Category: Hinduism (Sanatan Dharma)

The term ‘Sanatana Dharma’ is often associated with a particular sect or religion, but we rarely take the time to comprehend its true meaning. While ‘Dharma’ is commonly interpreted as ‘duty’, ‘religion’, or ‘religious duty’, its meaning goes beyond these concise English translations. The root of the Sanskrit word ‘Dharma’ is ‘dhri’, which means ‘to sustain’, and it also implies that which is essential and fundamental to something. ‘Sanatana’ means ‘eternal’, and the phrase ‘Sanatana Dharma’ refers to what is perpetually integral to a living entity. It is timeless, not confined by any boundaries, and not limited to any particular sect. Unlike faith, which can change, ‘Sanatana Dharma’ (commonly referred to as ‘Hinduism’ today) is unchangeable and eternal.

‘Om’ or ‘Aum’ holds immense significance in Hinduism as it embodies the primal sound of creation and the original vibration of the cosmos. Composed of three syllables (A-U-M), it symbolizes the different states of consciousness, namely waking, dreaming, and deep sleep, with the fourth state being the realization of one’s spiritual identity. The visual representation of Om symbol also reflects these states and represents enlightenment beyond material consciousness. This article will delve into the significance and meaning of the Hindu symbol OM. By chanting Om, an individual can synchronize their frequency with that of the universe, thereby leading to spiritual growth. Moreover, Om is believed to be the sound manifestation of the Supreme Lord and is hence chanted at the outset of several Hindu prayers and rituals. It is customary to begin any sacred recitation or Sanskrit prayer with the chanting of Om.

Om is the Akshara, or imperishable syllable. Om is the Universe, and this is the exposition of Om. The past, the present and the future, all that was, all that is, all that will be, is Om. Likewise, all else that may exist beyond the bounds of time, that too is Om. – Mandukya Upanishad

A Hindu temple is not a communal place of worship, but rather the abode of God or a specific deity, which is why it is often referred to as a ‘devasthan’ or ‘devalaya’. The activities within the temple revolve around serving and worshiping the deity. The worship is performed by a designated priest or group of priests. The temple serves as a meeting place for humans and gods, providing a space for people to move from ignorance to knowledge and truth. According to Indian tradition, a town or village without a temple is deemed uninhabitable. One of the main purposes of the temple is to create a spiritually charged atmosphere, which is why they are often built on sacred sites. During quiet periods, the temple offers a peaceful setting for contemplation, while during busier times, it is bustling with activity. Temples come in all sizes, ranging from small outdoor shrines to humble village mandirs, to large and elaborate temples that serve as the center of an ashram, with many Brahman priests residing within or nearby. 

The use of symbols is of utmost importance in Hinduism, as it is an effective means of imparting the religion’s beliefs and teachings. These symbols, which are deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy, deities, cultural traditions, and teachings, are broadly categorized into mudras, which refer to hand gestures and body positioning, and murti, which refers to icons, statues, and drawings. Some of the widely recognized symbols in Hinduism include Om, the swastika, Trishula, lotus flower, lingam, Shanka, and lamp. The meaning of these symbols can vary depending on the followers’ country/region, culture and era. While some symbols, like Om, are unique to Hinduism, others, such as the swastika, have ties to other cultures and religions. During Hindu worship, murtis of various deities are used, and auspicious symbols are displayed in homes and temples to invite auspiciousness. The four Vedas, which are ancient Sanskrit texts, are the foundational texts of Hinduism (sanatan Dharma). They document the religion’s beliefs, rituals, and pastimes of the deities. While Hinduism varies across regions, cultures, and other factors, symbols, philosophies, and rituals are crucial in conveying the religion’s core beliefs and ideas. Many Hindu symbols have also been adopted into other religious traditions that came into contact with Hinduism. For example, the lotus is a commonly recognized symbol in both Hindu and Buddhist practices, and the trident has also been incorporated into religions such as Sikhism. Hindu worship involves various acts that utilize symbolism and visualization to create the appropriate mood and devotion into the practitioner.

In Hinduism, symbols hold great significance as they are believed to embody the divine when invoked with devotion and love. For instance, the murti of a deity is considered to be no different from the divine itself. As the Supreme Lord is the creator of all spiritual and material entities, it is believed that He takes on the form of a deity to accept service from His devotees. Many stories exist that illustrate deities responding to their devotees’ calls. For instance, the deity of Khira chora Gopinath in Remuna, Orissa, is said to have once stolen a pot of sweet rice and hidden it so that His beloved devotee Madhavendra Puri could later enjoy it.

Shiva, who is also known as “The Auspicious One,” holds a significant role as one of the primary controllers of the material world. He is revered as the most devout follower of Vishnu, and is appointed as the exclusive overseer of the mode of ignorance in the material creation. As one of the twelve mahajans, or authorities on the devotion to Krishna, Shiva is responsible for annihilating the universe during the time of destruction. He is also married to Durga, who is known by various names such as Maya, Uma, Parvati, Sati, etc, and who personifies Krishna’s material energy. Shiva does not belong to the category of ordinary living entities, jiva, or typical demigods. Rather, he is in a unique category of existence known as shiva-tattva. Those who recite the 108 sacred Names of Shiva will receive divine blessings from the Lord. The recitation of this Shiva-Stotra has the power to cleanse one of all sins. The Supreme Lord of all beings will be immensely pleased with those who have memorized, recited or meditated upon these names with unwavering focus.