texts: Why is there a gayatri mantra for every mantra?

texts: Hello so when I look up any God or Goddess mantra there is always a Gayatri mantra for them for example I search Ganesha mantra and there is also Ganesh Gayatri mantra, Shiva mantra and Shiva Gayatri mantra, Kamadev and Kamadev Gayatri mantra and they all have the same suffixes of the Gayatri mantra. So I ask why is there a Gayatri version of every single mantra for a God or Goddess out there? How is the Ganesha Gayatri mantra different from the regular Ganesha mantra? What does the Gayatri do to the mantra? Should I chant the Gayatri versions first instead of the regular ones? Thank you in advance for answering.


texts: What are the exact benefits of Mahamrityunjaya Mantra?

texts: I want to know about the benefits of Mahamrityunjaya Mantra and what are the good times to chant Shiva mantra.


texts: What is the story of Kichak and Draupadi?

texts: I have little knowledge about Kichak. He was a cruel minded person. I think he  appeared during the Agyatvasa of the Pandvas and had some interaction with Draupadi in the Mahabharata. Please tell me full story of that incident.


texts: Shiva is known by various names like Mahadeva and Shambhu.There is another term used for Shiva that is Mahakala. I would like to know if Mahakala is only a name for Shiva or another form of Him. Also if it is just another name what is the reason behind calling Shiva Mahakala?


texts: Are there any verses related to the beginning of everything?

texts: To elaborate on the question, I am assuming that in the beginning there was no Atma stuck in maya, is there any information on how the perfect Atma got stuck in Maya? Is my assumption wrong? To build on that, how can anything be eternal? Everything should have a start and end isn't it? Because something has to initiate first for the universe to be born, say big bang! and there are many theories on how the universe will end. Shouldn't there be something similar for brahman?


texts:
I read here on Hindustack exchange, in the comments of this answer

Achintya-vedaveda is completely different from Dvaita philosophy ofSri
Madhva.In Chaitanya Charitamrita 2/9/235-51 Mahaprabhu mentions both
merits and demerits of the Madhva sampradaya. He also criticised the
Madhva Philosophy in front of Sri Vasudeva Saarvavouma and embraced
Ray Ramananda's views which basically is Achintya Bhedaabhedavada

Also in another comment

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu discussion with Madhvas in Udupi as mentioned in
Chaitanya Charitamrta, yes there are differences that's why it is
called Gaudiya Sampradaya not Tattvada school. Baldeva Vidyabhusana
who discussed common points in Prameya Ratnavali also said the
differences in his commentary to Tattva Sandarbha few points of Madhva
school that are not accepted by Gaudiya school.

What are the views of Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu regarding Dvaita of Shri Madhwacharya?
What were his criticism regarding Dvaitha sampradaya and what were the contents of his discussion with scholars of Udupi.  In general wha are the criticism of Achintya Bhedabheda school regarding Dvaitha school.


texts: What would please Lord Hanuman more - chanting Hanuman Chalisa or chanting Rama naam?

texts:
Lord Rama would probably want his devotee to be glorified above him, and Srila Prabhupada also states many times that Lord Sri Krishna says that worship of the devotee is higher than My worship - http://www.prabhupadaconnect.com/The-Highest-Form-of-Worship.html, https://vaniquotes.org/wiki/Worship_of_the_devotee_is_considered_more_effective_than_direct_worship_of_the_Lord

So I was thinking that Lord Rama would want Hanumanji to be pleased before pleasing him directly, and so I came to the question of what would please Hanumanji more, Rama naam, or Hanuman Chalisa. Hanumanji would probably want us to serve his Master and chant Rama naam directly. Do you see the conundrum? What would please Hanumanji more out of the two? Also, Hanuman Chalisa is written by another pure devotee of Lord Rama, Shri Tulsidas Goswami, so it becomes even more potent since it is glorification of a pure devotee of Lord Rama by another pure devotee of Lord Rama. However, everyone knows the power of Rama naam - http://lordrama.co.in/glory-of-rama-naam.html. Please help.


texts: What is ShiroVrata (a vow of holding fire on head)?

texts:
Ending of Mundaka Upanishad talks about śirovrata (शिरोव्रत):

  तदेतदृचाऽभ्युक्तम् ।
  क्रियावन्तः श्रोत्रिया ब्रह्मनिष्ठाः
  स्वयं जुह्वत एकर्षिं श्रद्धयन्तः ।
  तेषामेवैतां ब्रह्मविद्यां वदेत
  शिरोव्रतं विधिवद् यैस्तु चीर्णम् ॥ मुण्डकोपनिषत् ३-२-१०॥

  III-ii-10: This (rule) has been revealed by the mantra (which runs thus): 'To them alone should one expound this knowledge of Brahman who are engaged in the practice of disciplines, versed in the Vedas, and indeed devoted to Brahman, who personally sacrifice to the fire called Ekarsi with faith, and by whom has been duly accomplished the vow of holding fire on the head.'

  तदेतत् सत्यमृषिरङ्गिराः
  पुरोवाच नैतदचीर्णव्रतोऽधीते ।
  नमः परमऋषिभ्यो नमः परमऋषिभ्यः ॥ ११॥

  III-ii-11: The seer Angiras spoke of this Truth in the days of yore. One that has not fulfilled the vow does not read this. Salutation to the great seers. Salutation to the great seers.

From the translation, it seems that it's "a vow of holding fire named Ekarshi on head" or a fire ritual.

I want to know what is the ritual of holding a fire named "Ekarshi" on head, called "Shirovrata"? Do we have any details/description available on how this ritual is performed?


texts: Pran Pratishta 's life scale in Deity's idol or statue and Scriptures of Pran Pratishta mantras

texts: Can anyone let me know what is the life scale of Pran in Deity's Vigraha and where the Pran Pratishta Mantras are mentioned in religious Scriptures?


texts: How does manu smriti has mentions of tribes which were not present at the time of manu?

texts:
pauṇḍrakāścauḍradraviḍāḥ kāmbojā yavanāḥ śakāḥ |  pāradāpahlavāścīnāḥ
  kirātā daradāḥ khaśāḥ || 44 ||

  The Puṇḍrakas, the Coḍas, the Draviḍas, the Kāmbojas, the Yavanas,
  the Śākas, the Pāradas, the Pahlavas, the Cīnas, the Kirātas, the
  Daradas and the Khaśas.—(44)

The yavanas and sakas are said to be son of yayati the king of lunar dynasty, but manu was the first person in the world how does he know people of these tribes when lunar dynasty was not even established? Is the reson given in any scripture.


texts: I have a Bael tree in my home ,every year the branches encroaching on the outside public road , we have no option but to cut the branches, does doing so is direct invitation to some misfortune..


texts: Is amrita or legend of samudra manthan mentioned in Vedic scriptures?

texts: The legend of samudra manthan and amrita is mentioned in itihasa, puranas but the legend of samudra manthan mentioned in verses of vedas, Upanishads or brahmanas or is the drink of immortality amrita atleast mentioned in these Vedic scriptures that is vedas, Upanishads or brahmanas?


texts: Is the language of all the four Vedas similar or is there difference in language of the four Vedas too?

texts: I know that in sama Veda many mantras of rigveda and yajur veda are repeated so that must mean that language is similar throughout Vedas, but does the vedic Sanskrit change between rig, yajur and atharva Veda?


texts: Are Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh seperate or just different forms of Brahman?

texts: Are Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh present or these are just different forms taken by Brahman as per the action that needed to be performed?


texts: When Mind and Space aren't Brahman why does Chandogya Upanishad ask to meditate on Mind and Space as Brahman?

texts:
The mind is Brahman—this worship is called adhyātma. Next is that called adhidaivata: Space is Brahman. That is, meditate on space as Brahman. These two ways of meditation are advised: adhyātma and adhidaivata.(Chandogya Upanishad 3.18.1)
Whereas Shankaracharya in his Nirvana Shakta says I am not the mind, the intellect, the ego or the memory and I am the form of consciousness and bliss. Isn't this statement mutually contradictory? Do Upanishads say Mind and Space aren't Brahman??


texts: Which scriptures say that the Kings and Kshatriyas are allowed to hunt animals?

texts:
Many people cite the example of the Pandavas hunting deers to prove that its ok for the Kshatriyas (& the Kingly classes) to hunt.

1) But are there any Scriptures which explicitly say that Kings and Kshatriyas are allowed to hunt?

2) And how do they (the Scriptures) justify the act which is, needless to say, cruel.

In case of animal sacrifices. its stated (for example in Manu Smriti & in several other Scriptures) that since, the sacrifice is being done for the benefit of the whole world (including that of the animal which is being sacrificed), that killing is not "killing" and it does not incur any sin. That's understandable, but how is killing innocent animals for pleasure and pastime  justified in the Scriptures? And how does the act benefit anyone?

What the Manu Smriti says, is quite the opposite though, that is, for the Kings, hunting is one of the vices.

  7.47. Hunting, gambling, sleeping by day, censoriousness, (excess with) women, drunkenness, (an inordinate love for) dancing, singing,
  and music, and useless travel are the tenfold set (of vices) springing
  from love of pleasure.

EDIT

  By killing all sorts of forest-ranging deer, one should remain fasting
  for three nights and recite the AgniMantrams.

  ~Samvarta Smriti;  1-143


texts: Is there any easy technique written in Bhagavad GITA to control lust?

texts: Is there any easy technique written in Bhagavad GITA or any religious books to control lust/self-pleasure?


texts: Why water is considered as an indispensable commodity in a charity ritual?

texts:
According to the scriptures a ritual involving charity (DAnam) will not be successful without the use of water. For example, while going through a Tantra related book that I have I found the following verse:

  VinA darvaistu yat snAnam yaccha dAnam vinodakam | Asankhyo
  yastu japyam sarvam tad phalam smritam ||

  Without Darba (Kusha grass) a bath does not purify; without water
  charity is fruitless and likewise if the count is not kept the Japa is
  equally fruitless an act.

This verse is quoted in that book not to emphasize about the charity thing but to highlight the need of keeping the count while doing Japa.

I know, from several other verses from the Tantras, that if the count is not kept then the Rakshasas, who hover around, take the fruits of the Japa.

And, I also know that in a Hindu ritualistic bath one has to keep in hand Kusha grass and only then the bath is said to be complete/purifying by scriptural standards. For example see the following verses from Devi Bhagavata Purana:

  Without this bath, no acts bear any fruit. Therefore everyday, this
  morning bath is very necessary. Taking the Kus'a grass in hand, one
  is to perform one's bath and Sandhyâ. If for seven days, the morning
  ablutions are not taken, and if for three days, the Sandhyâs are not
  performed, if for twelve days, the daily Homas be not performed, the
  Brâhmanas become S’ûdras.

A verse quite similar to the one given above is also found in the Angira Smriti.

Now, I do not know why water is indispensable that it is said that without it the charity ritual will be a failure? How according to scriptures the water is to be employed here? What role does it play?

I am asking this question because previously I was involved in a charity ritual which was extended over many days but then nobody told me how to use water in the ritual and how it was important. So, I want to make sure that I do not make the same mistake next time around.


texts: Why was Bali Raja considered a demon? Please explain in detail and provide a link to the scriptural reference if any.


texts: Why did gopis spend their time with Sri Krishna?

texts:
Why did the gopis hang out with Krishna? Was it because they were romantically attracted to him?
Was it because he was charming, or was he good looking (handsome) or did he possess high masculine energy that gopies found attractive?
Or were there other reasons?


texts: Where can i find the story of Ashtavakra's birth and his other stories?

texts:
Where can i find the story of Ashtavakra's birth and his other stories like:

Giving curse to devis of swarga-loka who laughed at his crooked form?
Giving curse to Krishna
I have head an alternate story of Ashtavakra muni being cursed by a woman instead of his father Kahoda.

Please let me know the references of these and other stories of Ashtavakra if any. Thank you.


texts: What is the oldest commentary on the Vedas (Saṃhitās)?

texts:
What is the oldest commentary, extant or otherwise, ever written on the Saṃhitā portion of the Vedas?
Assuming no commentary was written prior to 1000 A.D, what could be the reason for this?
P.S. Related, but not duplicate: Which is the oldest commentary on any of the scriptures?


texts:
I was drawing a comparison between a local goddess from Kullu in Himalaya, one from mainstream Hinduism. Could you help me with it? Here's the information the temple priest gave me, and here I quote,

She is the eighteen faced Mahakali, the sister of Parvati, and of Lord Vishnu. Upon their marriage (Lord Shiva and Parvati), she got angry with lord Shiva teasing her, and vowed to never look at him.

Could you help :/


texts: What is Dharma according to the Bhagavad Gita? Are hymns and worship of God compulsory in the Bhagavad Gita ?


texts: Was Satī (sahagamana) limited one particular varṇa (kṣatriya)? Was it also applicable to brāhmaṇa and other women?

texts:
When it was allowed, was the practice of Satī a.k.a sahagamana meaning 'going with' or sahamaraṇa ('dying with') limited to one particular varṇa, the kṣatriya?

Or was it applicable to brāhmaṇa and other women as well?

P.S. I couldn't find the answer under the more general 'What is the truth behind the practice of Sati? How is it related to Hinduism?' so asking it as a separate question.


texts:
Pavhari Baba was a famous Sri Vaishnava sect of Gajipur, contemporary of Sri Ramakrishna. He was very respected in the Eastern Part of India.

I am interested in knowing about the life and especially sayings/teachings of the saint. I have read His biography by Swami Vivekananda by the way.


texts:
I haven't purchased Rudraksh Bead ever, but before purchasing the Rudraksh Bead, I would like to understand how to recognized its real one.

While purchasing the Bead Can I ask them for certificate which is tested

Before wearing should I check if it suits me.


texts: What scriptures describe medicines to remove wrinkles and grey hair?

texts:
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 which summarizes and systematizes the philosophical teachings of the Upanishads. (You can read the Brahma Sutras here.) But the Vedanta school didn't always have the dominant position in Hindu philosophy; before the time of Adi Shankaracharya the dominant school of Hindu philosophy was the Purva Mimamsa school, which I discuss here. In contrast to the Vedanta school which is devoted to analyzing the Jnana Kanda of the Vedas, i.e. the Upanishads, Purva Mimamsa focuses on analyzing the Karma Kanda of the Vedas, i.e. the Samhitas and Brahmanas.

Now in Adhyaya 6 Pada 7 of Jaimini's Purva Mimamsa Sutras, the defining text of the Purva Mimamsa school, Jaimini discusses a Yagna described in this excerpt of the Panchavimsha Brahmana of the Sama Veda which lasts for 1000 years.  The issue is, how is it possible to perform a Yagna for 1000 years?  Jaimini considers various potential explanations: that it's a Yagna meant for the gods, that it's a Yagna meant for long-lived human beings, that it's meant to be performed over several generations, and that 1000 years really means 1000 months.  He rejects all these explanations and comes to the conclusion that 1000 years really means 1000 days.  (Which is not surprising as the Purva Mimamsa school was reluctant to believe anything out of the ordinary or supernatural.)

But I'm interested in Jaimini's argument against the "long-lived humans" explanation.  He argues that no human can possibly live for 1000 years; here's what this excerpt from Shabara's commentary on the Purva Mimamsa Sutras says:

  But humans cannot live so long...."They can attain longevity by means of medicines." ... No medicines have been found to possess the capacity of prolonging life to the extent of a thousand years. All that they are capable of doing is — the improving of digestive powers, the removal of wrinkles and grey hair, the improving of voice and complexion and the resuscitation of memory ; — they are never found to bring about longevity. — "From the improvement of voice and complexion and other signs, we shall infer a longer life also." — That is not possible, we say. — "Why?" — Because there is the text declaring that 'a man's life extends to a hundred years'[.]

My question is, what scriptures describe medicines to remove wrinkles and grey hair?  Because they seem to have existed in ancient India given Shabara's statement.

Page 32 of this book describes an Ayurvedic medicine made from the Amalaka plant, which I discuss here and here, that is said to "transform old men into young, with new hair and teeth, and induce physical power like that of an elephant".  But what does Hindu scripture have to say on the subject?  Ayurvedic texts would be the best place to look.


texts:
In various sub-castes, people used to practice untouchability i.e., some of the people who were considered lower castes, for example, sweepers, cleaners, etc. were ignored, and there were rules such as others were not allowed to touch them, if they did, they were ignored by the community.

So why they used to do that?


texts:
Lord Krishna has told Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the first day of Bhishma Parva at Kurukshetra (before starting the war). And Karna was not present in Bhishma Parva as Karna had taken an oath not to fight till Bhishma is alive and acting as the Chief General of the Kaurava army. But Karna was explicitly mentioned by Duryodhana in the below verse from the Bhagavad-Gita Upa-parva of Bhishma Parva (BG  1.8):

  Bhavaan bheeshmashcha karnashcha kripashcha samitinjayah;
  Ashwatthaamaa vikarnashcha saumadattis tathaiva cha.8.

  “Thyself(Dhronacharya) and Bhishma, and Karna and Kripa, the victorious in war; Asvatthama, Vikarna and Jayadratha, the son of Somadatta.

Does this mean Karna was present in the battlefield during Bhishma Parva and while Bhishma was still the acting General but he wasn't just involved in the war? If not, then why did Duryodhana mention Karna's name?


texts: Did any sect reject animal sacrifice from the time of its founding?

texts:
I believe Sankara, Ramanuja et al condoned the idea of animal sacrifice.  I think Ramanuja says the sacrificed animal may feel some pain but it would reach a higher state after being sacrificed.

If you know Tamil, there is a u-tube video of a Vaishnavite teacher who says the sacrificed animal may look forward to being reborn as a human in a Vaishnavite household.

(1) Was any sect against it from the time of its founding?

(2) Would rejecting animal sacrifice make a sect "veda-viruddha" since animal sacrifice is very much part of Rig Veda?


texts: Meaning of Urdhwaretam in Narayana Sukta

texts:
The following mantra appears at the end of Narayana Sukta:

ṛtagṃ satyaṃ pa’raṃ brahma puruṣa’ṃ kṛṣṇapiṅga’lam |
ūrdhvare’taṃ vi’rūpā’kṣaṃ viśvarū’pāya vai namo nama’ḥ ||

All the words appearing in the mantra denote a quality of Narayana: ṛtam indicates that He is order, satyam means He is truth, virupaksha means that He is all-seeing etc. In the same vein, what does Urdhwaretam mean?


texts: Are there any references for claims that "purush sukta in Rigveda" is an interpolation?

texts:
Many people claim that as per many scholarly studies and references, "purush sukta in Rigveda  is an interpolation"

Can somebody provide references to such scholarly studies and references ?


texts:
Like we have Lord Krishna's Bhagavad Gita, did Lord Ganesha also give a teaching of Gita? If yes, to whom?

It is said that both Bhagavad Gita and Ganesh Gita are the same, with the only difference being that the preachers are different. Is it so?

What are the importance and significance of the Ganesh Gita? What does Ganesh Gita tell all about?


texts: What do ancient Hindu acharyas say about accepting the authority of Shruti but denying the authority of Smriti?

texts:
Some people nowadays say only the Shruti (Vedas) is the sole authority in regard to Dharma, and what is not Shruti, like the Smriti, Dharma Shastras, Puranas, etc. is man-made and can be rejected.

Is this position logical according to the Rishis and ancient Acharyas?


texts: I have read bhagavad gita where krishna mentions maya to be a illusion and everything in this is world is made of maya. What I don't understand is if everything is made up of maya then why is krishna telling it, isn't that too maya ? and what about the moksha, isn't that also a delusion? Why should I still try to attain moksha if it is unreal?


texts: Is there any provision for 'Divorce' in Hindusm?

texts:
By law and court system a marriage can be ended with legal divorce. Islam says if they say Talaq three times then the marriage is over. Like Islam, does Hinduism allow divorce for a married couple?
Moreover, some people say that with a marriage, a couple ties  bond for '7 lives' with each other. But still, is there any provision of divorce in Hindiusm?


texts:
How does the smoke from hawan/yajna affect the health of the human beings inhaling it? Are there any good effects?

How does its effects compare with those of vehicle exhaust/industrial pollution? I'm looking for an answer which might provide a breakdown of the constituents of hawan's smoke e.g. gases, particulate matter, their size etc.


texts: Pithru dosha affecting children and grand children?

texts: Does a curse of grand mother affect children and grandchildren? if yes, what are the remedial measures? We have done every poojas , but a person raised this issue for which, I want to confirm and why does it affect?


texts: Where do purva and Uttara mimamsa sutras claim that Vedas are eternal?

texts: Did the writers of vedanta and purva mimansa sutras, badrayana and jaimini write about the eternal nature of the Vedas?


texts: Which verses in Vedas and Upanishads can be used to prove that Brahman is sagunam?

texts: We know that most Vaishnava sects believe in Saguna Brahman. Are there pramanas from the Brahma Sutras, Upanishads or the srutis themselves which show that Brahman has anantkalyangunams? What will be the meaning of Nirguna in relation to Saguna Brahman?


texts: Help me find this verse from Mahabharata

texts:
So I am reading Hindu superiority by Sarda Har Bilas and in that Mr Sarda puts this verse

Time is the root of all created beings, And uncreated. of pleasure and of pain.
Time creates existence. Time destroys, Time shatters all, and all again renews.
Time watches while all sleep. Unvanquished Time!
—Mahabharata : Adiparva."

If you have read Mahabharata can you pls find the verse number for me? Or does this verse even exist in Mahabharat?


texts:
Fasting is an integral part of Sanathan dharma. It has several benefits. One of the benefit is health. Many people in India still think that fasting is mentioned in scriptures for spiritual benefits only and does not consider the health aspect of it.
Now-a-days many people are doing fast because of its health benefits. I came across the following statement of Narada that views fasting as a method to improve health

O son of Pritha, seekest thou to cure bodily diseases by medicines
and fasts, and mental illness with the advice of the aged?
[Section 5, Lokapala Sabhakhayana, Sabha Parva, The Mahabharata]

Are there any other such mentions in Hindu scriptures that view health aspect of fasting?


texts:
Here in Muktika Upanishads, Rama describes Kaivalya Moksha is ultimate. What is it? Is it merging into existence of Brahman?

I-i-15-17. Hanuman: Rama, sages speak differently: some say there is only one kind of liberation. Others say it can be got by worshipping your name and by the Taraka mantra at Kashi. Others speak of Sankhya-Yoga and Bhakti-Yoga, the enquiry into Vedanta-Vakyas etc.
I-i-18-23. Rama: Liberation is of four kinds: Salokya etc. But the only real type is Kaivalya. Anybody even though leading a wicked life, attains Salokya, not other worlds, by worshipping my name. Dying in the sacred Brahmanala in Kashi, he will get the Tarakamantra and also liberation, without rebirth. On dying anywhere (else) in Kashi, Maheshvara will utter the Taraka-mantra in his right ear. He gets Sarupya with me as his sins are washed away. The same is called Salokya and Sarupya. Persevering in good conduct, with mind fixed upon me, loving me as the Self of all, the twice-born gets nearer to me – This is called the three forms of liberation. Salokya, Sarupya and Samipya.
I-i-24-25. Meditating on my eternal form as prescribed by the Teacher, one will surely achieve identity with me like the insects changing into the bee. This alone is the liberation of identity (Sayujya) yielding the bliss of Brahman. All these four kinds of Mukti will be got by worshipping Me.


texts: What is the source of the verse "Krishnam Vande JagadGurum"

texts: What is the source of this verse? Also what does it signify? Does this mean that Sri Krishna is first Jagadguru or something else entirely?


texts: Why does lord Shiva wear a Naga (snake) around his neck?

texts:
As you can see in many pictures of Shiva, he wears a naga wrapped around his neck.

Credits for Image

So is there any reason behind keeping that naga around his neck, or is that a vahan for lord Shiv just like lord Ganesha has a rat or like the goddess Mata Ji who has a tiger?

I know that he is known as Pasupathinath, which means "lord of all creatures", and that he controls all the animals. Since snake is feared by most of us, is that the reason he wears them around his neck?

Also, does he wear just one, or there are multiple?


texts: What can we do so that all of us can increase own spiritual progress?

texts:
According to the Varnashrama of Shreemad Bhagwat Purana, we all know that this is Kaliyug, so what can we do so that all of us can increase own spiritual progress and remove bad obstacles of past births and present birth?

We want all ways and ideas that will help everyone to prosper.


texts: I want to know who are Aśvinī-kumāra brothers? What are their names and what is the role of Aśvins or Ashwini Kumaras in our mythology? Are they demigods?


texts: Is Goddess Kali ever represented in the form of a child?

texts: We know that Goddess Parvati is worshiped in her child or Kumari form and in north India Kanya-pujan is done at the end of Navratri as a symbolic offering to the goddess. To some extent the Brahmacharini form of Nav Durga and Bal Tripura Sundari also show the goddess as an unmarried girl. But do we have any such mention in any scripture of Goddess Kali as a child or a young girl?


texts:
What is recommended meditation to know everything about self and surrounding? Where self mean me, my mind, my soul, of course my body too (which contans many other living beings like cells, virus, bacteria), its origing, its future and its purpose(if there is any purpose). And surrounding means anything other than me and my inner like whole cosmos.

People say that we can know everything by meditation. everything is inside us only. So which type of meditation I should start? I am really desperate to know everything.

I know Isha foundation, Art of living and Vipasana. There would be more. I dont know which will help me to know everything.

Please suggest me what should I start with?


texts: Why were the Saptarishis prevented from having relations with their wives?

texts:
Shatpatha Brahmana 2.1.2 gives the details about setting up sacrificial fires under the Krittikas (Pleiades constellation) and mentions something interesting:

He may set up the two fires under the Krittikâs; for they, the Krittikâs, are doubtless Agni's asterism, so that if he sets up his fires under Agni's asterism, (he will bring about) a correspondence (between his fires and the asterism): for this reason he may set up his fires under the Krittikâs.

Moreover, the other lunar asterisms (consist of) one, two, three or four (stars), so that the Krittikâs are the most numerous (of asterisms): hence he thereby obtains an abundance. For this reason he may set up his fires under the Krittikâs.

And again, they do not move away from the eastern quarter, whilst the other asterisms do move from the eastern quarter. Thus his (two fires) are established in the eastern quarter: for this reason he may set up his fires under the Krittikâs.

On the other hand (it is argued) why he should not set up the fires under the Krittikâs. Originally, namely, the latter were the wives of the Bears (riksha); for the seven Rishis were in former times called the Rikshas (bears). They were, however, precluded from intercourse (with their husbands), for the latter, the seven Rishis, rise in the north, and they (the Krittikâs) in the east. Now it is a misfortune for one to be precluded from intercourse (with his wife): he should therefore not set up his fires under the Krittikâs, lest he should thereby be precluded from intercourse.

But he may nevertheless set up (his fire under the Krittikâs); for Agni doubtless is their mate, and it is with Agni that they have intercourse: for this reason he may set up (the fire under the Krittikâs).

I am aware of the story of Agni's wife Svaha impersonating the wives of Saptarishis one by one and he cohabiting with theses different forms so I am presuming that the last verse refers to that relationship. But I want to know about the previous verse that says their husbands were not permitted to have intercourse with them. They must have had conjugal relations later for they all have children so probably this restriction was for some time.
I want to know why were the Saptarishis precluded from having marital relations with their own wives? Was it just because of distance as mentioned in the verse or does it have some other story behind it?


texts: Why did Krishna and Rama even care about what others think about him?

texts:
Krishna proved his innocence In the following context

  Sons of Satwata. Bhoja princes of Mrittikávatí. Súrya the friend of
  Satrájit: appears to him in a bodily form: gives him the Syamantaka
  gem: its brilliance and marvellous properties. Satrájit gives it to
  Prasena, who is killed by a lion: the lion killed by the bear
  Jámbavat. Krishńa suspected of killing Prasena, goes to look for him
  in the forests: traces the bear to his cave: fights with him for the
  jewel: the contest prolonged: supposed by his companions to be slain:
  he overthrows Jámbavat, and marries his daughter Jámbavatí: returns
  with her and the jewel to Dwáraká: restores the jewel to Satrájit, and
  marries his daughter Satyabhámá. Satrájit murdered by Śatadhanwan:
  avenged by Krishńa. The quarrel between Krishńa and Balaráma. Akrúra
  possessed of the jewel: leaves Dwáraká. Public calamities. Meeting of
  the Yádavas. The story of Akrúra's birth: he is invited to return: accused
  by Krishńa of having the Syamantaka jewel: produces it in full
  assembly: it remains in his charge: Krishńa acquitted of having
  purloined it.

Similarly, Rama asked to prove the innocence of Sita.

Why did they even care about others opinions if they are not involved in guilt?  Are there any references stating that one should prove innocence or to care others opinion on us? Or is it only valid for Kshatriyas to care what others think about others opinion on them?


texts: Why aren't other religions detailed in Puranas and other scriptures?

texts:
Why don't Hindu texts talk much about other religions?
Some people say no other religion existed at the time of Santana Dharma but as per holy books of other religions their religions existed right from the creation of the world.
In Christianity, God created earth and in Islam, Allah was the one who created everything and their religion was from the beginning.
There are only some minor descriptions of other kingdoms as far as Greece (Yavana) mentioned in Mahabharata but again the description is not clear as to who they were, their religion, rituals, etc. There maybe a few minor details here and there about other religions but they don't clearly define them, their rituals and practices.


texts:
In Hindu mythology it is said Ekadashi is said to be most auspicious day among the fifteen days of of krishna paksha or shukla paksha and it is very good to perform any fasting or any ritual or pooja on this day.

What is the importance of Ekadashi(eleventh day) among the fifteen days of krishna paksha or shukla paksha?
Why is it so important day as compared to other days?
What is the reason and story behind this?


texts: Did samakhys refuted the advaita vedanta's claim, existence of Brahman?

texts: Since samkhya is a atheistic school, they reject God(Brahman) . But advaita vedanta believe in a God that is Brahman so did any Samkhya philosopher ever refuted advaita vedanta on existence of Brahman?


texts: Is there a lok above the lok of lord Vishnu a soul can achieve?

texts: We know sarya lok is the highest materialistic lok a soul can achieve. It can also go to the lok of Vishnu lok. Is there lok above that also by which I mean is the lok of lord Shiva the final destination where the souls finally merge with the almighty.


texts: What are steps for following karma yoga (in all aspects of life)?

texts: What are " 'detailed' all the steps of step wise approach" for achieving/following karma yoga (in all the aspects of life) ?


texts: Why do the scriptures consider enlightenment as the state when one is not born into the mortal coil once again? While the mortal form does endure a lot of sufferings, being able to live and breathe is in itself a great blessing.


texts:
In many scriptures like Puranas, there is mention of Sanat Kumaras. According to the legend they are believed to be as the mAnasa putras of Lord Brahma.

But we get to see the list of 10 mAnasa putras of brahma which is Atri, Angiras, Pulastya, Marichi, Pulaha, Kratu, Bhrigu, Vashistha, Daksha and Narada.

So are there more than 10 mAnasa putras?

Are there reference and details of Sanat Kumaras other than the Puranas?


texts: If sleepiness come in our body , then we have to sleep or not?

texts:
Its my personal experience   when im doing japa( hare krishna mantra) in day time i realized after 15-20 minute of doing japa  . I am very sleepy and lazy at that time and at moments i thinks that i will sleep now . so why sleepiness come in our body  after 20-30 minutes of doing japa.Mind also not works properly when sleepiness come in our body.
If sleepiness come in our body , then we have to sleep or not ?
what is the right approached to tackle the problem of sleepiness that come in our body ?


texts:
Usually most (or all) rig veda samhita mantras have a Rishi, Chanda and Devata. When it comes to Upanishads, I find some mantras to also have Beejam, Shakti and Keelakam.

Can someone explain me what keelakam is in context of Mantra Nyasa. Scriptural source will be very helpful. Thanks.


texts:
Would like to know about RakthaChamundi goddess.
Is this Devi different from Chamunda Devi?

Seems, there are multiple forms of Chamunda. Does this RakthaChamundi,  another fiercefull avatar of Chamunda?

Does this devi has any comparison with Goddess Kali


texts: Significance of Krishna's relationship to Radha

texts:
What does Krishna -Radha Prem signify?
It is not that of wife-husband, as Rukmini, Satyabhama and Jambavanti were legal wives of Krishna. If it signifies Ras bhakti, then why only Radha is seen to be involved in such a bhakti. Even Sudama and Arjuna were  staunch devotees of Krishna, but none of them were in the Ras-bhakti stage. Does it imply that for Ras -Bhakti, the Bhakta must be a female in body? Thanks beforehand.


texts: Where is the verse "ami sarvatmanayam atrapi srimad dasarathatmajah" found?

texts:
Rupa Goswami quotes this verse from Brahmanda purana in Laghu Bhagavatamrita:

tatha hi brahmande sri krsna vakyam

  antaranga svarupa me matsya kurmadayas tv ami sarvatmanayam atrapi
  srimad dasarathatmajah

Where in Brahmanda Purana is this verse located ?


texts: How many eyes Panchmukhi Mahadeva have: 11 or 15?

texts:
How many eyes Panchmukhi Mahadeva have:

11 = 5*2 and one third eye

or

15 = 5*3 (all heads have 3 eyes)

Ramcharitmanas mentions 15 eyes. What do other scriptures mention (preferably in Dhyana Shloka) about this?


texts: Balance of strength between Asuras and Devas

texts:
Here is an extract from a Buddhist scripture (the Caturdevarājasūtra) that directly connects the balance of strength between the Asuras and the Devas with Humanities morality:

  During the monthly six days of fast, the messenger-princes (dūtakumāra) and the four kings of the gods (caturdevarāja) examine (anuvicaranti) beings. If the people who cultivate generosity, observe morality and honor their parents are few in number (alpaka), they go to the Tao li gods (Trāyastriṃśa) and inform Ti che (Śakra); Śakra and the gods are unhappy (anāttamanas) and say: “Surely the armies of the asuras are increasing and the armies of the devas are decreasing.” If the people who cultivate generosity, observe morality and honor their parents are many (bahu), the gods and Śakra are happy and say: “The armies of the devas are increasing and the armies of the asuras are decreasing.”
  source

Note: Śakra=Indra

Now I was wondering if there are any Hindu scriptures connoting the same idea?


texts: In Jain Ramayana, who killed the Ravana? Rama or Lakshmana?

texts: Someone told me that, in the Jain Ramayana, it is Lakshmana killed Ravana and not Rama? Is it true?


texts: Who is the 'certain brāhmaṇa of pious vows' in this conversation between Kṛṣṇa and Aśvatthāmā?

texts:
From Sauptika Parva section 16:

Vaishampayana said, "Understanding that that weapon was thrown (into the wombs of the Pandava women) by Drona's son of sinful deeds, Hrishikesha, with a cheerful heart, said these words unto him: ‘A certain brahmana of pious vows, beholding Virata's daughter who is now daughter-in-law to Arjuna, while she was at Upaplavya, said, "While the Kuru line will become extinct, a son will be born to thee. This thy son for that reason, will be called by the name of Parikshit."
The words of that pious man shall become true: the Pandavas shall have a son called Parikshit.
Unto Govinda, that foremost one of the Satvata race, while he was saying these words, Drona's son, filled with wrath, replied, saying, ‘This, O Keshava, that thou sayest from thy partiality for the Pandavas, shall not happen. O thou of eyes like lotus-petals, my words cannot but be fulfilled. Uplifted by me, this weapon of mine shall fall on the foetus that is in the womb of Virata's daughter, upon that foetus which thou, O Krishna, art desirous of protecting.'

Who are certain brāhmaṇa of pious vows and that pious man in the above conversation between Kṛṣṇa and Aśvatthāmā? Does this brāhmaṇa have a name?


texts: How many prominent and most accepted commentaries are there on the Bhagavad-Gita?

texts:
How many prominent and most accepted commentaries on the Srimad Bhagavad-Gita are there? Which sects or schools of thought are those?
Please mention the Vedantic and non-Vedantic schools of thought as well.


texts: Why is it best if we light ghee lamp in the house while praying?

texts: Before starting any prayer it is required that we light a lamp which is made up of oil and cotton wick. But it is considered uttam (best) if ghee (Clarified butter) is used instead of oil. Why is ghee considered uttam?


texts: What scriptures describe making statues of Muktas?

texts:
The Satadhusani is a work by the Sri Vaishnava Acharya Vedanta Desikan consisting of 100 refutations of Adi Shankaracharya's philosophy of Advaita.  One chapter of the work is devoted to refuting the Advaita view that those who have attained Brahmajnana do not have to follow the rules of Varnashrama Dharma.  At the end of the chapter, the Advaita opponent says, you accuse us of undermining Varnashrama Dharma, but you Sri Vaishnavas also undermine Varnashrama Dharma, by making statues of low-caste devotees of Vishnu who have departed the Earth.  Vedanta Desikan responds that when a low-caste devotee of Vishnu has attained Moksha, they’re no longer associated with the caste their body had in life:

  Nescience, Karmic residues, the connection to a physical body, and the like has been totally eliminated in them by the special power derived from worshiping the Lord, and their identity with the Lord has been made manifest.  As such they are not connected to a particular caste.  Treatises on the setting up and the worship of devotees, nevertheless, note that one should make images of them corresponding to the appearance they formerly had on earth so as to exclude other people.  Following the authority of the appropriate texts, these treatises then prescribe from among the teachings on the topic of worship only that form of worship that is appropriate for each case. Now, how can you infer that this causes the destruction of Dharma? It is established that, according to the Vedic text “(They traverse) these worlds” [Taittiriya Upanishad 3.10.5], these, who in the liberated state are equal to Ananta, Garuda, and Vishvaksena, perform such acts as following the Lord.

Ananta (Adiseshan), Garuda, and Vishavaksena are Nitya Suris, eternally liberated souls who have dwelt in Vishnu’s highest abode of Paramapada forever, and Vedanta Desikan is saying Muktas or liberated souls attain a state equal to them. But I’m interested in the parts in bold.  My question is, what scriptures describe making statues of those who have attained Moksha?

It sounds like the “treatises” he’s referring to themselves rely on “the appropriate texts”.  So what are these texts?  Do any commentaries on the Satadhushani shed light on this?


texts:
Uttara Gita is a famous text containing the conversation of Lord Kesava with Arjuna.

Traditional scholars claim that the Uttara-Gita has taken as its
source the Asvamedha Parva of the Mahabharata. However, in one chapter
of the Bhisma Parva there is a section of approximately fifty slokas
that is popularly known as the Gitasara. Much of this section bears a
marked resemblance to the text of the Uttara-Gita.

The english translation of this work is available from many sources.
Gaudapada Acharya has written a commentary for this text. The sanskrit text of the commentary is available but is an English translation available? Portions of the english translation of this commentary are available but I am asking for the complete English translation.
Shankara has cited this work of his paramaguru in his bhashyas. For example, in bhagavad gita bhashya 13.13, he cites 1.7 of the bhashya. Swami Vidyaranya extensively cites this work in his Taittiriya Upaniṣad Dipika.


texts:
There are popular aartis, that are sung in North, which have initials of Swami Shivananda in their end. For example

So, my question is, who is "Swami Shivananda", composer of such Aartis?


texts: Why Divine Mother's (Kali) tongue is out of mouth?

texts: Why always it is seen Maa Kali's tongue out side from mouth ?


texts: When is sankrAnti celebrated? If the sun lies in dhanuSh-rAshi at sunrise and only crosses over to makara afternoon (as is the case in 2018 relative to India time), is sankrAnti celebrated on that day itself or on the following day? What are the pramANa-s?


texts:
In Shalya parva, Vaishampayana narrates how Balarama went to sacred thirthas. The story of Srucāvatī (Sruvavati) is narrated there.
Her birth is exactly same as of Drona: pot born after Bharadwaja's retu fell, he stored in a pot. It is the same Apasara as well.

The vital seed of the regenerate and high-souled Rishi Bharadwaja fell, upon beholding the large-eyed Apsara Ghritachi as the latter was passing at one time. That foremost of ascetics thereupon held it in his hand. It was then kept in a cup made of the leaves of a tree. In that cup was born the girl Sruvavati.

So, twins were born and Drona had a sister whom normally not mentioned?


texts:
While scrolling through the Wikipedia page of Lord Kubera, I saw that it was written Kubera's son's wife was Rambha who was raped by Ravana. So, what is this story?
Also, His sons were cursed into two trees, who were then liberated by Lord Krishna.
Can someone explain this too?


texts: Any descriptions of the chariot of Soma and Pushan?

texts:
This particular Rigvedic verse mentions the gods Soma and Pushan riding together on a chariot:

1 SOMA and Pūṣan, Parents of all riches, Parents of earth and Parents of high heaven, You Twain, brought forth as the whole world's protectors, the Gods have made centre of life eternal.
2 At birth of these two Gods all Gods are joyful: they have caused darkness, which we hate, to vanish. With these, with Soma and with Pūṣan, India generates ripe warm milk in the raw milch-cows.
3 Soma and Pūṣan, urge your chariot hither, the seven-wheeled car that measures out the region, That stirs not all, that moves to every quarter, five-reined and harnessed by the thought, ye Mighty.
4 One in the heaven on high hath made his dwelling, on earth and in the firmament the other. May they disclose to us great store of treasure, much-longed for, rich in food, source of enjoyment.
5 One of you Twain is Parent of all creatures, the other journeys onward all-beholding. Soma and Pūṣan, aid my thought with favour: with you may we o’ercome in all encounters.
6 May Pūṣan stir our thought, the all-impelling, may Soma Lord of riches grant us riches. May Aditi the perfect Goddess aid us. Loud may we speak, with heroes, in assembly.

Though the hymn is beautiful and quite interesting in its details my particular question is about the chariot that is mentioned in the highlighted portion. Do any commentaries/other scriptures explain what this seven-wheeled & five-reined chariot could be?


texts: Brahm gyan, atma gyan and moksha are same? When do we get brahm gyan? Or does moksha means permanent staying in nirvikalpa avastha?


texts: How Grahas were made and assigned their task

texts:
I see Chandra(lord moon) is the son of Atri and Anusuya, how he was made as graha and to rotate around earth

Lord surya is the sun of kashyapa, how was this earth before surya was born


texts: The connection between Agni and Bhuloka, Vayu and Bhuvarloka, Surya and Svar loka

texts:
The Shikshavalli of the Taittiriya Upanishad mentions:

भूरिति वा अग्निः । भुव इति वायुः । सुवरित्यादित्यः । मह इति चन्द्रमाः । चन्द्रमासा वाव सर्वाणि ज्योतीँषि महीयन्ते ।

What is the connection between Agni and Bhuloka? Is there a reference to this in the Rig Veda or any other Veda? Is there a story in the Mahabharata? or any other Purana? I've read in a few places that Agni presides over Bhuloka, but why? Similarly also, why is Vayu connected to Bhuvar Loka (Antariksha) and Aditya connected to Svargaloka? I tried to reason about it like so: fire-sacrifices (and hence) fire is the basis of life on earth, Vayu is the basis of life in the Antariksha, but then couldn't proceed with similar reasoning for why Aditya is the basis of life in Svargaloka. Indeed, both Vayu and Aditya are equally important to life on Bhuloka.


texts:
Time is a powerful thing and it appears to be the nature of time to change.

So my questions are:

Are there slokas that talk about the characteristics of good time and bad time in human life?
How is one expected to act when the time is in his/her favor and also when it is not?


texts: Does anyone know which chapter (of Mahabharatha) the story of Barbarika is mentioned?

texts:
This Wiki page gives extensive details of a character called Barbarika supposedly the son of Ghatotkacha and the Grandson of Bhima.

I am unable to find the chapter of Mahabharata where this character is mentioned. I even have a serious doubt whether this character actually exists at all or is this just a folklore).

Does someone know the chapter where he is mentioned?


texts: How do I convert into Brahmin when I am already a converted Hindu?

texts: My ancestors were Brahmins but they were forced to be Muslims, so I am a born Muslim but I already converted to Hinduism and I'm a pure vegetarian and I have knowledge of Vedas and Mahabharata. So can I get my caste of my ancestors and poonal back?


texts: Are all ways to attain moksha pair wise compatible at implementation level?

texts:
It is true that all valid ways to attain moksha converges at the end. It means that they have same end result namely moksha. But the inner details (or) tasks to perform can be totally different for each valid way.
While practicing a particular way, is it possible to practice any other way in parallel and attaining the result? My question is intended for normal humans i.e., not for avatars.
Suppose there are 3 different ways to attain moksha: Bhakthi, Gnana, Karma. Are all the possible pairs compatible to perform in parallel?
I mean, is it possible for a person to perform the following pairs simultaneously: (Bhakthi, Gnana), (Gnana, Karma), (Bhakthi, Karma), (Bhakthi, Gnana, Karma) and then attaining moksha? It is possible only if there are no contradictions among them at implementation level. If no, what are the compatible pairs?
Note: Answers should be from scriptures and not from the opinions or from the books by historians, archeologists, modern experts, etc., (which this site is not intended for).


texts: Do Hindu scriptures mention researchers or scientists?

texts:
Most of the Hinduism scriptures are from self experience of truth by Rishis.

Is there any mention about researchers or scientists in  scriptures? I mean are there any examples of persons from scriptures who are in research or does scriptures mention anywhere about research profession?

Note that the research I am talking about is the research happening in current days i.e., with proofs or experimental evidences other than self experiences of truth.


texts: How does the quality of "Tamas" viz. "ignorance", affect Moksha/Liberation?

texts:
There are 3 qualities for any being or existence, named as : Sattva (illumination), Rajas (passion), Tamas (ignorance).

Gita discusses them in great detail. According to it, the quality of Rajas is the reason for bondage or attaching a jiva to the physical plane, which resides in between the heaven (due to good deeds caused by Sattva) and the hell (due to sins caused by Tamas). Rajas has to be pacified for the liberation (viz. Moksha).

These leaves us with Sattva and Tamas. It indirectly implies that, the prominence of these 2 'may' not obstruct the liberation. Sattva being illuminating, would bring a consciousness to higher regions of life followed by Moksha.

Tamas on the other hand is related to ignorance and dumbness, which 'might' cause fall of a consciousness.
According to many verses, the sinfulness has no relation with the liberation. For example, verse BG 9.32 says that, sinful beings like Stri (Women), Vaishya (business class), Shudra (service class) also get liberation. Also refer BG 9.30.
[There is a local temple in my hometown. Its Mahant (prime priest) suggested that, opt for Stri Bhakti when possible, it's liked by the lord a lot.]

There are many bAwA-s (e.g. नागा साधु), who eat stale food, smoke and remain lazy in their life. Which are all notebook TAmasik qualities.
Now if Tamas brings to hellish regions, then why should such people be called Yogi-s or spirituals, isn't it?

As opposite argument, it's also said in BG 16.20, that those people who don't resolve their anger, lust, greed -- keep falling into lower & lower hells. But the further question is, how far can one fall? There has to be a limit of falling. One must be liberating after the last fall.

[Famous English saying related to tamas: "Ignorance is Bliss!"]

Question:

Does the quality of tamas cause the liberation?
If yes, then is the liberation via tamas quicker/slower than the sattva?

Clarification: For the liberation, one has to become gunAtita (beyond [3] qualities). But this question is not about it. Like how prominent Rajas obstructs the liberation, I want to know how the prominence of Tamas affects the liberation.


texts: books containing leelas of mother saraswati

texts: Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are probably most famous in Hindu stories, but I'd like to also know if there are any books like the upanishads that describe the leelas of mother Saraswati?


texts: What is Fullness and Emptyness (void) according to the Vedas?

texts:
I was reading a post containing the following lines taken from Veda, where I could not understand.

  That is Fullness, this is Fullness; from Fullness comes Fullness. When Fullness is taken from Fullness, Fullness remains.

Because if Fullness is taken away from Fullness, then nothing remains. Then how Fullness remains after it taken away? If Fullness remains, then

How do Veda define for Emptyness or void?

Reference:


texts: Who were the main disciples of Sri Lakulisha?

texts: Is there any source which says about the main pupils of Sri Lakulisha and how the sect was propagated in various places of India?


texts: If Shiva is a supreme god or form of energy, so will he reincarnate himself as Shiva again with birth of Prithvi?

texts:
Some say Shiva is the supreme God.

Some say Shiva is energy and cannot be destroyed.

I agree on both !!!

But does this mean Lord Shiva will reincarnate himself with the birth of Prithvi ?


texts: What is the significance of the name Kumbhakarna?

texts:
Kumbhakarna was the brother of Ravana. What is the meaning of this name? Is there any significance behind this name?

Wiki says it means pot-eared. By this logic, Karna was named after an ear. I find this difficult to digest.


texts:
I would like to know specific details about angamardana yoga. Things I am interested in knowing about it are:

Basic info about angamardana system for a beginner.
Postures/poses associated with it.
Any specific rules or regulations associated with it.

Any other useful information would be helpful indeed.


texts: In Mahabharata, were people aware of Krishna's Reality?

texts:
I have following question:-
Krishna wielded the Sudarshan Chakra.  At several instances as per Mahabharata and Bhagvatam he used it in front of several people. So, wasn't it clear to everyone that Krishna is indeed Vishnu because, as far as I remember, only Vishnu has the Sudarshan Chakra (maybe apart from Devi) and everyone at that time were aware of Vishnu.
So, were all people(specifically in Mahabharat) at that time were aware of Krishna's true identity or just few?


texts: Which words are used by Pandavas to address Dhritarashtra and Gandhari?

texts:
Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva are the names of Pandavas.

Pandu is the father of Pandavas. Kunti is mother of Yudhishthira, Bhima and Arjuna. Madri is mother of Nakula and Sahadeva.

Dhritarashtra is the elder brother for Pandu and Gandhari is a wife of Dhritarashtra.

In Mahabharata, which relationship term is used by Pandavas to address Dhritarashtra and Gandhari?


texts: According Advaita philosophy, can the formless Absolute Brahman see, speak, hear and smell?

texts:
In the Kena Upanishad following is said about the Absolute Brahman(not Atma...if Atma and Brahman are same then probably I have asked this question before. But in my opinion Absolute Brahman is a state of pure bliss. Atma merges into Brahman.):

  ‘What speech cannot reveal, but what reveals speech—know thou That
  alone as Brahman, and not this (anything objective)that people worship
  here.’

  ‘What hearing fails to hear, but what hears hearing— know thou That
  alone as Brahman, and not this that people worship here.’

  ‘What smell does not reveal, but what reveals smell— know thou That
  alone as Brahman, and not this that people worship here.’

As per my understanding, the formless Absolute, although without ear, is capable hearing; although without nose, is capable of smelling; although without mouth, is capable of speech.

My question is: Can the formless Absolute Brahman see, speak, hear and smell without eyes, mouth, ears and nose?


texts: Different methodologies for teaching to students and their sources

texts:
I have heard there are 20+ methodologies mentioned in some upanishads like Taittiriya about how to impart education/learning to students some go like:

samvAda / discussion
sambhAShana / group discussion
Practical demonstration
Debate etc etc

Can somebody shed some light on this? And if there are some scriptures that delineate these.


texts: Lord Vishnu rests on Ananta-Shesha, together with his consort Goddess Lakshmi, who is massaging His feet in Ksheera Sagar. I want to ask what message is being passed through this to a common man. I feel there is something which i don't know on this great "Ananta Shayana". Can any one help me on this.


texts: How many lipis are mentioned in scripture?

texts:
How many lipis are mentioned in scripture like our Hindu scripture
In which lipi Vedas and Mahabharata and Purana as been written


texts: Was Brihaspati mentioned in Rig Veda and Usana mentioned in Rig Veda and Bhagavadgita the same person?

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Brihaspati was praised in Rig Veda as follows:

  गणानां तवा गणपतिं हवामहे कविं कवीनामुपमश्रवस्तमम |

  जयेष्ठराजं बरह्मणां बरह्मणस पत आ नः षर्ण्वन्नूतिभिः सीद सादनम ||  Rig
  Veda 2.23.1

  WE call thee, Lord and Leader of the heavenly hosts, the wise among
  the wise, the famousest of all, The King supreme of prayers, O
  Brahmaṇaspati: hear us with help; sit down in place of sacrifice.

Sri Krishna says that he was Ushanas among seers in B.G.

  वृष्णीनां वासुदेवोऽस्मि पाण्डवानां धनंजयः।

  मुनीनामप्यहं व्यासः कवीनामुशना कविः।।10.37।।

  Of the Vrsnis (the members of the Vrsni clan), I am the son of
  Vasudeva; of the sons of Pandu, Dhananjaya (Arjuna) [I am]; of the
  sages too, I am Vyasa; of the seers, the seer Usanas.

However, it was also mentioned in Rig Veda that Usana fashioned the thunderbolt for Indra for slaying Vritra

  Mount Indra, lover of the men thou guardest, the well-yoked horses of
  the wind, best bearers. The bolt which Kavya Usana erst gave thee,
  strong, gladdening, Vrtra-slaying, hath he fashioned.

  Rig Veda 1.121.12

  He who filled full his belly with the Soma's juice, Maghavan, was
  delighted with the meath's sweet draught, When Usana, that he might
  slay the monstrous beast, gave him the mighty weapon with a thousand
  points.

  Rig Veda 5.34.2

So Usana was mentioned in Rig Veda and Bhagavad Gita.  And, both Brihaspati in Rig Veda and Usana in Bhagavad Gita were praised as Seer among the seers.(कविं कवीनामुपमश्रवस्तमम, कवीनामुशना कविः).

My question is - can we infer from the above that Brihaspati and Usana are one and the same person?


texts: Krishna said in Bhagawad Gita that He is Rama among the weapon wielders. Whom was He referring to Rama (or) Parasurama?

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In the 10th Chapter of Srimad Bhagavad Gita, Sri Krishna said as follows:

  पवनः पवतामस्मि रामः शस्त्रभृतामहम्।

  झषाणां मकरश्चास्मि स्रोतसामस्मि जाह्नवी।।10.31।।

  "Among the purifiers (or the speeders) I am the wind; Rama among the
  warriors am I; among the fishes I am the shark; among the streams I am
  the Ganga."

Now, a question arises as to which Rama was being referred to in this Sloka,  was it Rama, the son of Dasaratha (or) Rama, the son of Jamadagni, as both of them preceded Sri Krishna.


texts: How many son did Karna have? Is Sudama one of his sons not present in Mahabharat war? Did he die before the war? If so who killed him and why?


texts: How can we lead a life without attachments?

texts: In Bhagavad gita it was said that attachment is the main reason for our sorrows and it seems more difficult for me to follow because life seems nothing without attachments. So my question is what is really meant by that teaching and how's it possible to lead a life without attachments?


texts: Are there any handshake restrictions for Hindus?

texts:
According to this question on Workplace.SE:

  Muslims have some restrictions when it comes to interacting with members of the opposite sex. Usually many people in USA and Europe do not know that, for example, a Muslim man cannot shake hands with a woman. I must not touch members of the other sex at all except my spouse and siblings. This is in fact a law for me.

Are there similar restrictions for Hindu men and women?


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For any great verses or naamas in scriptures, there can be different kinds of interpretations. Dharmic, vedic etc., are the types of interpretations.
I heard that there can be another type of interpretation, which is called vamacharic interpretation.
What exactly is vamachara? What are the scriptures related to vamachara? Does it belong to nirukta?


texts: What are the instructions by our scriptures on how to win a chaste wife with integrity?

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I am looking to get married in the next few years and would like to know where in our scriptures it is written how to win a chaste wife.

I want to stress not the victory of winning a chaste wife, but how to develop the characteristics of that man who deserves to have a chaste wife.

I want to build my character to an ideal man according to our scriptures. I read a little in Maha-Nirvana-Tantra in Swami Vivekananda's vol.1 about the duties of a householder, but it doesn't give instructions for the transition from Brahmacari to householder.

I read one verse from Kamasutra, but was utterly dissapointed at it since it says that one has to use sly tricks to win a woman. As soon as I read that I felt like burning that book.

thank you


texts:
I stumble upon this youtube video.

Can anyone explain or translate what is being said?

It is so addictive and energising...

Thanks & best regards from Portugal!


texts: For those who support guna-based or behavior-based caste theory, how do you determine someone's guna?

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The critics of the birth-based caste system and those who support the behavior-based caste system, cite these verses from the Bhagavad Gita in support of their theory:

  Bg 18.41 — Brāhmaṇas, kṣatriyas, vaiśyas and śūdras are distinguished
  by the qualities born of their own natures in accordance with the
  material modes, O chastiser of the enemy.

  Bg 18.42 — Peacefulness, self-control, austerity, purity, tolerance,
  honesty, knowledge, wisdom and religiousness – these are the natural
  qualities by which the brāhmaṇas work.

  Bg 18.43 — Heroism, power, determination, resourcefulness, courage in
  battle, generosity and leadership are the natural qualities of work
  for the kṣatriyas.

  Bg 18.44 — Farming, cow protection and business are the natural work
  for the vaiśyas, and for the śūdras there are labor and service to
  others.

Now at first glance, one might think that someone's outward behavior as listed above determines their predominant guna.

But the problem with this theory is that people's gunas and behaviors constantly change, people can make their behavior change through practice, and people have a mish-mash of the qualities listed above that aren't cleanly divided along those lines.

So, one must resort to determining the person's actual guna composition through some other means.

How do the supporters of behavior-based caste theory go about determing someone's guna composition? Through siddhis?


texts: Performing Pooja, japa etc during wife's monthly period

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My question is should the men in the household perform sandhyavandanam,, Pooja and japa when the woman in the family is during her monthly menstrual cycle. We do not have provision to spare the only woman from doing her household chores including cooking, cleaning utensils, entering kitchen etc. But we have a separate Pooja room which she will refrain from entering during the 4 day period.
I am really confused whether to perform my rituals during her period or not. Hoping to get a valuable asset as per Dharma shastras. Please advise.


texts: What is the meaning of Tri-sapta in Atharva-veda?

texts: The very first line of Atharva Veda says , "ye trisaptaah pariyanti ...". The meaning of Trisapta here seems somewhat confusing. In the Acharya Vedanta Tirth translation it is called to be the three gunas (satta, rajas, tamas) and seven padarthas (prithvi, jal, tej, vaayu, aakaash,  tanmaatraa, ahamkaara). However, the Sankhya philosophy says that the five tanmaatraas are distinct. Moreover, the other translations do not favor this one, they talk about a much vaster meaning - all the possible permutations of 7 and 3. Can anyone please clear me the real meaning? Moreover, is it somehow related to the corresponding devata Vachaspati? Any help is greatly appreciated.


texts:
In the Wikipedia, it is mentioned that Vichitravirya died of tuberculosis. But how did he even get diagnosed in that early era?

I know Wikipedia can't be trusted but I am interested to know what is mentioned about the cause of Vichitravirya's death in scripture?


texts: Is there any proof that none of our ancient rishis were unmarried or left their families?

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So far as I know, brahmacharya is essential for spiritual advancement.

I often hear though that our great rishis were married.

Is there any proof in the scriptures that show that none of the rishis were unmarried or left their families for realisation?

Please note that the question is about the 'Rishi-s' and not about the common folk of the vedic age.


texts: Have different Vaishnavite teachers made remarks on the relative merits of different Vaishnavite Puranas?

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Obviously Gaudiyas would rank the Bhagavatam first for its statement "Krishnastu Bhagavan swayam".

Ramanuja gave great importance to Vishnu Purana, but apparently never cited the Bhagavatam.

Do the teachers from different sects explain their ranking of the Vaishnavite Puranas?

note:  this is obvioulsy not an opinion-based question.  An example of what I am asking for is Ramanuja's supreme praise of Vishnu Purana in relation to other Puranas.


texts: Why does Yukteshwar say that all religions are the same?

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In the Holy science, neo-Hindu follower Yukteshwar says all religions are equal:

The purpose of this book is to show as clearly as possible that there is an essential unity in all religions; that there is no difference in the truths inculcated by the various faiths; that there is but one method by which the world, both external and internal, has evolved; and that there is but one Goal admitted by all scriptures.

If that is the case, then how are there clear differences between the Abrahamic religions and Hinduism? For example, the Old Testament says:

Now therefore, kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman who has known man intimately. But all the girls who have not known man intimately, spare for yourselves.

But this is clearly against Hinduism:

Āpastamba (2.10, 11).—‘The Āryas forbid the killing of those who have laid down their arms, of those who beg for mercy with flying hair or joined palms, and of fugitives.’
Baudhāyana (1.18.11).—‘He shall not fight those in fear, intoxicated, insane or out of their minds; nor those who have lost their armour; nor with women, infants, aged men and Brāhmaṇas.’

Jesus in the Bible also says that people suffer not due to their sins, but simply because of God's will:

As he passed by, he saw a man blind from birth. And his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.

This contradicts the Hindu teaching that people suffer due to their individual karma.
From this it is clear that Jesus was non-Vedic.
But why does Yukteshwar says all religions are the same when there are contradictions in all religions?


texts: For what reason did Dasharatha marry three women?

texts: What is the significance of Dasharatha's marriage with three women and why was lord Rama born into a family where three mothers were there?


texts: Which Scriptures mention "Chitrahuti" (चित्राहुति) or "Chitravati" procedure which we carry out before starting of our meals?

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Chitrahuti (चित्राहुति) Or "Chitravati", is a procedure of keeping small amount of food out side of the plate on the floor  , as offering to "Chitra ,Chitragupta and Yama (चित्रा , चित्रगुप्त , यम)  and the gods who govern elements of nature , before starting of our meals.

My questions are -:

1) In which  Scriptures of Hinduism this Chitrahuti  procedure is mentioned?

2) Are their  any puranic stories associated with this Chitrahuti procedure?


texts:
Wikipedia says:

  On 4 July 1902 (the day of his death) Vivekananda awoke early, went to the monastery at Belur Math and meditated for three hours. He taught Shukla-Yajur-Veda, Sanskrit grammar and the philosophy of yoga to pupils, later discussing with colleagues a planned Vedic college in the Ramakrishna Math. At 7:00 p.m. Vivekananda went to his room, asking not to be disturbed; he died at 9:20 p.m. while meditating.

  According to his disciples, Vivekananda attained mahasamādhi; the rupture of a blood vessel in his brain was reported as a possible cause of death. His disciples believed that the rupture was due to his brahmarandhra (an opening in the crown of his head) being pierced when he attained mahasamādhi.

This article however says:

  The fateful evening of July 4, 1902, Vivekananda passed away following a third heart attack, completing 39 years, five months and 24 days.

I don't understand how one can one plan a heart attack on oneself. Is this possible through yoga?

Did Vivekananda have a history of heart problems?

Why do we have two different accounts of Vivekananda's death? What's the true story?


texts: What is the best time to read Sri Rudram?

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I would like to know the best time to read Sri Rudram (Namakam Chamakam) and also the order in which we need to read. Are there any rituals that should be performed while reading Sri Rudram?

The Great Sri Rudra Pasupathi Nayanar used to chant Sri Rudram standing in water with his neck deep. Do we also have to do like that? What if there is no river?


texts: Did Indra kill Virochan in the Tārakāmaya War?

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The war between Devas and Demons fought for the custody of Tara, Brihaspati's wife who had been abducted by Chandra is known as the Tārakāmaya War and it is given in detail in Chapter 6 of the Vishnu Purana.

I came across a book called The Purana Index that mentions something interesting about it:

Is this correct? Indra does kill Virochan however, as mentioned in the Kedar Kanda of the Skanda Purana the circumstances are very different. Virochana is extremely generous, so Indra approaches him in the form of an old beggar and asks him for his head and the Daitya actually obliges!

So my question is - Did Indra kill Virochana and Vishnu kill Kālanemi at the time of Tārakāmaya war?


texts: Besides memory and recognition,what are the best arguments against a momentary consciousness?

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Shri Shankaracharya pointed out that memory and recognition prove consciousness is not momentary,but some Nastikas will say that memory is stored in the alaya vijnana storehouse,and that Consciousness is like a flame lighting endless candles.

what are some other good arguments that prove consciousness is eternal?


texts: What were the rules of fighting in "Chakravyuha"?

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Is their any explanation on how chakravyuha was created?
What were the rules of fighting in chakravyuha?
What exactly it was and purpose?
Were there any similar types of war structures that existed?


texts: Why Bharata Varsha (India) alone is called Karma Bhoomi?

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According to Vishnu Purana,

  In Jambu-dwípa, Vishnu, consisting of sacrifice, is worshipped, as
  the male of sacrificial rites, with sacrificial ceremonies: he is
  adored under other forms elsewhere. Bhárata is therefore the best of
  the divisions of Jambu-dwípa, because it is the land of works: the
  others are places of enjoyment alone. It is only after many thousand
  births, and the aggregation of much merit, that living beings are
  sometimes born in Bhárata as men. The gods themselves exclaim, "Happy
  are those who are born, even from the condition of gods, as men in
  Bhárata-varsha, as that is the way to the pleasures of Paradise, or
  the greater blessing of final liberation. Happy are they who,
  consigning all the unheeded rewards of their acts to the supreme and
  eternal Vishńu, obtain existence in that land of works, as their path
  to him. We know not, when the acts that have obtained us heaven shall
  have been fully recompensed, where we shall renew corporeal
  confinement; but we know that those men are fortunate who are born
  with perfect faculties in Bhárata-varsha."

It also says

  From this region heaven is obtained, or even, in some cases,
  liberation from existence; or men pass from hence into the condition
  of brutes, or fall into hell. Heaven, emancipation, a state in
  mid-air, or in the subterraneous realms, succeeds to existence here,
  and the world of acts is not the title of any other portion of the
  universe.

But it doesn't look correct in today's context. There are many people in India who are doing crimes and acquiring bad Karma? Indeed, if we acquire Karma on this land, how can we liberate?

Also, this answer gives info about other islands and all people on this Earth were descendants of Grandsons of Priyavrata.

Why only descendants of Bharatha are privileged or Why this Varsha (country) is privileged?
In Kaliyuga, Sanatana Dharma or Vedic Religion is limited to Bharatha Varsha alone. What about other Yugas? In other Yugas people were present in other islands and were worshiping Vedic Gods. Was Bharatha Varsha still Karma Bhoomi during those times?


texts: What is the story of suryagrahan and chandragrahan as per scriptures?

texts:
I have read in a quora answer that rahu and ketu desired to eat surya and chandra as revenge for what happened to them. They chased surya dev and chandra dev who took surrender in lord shiva.
Seeing this rahu and ketu did penances for lord shiva and when he was pleased, they asked a boon about staying in lord shiva's body as surya and chandra did. But just touching lord, made them realise their mistake and made them satwic.
Because of this they got position among navgrahas.
Also, for their satisfaction lord shiva allowed them to consume surya and chandra for rahu and ketu respectively. But that actually causes no harm to neither suryadev nor chandra dev.
Is this story valid as per scriptures? If yes, then which scripture?


texts: Kayasthas are said to be descendants of Chitragupta, the deity responsible for recording sins or merits of every living being. Kayasthas are usually referred as the scribe class. Their varna however is very disputed. In Bengal however, Kayasthas are said to be separate to of Brahmins as Bengali Brahmins do not consider themselves as Kayasthas. Nevertheless, even this is disputed. So which varna do Kayasthas especially Bengali ones belong to?


texts: What is Purva Paksha according to Hindu scriptures?

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I have been reading this book called Being Different by Rajiv Malhotra.
In this he mentions Purva Paksha i.e. the art of studying the opposing parties point of view thoroughly and then presenting your viewpoint (Uttara Paksha).
He gives the example of Adi Shankaracharya who engaged in a lot of debates with Buddhist scholars etc. most famously Mandana Mishra (who later becomes his devotee)

My question is this: Do Hindu scriptures explicitly talk about Purva Paksha? If so, what do they say?


texts: Is it necessary that an enlightened man should possess Siddhis or special powers?

texts: We know about many saints who possessed siddhis in the past. Are siddhis a criteria for an enlightened person ?


texts: What is the message that Lord Krishna giving to us stealing butter?

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We all know that Krishna is god, but he also stolen butter in his childhood, so what someone can perceive good in that?

How can we look into it in a positive way?


texts: What is the Vedic concept of universe creation?

texts: I read big bang theory of universe creation, but I want to know the Vedic concept of universe creation and in how much time it is created?


texts: Why did God made mind so hard to control?

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In Bhagwat Geeta Lord Shri Krishna talks a lot about controlling your mind.

Like this saying from Bhagavad Gita: “For him who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends; but for one who has failed to do so, his mind will remain the greatest enemy.”

But my question is why God made mind so cunning and hard to control at first place?

Why didn't he designed the mind in the way that it may automatically act to serve the God or stay away from all such wrong doings?


texts: How someone can get any siddhi from Lord Hanuman?

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First let me tell you who and what I am as a devotee because that might help you to give my answer.

I am devotee of Shree Ram and Lord Hanuman. I am small devotee, not any major one. But as a devotee I want to increase my level in eyes of my Lord so that I can also get moksha.
To achieve this righ now I am doing fasts (Vrata) of Lord Hanuman since few months and I am willing to continue this fasts until my last breath. Means, as long as I am alive, I will keep doing fasts on Tuesday for Lord Hanuman.

As I am devotee of Shree Ram also (Both are so close to my heart), so I am doing Satya Narayan Fast also on every purnima since months. And this fast of Narayan, also willing to continue till end of my life. Never gonna quit...
I can't say that I don't have any greed in doing these fasts although I am also human that can go selfish sometimes. But my biggest greed is Moksha. That's why I am doing this.

But here I am only for Lord Hanuman right now. So let's come to real question. I heard that Lord Hanuman blesses their true devotee with some sidhies. He is one of the few Lord who gives sidhi/power to their devotee (not completely clear on that point).As per my knowledge, Mata Kali and Lord Hanuman use to give sidhies to thier devotees. So what I want to know is, how one can get any siddhi from Lord Hanuman? Is there any mantra that can help to pleased Lord Hanuman or any other way through which Lord Hanuman will give blessing to their devotee in form of any siddhi?


texts: Which scriptures defines the three levels of reality?

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According to Advaita Vedanta, there are three levels of reality:

Pāramārthika (परमार्थिक)
Vyāvahārika (व्यवहारिक)
Prāthibhāsika (प्रतिभासिक)

The wikipedia article on Advaita Vedanta says that:

  Shankara uses sublation as the criterion to postulate an ontological hierarchy of three levels

Also in a recent chat I found that it is told by Adi Shankaracharya. These three levels of reality are very helpful to understand the absolute truth. (Visit this and this).

So, I want to know if it is described by Adi Shankaracharya, and if it's so, in which text.

More accurately, Which scripture are they defined in?


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Every Devta and Devia has a specific place as home. We can see that only Narad muni keeps travelling across all the lokas everytime.

Where is his home location? Or is there any reason that he has to keep travelling across all the lokas continuously?


texts: I am currently watching Ramanand Sagar's Krishna and I noticed some unseen and unheard details in the serial. For instance, Rohini, Vasudev's first wife was secretly taken out of Mathura to Nand's village by the Yadav leaders. Also, another detail that was shown was that Devakis's first son Kirtiman was born outside prison and was killed outside prison. How much of this detail is canonical ?


texts: What arguments Adi Shankara makes to claim that Supreme is devoid of any attributes?

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The interpretation of 'Nirguna' is different in different philosophies.

Srila baldeva VidyaBhushan in His Govind Bashya (Gaudiya vaishnav commentary on vedanta sutras)interprets 'Nirguna' as being without any material attributes;i.e. He is fully spiritual.

Similarly, Sripad Ramanujacharya interprets 'Nirguna' as to being without any negative qualities.

Ramanujacarya makes the following argument's in his Sri-Bhasya to refute the theory of Supreme being attributeless(It goes roughly as follows):

  if we see a rope and think it is a snake, that mistaken idea is due to
  the fact that there is something snake-like in the rope, namely the
  shape of the rope. Similarly, if we are really perceiving Brahman but
  we think we are seeing the world, then the attributes we are seeing in
  the world must be derived from the qualities we are seeing in Brahman
  So for instance, if we see a chair there must be something chair-like
  in Brahman, otherwise we wouldn't mistake it for a chair. And if we
  see an apple then Brahman must have some apple-like attribute, etc.
  But that cannot be if Brahman is attributeless.

So I'm interested in knowing if Sripad Sankaracarya makes any such convincing arguments(I am sure He does) and what these arguments are.

Vedic scriptures contain various verses that states that Supreme Brahman is Nirguna. But as I've already mentioned; the interpretation of the word 'Nirguna' varies greatly in different philosophies.

Ex. Vedanta Sutra; Adhyaya 1, pada 1 ;Adhikarana 5 deals explicitly with this subject matter.

Adi Shankaracharya interprets Nirguna as without any attributes(correct me if i'm wrong). However Shankara also says that Brahman is full of eternal bliss and knowledge(Satcitanandmaya) ; this is also mentioned in various scriptures.

So my 1st question here is

Is it wrong to say that knowledge,eternity and bliss are his attributes ; Thus concluding that He has attributes?

It is believed by Advaitins that this nirguna Brahman expands himself in saguna form(say Lord Krishna).

Is there any difference between this Saguna expansion and Nirguna Brahman?

3.If Saguna brahman(say Lord Krishna) is superimposition of Maya on Nirguna   Brahman; than would it mean that krishna is under the spell of Maya(illusion)?

The purpose of these questions(Q.2 , Q.3) is that I'm confused with above Shankara philosophy and this verse of Geeta

Edit 1: I seek to find out the explanation/arguments that Shankaracharya(or other prominent acaryas in Disciplic succession) put forward to infer that supreme is without any attributes.

Edit 2: So; please avoid quoting a direct verse from scripture; since I'm looking what Sripad Sankaracharya comments on those(related) verses.

Edit 3: I've purposely used the word 'Supreme' ; instead of using any specific term.

Example:

  there is sun and from sun radiates the sunlight. Sun pervades the
  world in form of his light energy. This all-pervading light does not
  have any form. But sun does have form.

Now If someone argues that Sunlight is Supreme(in this ex.) ; than that would be contradiction to sutra 1.1.2 ; "Janmadi yasya yataha" (from whome birth etc).
This is because in given example ; sunlight is the effect of Sun;It has come from sun; Sun is the cause. Thus since sunlight is not independent of sun; it is subordinate to sun.


texts:
As the title goes, Sri Krishna Tulabharam, it's a movie made on the very act of Weighing by Scale of Lord Krishna.
This story, as also heard by me in several Srimad Bhagvad Puran Katha, is generally used in the context of emphasizing the fact that the only thing greater than God is the pure love and devotion of a devotee towards God.
For those who might not know, Tulabhara, also known as Tula-purusha is an ancient Hindu practice in which a person is weighed against a commodity (such as gold, grain, fruits or other objects), and the equivalent weight of that commodity is offered as donation. The article in the Wikipedia very well establishes this practice as predominant in the past as per Hindu mythology and Indian history too.
As the story goes, as per the mentioned films' plotline as follows:

Lord Krishna reaches heaven along with Satyabhama, confronts with
Lord Indra (Rajanala), acquires Parijat tree and gifts it to
Satyabhama. As a result, the pride in Satyabhama increases tenfold and
looks low at Krishna's remaining wives. Knowing everything, Lord
Krishna acts as innocent and silently plays drama with Narada. After
that, on the occasion of Rukmini's birthday, she invites Krishna and
Satyabhama to take her hospitality. Satyabhama does not allow Krishna,
but Krishna yields towards Rukmini's devotion and goes along with her.
Now Satyabhama becomes depressed for her defeat and she wants to
achieve Krishna's love totally for herself. Sage Narada takes
advantage of the situation and provokes Satyabhama to perform a
ritual. The main concept of the ritual is that Satyabhama must donate
her husband Krishna along with the Parijat tree and she can get back
him by repaying with the gold of his weight. Arrogant Satyabhama feels
that she can easily weigh her husband with her wealth. So, without any
hesitation, she donates Krishna to Sage Narada, but the situation
becomes reversed, Satyabhama is unable to outweigh Krishna, even after
using her entire wealth. Sage Narada takes Lord Krishna along with him
and starts selling him on the streets. Seeing this, the Dwaraka people
become violent and try to crush Narada. Lord Krishna stops them when
Krishna's remaining wives come forward, ask Narada to take their
entire wealth and leave their husband. Here, Sage Narada explains that
no one has understood the real form of Krishna, he is a lord who will
yield only for devotion. Sage Narada also says that there is only one
person in this universe who can weigh Lord Krishna that is none other
than Rukmini. Ultimately, Satyabhama's pride completely comes to an
end and she brings Rukmini by falling on her feet. Finally, Rukmini
weighs Krishna with one Tulasidalam (Basil leaf) and gets him back,
while Satyabhama also realizes the real form of the Lord and becomes
his devotee.

This part of the article on  makes a subtle reference to the same story.
So, my question being about the Scriptural References for this story?
Which all scriptures mention this incident?
Also, are there any other similar instances or puranic stories (need not be based on the same practice of Tulabharam) described in the scriptures, where a Husband or Wife (or anyone of kith and kin type) makes such kind of philanthropic benefaction based dharmic donation i.e dāna (दान) to anyone?


texts: Why do different Lokas have different velocities of time?

texts: For example, time passing for one day of Brahma is not the same as time passing for one day of Pitrs is not the same as time passing for one day of Humans, etc,.


texts: Are there any substitutes for Panchamakara?

texts:
"Panchamakara" refers to the five taboo substances used in Tantra. These substances are:

• madya (wine)

• māṃsa (meat)

• matsya (fish)

• mudrā (parched grain)

• maithuna (sexual intercourse)

My question is:

Are there any substitutes for any of these substances (like possibly garlic instead of meat and honey instead of alcohol), especially for maithuna?


texts: What is the story of the "Sudarśana Chakra"?

texts: How did Lord Mahavishnu get the Sudarśana Chakra? Why is it called the ultimate weapon among other weapons?


texts:
We humans can’t sit at one place, keep thinking a lot and want to roam around. So, what will the be gods be doing? We have heard God is Omnipresent, how? Doesn’t he travel and visit places like us? What is his schedule?
The question could sound silly and may bring laughs, but request for genuine answers.


texts:
In Rig Veda (RV.6.27.4 & 5) it is described that Indra killed people of Varasikha and drove away VRcis in the aid of Abhyavartin Cayamana. Ralph T.H Griffith's translation follows :-

  4 This one great power of thine our eyes have witnessed, wherewith thou slewest Varasikha's children,
  When by the force of thy descending thunder, at the mere sound, their boldest was demolished.

  5 In aid of Abhyavartin Cayamana, Indra destroyed the seed of Varasikha.
  At Hariyupiya he smote the vanguard of the Vrcivans, and the rear fled frighted

Is there any scripture elaborating this story? Who were Varasikha and Abhyavartin Cayamana?


texts: From where can I get Mrtyunjaya Tantra / Mrtyu-Sanjaya Tantra book?

texts: Pranam! I am looking for above mentioned book named as Mrtyunjaya Tantra which is mentioned by Srila Jiva Goswami in his Krishna Sandarba and also mentioned by many scholars somewhere. It is one of the Vaishnava Tantra book and it contains the description of Spiritual World. I have contacted many libraries but I haven't found it yet. If someone can get this book then it would be great help for me and for society.


texts:
What are all astrological information about sun?
I want to know all residing deities like i have heard that indra,agni and shiva are. The opposite planets,opposite zodiacs its greatness and all other facts which are still unkown to me from puranas and other scriptures.


texts: Who says this verse in the Mahābhārata and in what context?

texts:
I've heard the following verse before in a couple of spiritual discourses but more recently found it in The Cultural Heritage of India Volume II - Itihāsas, Purāṇas, Dharma and Other Śāstras in written form.

Who says this verse and in what context? I'm assuming it's Vyāsa but I could be wrong.

  THE CHARACTER OF THE MAHĀBHĀRATA

  Matthew Arnold, defining the epic form of poetry, said that the main
  story must relate to high personages and that its language and metre
  should be simple and dignified. It should contain vigorous dialogues. It
  should have interludes in the form of episodes. It must have a high and noble purpose. In the light of this definition, we can surely call the
  Mahābhārata an epic par excellence. The story relates to high personages
  belonging to the hallowed race of the Bharatas of high antiquity. The
  metres employed in the epic are simple, being mostly anuṣṭubh and
  triṣṭubh and the language used is simple, sonorous, and dignified. There are
  a number of racy dialogues here and there, and a large number of episodes.
  The moral objective Of the work is propagation of the Eternal Law,
  covering the four human values — dharma, artha, kāma, and mokṣa. Of
  these, the first is to be regarded as the most valuable treasure.

  In fact, the note of dharma permeates the entire poem, and is concisely expressed in the famous couplet:

  Ūrdhvabāhur-viraumyeṣa na ca kaścit śṛṇoti mām,
  Dharmād arthaśca kāmaśca sa dharmaḥ kiṃ na sevyate?

  The introductory chapter of the epic narrates in detail several other
  objectives — one of which is being an eternal source of inspiration to future
  poets; but dharma is the supreme teaching of this epic, and so it is rightly
  regarded as the fifth Veda.


texts: Who is this figure depicted between Shiva and Parvati?

texts:
Edward Moor's book "The Hindu Pantheon", published in 1810, provides numerous pictures of Hindu gods.  Here's one such picture, depicting Shiva and Parvati:

My question is, who is the small figure depicted between them, holding two lotus flowers?  Is that one of Shiva's Ganas, or Shiva's son Kartikeya (aka Muruga or Skanda)?  Could it be Nandi, who's described in anthropomorphic terms as I discuss here?

The reason I ask is that Moor says "the lower central little gentlemen (fig. 6) I am not acquainted with", but considering that he was writing in a period when the Europeans were just starting to become acquainted with Hinduism, we may have more information about this figure.  Are there any descriptions in Hindu scripture of Kartikeya or Shiva's Ganas holding two lotus flowers?

By the way, another odd thing about the picture is that Shiva is holding a bull in his hand!  Now Shiva is known as Pashupati, the lord of animals, and he rides on a bull and has a bull on his flag, but has anyone ever seen him holding a bull?


texts: How many people listened to the Bhagavad Gita in the Mahabharata along with Arjuna?

texts: I have listened to various version of the Mahabharata where various people are said to be listening to the Bhagavad Gita along with Arjuna, like Hanuman, Barbarika, etc. But this count varies. So what is the real count? How many people listen to it with Arjuna?


texts: Why is Shravana Nakshatram considered the "birth star" of Vishnu?

texts:
The Venkatachala Mahatmya of the Skanda Purana describes the story of Venkateshwara (the Vishnu deity in Tirupati, AKA Balaji or Srinivasa).  This excerpt describes how Brihaspati, guru of the gods, is called by Padmavathi's father Akasa Raja to fix a date for the marriage of Vishnu and Padmavathi:

  Saying "So be it" the Lord of men called Brihaspati from the world of Suras asked him about (the hour) for the marriage of the girl and the bridegroom.  The king asked: "The native star of the girl is Mrigashirsha; that of The Lord is Shravana.  Let the conjunction of these two be considered."  On hearing it [Brihaspati] said "The star Uttaraphalguni suits both of them for the increase of their happiness. It is declared so by the divine astrologers.  Let their marriage be celebrated on the marriage be celebrated on the Uttaraphalguni day."  He said, "Let it be celebrated duly in the month if Vaishakha."

My question is, why does Vishnu have Shravana as his Nakshatra or birth star?  Vishnu's connection to Shravana Nakshatra isn't limited to Venkateshwara, by the way; this book says "Vishnu is the presiding deity over Shravana".

Now strictly speaking it's meaningless for Vishnu to have a "birth star".  First of all, as Krishna says in the Bhagavad Gita, Vishnu is unborn, and second of all he's older than the stars!  So I assume it's referring to the birth one of Vishnu's incarnations (avataras), because similar answers are given elsewhere in the story.  As I discuss in this question, when Vishnu is asked by Padmavathi and her friends what dynasty he belongs to, he says he is a member of the solar dynasty, because Rama was a descendant of Surya the sun god.  And when asked who his parents are, the answer given is Vasudeva and Devaki, the parents of Krishna.  So presumably this too is a reference to one of Vishnu's incarnations

But which one?  The Bala Kanda of the Ramayana says that Rama was born during Punarvasu Nakshatra, and the Srimad Bhagavatam says that Krishna was born during Rohini Nakshatra.  So was someone else born during Shravana?

Do Hindu scriptures provide any explanation of why Shravana is considered the birth star of Vishnu?


texts: Who is the "fiend" in this verse - Rigveda Book 10, Hymn 85

texts:
Who is the "fiend" in this verse from Rig-Veda, Book 10:

  Give thou the woollen robe away: deal treasure to the Brahman priests.
  This female fiend hath got her feet, and as a wife attends her lord.
  Unlovely is his body when it glistens with this wicked fiend,
  What time the husband wraps about his limbs the garment of his wife.

I've heard this being used as proof that scriptures prohibit cross-dressing.

A reputed online publication cites it here so I would appreciate some scholarly inputs.


texts: Is there any original manuscript of Dhanurveda or the original text which can be read online.


texts: Does scripture say that scripture should not be written down?

texts: Shruti = "what is heard".  It is believed that the written scripture does not convey the essence.  Does a prohibition against writing scripture down exist in scripture?


texts:
On Raksha Bandhan, men are tied with a band on their hands by their sister. These bands are coming in different types in market such as cartoon characters, some designs, with stones etc.

Is there any explanation in scriptures on how a Rakhi band should be?


texts: How to celebrate birthdays as per Panchanga if births had taken place in Adhika Masa?

texts: How do I celebrate birthday as per Panchanga, if we are born in Adhika Masa? For example, my son is born in Adhika Vaishaka, but this year there is no Adhika for Vaishaka.


texts:
Is Sanskrit literature oldest ?
The history is showing proofs that Sanskrit literature is only in 1st century
But Hebrew literature is 10th century B.C.E
But we are saying that our puranas are written in 5000 B.C.E. years ago
Then any inscriptions are there in Sanskrit which is oldest 5000 B.C.E


texts: What is the "ancient statute" referred to in the Rig Veda?

texts:
Soma is a drink, derived from a plant that's now unknown, that played an crucially important role in Vedic ritual; the Soma Yagna, in which Soma was offered to the gods, is extensively discussed in the Vedas and it was the chief Vedic method of worshipping the gods.  The god of this drink is Chandra the moon god, and in his capacity as the god of the Soma drink he is often called Soma, Pavamana, or Indu.  Here is a verse from the Ninth Mandala of the Rig Veda (often called the Soma Mandala) in praise of him:

  Winning the friendship of the Deities, Indu flows in a thousand streams to make them joyful.  Praised by the men after the ancient statute, he hath come nigh, for our great bliss, to Indra.

My question is, what is this "ancient statute" about praising Soma?  The verses of the Rig Veda are already of timeless antiquity, having been heard by sages directly from the gods from time immemorial.  So what statute is so old that it's even considered ancient by a Rig Vedic verse?


texts: Do we have any information about previous births of Yudishthir, Bheem, Nakul and Sehdev?

texts: In Mahabharata, we see that Pandava brothers have suffered a lot. Even when they were suppose to rule, they had to spend their large part of life in forests or fighting their own cousins or family members or watching their sons getting killed. I wonder why they had to suffer this much. Do they have any previous births and they were redeeming for the bad karmas of their previous birth. Till now I only know of only Arjuna's previous birth, ie, Sage Nara from Nara-Narayan duo. But in that life too, I don't think he has done any evil. Do we have any reference to previous births of other Pandava brothers.


texts: Do you know history behind the Kamakhya Temple located in Guwahati Assam, why it is called the Famous Shakti Peeth ?