An unofficial Hindu census in the United States by the Santa Barbara , a California based Institute of American Religion , discovered some 1,600 temples and centers with an estimated 600,000 practicing Hindus in the United States . It is also estimated that nearly the same number of Hindus prefer personal worship, thus taking the numbers of Hindus to more than 1.2 million. You can read more about the growth of Hindu population in the United States in this article titled Hindu Americans: The Surprising, Hidden Population Trends of Hinduism in the U.S by David Briggs in the Huffington Post. Some excerpts from the article What is propelling Hinduism in the United States into a role as one of the nation's largest minority religions is a steady stream of Indian immigrants who have built hundreds of temples across the nation, according to a new study.    While there is at least one Hindu center in every state, they are largely concentrated in Indian American communities, Me...

The concept that "idleness is a great enemy to mankind" is a profound teaching found in ancient Hindu philosophy. This idea, deeply rooted in the scriptures and traditions of Hinduism, emphasizes the dangers of inactivity and the importance of purposeful action in leading a meaningful life. This principle remains highly relevant in the modern world, where the temptations of procrastination, distractions, and passivity are ever-present. Hindu Scriptures on Idleness Hindu scriptures abound with teachings that highlight the perils of idleness and the virtues of action. The Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered texts in Hinduism, repeatedly stresses the importance of karma (action). Lord Krishna, in his discourse to Arjuna, emphasizes the necessity of performing one's duty without attachment to the results. Krishna states: "You have the right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself to be the cau...

Advaita Vedanta and existentialism are two profound philosophical traditions that emerge from vastly different cultural and historical contexts—Advaita Vedanta from ancient Hinduism and existentialism from modern Western philosophy. Despite these differences, both philosophies delve into fundamental questions about existence, the nature of self, and the meaning of life. This comparison explores their core tenets, significance, similarities and differences, lesser-known aspects, and their relevance in the modern world. Overview of Advaita Vedanta Advaita Vedanta is a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy that emphasizes the idea that the individual self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are one and the same. The term "Advaita" means "not two," reflecting its core teaching that there is no real separation between the individual soul and the universal consciousness. The philosophy was primarily developed by the 8th-century scholar Adi Shankaracharya, altho...

Seeing Sun or Surya in dream is very common for many people and it is a good dream. In Hindu religion there is an ancient scripture known as Swapna Shastra which gives interpretation and meaning of various dreams. Sun in a dream is considered good as per the Swapna Shastra. In spiritual contexts, the sun is often associated with divine energy or higher consciousness. Dreaming of the sun may indicate a deepening spiritual connection or a desire to explore your spiritual beliefs further. Sun in dreams mean the person will meet someone very important in society or whom the person respects. The sun can also represent success, achievement, and personal growth. It might be a sign that you are on the right track and moving towards your goals. Surya or Sun is a positive dream and means improvement in current status. The sun is a natural source of light and warmth, so dreaming of it can symbolize feelings of happiness, hope, optimism, and vitality. It might suggest a period of increased clarity...

The Kukke Subramanya Temple holds significant importance in Hinduism, primarily due to its association with Lord Subramanya, also known as Kartikeya or Murugan, who is revered as the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Here are several reasons why the pilgrimage to Kukke Subramanya Temple is significant: Mythological Significance: According to Hindu mythology, after defeating the demon rulers, Taraka, Sura and Padmasura, and their followers, Lord Subramanya came to reside at the Kukke Subramanya Temple. The temple is believed to be built at the exact spot where Lord Subramanya killed the demon Tarakasura. Religious Significance: Devotees believe that a visit to the temple and offering prayers to Lord Subramanya can help in the removal of various doshas (afflictions) and obstacles in their lives. It is particularly known for alleviating Sarpa Dosha (affliction caused by snakes) and Naga Dosha, which are believed to cause various problems in one's life. Pilgrimage Destinatio...

The phrase "By Bad Advice Is A King Ruined" is an ancient Hindu teaching that underscores the immense responsibility that comes with leadership and the critical importance of wise counsel. This teaching is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy and literature, where the role of advisors and the quality of advice are considered vital to the success or failure of a ruler or leader. Let's delve into the modern-day relevance, supporting stories, quotes from Hindu scriptures, and other related aspects. The Importance of Wise Counsel in Hindu Scriptures In Hindu tradition, the role of the king or leader is not just political but deeply spiritual and moral. The king is seen as a representative of Dharma (cosmic law and order), and his decisions impact not just his kingdom but the cosmic balance itself. Therefore, the advice a king receives is of utmost importance. 1. The Story of King Harishchandra King Harishchandra, known for his unwavering commitment to truth, faced severe trials ...

Goddess Hinglaj Mata is an incarnation of Goddess Shakti and is one among the 51 Shakti Peethas. The head of Goddess Sati is worshipped here. The deity takes her name from the mountain cave Hinglaj on the Makran coast in the Lyari District of Balochistan in  Pakistan . Dawn Newspaper has created a image gallery of the Hinglaj Mata Temple and famous Mud Volcano. Legend has it that when Lord Vishnu cut the body of Goddess Sati to stop Shiva’s lament after Sati’s death which was unsettling the universe; part of her head fell at Hinglaj or Hingula. ( You can read the legend here in this article. )

Charvaka philosophy and Greek Ataraxia represent two distinct yet intriguingly similar schools of thought that emerged in ancient Hindu and Greek traditions, respectively. Both philosophies advocate for a practical, grounded approach to life, but they differ significantly in their metaphysical outlook and ultimate goals. Charvaka is rooted in materialism and skepticism within Hinduism, while Ataraxia, particularly associated with Epicureanism and Pyrrhonism, seeks tranquility of mind and soul in Greek philosophy. Overview of Charvaka Philosophy Charvaka, also known as Lokayata, is an ancient Indian school of thought that flourished around 600 BCE. It is one of the earliest known materialist and atheistic philosophies in Hindu tradition. The Charvakas rejected the authority of the Vedas, the existence of an afterlife, and the notion of karma and rebirth. They believed that the only source of knowledge is perception, emphasizing direct sensory experience over inference and testimony. For...

1. Understanding the Ancient Teaching The phrase "By lack of study, a Brahmin is ruined" comes from an ancient Hindu teaching emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and knowledge, especially for Brahmins, who were traditionally considered the intellectual and spiritual leaders of society. In the context of Vedic culture, a Brahmin was not only a priest but also a teacher, philosopher, and keeper of knowledge. The degradation of a Brahmin's stature, therefore, directly correlated with a neglect of study, implying that knowledge and wisdom were the true wealth and defining characteristics of a Brahmin. 2. Scriptural References The importance of knowledge and study is deeply rooted in Hindu scriptures: The Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 4, Verse 38) states: "There is nothing as purifying as knowledge; he who is perfected in yoga finds it within himself in due course of time." This verse highlights how knowledge is the greatest purifier and the essential path to...

Siddha Ganapati is one among the 32 forms of Sri Ganesh. The popular belief is that by worshipping Siddha Ganapati one gets immediate relief from troubles. Siddha Ganapati mantra is  Pakva chootaphala pushpa Manjari cheshudanda Thilamodakaihi sah Udvahan parashumastu te namah Shri samrudhiyutha hemapingala Siddha Ganapati, a distinct form of Lord Ganesha, is revered with profound significance in Hindu tradition. This particular manifestation is depicted with four hands, radiating a golden yellow or green hue. Each hand clasps symbolic items: a ripe mango, a garland of fragrant flowers, a sugarcane stalk, and an axe. Additionally, Siddha Ganapati's trunk gracefully holds offerings of sweets and sesame seeds. Devotees believe that worshiping Siddha Ganapati bestows divine blessings, particularly in the form of "ashta siddhis," or eight supernatural powers. These siddhis encompass a range of abilities, including control over natural elements, mastery of the p...

Advaita Vedanta and Western Skepticism are two profound philosophical traditions that, while arising from vastly different cultural and intellectual backgrounds, engage deeply with questions about reality, knowledge, and the self. Despite their differences, they share some striking similarities in their approaches to understanding the nature of existence and truth. Overview of Advaita Vedanta Advaita Vedanta is a non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy primarily attributed to Adi Shankaracharya (8th century CE). The term "Advaita" means "not two," signifying the belief in the fundamental unity of the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman). According to Advaita, the apparent diversity of the world is an illusion (Maya), and true knowledge (Jnana) is realizing the non-duality of the self and Brahman. Overview of Western Skepticism Western Skepticism has a long history, originating with the ancient Greek philosopher Pyrrho of Elis (c. 360-270 BCE). Skepticism...

Charvaka, also known as Lokayata, is an ancient Indian school of philosophy that emphasizes materialism, skepticism, and empiricism. It rejects the idea of an afterlife, gods, and the authority of the Vedas, which are central to most other Hindu philosophies. The Charvaka school advocates for a focus on direct perception (pratyaksha) as the primary means of knowledge, dismissing inferential and testimonial knowledge as unreliable. Core Beliefs: Materialism: The Charvaka school holds that only the material world exists. According to them, consciousness arises from the physical body, much like the intoxication arises from the consumption of alcohol. Skepticism: Charvakas are skeptical about metaphysical concepts like the soul, karma, and moksha (liberation). They argue that these concepts are not observable and thus not credible. Ethics and Morality: Charvaka philosophy promotes hedonism, arguing that the pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain are the only legitimate goals in life....

Charvaka philosophy, often considered the most materialistic and atheistic school within Hinduism, has intriguing parallels with Western hedonism, particularly in its pursuit of pleasure and rejection of metaphysical speculations. Despite these similarities, significant differences set these two philosophies apart, particularly in their cultural context, ethical implications, and underlying motivations. This comparison aims to explore these aspects, offering a deeper understanding of both philosophies, their historical importance, and their relevance in the modern world. Charvaka Philosophy: Overview and Importance Overview Charvaka, also known as Lokayata, is a materialist school of thought within Hinduism that emerged around the 6th century BCE. It is characterized by its rejection of the Vedas, ritualistic practices, and belief in an afterlife. Charvaka advocates a naturalistic worldview, emphasizing direct perception (Pratyaksha) as the only valid source of knowledge. The philosoph...

Lokayata and Greek Hedonism represent two significant philosophical traditions from ancient India and Greece, respectively. Both philosophies emphasize the pursuit of pleasure and materialism but differ in their cultural contexts, interpretations, and underlying principles. This comparative analysis delves into the similarities and differences between Lokayata and Greek Hedonism, explores their historical significance, and examines their relevance in the modern world. Lokayata in Hinduism Overview: Lokayata, often associated with the Charvaka school of thought, is an ancient Indian materialistic and atheistic philosophy. It rejects the metaphysical concepts of the soul, karma, and afterlife, advocating instead for a focus on the material world and sensory pleasure as the ultimate purpose of life. Core Beliefs: Materialism: Lokayata posits that only the material world exists, and everything, including consciousness, arises from physical interactions. Pleasure as the Highest Good: Sen...

Thirty Minor Upanishads is a collection of translation of small Upanishads which are part of Vedas and are not counted among the popular Upanishad texts. The Upanishads are translated by K. Narayanaswami Aiyar and was published in 1914.  Link - Thirty Minor Upanishads in pdf – Download for free Spiritual Importance Of Minor Upanishads In Hinduism Minor Upanishads, though less known compared to the major ones, hold significant spiritual importance in Hinduism. These texts are considered part of the Vedanta tradition and delve into various aspects of metaphysics, meditation, yoga, and spiritual realization. Here are some reasons why they are valued: Diverse Perspectives: Minor Upanishads offer a diverse range of spiritual insights and perspectives. They cover various topics such as cosmology, karma, meditation techniques, and the nature of the self, providing seekers with a broader understanding of spiritual concepts. Practical Wisdom: Many minor Upanishads focus on practical a...

Advaita Vedanta, a school of Hindu philosophy, and Stoicism, an ancient Greek philosophical tradition, represent two profound ways of understanding the self, the universe, and the path to human flourishing. Despite originating from distinct cultural and philosophical contexts, they share common themes and principles while also exhibiting key differences. Foundational Concepts Advaita Vedanta (Hinduism) Core Belief : Advaita Vedanta is rooted in the idea of non-dualism. The term "Advaita" means "not two" in Sanskrit, emphasizing the belief that the individual self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are one and the same. The perceived duality of the world is considered an illusion (Maya), and liberation (Moksha) is achieved through the realization of this oneness. Key Texts : The Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras are foundational texts for Advaita Vedanta. Adi Shankaracharya, an 8th-century philosopher, is one of the most influential figures in Adva...

The saying "By a bad son, a family is ruined" is rooted deeply in ancient Hindu teachings, reflecting the importance of family values and moral conduct. In Hinduism, the family is considered a fundamental unit of society, and the behavior of each member, particularly the son, who traditionally holds a significant role, directly impacts the family's reputation, prosperity, and continuity. This ancient wisdom remains relevant today, emphasizing the importance of raising children with strong moral values. The Significance of a Son in Hindu Tradition In Hindu culture, the birth of a son has been historically celebrated because of the responsibilities he carries, particularly in spiritual and familial duties: Pitru Rina (Debt to Ancestors): The son is traditionally responsible for performing the last rites and rituals for deceased parents, ensuring their soul attains peace and liberation (moksha). The Garuda Purana and Manu Smriti highlight the importance of these rituals. ...