Principles and Practice of Hindu Religion
Chapter - I : An Introduction and Overview of Hinduism

The Principles of Hindu Faith - an Overview of Chapters II to VII
A Basic Study - for the Youth and for Beginners in Hindu Religious Studies
 
   
 
Lesson - 11 :
The Practice of Hinduism as in Vedas and Agamas
The Spiritual Discipline for Practice of the Faith
 
   
 

 

 

The Philosophical teachings of Hinduism, like any scientific theory, are of no use to the common man unless it is applied for their daily practice. It has survived the test of time for many thousand years and still remains popular due to the sound principles on which its practice is based. It gives different rules of ethics and conducts for various categories of people. The Dharma Sasthras and Smrithis teach us of normal conduct in performing our work. Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha are the four Purusharthas that govern out activity. Dharma is the proper rules of one's duty, which literally means "that which holds" the universe and its beings. They are classified as Samanya Dharma or the general and universal rules and Visesha Dharma or specific personal rules for each individual. They give peace, joy, strength and tranquillity. Artha and Kama are the materialistic desire and passion, that also govern our actions. Unless one seeks the material benefits and pleasures within the scope of Dharma, it will cause grief with greed and lust. Moksha is the relief from pain and suffering and ultimate liberation that is the main reason for all our actions.
 

As rituals became popular and were being considered as the sole path for the eternal bliss, the soundness of its philosophy and ethics of practice were reestablished by the sages. The four Yogas give us the spiritual discipline of our conduct. Karma Yoga is the correct path of performing work without greed or desire and the action performed without looking for the fruits of benefit or loss. Raja Yoga is the discipline of control of our body and mind. It teaches concentration, meditation, breathing and physical exercise and a state of equanimity of the mind as a natural reaction to all activities. Bhakthi Yoga is the spiritual discipline of absolute devotion and love of God. It teaches prayers and surrender to God at all times. It teaches to see and feel God in all people and all actions. Jnana Yoga is the path of obtaining Spiritual knowledge through action, study, meditation and devotion.

 
   
 
 
Om! Sahanãvavatu Sahanau Bhunaktu Sahavêryam Karavãvah: |
Thejasvinaa Vadhêthamastu Mã Vidvishã Vahaih: ||
Om! Shãnthih: Shãnthih: Shãnthihih: Om!
May He, the Supreme Lord, protect us both,
The teacher and the student. May He nourish us both.
May our study be thorough and fruitful. May we not hate each other.
Om ! Peace, Peace, Peace.