to get the pre-requisite to be able to "be positive"?

Related: How and why was the first ever thought generated?


texts: I have been to Shiva Temples and attended the Palliyarai Pooja. Recently, in Tiruchendur Murugan Temple also, i attended. What is the significance of Palliyarai Pooja?


texts: What were the special powers of MeghanAda?

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Ravana's son MeghanAda was believed to possess mighty special powers and siddhis which made him almost impossible to defeat.

These shaktis also made it difficult for lord Rama's army to defeat him.

What were those special siddhis or maayaavi powers which made him invincible?


texts: Why is Om believed as Pranav mantra? although humming sound Mmm.. in the AUM chant is the Pranav/moola mantra

texts:
Mmm, the humming sound of a bee, is the Pranava mantra. This is the sound of our Pranan or breathing. That's why it is called Pranava - the sound of breathing.
Why is this fact not preached?
Often when Srimad Bhagwad gita is preached, the below line is explained as

"pranavah sarva-vedesu"==
the syllable OM in the Vedic mantras

instead it actually means "the sound Mmm in the vedic mantra".***

Most importantly, sound is not even Om, it's AUM...., instead of simply Om!.


texts: Why Hindus kill animals for Goddess Mahakali In Nepal and India?

texts: Why Hindus kill animals for Goddess "Mahakali" in Nepal and India? God never want to kill any animals.


texts: I heard you do and that you must only offer purified food?


texts:
In chapter 3 of Bhagvat Geeta, Krishna says knowledge is more important than karma.

I could not understand that.

Can someone please explain me this?


texts: Quotes to prove similarity between Vedic Samhita and Upanishaic Vedantic Philosophy?

texts: Is Vedanta the conclusion of Vedic Samhitas? Can we proove Vedantic Philosophy from Vedic Samhitas, Brahmanas and Araynakas??


texts: How to maintain perfect Brahmacharya while sleeping?

texts: Swapna Dosh (Nocturnal emission) is a major problem in maintaining celibacy. What are the ways to eliminate it entirely?


texts: Will the scriptural statements about continuous creation be falsified upon liberation of all as per Vaishnavism?

texts: According to Vaishnava Vedanta, this world is not the place to stay. And the real goal is to reach Vaikuntham. If all the jivas in the world attain mukti, then does the scripture statements about creation again after pralaya have any meaning. Is there any need for lord to create this world again? Or some new jivas are created to keep this world running?


texts: Does hinduism also suggest shedding of karma and renunciation?

texts: I know about 4 ashram and 4 purusharth but does it somewhere suggest that we should only focus on moksha (as in jainism) and not on purusharth and ashram system.


texts: Was Seeta ji born as a blessing from Shiva?

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We know that Shri Rama took birth to rid the three worlds of the tyranny of Ravana. But I recently came across a verse in the Valmiki Ramayan that says that Seeta was also born for the same purpose!
Valmiki Ramayan Yuddha Kanda Sarga 94 mentions:

All the celestials together with Indra and others, got propitiated by Shiva the lord of destruction, with the ensign of a bull on his flag-staff and who destroyed the three strong cities built of gold, silver and iron in the sky, air and earth for demons. The gracious Shiva spoke the following words to the celestials: 'For your benefit, a woman will be born, for causing destruction of the demons.'
This Seetha, the destroyer of demons, employed by the celestials, will consume us along with Ravana, as in the past hunger consumed the demons."

My question is - Is the story detailed anywhere else in the Ramayana or is this claim corroborated in any other scripture?


texts: Has the neo-Vedanta school written a commentary on the Brahma Sutras?

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The most popular school of Hinduism is the neo-Vedanta school, which is a modern interpretation of Hinduism based on the teachings of Indian freedom-fighter Vivekananda, who incorporated many beliefs of Western philosophy into Hinduism.

Neo-Vedanta is considered unorthodox and heretical by the orthodox followers of Vedanta.

The tenets of neo-Vedanta are:

Belief that caste is determined by external behavior and not birth
Rejection of all scriptures other than the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita as man-made
Belief that all religions are equal
Anti-Brahminism, or hatred or aversion to Brahmins
Anti-Rishi. Vivekananda criticized Rishis like Vedavyasa by saying that he "cheated the poor shudras."
Anti-Vedic animal sacrifice
Incorporation of many western beliefs regarding morality, like the belief that all men have equal rights
Support of homosexual intercourse
Indifference to eating meat. It is well known that its founder, Vivekananda, was a meat-eater.
No strict adherence to scriptural injunctions and practices.

There are a lot of commentaries by neo-Vedanta followers on the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita, but are there any commentaries on the Brahma Sutras?

Given the above listed beliefs, I'm curious to know what they would say on sutras like "Shastra yonitvat," or "From shastra Brahman is known." Do they intrepret shastra to mean shastras of all religions like Christianity and Islam?

And what about the section in the Brahma Sutras called "Apashudradhikaranam", or "qualification of shudras", which says that Shudras are not qualified to meditate on the Brahma Vidyas?

Or do they reject the entire Brahma Sutras because it was authored by Vyasa, and Vivekananda thinks Vyasa has "cheated the poor shudras"?


texts: What is the significance of Ashadi Ekadashi?

texts: What is the significance of Ashadi Ekadashi (Shukla paksha)? What are we supposed to do on this day?


texts:
I want to know if there are any proofs or books I can read that prove brahman exists?preferably of the advaita variety,but dvaita is also good.

how do I know shunyata isnt true above brahman?any books I can read on this topic?


texts: There are lot of gods and saint in Hindu culture . But how many ?


texts:
Is there any specific quote or reference in Hindu scripture related to the behavior and lifestyle of young Lerner.

I understand that Sanatan Dharma is never about to-do and don't list but I believe there must be a fine guide of required attributes.


texts: What are the main theological differences between Hinduism and Jainism?

texts: I know Jains do not accept the authority of the Vedas. But what are the main theological differences between Hinduism and Jainism?


texts: What is the importance of Brahmacharya (Celibacy) in Hinduism?

texts:
Many saints and yogis practice Brahmacharya(Celibacy) for whole life. What are the benefits of Brahmacharya and how important is this practice according to Sanathana Dharma?

What are the rules to be followed in practicing this? What are the advises and steps to be followed in hindu texts/scriptures about this?


texts: "Cows are sacred" & at the same time "It's only a sinful soul which gets born as an animal" - How to deal with this apparent contradiction?

texts:
On one hand we have the cows considered as the most sacred in the scriptures. All deities, pilgrimages, Rishis are said to be found in it's body.

Giving it pain is considered as an offence. Killing it even a bigger offence. The five products (Panchagavyas) obtained from the cow are considered as most sacred and used in almost all Hindu rituals. Consumption of those products also considered in the scriptures to be the destroyer of various kinds of sins.

And, on the other hand, the soul must have done something sinful in the previous birth to get born as a cow. If the Karmas are higher on the merit side then the soul must have obtained a human body and not an animal body.

For example, a chapter of Vishnu Smriti says:

  Those who have committed a crime effecting loss of caste, enter the bodies of amphibious animals.
  Those who have committed a crime degrading to a mixed caste, enter the bodies of deer.
  Those who have committed a crime rendering them unworthy to receive alms, enter the bodies of cattle.

This leads us to an apparent contradiction. My question is how to reconcile?


texts: Which commentator interprets Gaudapada's word Chitta as Chaitanya?

texts:
In this lecture, Swami Paramarthananda, an Advaitin, discusses Adi Shankaracharya's refutation of Yogachara Buddhism in his Brahma Sutra Bhashya. He says that Yogachara Buddhism and Advaita may seem similar in that they both think that the external world is unreal, but the difference is that Yogachara Buddhists consider the external world to be a projection of the mind, whereas Advaitins consider the external world to be a projection of the Atma.

But he says that this sometimes gets confusing, because sometimes Advaitins also say the external world is a projection of the mind, thereby blurring the Advaita-Buddhism distinction.  As an example he cites verse 4.72 of Gaudapada's Mandukya Karika:

  cittaspandikamevedaṃ grāhyagrāhakavaddvayam |
  cittaṃ nirviṣayaṃ nityamasaṃgaṃ tena kīrtitam ||

  The world of duality, which is perceived to exist and is characterized by the subject—object relationship, is verily a movement of the mind. The mind, again, from the standpoint of Reality has no contact with any object. Hence it is declared to be eternal and unattached.

But he says that one commentator reconciles this by interpreting the word Chitta, which ordinarily refers to the mind, as Chaitanya or consciousness.  My question is, which commentator on the Mandukya Karika is Swami Paramarthananda referring to?

You can see what Adi Shankaracharya's Mandukya Karika Bhashya and Anandagiri's Tika say about this verse here; neither of them mention Chaitanya.  So I assume it must be some later commentator.


texts: Why Satyanarayan Puja is preferred for griha pravesh (house warming ceremony)?

texts: In griha pravesh(house warming ceremony) for new house I always heard about doing a Satyanarayana Puja. But why? Why only Satyanarayan Puja and is there any significance over any other type of puja? Is it mentioned in any scripture that we should do Satyanarayana Puja for griha pravesh? Is there any story behind it?


texts:
In this section of Mahabharata, the wife of Brahmana in Ekachakranagara is getting to convince her husband that she should be sacrificed. She says:

O revered sir, abandoning me thou mayest obtain another wife. By her thou mayest again acquire religious merit.

Does this (highlighted text) mean one loses religious merit (to perform religious activities, like say Homa, Yagna) after death of wife?


texts:
The story goes Gandhari removed her blindfold the night before Duryodhana's decisive encounter with Bhima. She poured all her power into her son's body in one glance, rendering Duryodhana's entire body, except his loins, hard as thunderbolt. Sri Krishna foiled Gandhari's plan by shaming Duryodhana because of which the latter covered his privates before meeting Gandhari.

My question is whether there is any scripture reference to the above story or is it just a folklore. If not folklore, then did Gandhari ever remove her blindfold ?


texts: I'm looking for Demographic data of Hindu population in Indonesia since the 1940's. A timeseries of % of Hindu population there would be ideal.


texts: How do the stories of Prahlada and Hanuman show invisible effects of visible causes?

texts:
The Paramathabhanga is a work by the Sri Vaishnava Acharya Vedanta Desikan which refutes rival schools of Indian philosophy, both inside and outside of Hinduism.  In this chapter of the Paramatha Bhanga, Vedanta Desikan refutes the Charvaka school, an atheistic school of Indian philosophy.  Here is what he says to refute the Charvaka argument that the law of Karma makes no sense because an invisible effect cannot come from a visible cause:

  If it be said that in case we accept the principle of adrishta, when there are visible ingredient, there should not be invisible effect (to which they give rise), (then we reply) since such is seen to be the case in the lives of Prahlada and Hanuman and others belonging to their kind, as also in the case of curses etc., it is acceptable to us also.

I'm interested in the part in bold.  My question is, what does Vedanta Desikan mean by saying that invisible effects arising from visible causes are seen in the stories of Prahlada and Hanuman?  Does he mean that their good deeds were rewarded?  Is he referring to Vishnu's acts of saving Prahlada from Hiranyakashipu?  And is he referring to Hanuman acquiring magical powers from Devas in his childhood?

Do any commentaries on the Paramathabhanga shed light on this?


texts:
When a Brahmin boy is 8 years old, he has to go through the Upanayana Samskara and after that he has to wear the Janeva (sacred thread in Marathi) and he is informed to offer Sandhya every day to Sun.

Why Brahmins are supposed to offer Sandhya everyday?


texts: What was the actual duration of Mahabharata battle?

texts: Battle of Mahabharata is a historical fact. There are differences in opinion about the duration of the battle. Want to know the duration thereof.


texts:
When a family member dies, generally every member of that family observes a 13-day mourning period called Suutak.

What is the significance of observing this period? meaning.. a person is not allowed to do prayers or Aarti or visit temple, but he/she can all other activities.

Do we have something mentioned in the Vedas or Upanishads about Suutak?


texts: What is the Mahapurusha Vidya recommended in the Uddhava Gita?

texts:
Most people are only familiar with the Bhagavad Gita, the conversation Krishna had with Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.  But this is not the only conversation that Krishna had concerning the proper way to live one's life; there's also the Anu Gita and the Uddhava Gita.  The Uddhava Gita is a conversation found in the Srimad Bhagavatam between Krishna and his relative Uddhava, shortly before Krishna departed the earth.

In any case, in one chapter of the Uddhava Gita, Krishna teaches Uddhava the proper way to worship him in idol form, and in particular he says this:

  The worshiper should bathe the Deity every day, as opulently as his assets permit, using waters scented with sandalwood, uśīra root, camphor, kuṅkuma and aguru. He should also chant various Vedic hymns, such as the anuvāka known as Svarṇa-gharma, the Mahāpuruṣa-vidyā, the Puruṣa-sūkta and various songs of the Sāma Veda, such as the Rājana and the Rohiṇya.

The Purusha Sukta is a famous hymn to Vishnu from the Rig Veda, but my question is, what is the Mahapurusha Vidya?  This book claims that it's just a name for the first verse of the Vishnu Purana.  Here is the Vishnu Purana's first verse:

  jitaṃ te puṇḍarīkākṣa namas te viśvabhāvana |

  namas te 'stu hṛṣīkeśa mahāpuruṣa pūrvaja ||

  Victory be to thee, Puńd́aríkáksha; adoration be to thee, Víswabhávana; glory be to thee, Hrishikeśa, Mahápurusha, and Púrvaja.

This verse does refer to the Mahapurusha name of Vishnu.  But is the author right that this is the Mahapurusha Vidya?  Or does it refer to something else?  Are there any other scriptures that use the term "Mahapurusha Vidya"?


texts:
People usually does fasts in 2 ways. Either they do fasting till certain days like 11 or 16 or 51 days (depending on whose fast is this) ect.

And some does fast without counting days. These are prople who planning to carry fasts for very long period that's why they don't count.

Now question is, If one doing fasts (in coutless way) and got some proplems or issues and he planning to skip fast for that day for certain reason, can he do that?

I mean, If one don't want to quit(by doing udyapana) fasting but instead just want to skip fast for one day. He/she don't want to do fast for some reason e.g. Fealing weak or any other reason. Skipping fast one day will do any harm if our fasting is without counting and without any sakalpa towards Lord?


texts: How do Dvait & Viśiṣṭādvaita explain Turiya?

texts:
Turiya is said to be non-dual state of being Brahman as mentioned in several Upaniṣad-s.
I would like to see their official take on Turiya? Do they also consider Turiya being a non-dual state where the subject & object infuses? In that case, how do they square that with their inherently dualistic philosophies?


texts:
According to Advaita is there any difference in the atman before entering maya and after exiting maya?

In other words, does the atman gain or lose anything e.g., knowledge?

Does it gain any knowledge after exiting the maya. Is there any change in it's nature?

Does it merge in God or Brahman or something?

I want to know about any change even minute that happens in the atman.

By atman I mean the "soul" that Vivekananda refers to as being "eternal and ever blissful".


texts: Why God (Viraat Purush) created Devatas to enjoy and Humans to suffer?

texts:
I always have this question in mind when I read Bhagawad-Gita. In the 11th chapter of Gita when Krishna shows Vishwaroopa, this means everything originated from Him. But why this difference that Devatas enjoy and Humans are made to suffer, when both Devas and Humans are originated from Him.

In Mrityuloka, whoever will come, cannot escape without some or the other sin. Why animals, humans and other creatures were created?

Is it that humans only evolve and one day become a Devata? The present Devatas one day, some time in the past, were humans?


texts: What type of vessel should be used for boiling water?

texts:
I want to cook "Ushna Udaka" , i.e boiled water. Most websites i find on googling mention "Stainless Steel" vessels. But i doubt stainless steel existed in the older days.
Looking for genuine answers, preferably with citations...
Namaskara !


texts: References of Sage Lagadh in scriptures and/or oral tradition

texts:
Sage Lagadh is the author of Vedang Jyotish, which dates back to atleast 1400 BCE.

I wanted to know where all, has he been mentioned in other scriptures of Sanatan Dharm and oral history.


texts: What are the similarities between Svabhavika Bhedabheda Vedanta and Advaita Vedanta philosophies?

texts:
As some of you might be knowing, the renowned Sri Vaishnava acharya, Ramanujacharya before becoming a Sri Vaishnava, was a disciple of a Vaishnavite named Yadava Prakasha who propounded the Svabhavika Bhedabheda philosophy and even wrote a commentary on the Vedanta Sutras based on it (which unfortunately, is lost). Ramanuja is known to have had frequent disagreements with him whenever Yadava Prakasha used to teach his philosophy to his students. One of the famous disagreements between the two were on Adi Shankaracharya's interpretation of a verse in Chandogya Upanishad where Shankara compared the colour of Ishwara's eyes with a monkey's nates:

  tasya yathā kapyāsaṃ puṇḍarīkamevamakṣiṇī
  tasyoditi nāma sa eṣa sarvebhyaḥ pāpmabhya udita
  udeti ha vai sarvebhyaḥ pāpmabhyo ya evaṃ veda ॥

  English Translation: Whose eyes are like blue lotus's, his name is ut, for he has risen (udita) above all evil. He also who knows this, rises above all evil.

  Adi Shankaracharya's commentary: "Kapyasa" is the "asa", seat, of the "Kapi", monkey; the term "asa" being derived from the root "asa", to sit, with the ghan affix. The term "Kapyasa" therefore stands for the part of the monkey's back on which it sits; so that when the lotus is spoken of as "Kapyasa", "monkey-seat", what is meant is that it is extremely bright (and red); so the eyes of the Solar Person also are bright red. Inasmuch as the Simile is an indirect one, - the lotus being likened to the monkey's seat, and the eyes being likened to the lotus, - it cannot be regarded as incompatible with the dignity of the subject.

You can read about the relationship between Yadava Prakasha and Ramanujacharya in detail here.

Now, before coming to my question, let me explain the basics of Yadava Prakasha's Svabhavika Bhedabheda Vedanta philosophy. According to Yadava Prakasha, the Jivatma is simultaneously both the same and different from Paramatma, and that this simultaneous sameness and difference is natural, not the product of an artificial constraint like Bhaskara's philosophy of Aupadhika Bhedabheda. Yadava Prakasha like most commentators holds the world as to be real and the Supreme Brahman to be Vishnu only and no other deity. Svabhavika Bhedabheda Vedanta philosophy like most other Vedanta philosophies does not subscribe to an impersonal Brahman. Moreover, moksha according to Yadava Prakasha simply means the attainment of Vaikuntha.

Now, as I have described in the earlier part of my question, Ramanuja had got into an argument with Yadava Prakasha on the Shankara's interpretation of a verse in the Chandogya Upanishad, my question is why did Yadava Prakasha teach the Chandogya Upanishad along with Adi Shankaracharya's commentary? Is Shankara's Advaita Vedanta philosophy similar to Yadava Prakasha's Svabhavika Bhedabheda Vedanta philosophy? From whatever I have gathered about Svabhavika Bhedabheda Vedanta philosophy, I haven't found anything similar to Shankara's philosophy. On the contrary, I find the two philosophies at opposite poles. What are the similarities between Advaita Vedanta and Svabhavika Bhedabheda Vedanta philosophies?


texts: How can consciousness and or Brahman be attached to maya?

texts: I am confused by the whole mechanism of enlightenment or self realization. If one's self is actually the universal self or brahman which is beyond maya how can it get attached to it?


texts: Marrying husband's brother during Dwapara and Kali Yuga

texts:
There are two related questions on this topic:

Was marrying brother's wife an accepted in the society of the Ramayana or pre-Ramayana era?
Is levirate marriage allowed in Hinduism?

First one is mainly focused on Ramayana and pre-Ramayana timings. Second question was marked as duplicate of first one. Second question is asking in general and not related to a specific timing.
This question is primarily focused on Dwapara Yuga and Kali Yuga.
Consider the following statement by Bhishma during a conversation with Yudhishthira

A woman in the absence of her husband, takes his younger brother for her lord;
[Section 8,  Anusasana Parva, The Mahabharata]

From the statement, it seems clear to me that accepting husband's brother as lord in the absence of husband is allowed for women during Dwapara yuga.
But, is there any other scriptural statement that either support or oppose such acceptance pertaining to Dwapara yuga?
What do scriptures say about it in Kali yuga?
Note: This is not at all related to the Niyoga dharma.


texts: So recently I got a four-faced Rudraksha which I am planning to wear on MahaShivaratri. But it is said that it should be first energized before wearing. How can I do that by myself?


texts: What is difference between living and non-living?

texts:
This question arises from general perspective that one should contemplate and final result is this nothing between God and us.
Could this be the case with non-living things which seem to concentrate on god more perfectly, and they seem to be super entity whose state humans try to approach. Are they those who have attained their final objective of existence?

To summarize:

Does a human becomes a non living(completely delved in nature) entity at the end of path showed by Hinduism?
If it is not so then what makes living different from their counterparts?

and

What is the state of entity(forgive brevity) which has completed the journey of the path shown by Hinduism?

My beliefs:

Please correct me if I'm wrong anywhere.

I feel at final(at end of journey to God) there's no emotion no sorrows no joy(which I mean different from bliss - which I believe is a state of stillness i.e. absence of any disturbance).

Please suggest appropriate tags


texts: What are the purposes of Vishnu's Vyuha avatars?

texts: The purposes of Shiva's Pancha Bramha Avatars are stated here. However, what are the purposes of Vishnu's Vyuha avatars


texts: Is Vaikuntha a physical realm in altogether a different dimension where Sriman Narayana exist,or is it a myth?

texts: There have been references about divine abodes of vaikuntha in Vishnu puran and Bhgavadam,does vaikuntha really exixts at first place ,if so what will be the day to day activities of vaikuntha vaasis ? Do they have time concept there ? Will they see Sriman Narayana daily ?


texts: I want to know about the history of Bhagwat Maha Purana. Was it written by someone or is it God's own words?


texts: Is it true that Adi SankarAcharaya cursed Hindus of Kerala?

texts: I read somewhere that Adi SankarAcharya cursed Keralite Hindus. Basically, the post claimed that dwindling numbers of Hindus in Kerala is due to Adi Sankara's curse to Kerala that the people there will be devoid of Vedas. I doubt that claim since Adi Sankara was Himself from Kerala and He debated for superiority of Vedas and Advaita. But still I want to know if Adi Sankara really cursed anyone.


texts:
I had purchased some land as an investment and then planned to clear all trees on the land to do some business, but now feeling bad about cutting down the trees.
Is cutting trees really a sin? I am ready to sow new trees for every tree cut at some other place - will this work as atonement?


texts: Why are there two versions of Chapter 1 - Verse 8 of Bhagavad Geetha?

texts:
As I read Bhagavad Gita As It Is 1st chapter from here (http://asitis.com/) I stopped at the 8th verse and switched to this site (www.bhagavad-gita.org) and noticed that 8th verse is different in both the sites so I posted this question immediately.

Srila Prabhupada's BG As It Is says:

  "bhavan bhismas ca karnas ca
  krpas ca samitim-jayah
  asvatthama vikarnas ca
  saumadattis tathaiva ca". (BG 1.8)

and bhagavad-gita.org says:

  bhavan bhishmas ca karnas ca
  krpas ca samittinjaya
  ashvatthama vikarnas ca
  saumadattir jayadratah (BG 1.8).

Notice that the 1st verse contains "tathaiva ca" at end, and the 2nd verse says "jayadratah" at the end. I checked other sites as well (you can find them online easily) and BG from different authors also use either of the words. So it seems like there are different versions of the Gita.

Are there really different versions/recension of the Gita? If not, then is it "tathaiva ca" at the end or "jayadratah"? Or, are both of them acceptable and authentic? If not, then which one is correct and how can we know it is authentic?


texts:
As the title suggests do we know who is the author of the four traditional Vedas namely Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Yajur Veda, Atharva Veda.

Also please suggest a good website for these books.


texts: Hindus and Buddhists celebrate Guru Purnima every year. What is the significance of celebrating Guru Purnima? Are there any specific rituals that are expected to be done during the day? Also, when does it occur?


texts: Comparison between Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva by each parts, qualities, astras etc.


texts: If Devas and Rishis are self-realized, then why do they act contrary to it?

texts:
According to the Bhagavad Gita, a self-realized person is one who has gone beyond fear, anger, hatred, jealousy, pain and pleasure, etc. and all dualities of the material world. AKA he is situated in Brahman and not disturbed by illusion or Prakriti.

In the Upanishads we see Devas teaching other people how to become self-realized: Indra teaches Pratardana, Varuna teaches Bhrigu about Brahman etc.

Assuming Devas are self-realized, why then do they and Rishis do things that are not characteristic of those who are self-realized? Indra seduces Ahalya, attacks Vrindavan because they didn't worship him, etc. Rishis curse other people when they get angry, etc.

I remember reading that this concern is also mentioned in the Brahma Sutras in chapter 3, but forgot where exactly. The response was that Devas and Rishis, although self-realized, act this way because they are in a position which requires them to.

Is this correct?


texts: Why do Hindus only count Umbra as the eclipse?

texts: Hindu calendar only includes Umbra as an eclipse. Penumbra (here B) can affect a wider area of place and last longer as well. Partial eclipse also occurs in the Penumbra. So why is only Umbra counted as an eclipse?


texts: What parts of Krishna's life do Bhagavatam, Mahabharata and Hari Vamsa cover?

texts: Do the time periods and stories overlap among these three scriptures?


texts: Can you name any mantras to be recited before studying?

texts: Any mantras that can increase concentration or absorption of knowledge?


texts: What is the most authentic form of yoga?

texts: There are so many different practices that people call yoga. What is the most authentic in terms of being supported by Hindu scriptures?


texts: Does Hanuma actually know Ravana's wife Mandodari by her name when he sees her the first time?

texts:
AFAIK, Valmiki as the writer of Ramayana, is describing the events of Ramayana exactly as the characters themselves perceive and experience those events. So he doesn't add anything more or anything less when he puts into words the thoughts, feelings or actions of those characters.

Given that, when Hanuma starts searching for Sita in Lanka and sees Ravana's wife Mandodari in Ravana's palace from a distance, he mistakes her for Sita because he's never seen Mandodari or Sita before.

And it doesn't appear that Hanuma was told about Ravana or his family by any vanara or rishi. Yet the translator of the following shlokha (51-52, Sarga 10, Sundara Kanda) says Hanuma actually saw Mandodari, in that, he actually knew her name. The original Sanskrit shlokha however only seems to be describing a feature, मन्द उदरीम् (manda udariim = soft-bellied), of the most prominent lady that Hanuma saw in Ravana's palace.

  मुक्ता मणि समायुक्तैर् भूषणैः सुविभूषिताम् |
  विभूषयन्तीम् इव च स्व श्रिया भवन उत्तमम् || ५-१०-५१
  गौरीम् कनक वर्ण आभाम् इष्टाम् अन्तः पुर ईश्वरीम् |
  कपिर् मन्द उदरीम् तत्र शयानाम् चारु रूपिणीम् || ५-१०-५२

  51;52. kapiH = Hanuma; mandodariim = (saw) Mandodari; charuruupiNiim = with a beautiful form; muktaamaNisamaamuktaiH = together with diamonds and pearls; suvibhuushhitaam well decorated; bhuushhaNaiH = by jewellery; svashriya = and with her self radiance; vibhuushhayantiimiva = as though decorating bhavanottamam = that great building; gauriim = with a fair complexion; kanakavarNaabhaam = and with a radiance like golden colour; ishhTaam = who was dear to her husband; antaHpureshvariim = the lady of the women in that gynaeceum; shayaanaam = sleeping; tatra = there.

  Hanuma saw Mandodari with a beautiful form together with diamonds and pearls, well decorated by jewellery and with her self radiance as though decorating that great building with a fair complexion and with a radiance like golden colour, who was dear to her husband the lady of women in that gynaeceum sleeping there. [Shlokha 51-52, Sarga 10, Sundara Kanda]

Questions:

So does Hanuma really know the name of Ravana's wife as "Mandodari" when he sees her for the first time? If not, is it a mere coincidence that Hanuma spots the predominant feature of Mandodari, which is her soft belly, which also happens to be the reason behind her name?
Is there a better translation of the above shlokha anywhere online that shows the correct meaning of those two words मन्द उदरीम् (manda udariim)?
Also, given that Hanuma hasn't spoken to very many people other than Sita during his search for her, can we assume that, throughout Sundara Kanda, Valmiki is only describing every new character that Hanuma encounters only by their features, but doesn't really refer to them by name in his shlokhas?


texts: Krishna Rushing at Bhishma With a Chariot Wheel

texts:
I do not properly understand the rationale behind Krishna chasing Bhishma with a chariot wheel during the Mahabharata war.

Since, Bhishma became unstoppable, Arjuna could have used the divine weapons acquired from Indra during his Swarga visit. Even, Arjuna possessed the formidable Pasupata astra of Shiva. Then, why Arjuna did not use all these against Bhisma??

And, Krishna had to take up the wheel to kill Bhishma?


texts: What is the significance of designing the courtyard?

texts:
I am not sure about North India, but in South India House wives draw a beautiful Rangoli (In south, muggulu)  in the courtyard (angan) of their house. Some women even use cow dung to design their courtyard.

Credit: blogspot.com

What is the significance of doing so? Are there any rituals to follow while designing the courtyard?


texts: Are all the 18 paurāṇika literature authentic?

texts:
Are all the 18 Purāṇas authentic?
Bhagavatam is interpolated thus, bhagavatam is unauthentic?
Devî bhagavatam is interpolated thus, Devî Bhagavatam is unauthentic?
Vishṇu Purāṇa lost some slokas for that Vishṇu Purāṇa is unauthentic?
Which Purāṇa is completely authentic, free from interpolation ?
Any universal scholarly consensus on the presence of a completely authentic
Purāṇa?


texts: Since when Sai got added to Hindu Dharma

texts:
During my childhood 1980s-90s SaiBaba was not very popular in north india. Gradually(1990s) I saw people started praying or putting his photographs.

Also, initially the Van with Sai Baba posters used to come as Sai is Avatar of Lord Shiva. After few years (2000) , I found people started praying him as "Jagannath" or "Sachhidananda" which is synonym for Lord Vishnu.

So , I have two questions:

a) Since When SaiBaba was incepted in Hindu Religion?

b) Is he Avatar of Lord Shiva or Lord Vishnu (Although None of the granthas talk about his incarnation/avatar) ?

I have read the below posts but still needs more clarification :

Sai Baba's association with Hinduism
What is the basis for worshipping Sai Baba? Are there are references to him in the Vedas or other Vedic literature?
Is Sai Baba of Shirdi really a God?


texts: According to guṇa-based varṇa system, can a Christian or Muslim be also a brāhmaṇa, kṣatriya, etc?

texts:
According to proponents of guṇa-based varṇa system (i.e., those that do not believe you are born into one specific Hindu varṇa), can a Christian or Muslim be also a brāhmaṇa, kṣatriya, etc., based on the guṇas they acquired during the course of their life?

For example, can a learned man and a practicing Muslim like the former/late President of India A. P. J. Abdul Kalam be called a brāhmaṇa?

Also, according to this system, are qualities (guṇas) that describe the 4 four varṇas are present in all individuals? I.e., can a brāhmaṇa behave like śūdra at times and vice versa?


texts:
We know that Vedas are the “TRUE ESSENCE OF LIFE”. Ancient India has produced many precious takeaways for the upcoming generations. From among them, the most important and sacred ones have been the Vedas. The Vedas have highlighted the major issues and concerns of life in a beautiful manner.

What are the major lessons of life to learn from the Vedas ?


texts: Do the founders of various Vaishnavite sects describe reaching transcendent states of being after which they became teachers?

texts:
For example, the Buddha's description of his enlightenment:
http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/hyderabad/2013/mar/14/nirvana-in-buddhas-words-458528.html

Let us try to understand the content of that realization in the words of the Master himself. In his very first discourse at Sarnath, Buddha expressed the content of that realization in these few simple words (Majjhima Nikdya, Sutta 26, adapted from J.G. Jenning’s translation):
‘There (at Uruvela) I settled, Bhikkhus, there being everything needed for effort. And being myself subjected to earthly existence, I perceived the wretchedness of what is subjected to earthly existence, and seeking the supreme peace of nibbanam not affected by earthly existence. Being myself subjected to decay, to disease, to death, to grief, (and) defilement, I attained the supreme peace of nibbanam not affected by decay, ---- disease, death, grief, (and) defilement.
‘And the knowledge (jnanam) now as a thing seen arose in me: “My liberation (vimutti) is established, separate existence” is terminated here; there is not now rebirth (punna-bbhavo).”
Continuing further, Buddha said (ibid., Sutta 36):
“Then I turned my mind to the knowledge of the destruction of the taints (asavas). I knew verily (yathabhiitam) (the four truths): “This is sorrow.” ...”This is the origination of sorrow.” ....”This is the cessation of sorrow.” ... I knew verily: “These are the taints (asavas).”
‘When thus I perceived and understood, my mind (cittam) was liberated from the taint of lust (kama-asava),.....the taint of individuality (bhava-asava); and the taint of ignorance (avijja-asava); and when I was liberated there arose in me the knowledge of my liberation. I knew: “separate existence is ended; the holy life is lived, what must be done is done; there is nothing beyond this.”
This is how Buddha described the content of his realization; and it can easily be mistaken for a passage in any one of the Upanishads. Destruction of the separate ego sense, cessation of birth, attainment of perfect purity and insight -- this is spiritual emancipation according to both Upanishads and Bhagavan Buddha. Both term it mukti or nirvana, a state which ensues when avidya, spiritual blindness, along with all its effects, is completely destroyed. Says the Mundaka Upanishad (II. 2. 8):
‘The knots of the heart are cut asunder, all doubts are dispelled, (the seeds of ) all actions get exhausted, when the supreme truth of Oneness is realized.’

Are there records of how the Vaishnavite teachers achieved their illumination that led them to become teachers?


texts: Difference between meditating in padmasana Vs shavasana?

texts:
I understand after going through few posts here that even though shavasana is not a preferred posture for meditation as the person may fall off to sleep, hence padmasana/siddhasana is the best asana. But my question is:

Provided the person does not fall asleep are the benefits of meditating in shavasana the same as padmasana/siddhasana, I mean he will achieve everything in the former asana that can be achieved using the latter ones?
Are there any other known drawbacks of meditating in shavasana other than sleep?
Mostly we find references/illustrations of sadhaks meditating in padmasana/siddhasana so just curious if there are any references anywhere that depicts the sadhak meditating in shavasana?


texts: What scriptures describe Draupadi being the reincarnation of Ketaki?

texts:
A story I read in Tales from the Mahabharata speaks of Draupadi being the previous birth of Daksha Prajapati's daughter Ketaki.

Ketaki decides to marry Lord Shiva and starts performing penances to please him. Parvati decides to test her devotion and disturbs her in the form of a cow. Ketaki curses it and tries to shoo it away. Parvati then comes to her real form and curses Ketaki to be born as a mortal and wed five men.

The second half of the story goes as described in Mahabharata of Indra and the golden lotuses but my question is about the first half.

So what scriptures talk of Draupadi being Ketaki, Daksha Prajapati's daughter? And of her penance to Lord Shiva and Parvati's curse?

Since most of the stories in the book do have some origin in scriptures I'd like to know if this story is true or not.


texts: Why did Lord Hanuman forget that he has special powers?

texts:
Somehow Lord Hanuman forgets that he could fly, and has other special powers until Jaambavant reminds him of them. How and why did this happen?

I've also heard that Lord Hanuman wasn't actually capable of flying but of jumping to high distances. Is this true?


texts: Is there a story where Goddess Parvathi hides the sun when Shiva is talking to her?A friend of mine insists that there is such a story.


texts: Ascetics have to deny themselves worldly pleasures, yet "kama" and pleasure is also seen as fundamental in the cycle of Hindu life. Why are there two separate paths to the same Moksha?


texts: How many Tantra (Sakta Agamas) texts are there?

texts: I am only talking about Sakta Agamas (Tantra). How many texts are there? I somewhere read the number is 64. But I am not sure. I do not have any reference also. For example, we had a clear idea of how many Vedas we have. What about Tantra? If possible, please mention the name of those texts.


texts: What makes Brahma muhurta special for sadhana?

texts:
Why is brahma muhurta given so much importance? What exactly is its significance as per shastras?
I heard that at the time of brahmamuhurta all rishis on earth release their spiritual energies and hence one's sadhana is easy at that time and more beneficial.
I want to know what reason shastras give about it.


texts: Did Krishna or Rama ever worship Narayana/Vishnu?

texts: It seems that incarnations of Lord vishnu always worship Lord shiva. Is it because it is embarrassing to worship themselves?Or because shiva being their kula Daivam? Or Is it because shiva is the same self in another form? And why not worship devi Durga?


texts: Where in Hindu scriptures does the concept of the five trees in Svarga come from?

texts: I'm intetested in knowing where the idea of the 5 trees in Svarga or Devaloka (Pancavriksha, Kalpavriksha) is described in the Hindu scriptues. I'm especially interested in the earliest occurences mentioning 5 trees. Thank you for your help in advance.


texts: According to Hindu philosophy, what are the flaws in Buddha's teachings?

texts:
What are the flaws in Buddhism according to Hindu philosophers?

Did Buddha really reject the Vedas and Hinduism?


texts: What does Samaveda verse 1.6.1.4.5 mean?

texts:
Sāmaveda 1.6.1.4.5 (the 527th verse of the Sāmaveda) reads:

  सोमः पवते जनिता मतीनां जनिता दिवो जनिता पृथिव्याः ।
  जनिताग्नेर्जनिता सूर्यस्य जनितेन्द्रस्य जनितोत विष्णोः ।।
  sōmaḥ pavate janitā matīnāṃ janitā divo janitā pṛthivyāḥ / janitāgnerjanitā sūryasya janitendrasya janitota viṣṇoḥ

which Ralph T. H. Griffiths translates as

  Father of holy hymns Soma flows onward, the father of the earth, father of heaven; Father of Agni, Surya's generator, the father who begat Indra and Vishnu.

Now I thought that soma was some kind of ritual drink that the Vedas mentioned. What does this verse mean that soma "begat" the gods and all of Creation? I understand that the Vedas ascribe great importance to soma -- what is the reason for this? The Vedas also almost speak of soma as a deity -- is the verse to be understood in that context? And why is the deity Soma never worshiped then? How can Vishnu be worshiped as Supreme, or for that matter, Shiva, if they are generated by Soma?


texts: How were the 10 heads of Ravana arranged?

texts:
Uttara Kanda (Also other Kandas) of Ramayan mentions Ravana having 10 heads and 20 arms.

Now 10 heads would make a body asymmetrical as there is no middle point.

Is there any mention in scriptures which tells us to which head among the 10 was Ravana's body attached to? Also Ravana is called Dasagriva meaning having ten necks. If such is the condition how were his necks attached ?

Were they in linear design or in circular design?
E.g., did his right side contain more heads or his left side (when he used to be in the form of 'Dashanan')?

Do any scripture mention about this ?


texts: Is the image of eggs at temples offensive?

texts:
I have recently read that a court in India has been asked to ban Pokémon Go for these reasons:

The high court in Gujarat state was asked to ban the game because its images of eggs in places of worship were "blasphemous" to Hindus and Jains.

I've read that eggs are not considered for consumption:
https://hinduism.stackexchange.com/a/2602

Moral Reason
I have been taught that one reason such eggs are not considered suitable for *
Vedic Reason
... overly stimulating ... not to be consumed as they lead to an unfit state of mind

However, the above question only addresses egg consumption; no eggs are consumed in the game.
Are images of eggs offensive?  Especially so at temples? If so why?


texts: Does god forgive those who are not aware of hindu traditions?

texts:
In recent days, when you ask someone that what is hinduism, there are many chances that you will get incorrect answers. This might be because the current education system that does not teach about religion or competitiveness among people to grow higher levels in career.

Was there any time earlier this kind of situation in history. I heard that before Adi Shankaracharya, people have so much of dilemma about what is hinduism exactly, but he raised to clear all their questions and taught them many things about religion. One more scenario is that the Lord Krishna told to Arjuna that he given the gita information to Lord Surya at first but as time lapsed, everyone forgot, until he gave that information to Arjuna.

What will happen to those who does not follow hindu principles because of poor knowledge of hindu rituals. Does god forgive them as they are not aware of these hindu principles. I think governments must take steps to educate their people about their religion to create good people in society like our kings did in the past.


texts:
Some folks on this site are saying:

  This term was invented by Western Christian orientalists to denigrate the Hindu religion...
  Paul Hacker coined Neo-Vedanta for spread of Christianity and obviously Wikipedia has Western bias...

but Wikipedia says:

  The term "Neo-Vedanta" appears to have arisen in Bengal in the 19th century, where it was used by both Indians and Europeans. According to Halbfass the term was invented by a Bengali, Brajendra Nath Seal (1864–1938), who used the term to characterise the literary work of Bankim Chandra Chatterjee (1838–1894).

So was 'neo-vedanta' first used by a resident Indian or a European/foreigner?


texts: Can we meditate on Lord Shiva during Sutak period?

texts:
Sutak is the period of abstention observed by the Hindus after birth or a death of a family member.

Can we mediate on Lord Shiva with Panchakshari Mantra during Sutak period?


texts: Is an evil, but devoted, person more valued by the Gods than a good, but an atheistic, person?

texts:
The example of Ravana comes to mind, because he was a Bhakta of Prabhu Shiva.
It seems like an awful lot of terrible people, like Ajamila, are forgiven just due to their devotions, and their sins are forgiven.
However, at the same time, good people, who might be atheists, suffer a lot, simply because they are atheists.
At the end of the day, is it just devotion that counts, and not individual actions (be they good or bad)?


texts: Which scripture is the source of Naama-Aparaadha?

texts:
According to Srimad-Bhagavatam, chanting of Hari-Naama destroys all sins in the age of Kali.

But, the Gaudiya Vaishnava Literature states that no result of Hari-Naama is obtained if one incurs 'Naama-Aparaadha'.

This list of such Aparaadhas mentioned is so delicate that it is impossible for a common man to do Naama without Naama-Aparadha.

Which scripture first mentions these Naama-Aparaadhas?


texts: Who is Lord Shiva in religion that grew out of Hinduism?

texts: As Buddhism grew, a number of Hindu deities were incorporated into Buddhism. For example, Saraswati became Benzaiten in Japan. Did this happen with Lord Shiva? If so, what name is he called in Asian cultures outside of India?


texts: What are the important texts of Gaudiya Vaishnavism?

texts:
I want to study Gaudiya Vaishnavism in deep. So I want to know the principal texts of Gaudiya Vaishnavism. I already know Bhagavatam enjoys great prominence. Here I am asking about texts by acharyas which are written to establish the school. I am interested in knowing the works written till 18th century only.

Providing an English translation or Hindi translation or both translations is appreciated.


texts:
Here is what the Manusmriti 11.41 says:

  If a Brāhmaṇa who has set up the fires neglects them wilfully, he
  shall perform the ‘Cāndrāyaṇa’ penance for a month; as his offence is
  equal to the offence of killing a hero.—(41)

Here is the verse in Sanskrit:

  agnihotryapavidhyāgnīn brāhmaṇaḥ kāmakārataḥ |  cāndrāyaṇaṃ caren
  māsaṃ vīrahatyāsamaṃ hi tat

Now, vira means 'hero', and hatya means 'killing', so virahatya means 'killing of a hero'.

But my question is, what does 'hero' mean in the context of this sin?


texts: Valmiki Ramayana translation, word by word

texts:
Does anyone know of a good, complete translation of the Valmiki Ramayana, with each word explained?

I have found two such translations online, but both are incomplete.

Valmikiramayan.net stops with Yuddha Kanda, while this has only the first five kandas, ending with Sundara Kanda. I desperately need a translation, preferably a modern one, in prose.


texts: Is there any hidden meaning behind this verse?

texts:
I have been chanting Hanuman Chalisa since childhood, but what makes me wonder is that, why there is the verse -

  buddhi heen tanu janike sumirahu pawankumar,
  bal buddhi vidhya deu mohi harhu kalesh vikar

  बुद्धिहीन तनु जानिके सुमिरौं पवन-कुमार ।
  बल बुधि बिद्या देहु मोहिं हरहु कलेस बिकार ॥

Isn't that offensive for lord Hanuman?


texts:
What is that sloka which says Tirthas reside in our right ear?

It is said that when we excrete then our whole body becomes impure but even then our right ear remains pure.

The reason for this is that all holy pilgrimages and rivers (like Ganga etc) reside there.

That is the reason we touch our right ear 3 times after doing pranayama.

I'm looking for that sloka.


texts: Which smṛtis (dharma śāstras) are to be followed in Kali-yuga?

texts:
Which smṛti or smṛtis (Manu, Parāśara, Yājñavalkya etc.) are to be followed in Kali-yuga§?

The Parāśara smṛti supposedly mentions that it is meant for Kali-yuga. Do we have similar statements in other smṛtis about the yuga in which they are to be followed?

Can we follow multiple smṛtis at the same time, in other words, can we follow a smṛti even after the yuga it is meant for has completed?

§ Some people contest that we are not in Kali-yuga but Dwapara-yuga but for the sake of this question, assume that we are in Kali-yuga.

P.S: If you just want to state your opinion just leave a comment under the question. Please don't try to answer citing blogs. I'm mainly looking for answers backed by scripture. Answers can also be opinions of an āchārya or a guru.


texts: Does Karma of parents affect their children?

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I would like to know if the Karma of parents has any effect on their children?

Or are they independent and have to realize their own Karma (prārabdha/sañcita)?


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Bhakti is intense devotion and supreme love for God. There is no expectation of anything in Bhakti marga. This higher feeling is indescribable in words. It has to be sincerely experienced by the devotee (Bhakta).

As in one of the Pravachan, said that there are the nine different ways of Bhakti and the five kinds of Bhavas in bhakti. The nine modes of Bhakti are the ways in which a devotee attains the Supreme Ideal of life. A devotee can take up any of these paths and reach the highest state. I only know about Atmanivedana (absolute surrender to the Lord).

My questions on this:

What is the Navavidha Bhakti(The nine modes of Bhakti)? Is there any examples who attained supreme god from these 9 ways of bhakti?
What is the Bhavas? and What are it's five types?

I heard that about Navavidha Bhakti has already stated in Srimad Bhagvatam.

In which canto of Srimad Bhagvatam states about Navavidha Bhakti and Bhavas?
Is there any Spiritual book (Of any saint) which explains about Bhakti marg for more detail?


texts: What are the differences among Hath Yoga vs Kriya Yoga vs Raja Yoga?

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Often these terms are used in same context & create confusion. May be 2 of them are synonymous.

What are the difference among them?

Extra Qn: PrANAyAma of today's time, made famous by modern day Patanjali yoga (Baba Ramdev) belong to which category?


texts: Did Vivekananda prophesy he would die before the age of 40? Why didn't he prolong his life through yoga?

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I heard that Swami Vivekananda predicted he would not live beyond 40. Is this true? What were his exact words in this regard?

Also, since he was a master practitioner of yoga, what reasons (if any) did he offer for not prolonging his life through yoga?


texts: Where in scriptures do we find this mantra 'Aum Rudraya Namaha'?

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I would like to know if the following mantra is there in the vedas or other scriptures? If yes then please do share the details.
Aum rudraya namaha

Translation
I prayerfully bow
To the One who is the Remover
Of all our earthly sorrows.


texts: Is appearance and divinity of Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu foretold in Garuda Purana?

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Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is regarded as incarnation of Lord Krishna by Gaudiya Vaishnava sect. Lord Chaitanya was born in Navadvipa Mayapur in west Bengal state of India in 15th century.
He spread the Sankirtan movement;Congregational chanting of Holy Name of Krishna:
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare/ Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare.
This site mentions a lot of scriptural refernces confirming the divinity of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
I'm interested in knowing the exact source(chapter and verse number with reference) of these following verses.

aham purno bhavisyami
yuga-sandhyau visesatah
mayapure navadvipe
bhavisyami sachi sutah

meaning:

I will take birth as the son of Sachi [bhavisyami sachi sutah], in
Navadvip-Mayapur [mayapure navadvipe]. I will come in my complete
spiritual form in the first part of Kali-Yuga.

kaleh prathama sandhyayam lakshmi- kanto bhavisyati
daru-brahma-samipa-sthah sannyasi gaura-vigrahah

meaning:

In the first part of Kali-Yuga, the Supreme Personality of Godhead
will come in a gold-like form. First He will become the husband of
Lakshmi [Srimati Lakshmi Devi, Lord Chaitanya's first wife]. Then He
will become a sannyasi, near Lord Jagannatha who will appear in a
divine wooden form.

Which Section of Garuda Purana has these above verses? I could not find them in Garuda Purana.


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I came across this article by Steven J. Rosen on the inspiration from Hindu itihasas for the Star Wars series. The following claim caught my attention.

  Arjuna, too, in the Mahabharata, is said to engage in many battles while in outer space.

It is well known that Vimana battles find frequent mention in the puranas, but is it mentioned anywhere that Arjuna fought in outer space? I am assuming it is a vague reference to other Lokas rather than outer space.


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Could someone shed some light on the earliest we know when the Vedas were taught? Also at what point in time they were written down?

I'm aware they came from Brahman itself and were memorized and given from Guru to Disciple for a long time till at some point they were written down.


texts: Why does the Todala Tantra describe worshiping Nilakantha as sinful?

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Just like Vaishnavas follow Pancharatra Agamas and Shaivites follow Shaiva Agamas, Shakta follow Shakta Agamas, aka Shakta Tantras.  (I discuss an exception which proves the rule here.) One such Shakta Agama is the Todala Tantra.  In Patala 5 of the Todala Tantra, Shiva tells Parvati about methods of worshiping Shiva.  But in the course of doing so he makes one interesting prohibition:

  Devi, one should never meditate on the deva with poison in his throat in the Kali yuga.  If you want to perish, if you desire madness, you gain it by worshiping Nilakantha.  If someone does the puja or actions of Nilakantha, it is like slaying me.  Maheshani, if a fool should commit the sin of performing this prohibited action, he is a very wicked person. His son, wife and wealth are destroyed, no doubt, if he should do puja of the deva with poison in his throat. In this world, he becomes poverty-stricken and after death is reborn as a pig.  If he should do purascarana of Nilakantha's mantra, he must certainly die within a fortnight.

My question is, why does the Todala Tantra prohibit the worship of Nilakantha during the Kali Yuga?  For those who don't know, Nilakantha is a famous name of Shiva, referring to the fact that Shiva's throat turned blue when he drank the Kalahuta poison.  So it's strange that he'd say "If someone does the puja or actions of Nilakantha, it is like slaying me." when he is Nilakantha.

I don't think this is a case of a Shakta text discouraging worship of a rival god, because this entire chapter of the Todala Tantra is devoted to worshiping Siva.  Could this be related to Bhrigu's curse on Shiva that he can only be worshiped in Linga form, which I discuss in my answer here?  That happened shortly before the story of Venkateshwara, which would align with the Kali Yuga timing mentioned in the quote.


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Why did vedas were revealed in sanskrit.
It would be easy if the Vedas were revealed in a different and easier language.


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I am very sure and believe that the previous birth sins will follow a person in the next birth. Hence, due to sins committed in the previous births, some of the couples don't have children in this birth.

I need to know what they will have to do as a remedy/parigaram as per Hinduism? Its also called like yaagam and homam.

My question- What are the recommended remedies for childless couples who are eager?

P.S: I am not looking for "please visit the doctor" kind of advice. So, please excuse.


texts: Who is Chamunda and Chandika? Are they separate entities? I recently read Durga prayers, so I guess Chandika is incarnation of durgamata. and Ravana asked boon from arvatimata to protect lanka as chamunda as per serial of sankat mochan mahabali hanuman. No guarantee for veracity. Are they different?


texts: What is Punnama Naraka? How souls will be liberated from that Naraka?

texts: Heard of the Naraka called Punnama. Is there any description of how the Naraka will look like? How the soul in that Naraka can be liberated? What are the ways to avoid that Naraka?


texts: How can the Vedas be eternal when it has authored verses?

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How can the Vedas be authorless when it has authored speech? For example in the Chandogya Upanishad:

The Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) both heard these words, and said: 'Well, let us search for that Self by which, if one has searched it out, all worlds and all desires are obtained.' Thus saying Indra went from the Devas, Virokana from the Asuras, and both, without having communicated with each other, approached Pragâpati, holding fuel in their hands, as is the custom for pupils approaching their master. They dwelt there as pupils for thirty-two years. Then Pragâpati asked them: 'For what purpose have you both dwelt here?'

The Upanishads are full of conversations like this. So how can it be said that the Vedas are eternal when it consists of authored speech?


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I get confused many times whether Dhritrashtra and Gandhari had 100 sons or just 99 sons with one daughter.

The 100th son was Yuyutsu who wasn't Gandhari's son but her maid's.

What's the truth? Were Kauravas 100 brothers or only 99?


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I just completed reading Bhagavad Gita. I used this publication to read Bhagavad Gita. I really find this publication a truly convincing.

I want to start reading Vedas. I started searching online but could not identify which is the right publication for this. Can anyone tell:

What should be the sequence to read Vedas?
Which is the right publication for Vedas?


texts: Can anyone clarify as to why this Rig Vedic mantra mentions Gods differently?

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There was another question on the following topic.  However, my question is different.
Which shloka or scripture states that there are 33 crores of Hindu gods?

Rig Veda III.20.5

dadahikrāmaghnimuṣasaṃ ca devīṃ bṛhaspatiṃ savitāraṃ cadevam | aśvinā
mitrāvaruṇā bhaghaṃ ca vasūn rudrānādityāniha huve ||
I call on Savitar the God, on Morning, Bṛhaspati, and Dadhikrās, and
Agni, On Varuṇa and Mitra, on the Aśvins, Bhaga, the Vasus, Rudras and
Ādityas.

The 33 Gods were mentioned here, as Vasus, Rudras and Ādityas and 2 Aswins.

In Rig Veda IV.1.2 Varuna was mentioned as the brother of AGNI and thus he was an Aditya.

As such, O Agni, bring with favour to the Gods thy Brother Varuṇa who
loveth sacrifice, True to the Law, the Āditya who supporteth men, the
King, supporter of mankind.

In the mantra Rig Veda III.20.5, apart from 33 Gods, Agni,  Varuṇa and Mitra, who were already included in the list, were mentioned.
Why?


texts: Why do Atma and Parmatma split if they are one after all?

texts: As per Advaita philosophy, the ultimate goal of an Atma is to merge into its source, the Parmatma just like drops of water merge into the ocean but my question is how and why do Atma and Parmatma split in the first place?


texts: What are some good books to read on life, death, afterlife, etc in Hinduism?

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By good books, I am looking for an interpretation of scriptures that is accessible to a normal audience. Does anyone have any suggestions?

PS: Please let me know if this is out-of-scope for discussion here.

Related questions:

English translation of complete Garuda Purana especially this.

Other resources:

Bhagavadgita: 8. The Yoga of Imperishable Brahman


texts: Who are the Havirdhanas mentioned in RIgveda?

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Rigveda Book 10 Verse 13 is devoted to the Havirdhanas and goes something like this:

I yoke with prayer your ancient inspiration: may the laud rise as on the prince's pathway. All Sons of Immortality shall hear it, all the possessors of celestial natures.

When speeding ye came nigh us like twin sisters, religious-hearted votaries brought you forward. Take your place, ye who know your proper station: be near, be very near unto our Soma.

Five paces have I risen from Earth. I follow her who hath four feet with devout observance. This by the Sacred Syllable have I measured: I purify in the central place of Order,

He, for God's sake, chose death to be his portion. He chose not, for men's good, a life eternal They sacrificed Bṛhaspati the Ṛṣi. Yama delivered up his own dear body.

The Seven flow to the Youth on whom the Maruts wait: the Sons unto the Father brought the sacrifice. Both these are his, as his they are the Lords of both: both toil; belonging unto both they prosper well.

From the above verses it becomes clear that the appellation is meant for TWO people, most likely female, and they are perhaps offered in oblation. There are various interpretations of these but I want to know who exactly are the Havirdhanas according to scriptures.


texts: It is said in shrimad bhagvat that lord krishna is the greatest lord of all and he is living in tenth dimension but lord vishnu is in 6th dimension and krishna is incarnation of vishnu so how it is possible ??


texts: What was the story of sage Kandu killing a cow following his father's words?

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Rama is known as embodiment of Dharma. He followed his father's words and went to exile for 14 years. When Rama was ordered to leave the city to leave to forest, his mother Kaikeyi and his brother Lakshmana try to console him to leave Ayodhya. For this, Lord Rama answers taking many examples from ancient history where following father's commands is glorified and called as dharma. While he was giving examples, he names a sage Kandu who killed a cow according to his father's words.

  Ṝṣiṇā ca pitur vākyam kurvatā vrata cāriṇā |
  gaur hatā jānatā dharmam kaṇḍunā api vipaścitā || 2-21-30 (Sarga 21 Ayodhya Kanda)

  "A sage called Kandu, who knew righteousness, who performed religious vows and who was a learned man, killed even a cow, acting as per his father's words"

Vishnu Purana (Amsha 1 adhyaya 14) gives the story of sage Kandu about his penance to Lord Vishnu. This penance was disturbed by Indra by sending an apasara Pramlocā. Brahma Purana purvabhaga (first part) has a continuation to this story where he goes to Purushottama kshetra and also does a eulogy to Vishnu for expiation of sins committed. But there was no mention of him killing cow following father's words.

What is the story where he killed a cow following his father's orders?


texts: Brahmarandhra and the Jewel in the crown is it myth or is it real?

texts: The entrance and descent of the Atman into the phenomenal world via man is through Brahmarandra and the Sushumna tunnel of Maha Kundalini Sakti the major nadi that ends in the Kundalini chamber. In time like the lotus the seed grows through the so to speak - impure land then impure and pure land then finally into the pure land and fulfilment. Man when fully matured and purified is also said to have opened a thousand petal lotus on his head, the sahasrara chakra as displayed on the iconography of Buddha - the awakened one. From Brahmarandhra a jewel is born. Do Hindu scriptures varify this jewel and if so what is its color and its atributes?


texts: Can panchadashi mantra chanted without initiation?

texts: Some say it can be chanted without initiation and some say it can't be. Please resolve this query of mine.


texts: Can I postpone death i.e. increase the lifespan of a person using a mantra?

texts: Is there any mantra, which, when recited, increases the lifespan of person? If so, can I recite it for the longevity of my family members'?


texts: If Bad Karma for Killing a Insect is Very Small then how Bhisma suffered Bed of Arrows for Piercing a Butterfly or a Snake?

texts:
EXPLANATION

Bhisma laid in Bed Of Arrows due to his Bad karma in his past lives by Piercing a Butterfly.
As he pierced the Butterfly In Return he got Pierced by Arrows or a Snake that was put into Thorns .
Bad Karma for Killing a Insect is Less when compared to harming a Human.
Bhisma was a Bramacharya,Great Warrior,Dharma Follower and would had Good Karmas in Great Level.

QUESTION :

If Bad Karma for Killing a Insect is Very Small then how a Great Dharma person like Bhisma would be Affected by Bed of Arrows ?
Why Insects Killing are compared to be Less as compared to humans ?


texts: Didn't the Sati practice exist in India?

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There's a YouTube channel called FMF, which makes videos on Indian culture and Hinduism. Recently one of its videos focused on the Sati practice.

here's the link to that video. It will also be beneficial if read the comments to that video.
  The video is narrated in hindi.

The narrator of the video argued that the "wife burning" practice actually was never practiced in India and was made up the british rulers. And real sati did not involve wife burning and was something else.

His arguments are as follows:

If the wife burning practice actually existed, how come it was completely abolished as soon as a law was passed to illigalize it. Laws were passed to abolish child marriage but it continues  to exist. How come this one practice of wife burning got abolished as soon as a legal ban was implemented on it.
Some of the the Europeans practiced a "witch burning" ritual, in which a woman who was believed to be a witch was burnt in full public view and the britishers inserted this practice  into the real sati and came up with a non-existant practice.
Sati was actually a practice that did not involve burning a woman or hurt her in anyway, but it was...( i didn't understand properly from there).

Now what I don't understand is if the "wife burning" practice never existed in India, then why was Raja Ram Mohan Roy so much against the practice?

Now what I want to know is:

Is there any evidence that can prove the existence of the wife burning practice?
If sati wasn't a wife burning practice what was it?
If sati did not exist, what was Raja Ram Mohan Roy against?
Are there any hindu texts that advocate or support the wife burning practice?


texts: From what tantric book is this illustration from?


texts: Why did some Hindu gods behave helpless just like human beings?

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No offence, but;

Why did Shiva have an extra-marital affair with Mohini and beheaded his own son Ganesh by mistake like a human, being a supreme god?
When Rama, the incarnation of the god Vishnu, lost his wife, he did not get her back with supernatural, authoritative power. He had to fight for her (although he did many other things with supernatural power). In the battle, when his brother got injured, Rama was helpless until a sage prescribed a Himalayan plant for his treatment. Rama, though he was god, was helpless to procure the plant; so Hanuman flew to the Himalayas and got the plant. Sita, Ram's wife offered vows to Ganga while praying for Ram's safety. When Rama wanted to kill Bali, a bad guy, he had to use stealth because Vali had a boon that he could draw half his opponent's power to himself. Rama could not nullify this boon. Similarly, Rama could not prevent Ravana's 10 heads from rejoining themselves to his neck whenever Rama beheaded him. Being a supreme incarnation of god why he did he fail to do all these things?
Even in Mahabharata, Krishna behaves like a normal human being not using any supernatural powers. Why?

What was god's intention in doing all these things?
What is god's message to us from all his incarnations?


texts: What should be the minimum quantity of food that can be offered to God?

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What is the minimum quantity of food, recommended scripturally, that can be offered to God? Does the quantity varies : Both in normal daily pújã and the occasional big pújã?
Does the kind and quantity of food also varies as per the nature and attributes of the deity too?
How about, any difference between offering food (bhoga - भोग) at one's own home and that at a temple?
Should offerings be always proportional to one's own financial capacity or status?
Should one offer the same amount of food that one eats?
What are the general acceptable beliefs on this whole concept of offering (भोग / नैवेद्य), as per scriptures?


texts: What scriptures describe worms born from honey?

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As I discuss in this question, by far the most popular school of Hindu philosophy is the Vedanta school, which bases its tenets on the doctrines laid out in the Brahma Sutras, a work by the sage Vyasa that summarizes and systematizes the philosophical teachings of the Upanishads. (You can read the Brahma Sutras here.) In any case, in Adhyaya 2 Pada 1 Sutra 6 of the Brahma Sutras, Vyasa says this:

dṛśyate tu
But it is seen.

Let me explain what this means. One of the tenets of the Vedanta school is that Brahman is both the material cause and the efficient cause of the Universe, i.e. both the source and the operator of the Universe. But an objection is raised, how can Brahman be the source of the Universe of Brahman is conscious and the Universe is unconscious? Vyasa responds that actually it is seen in real life that sometimes you have cause-and-effect situations where one thing is conscious and the other thing is unconscious.  I discuss one example given by commentators, that of scorpions born from cow dung, in my question here.  But I'm interested another such example.
Here is what the Sri Vaishnava commentator Ramanujacharya says in this section of his Sri Bhashya:

The 'but' indicates the change of view (introduced in the present Sûtra). The assertion that Brahman cannot be the material cause of the world because the latter differs from it in essential nature, is unfounded; since it is a matter of observation that even things of different nature stand to each other in the relation of cause and effect. For it is observed that from honey and similar substances there originate worms and other little animals.

And here is what the Gaudiya Vaishnava commentator Baladeva Vidyabhushana says in this excerpt of his Govinda Bhashya:

The word tu (but) is used here to dispel doubt. The word na (not), taken from the previous sutra, should be understood in this sutra also. Someone may say: "Because He is different in nature, the Supreme Personality of Godhead cannot be the ingredient from which the material universe is made." The answer is given: "Because it is many times seen that there is a difference between things and the ingredients of which they are made, it cannot be said that the Supreme Personality of Godhead cannot be the ingredient of which the material universe is made." The material universe is made from the Supreme Personality of Godhead, just as many things are manifested from sources very different in nature, just as worms come from honey, as elephants, horses, and other animals come from the kalpa-druma tree, and as gold and other things come from the cintamani jewel.

My question is, what scriptures say that worms can be born from honey? Because it seems to have been common knowledge in ancient India.
This is similar to my questions here and here, which are about other phenomenon that ancient Indians apparently took for granted but which seem totally foreign to our experience today.


texts: Does the Swaminarayan sect truly not differentiate between Shiva and Vishnu?

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According to Wikipedia, the Swaminarayan sect (a subsect in Sri-Vaishnavism) does not differentiate between Shiva and Vishnu:

  Unlike most other Vaishnavite schools such as those of Ramanuja, Madhva and Chaitanya, Swaminarayan, although leaning in preference towards Vishnu/Krishna, did not differentiate between Vishnu and Shiva; moreover, he followed a Smarta approach (scripture-sanctioned deities are viewed as different manifestations of the same Brahman) by instructing his followers to venerate all five deities of the Panchayatana puja with equal reverence.

Is Wikipedia correct?


texts: If Budha is avatar of Vishnu, why he created Buddhism?

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Why Lord Budha did not follow Lord Krishna if they both are Lord Vishnu avatars.

Why they both came up with different paths.Did Budha opposed Bhagavadgeeta ?


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This is a third question in a series of questions essentially about being able to see the Atman.

In the previous question I basically asked if being able to see (experience) the divinity of the Atman is something that is considered natural for most people, or if it is considered something that most people are initially blind to; and if they are blind to it, how hard is it considered to get them to see that divinity in their inner world?

According to @SwamiVishwananda:

  All people are initially blind to it, it is not natural. Yoga is going against what is natural. What is natural is to remain stuck in samsara. How hard it is depends upon your own efforts in that direction.

First, you are welcome to give a different opinion or expand on Swami Vishwananda's point of view.

Second, I would like to ask the following (more detailed version of the previous questions):

Suppose a state of being, where one is able to see, naturally and without effort, a divine nature in his consciousness, a watching without a watcher which seems unchanging and ever present, and of a divine and utterly mysterious nature; and suppose that this ability (to see it) seems to be stable over months and years, and that this seeing is not meant in the sense of a deduction of the intellect or a religious emotion or a belief in something transcendent, but rather that this phenomenon is experienced directly and is the most apparent and undeniable phenomenon in his consciousness.

Also suppose, that such a person can use the intellect to reason that this evident mysterious nature of his consciousness may be a general quality of reality and possibly even the nature of all reality, nevertheless in respect to the external (material) world around him, that knowledge is only intellectual or religious.

That is, his knowledge is a direct experience in respect to his internal world (his consciousness) but intellectual in respect to the external world, the world of "material" phenomena, trees, planets, etc...

Finally, suppose that this individual is still susceptible to anger, selfishness, and attachment and misery.

Is that state consistent with Hinduism?
How is that state called or referred to in Hinduism?

Note, that I mean state in the sense of a stage of spiritual evolution rather then a state of meditation.


texts: What does Vishishtadvaita Vedanta say about hallucinations?

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To begin with first, illusions and hallucinations are different.

An illusion is a:

  a distortion of the senses, revealing how the brain normally organizes and interprets sensory stimulation.

while a hallucination is a:

  perception in the absence of external stimulus that has qualities of
  real perception.

A hallucination is basically perception of objects that do not exist.

But Vishishtadvaita Vedanta believes that you cannot perceive unreal objects, but only real objects, however limited that perception might be. For example, mistaking a rope for a snake at night or thinking pearls are silver are actually illusions: perceptual distortions of real objects. A rope has "snake-like" qualities, and due to limited perception, you see the rope as a snake, but upon closer inspection, you see it's just a rope.

A hallucination would be experiencing a completely unreal object that cannot be explained through an illusion. For example, some people who take large doses of drugs claim they can see and talk to people who don't actually exist for the duration of the drug intoxication. They claim that while intoxicated, these people are indistinguishable from real people. They say these people aren't real because undrugged people near them say there is actually no one, and also because these fake people vanish when the drug wears off.

But Vishishtadvaita Vedanta gives good reasons for why we can't perceive unreal objects.

My question is, are these experiences actually hallucinations or elaborate illusions? If they are illusions, what real object would be mistaken for an actual person?

If they aren't illusions, then is the drug allowing them to see things that they otherwise wouldn't? Could they be seeing ghosts or spirits? They are known to cause people to see things and also have the power to change forms/shapeshift. If this is the case, why do ghosts only appear when people are intoxicated with drugs?

EDIT: Could it also be that "hallucinations" is actually the state between wakefulness and dreaming? The Brahma Sutras give 5 states of consciousness: waking, dream, sleep, coma, and God realization. So in these drug-induced trips, could it be that the individuals are awake, but also dreaming, and they combine their dreams with wakeful consciousness, leading to a hallucinogenic trip?

EDIT 2: In Ramanujacharya's Sri Bhashya, this is what Ramanuja says in the Mahasiddhanta part, section 11 All Knowledge Is of the Real:

  Brahman alone is the creator of everything in this world, be it in the waking or in the dream state. The waking state is experienced by all souls but the dream world is experienced by the dreaming individual alone as it is meant for him alone and is created by the Lord as a fruit of that particular individual's merit or demerit. Similarly in the waking state also certain things are created by the Lord as are experienced by all, while certain other things are created in such a way as to be perceived only by particular persons and to last for a limited time only, and it is this difference between objects of general perception and objects of perception of particular beings, which makes the difference between things sublating and things sublated. Thus all perceptions are real and all knowledge is real and there is nothing like unreal object or wrong knowledge.

Is Ramanuja hinting at hallucinations here or illusions?


texts: Which Shastras are more authoritative,the Smritis(Dharma Shastras) or the Puranas?

texts:
In Hindu Dharma the Vedas,Upanishads,6 Vedangas,Smritis(or the Dharma Shastras),Puranas and the Itihasas(Ramayana and Mahabhartha) are usually together called the Shastras or Scriptures.

Among them, the Vedas(Srutis) ,of course,are considered as having the supreme authority.

The Smritis or the Dharma Shastras teach us what is right(Dharma) or wrong(Adharma) in a given context.They contain the rules of  righteous living.

  There are eighteen main Smritis or Dharma Sastras. The most important
  are those of Manu, Yajnavalkya and Parasara. The other fifteen are
  those of Vishnu, Daksha, Samvarta, Vyasa, Harita, Satatapa, Vasishtha,
  Yama, Apastamba, Gautama, Devala, Sankha-Likhita, Usana, Atri and
  Saunaka.

  The laws of Manu are intended for the Satya Yuga, those of Yajnavalkya
  are for the Treta Yuga; those of Sankha and Likhita are for the
  Dvapara Yuga; and those of Parasara are for the Kali Yuga

Likewise,the principle Puranas are also 18 in number.They contain "old" stories that happened in earlier Kalpas and Yugas.They also contain principles of right conduct.

Now,it is a well known principle that whenever there occur a conflict/disagreement  on a topic between the Vedas and Smritis then the views of Vedas are to be accepted & those of the Smritis are to be rejected.

But what about similar situations when disagreement appear between the Smritis and the Puranas?

Which view is to be accepted in those cases and which one should be rejected?

In other words,Among the Smritis and the Puranas which one is more authoritative?


texts: what is the difference between astra & Shastra?

texts:
I want to know the difference between astra & Shastra

and What type of astra & Shastra use in Mahabharata & Ramayana ?


texts:
Does Hinduism formulate the rules and regulations for a King or a government?

What are the core values of Rajya Dharma?

Which scriptures mention those values?


texts: Return journey of Rama and sand Lingam at Rameswaram

texts:
Query during this Shivarathri ... Did Rama worship Shiva at Rameswaram en route to Ayodhya (on Pushpaka vimanam transit return trip ) after slaying Ravana for Brahma hatya dosham as per Ramayana?...because Sita also is seen pictured here.

Has the sand Siva Lingam survived to the present time? The stone lingam brought by Hanumam naturally would endure.


texts: Did Indian music originate from the Samaveda?

texts:
What is the origin of Indian music? I've heard that music is derived from "Samaveda".

Is it right? If yes, then what type of music is mentioned in Samaveda?


texts: How can we explain love and hatred in spiritual parlance, particularly with reference to Advait Darshan?

texts:
For a seeker to appreciate and comprehend certain character traits are of utmost importance.

Shall feel blessed if some blessed one could explain the philosophy of love and hatred in spiritual parlance keeping in mind the Advait Darshan.


texts: How should an uniniated person offer non-veg items to their preferred form of God before consumption?

texts:
One of the answers to this question mentions that a devotee who has not conquered their desire for non-vegetarian food items should only consume it after offering to God. 2 and 3 speak of when and how their consumption my be allowed at least from the perspective of maintaining health. Thus having settled one's moral dilemma over the issue how should a devotee, who is furthermore uninitiated (and is thus bereft of the right to utter most mantras), offer their non-vegetarian food items to their preferred form of God, be it Vishnu, Shiva, Devi, Ganapati, Surya, etc. to rid both the food item and the act of consumption itself of their doshas?
Edit:
In 4 the accepted answer quotes the Manu Smriti's following declarations:

There is no sin in eating meat...but abstention brings great
rewards.
He who eats meat, when he honours the gods and manes,
commits no sin, whether he has bought it, or himself has killed (the
animal), or has received it as a present from others.

The questions are:

Who are these gods and manes?
How is one who is barred from the recitation of mantras to honour the gods and manes?


texts:
False swearing on Bhagavadgita. I know its the at most sin. I lied my date of birth in the court. I am feeling worst guiltness for that.
is there no way of getting closer to lord Krishna?


texts: Is it necessary to follow all the instructions from Gita?

texts: In bhagvad Gita, God has given so many instructions, is it necessary for one to follow each and every one of them? Or just follow only a few of them?


texts: Why did Shiva cut off an elephant's head in violation of Ahimsa?

texts: If animal killing is not good, then why did Lord Shiva cut off an elephant's head for his son Ganesha? Does that mean we may kill animals for our own means as our Lord did?


texts: How did the Vedic Rishis chant Gayatri Mantra?

texts:
Gayatri Mantra is a highly revered mantra from Rig Veda. The prefix "oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ" is known as "mahāvyāhṛt" (mystical utterance) is mentioned later in Taittiriya Aranyaka, which states to chant the mantra with this prefix.

Did the Sapta Rishis chant the mantra with this prefix?


texts: What is the significance of Lord Rama seeking help from Sugriva? As Lord Rama is avatar of Lord Vishnu so I think he might know who abducted Sita Mata and where he kept secondly it was his personal matter so why did he involve Sugriva and his army when he alone is sufficient to destroy Ravana and all other demons? Why did Vanara Sena suddenly come into picture?


texts: Is Karna described as a weak warrior in Hindu scripture?

texts:
In popular belief, Karna is usually viewed as a strong warrior, perhaps even stronger than Arjuna.  But my question is, does Hindu scripture ever describe Karna as a weak warrior?  (I'm not asking about events that answerers may subjectively characterize as weak or strong, I'm just asking about scriptural statements that explicitly say he's weak.)

And if Hindu scripture does explicitly say that he's weak, does it give a reason for his weakness?


texts: Can one be a Hindu that worships through Christ?

texts:
I see strong connections between Hinduism and Christianity.

Would I be wrong to be a Hindu who has a Hindu approach to spirituality but I hail Christ as the supreme personality of the Godhead and believe that I receive liberation in his name?


texts: Was Lalitōpākhyānam not included in the Vāyu or in the Baṅgabāsi edition of the Brahmāṇḍa Purāṇa originally?

texts:
The following is an excerpt from Kamakotimandali Website:

  The Lalitōpākhyānam is a text containing 40 Chapters and comprising of about 3000 verses. At present, it is found included in the Brahmāṇḍa Purāṇa. The text of this upākhyāna has nothing to do with the rest of the Purāṇa.

  The Lalitōpākhyānam is neither found in the Vāyu, nor in the Baṅgabāsi edition of the Brahmāṇḍa Purāṇa, nor in the Javanese version. Insofar as this work is not included in the Vāyu Purāṇa, it could only prove that the same was added to the Brahmāṇḍa Purāṇa, at a time later than the compilation of the Vāyu text or else its inclusion in it might not even have been considered imperative from the sectarian point of view.

  The volume of the text of the Baṅgabāsi edition of the Brahmāṇḍa Purāṇa without the inclusion of either two of the Lalitōpākhyānam or the Adhyātma Rāmāyaṇa or the Bhārgavōpākhyānam, hardly answers the traditional bulk of the Purāṇa, 12000 verses recorded by the lists of as many as four different Purāṇas.

  http://www.kamakotimandali.com/blog/index.php?p=1537&more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1

My question is whether it is true that Lalitōpākhyānam was a subsequent addition to Vayu or Brahmanda Purana?


texts: What are the arguments of Nyaya school to prove that vedas are divine?

texts:
Nyaya is a school of thought in Hinduism. It believes vedas are divine and authored by God?
What are the  arguments that Nyaya make to support their claim?


texts: What is the source of Sat Chit Ananda mantra?

texts:
|| Aum Sat Chit Ananda Parabrahma
  Purushothama Paramatma
  Sri Bhagavati Sametha
  Sri Bhagavate Namaha ||

What's the source of this Mantra?


texts: Why did Rama tell Lakshmana that "your father" is dead and not "our father"?

texts:
Bharata told to Rama and Lakshmana that King Dasaratha died. Immediately, Rama tells Lakshmana that your father is dead. But Rama is also a son of Dasaratha.

What is the reason behind Rama telling Lakshmana that your father is dead? Why didn't he say 'our father has died' or just 'father has died?'


texts: Is Sandhyavandanam different for each vedic line/shakha brahmin?

texts: Is sandhyavandanam ritual different for each vedic line? Or is it same for all brahmins no matter what veda they belong to?


texts:
While attend an lecture, i was told that the shivalingam is made up of granite that has radioactive counterparts of Uranium, radon and many other elements. So pouring the water on the shivalingam compensate the effect of radioactive compounds.

And we are not allowed to touch
The water after pouring on shivalingam

Question:-
Is this reason correct or it just an scientific explanation of that practice.

Thankyou
here is the reference


texts:
Read an article on meditation here it says:

  Hong-Sau is an ancient Sanskrit mantra (a mantra is a word, syllable,
  or group of syllables, which can convey spiritual power when
  pronounced correctly, often with repetition). It means “I am He” or “I
  am Spirit.” Try to feel that your breath itself is silently making the
  sounds of Hong and Sau.

My question: Are there any references found in our scriptures about this mantra 'Hong-Sau' ? Never heard about this mantra before. Perhaps it is 'Hamsa'?


texts: Srivaishnava scriptures/acharyas mentioning Pandharpur

texts:
Pandharpur is one of the sacred place for Vaishnavas.
Is there any Srivaishnava work or some Srivaishnava acharya's injunctions revering Pandharpur as sacred place.


texts:
What's Arunam mantra or Arunaprashna. Please explain the importance, origin of Arunam.
Is it okay, or allowed to chant ArunaPrashna in front of Lord Vishnu or other Goddessess?


texts: Are married women allowed to fast religiously(vrata)?

texts:
In India a lot of women(both married & unmarried) fast for religious purposes.

Many Vratas are there all throughout the year viz:- Varalakshmi Vrata,Mangala Gowri Vrata,Rishi Panchami Vrata(specifically done by ladies)etc.

But I found the following surprising sloka from the Parasara Smriti which says that a married woman if fasts reduces the lifetime of her husband and eventually goes to hell.

Chapter 4,Sloka 17.

  Pathou Jivati Ya NaaryuPoshyavratamaachareth Ayusham Harate bhartuhu Saa
  Naari Narakam Vrajeth.

  Meaning-If a woman,during her husband's life,observes areligious vow
  which involves a religious vow which involves a fast,that woman
  thereby shortens her husband's life ,and after death goes to hell.

Similar slokas are there in other Smritis as well.For example the Vishnu Smriti says:

  No sacrifice, no penance, and no fasting is allowed to women apart from their husbands; to pay obedience to her lord is the only means
  for a woman to obtain bliss in heaven.
  16. A woman who keeps a fast or performs a penance in the lifetime of her lord, deprives her husband of his life, and will go to
  hell.(Vishnu Smriti XXV )

What are the counter quotes from other Sastras?


texts: Why is ravana still worshipped in a few places till today despite being the demon king?

texts:
I have seen in films, heard tales about how in south India many people worship ravana, surely they must be following a different folklore version which edifies ravana but isn't Ramayana an universally accepted epic which villainizes ravana ?

Knowing that what prompts a few to worship him ?