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This wiki site Veda is dedicated to understanding Sanatana Dharma (eternal way
of life), prominently known as Hinduism, the oldest living religion on earth. It
covers information related to Hindu (Vedic) concepts, teachings, philosophy,
scriptures and everything that we can think of related to the Hindu Dharma.

Sattva, Rajas and Tamas

The states of sattva, rajas, and tamas come from me, but I am not in them. These
three gunas deceive the world: people fail to look beyond them to me, supreme
and imperishable. The three gunas make up my divine maya, difficult to overcome.
But they cross over this maya who take refuge in me. Others are deluded by maya;
performing evil deeds, they have no devotion to me. Having lost all
discrimination, they follow the way of their lower nature.

— Bhagavad Gita 7:12-15

The Vedic Tradition

The Vedic tradition of knowledge, based on the extensive Vedic literature, is
the oldest tradition of knowledge in the world. Though it has been long
preserved in India, this traditional wisdom has been almost lost in recent
centuries—due in part to repeated foreign invasions. The Vedic tradition
includes detailed information on a wide range of topics—from astronomy to music,
architecture to health care, administration to economy. But it is all based on
the knowledge of consciousness—including technologies of consciousness, and
evolution to the highest state of consciousness (enlightenment).

Do you know?

From the invention of the decimal system in mathematics to the noble philosophy
of ahimsã, Hindus have contributed their share in all fields of knowledge and
learning. Over five thousand years ago, when Europeans were only nomadic forest
dwellers, ancient Hindus had established a civilization, known as the Harappan
culture, in the Indus Valley, the northwestern region of India. When much of the
world was still sunk in sleep, people of the Harappan culture were conducting
trade workshops in weaving, bead-making, pottery, dying of fabrics, and
metallurgy. read more...

Dice

A die found in excavations at a Harappan period site. Note that the six is not
opposite the one.

The dice is attributed to India by some accounts. Some of the earliest
archaeological evidence of oblong dice have been found in Harrapan sites such as
Kalibangan, Lothal, Ropar, Alamgirpur, Desalpur and surrounding territories,
some dating back to the third millennium BCE, which were used for gambling. The
oblong or cubical dice (akṣa) is the precursor of the more primitive
vibhīṣaka—small, hard nuts drawn randomly to obtain factors of a certain
integer. Dicing is believed to have later spread westwards to Persia,
influencing Persian board games. Early references to dicing can be found in the
Ṛig Veda as well as the newer atharvaveda.

 * Overview
 * Basic Tenets
 * Principal Doctrines
 * Virtues
 * Schools of Thought

Veda The Vedic tradition of knowledge, based on the extensive Vedic literature,
is the oldest tradition of knowledge in the world. Hinduism at a Glance If
you're new to this faith, here's where to begin. In this simple introduction to
a complex religion, get your basic questions on Hinduism answered and explained
in brief. Hinduism Overview of Hindusim. Sanatana Dharma Sanatana Dharma is is
the original name of what is now popularly called Hinduism. Sanatana Dharma is
the world's most ancient culture and the socio, spiritual, and religious
tradition of almost one billion of the earth's inhabitants. FAQs - Hinduism
Covers the frequently asked questions on Hindu Dharma. Sanskrit Sanskrit is
considered to be the oldest language in human history. Sanskrit is the
progenitor and inspiration for virtually every language spoken in India.
Sanskrit has a tradition going back at least 5,000 years and is the language in
which every ancient Hindu text, devotional or otherwise, is written in. Do you
know? Little bits of information on amazing facts related to Hindus and India.
Pearls of Wisdom A selection of quotes relating to various aspects of Hinduism
on Vedas, Dharma, Athma, Ayurveda and others. Glimpses Glimpses through the lens
on Hindu thought, culture, contribution, events and its global presence.

These are the basic tenets or the pillars upon which the entire superstructure
of what is called Hinduism (Sanatana Dharma) is built — like a huge
multi-storied skyscraper.

Dharma Is the universal odering principal and the code for leading one's life
that encompasses all aspects of our lives. Karma The divine Law of Action that
lays forth the results of free-willed actions, which leave their imprint on the
Self, called as atman. Samsara Transmigration, evolution through rebirth back to
Godhead. The atman's transmigration through a cycle of birth and death, until it
attains moksha, is governed by karma. Brahman The Ultimate Reality that is
unchanging, infinite, immanent, and transcendent which is the Divine Ground of
all matter, energy, time, space, being, and everything beyond in this Universe.
Atman The Individual Conciousness or the non-material Self, which is distinct
from both the manas (mind) and the stula sarira (gross physical body). This real
self is beyond the temporary designations we normally ascribe to ourselves, in
terms of race, gender, species and nationality. Īshvara / bhagavan The Supreme
Brahman although One and Inconceivable, in order to interact with the physical
universe which is projection of Itself, Brahman takes on a personal aspect known
as Isvara. Trimurti The Trinity (literally indicating three forms or trinity),
is the representation of the three projections of the Supreme Reality, each with
a specific cosmic function. These manifestations are that of Brahma (serving the
cosmic function of creation), Vishnu (serving the cosmic function of renewal and
preservation), and Shiva (serving the cosmic function of dissolution or
destruction that precedes re-creation). Maya Unreal or deceptive image of the
creation and the illusion of a limited, purely physical and mental reality in
which our everyday consciousness has become entangled, a veiling of the true,
unitary Self, also known as Brahman. guru Spiritual Preceptor — Sanatana Dharma
is a living, experiential religion and therefore the centrality of the spiritual
preceptor (guru) is absolute. dhyâna The focusing of attention on a particular
spiritual idea in continuous meditation. sadhana The spiritual effort and the
means of self-realization, is the practice that leads to enlightenment or
spiritual knowledge, understanding and wisdom. satsanga The practice of being in
the presence of the wise, in whose company it is easier to learn and practice.
yoga The Path of Self-Realization. Liberation of every Atman through a variety
of paths, such as bhakti (devotion), karma (action) and Jñana (knowledge). mukti
/ moksha Liberation from this material existence and samsara (cycle of birth and
death), to join, reach or develop a relationship with the Brahman (Universal
Spirit), is known as moksha, which is the ultimate goal of Hindus. mantra
Syllables, inaudible or vocalized, that are repeated during meditation. prâna
Life energy that permeates the atmosphere, enters the human being through the
breath, and can be directed by thought. srishti The universal becoming.

purusharthas The Four Ends of Human Life — four efforts which man must make in
order to fulfill his individual existence: (i) artha (wealth), (ii) kama (love),
(iii) dharma (duty), and (iv) moksha (liberation). ashramas The four successive
stages of life. The Vedas divide our lives into four different stages — they are
brahmacarya (being a student), grihasta (being a householder), vanaprastha
(forest dweller) and sannyasa (stage of renunciation). varnashrama dharma Social
duty. Varna dharma defines the individual's obligations and responsibilities
within the nation, society, community, class, occupational subgroup and family.
Yama and Niyama Code of Conduct — the yamas and niyamas have been preserved
through the centuries as the foundation, the first and second stage, of the
eight-staged practice of yoga. Yet, they are fundamental to all beings, expected
aims of everyone in society, and assumed to be fully intact for anyone seeking
life's highest aim in the pursuit called yoga. Kinds of Dharma Illustrates the
different aspects of dharma] in the day-to-day practice of morality and ethics,
such as the svadharma (dharma of an individual), parivarika-dharma
(family-dharma), samaja-dharma (society-dharma), rashtra-dharma (national
dharma), manava-dharma (the dharma of mankind), yuga dharma (dharma applicable
for an era), apad dharma (exceptional/abnormal situational dharma) and rita
(universal dharma). The 36 Tattvas The Ancient Scriptures of India analyze the
Process of Universal Emanation into thirty-six main stages or phases.
panchakosha The five sheaths of consciousness that encase the overall human
system. They are annamaya kosha (the physical tissues or the cellular
structure), the pranamaya kosha (the ‘energy sheath’), the manomaya kosha
(mental sheath), vijnanamaya kosha (the sheath of higher intellect), and the
anandamaya kosha (the body of ‘Cosmic Consciousness’). samskāra Patterned or
conditioned behaviors; subconscious tendencies; worldly life. A series of
Sacraments, Sacrifices and Rituals that serve as rites of passage and mark the
various stages of the Human life and to signify entry to a particular Ashrama.
Some traditions mention ten rites of passage, or up to sixteen — or occasionally
even more — only four are currently popular, namely: 1. jatakarma (birth
ceremonies plus others in childhood), 2. upanayana (initiation — the
sacred-thread ceremony), 3. vivaha (marriage), 4. antyeshti (funeral and rites
for the dead). artha panchaka There are the five categories of spiritual
knowledge which one needs to study, reflect upon, realize and practice in order
to progress spiritually. These are para-svarupam (The nature of the Godhead),
sva-svarupam (The nature of the Self), purushartha svarupam (The nature of
life’s goal), upaya svarupam (The means to attain that goal), and virodhi
svarupam (The obstacles on the spiritual path). antahkarana Four Inner Sheaths
of the Mind — internal organ of perception that form parts of the mind. The Mind
constitute the antahkarana, which is fourfold – namely, manas, buddhi, ahankara,
and chitta. arishadvarga the Six Passions of the Mind — the negative
characteristics which prevent man from realizing the Reality that is his True
Being such as kama, krodha, lobha, moha, mada or ahankara and matsarya.
shad-sampat The six virtues, which bring about mental control and discipline.
panchaklesha The “five hindrances” to spiritual growth: avidya (ignorance),
asmita (egoism), abhinivesha (clinging to life), raga (cravings), dwesha
(aversions); also considered the “five roots” of all problems of human
existence; the motivating factors which drive humans to act in such ways as to
produce and perpetuate Karma. samashrayanam The acharya initiates a person,
irrespective of caste, creed or sex, as his sishya. It is a commitment from the
disciple that he or she will live as per the wishes of the acharya. Thus the
person gets the link to the parampara. mumukshutva Intense desire for
liberation. Stands for a burning desire to realize the Self within, which is the
Self within us all. The Three Gunas Every individual exhibits three gunas in
varying proportions. The three gunas or phases of matter are: sattva-guna,
rajo-guna and tamo-guna. sadhana saptaka The seventh-fold practice or qualities
of mind and body we should practice to further us in our path of yoga. adhyatma
prasara The Evolution of Life and Consciousness towards its Goal. It is a
process that takes place over many lifetimes, not just one. atma anubhavam
Self-Realization which is the result of the practice of abstract meditation on
the Brahman (Formless Absolute). bhagavat anubhavam God-Realization which is the
development of knowledge of, experience of, surrender to, and consequent service
to the Supreme Being. samadhi State of enlightenment of super-consciousness. The
union of the individual consciousness with cosmic consciousness. Law of Karma
The doctrine of karma is actually the law of harmony and equilibrium. It adjusts
wisely, intelligently and equitably each effect to its cause. But, it is also
the law of opportunity, which allows an individual to change his past for a
better future. Unity of Existence Hindu sages have declared that the cosmic
energy is a manifestation of the Brahman (Universal Spirit). The entire universe
is a play between Brahman, or the cosmic consciousness, and the cosmic energy.
Brahman has become all things and beings of the world. Thus we are all
interconnected in subtle ways. Death and Lokas When a person dies, his gross
sukshma sharira (physical body) is left behind and the soul with the subtle body
(consisting of the mind, intellect, sense organs, motor organs and vital
energies) goes to a different plane of existence. Such a plane of existence is
called loka in Sanskrit. Religious Discipline Hindus believe that wisdom is not
an exclusive possession of any particular race or religion. Hindu Dharma allows
an individual to select a religious discipline in accordance with one's own
religious yearning and spiritual competence. Hindu Dharma recommends the
guidance of a guru (spiritually awakened master) for attaining perfection in
life. Harmony of Religions Hindu sages declare that there is no one religion
that teaches an exclusive road to salvation. All genuine spiritual paths are
valid and all great religions are like the branches of a tree — the tree of
religion. This doctrine lays foundation for the Hindu ideal of universal
harmony.

adhyayana study of the Scriptures such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Mahabharata and
Ramayana. danam This term has a twofold reference; one is the giving of charity
to the needy as well as doing social works for the benefit of society as a
whole, and the other reference is to the gift of fearlessness to all creatures —
abhaya pradanam (not being the cause of fear to any living being). satya
Practice of Truth and harmony in thought, speech and action at all times; one
should speak only that which is true and agreeable and beneficial to others, one
should not needlessly say things that are hurtful even though they may be the
truth. The practice of Truth includes in it such virtues as straightforwardness,
frankness, absence of deviousness and malice etc. ahimsa The cultivation of an
attitude of non-injury to any being in word, deed, or thought. kshama
Forgiveness and forbearance which come from loving kindness and compassion to
all beings which is based on the awareness of the presence of the jiva in all
beings. damah Self restraint; one should impose restrictions on one’s desires
and behavior and should avoid excesses and cultivate self- discipline. asteya
Not taking anything which is not given shauca Purity of both the body by
regularly bathing and maintaining hygiene, and mental purity through practice of
virtue and compassion. shanti The cultivation of personal and environmental
peace and contentment. tapas or tapah, the common meaning of this term is
self-discipline which refers to simple living and constant mindfulness of God as
well as purposive meditation as well as control of the body, mind and speech.
yajña Worship of God through the rituals that are prescribed in the Vedas and
the agamas. gurusevanam Respecting and honouring elders and parents and caring
for them. arjavam Straightforwardness, integrity and honesty. daya Implies love
for all creatures, such love being the very fulfilment of life. There is indeed
no greater happiness than that derived by loving others. Daya is the backbone of
all qualities. mangala Auspicious air about happiness that is characterised by
dignity and purity. One must be cheerful all the time and not keep growling at
people on the slightest pretext. This itself is extremely helpful, to radiate
happiness wherever we go and exude auspiciousness. It is better than making
lavish gifts and throwing money about. vinaya Humility (a key personal
characteristic required in many spiritual disciplines). ishvarapranidhana
Surrender. sraddha Unwavering faith in the sacred scriptures or sastras and in
the moral codes they contain as well as in the Atman and the Guru. viveka
Discrimination between what is real (the immortal Atman, or true self), and
unreal (the changing universe). vairagya Detachment — dispassion for all
pleasures here and in hereafter, uncoloredness. mumukshuthwam The longing for
Moksha or Liberation. vivarana Cultivating a keenness for perceiving
distinctions ie. between the true and the false. smarana A constant mindfulness
and contemplation of the spiritual truths. dharana Retentiveness and
recollection of lessons learnt. indriya nigraha Control of the senses.

Shad-Darsana The six darsanas or ways of seeing things, usually called the six
systems or six different schools of thought. The six schools of philosophy are
the six instruments of true teaching or the six demonstrations of Truth. Each
school has developed, systematised and correlated the various parts of the Vedas
in its own way. Each system has its Sutrakara, i.e., the one great Rishi who
systematised the doctrines of the school and put them in short aphorisms or
Sutras. Vedanta All forms of Vedanta are drawn primarily from the Upanishads, a
set of philosophical and instructive Vedic scriptures, which deal mainly with
forms of meditation. Yoga Darsana Is among the Shad-Darsana or the six schools
of Indian philosophy. The Aim of Yoga is the attainment of Moksha or Salvation.
To attain this state of ultimate bliss, Yoga describes an eight-fold path called
"Ashtaanga Yoga". Schools of Saiva Six most notable Saiva schools are Saiva
Siddhanta, Pashupata Saiva, Kashmir Saiva, Vira Saiva, Siddha Siddhanta and Siva
Advaita. Nyaya "System, rule; logic." A system of logical realism, known for its
systems of logic and epistemology and concerned with the means of acquiring
right knowledge. Its tools of enquiry and rules for argumentation were adopted
by all schools of Hinduism. Tantras Tantras are divided along sectarian lines
and reflect the religious beliefs and practices of medieval India. They deal
with four different subjects: philosophy, yoga or concentration techniques,
ritual (including the making of icons and the building of temples), and the
conduct of religious worship and social practice.

 * Scriptures
 * Deities
 * Sages
 * Sciences
 * Yogas
 * Festivals

sūtras sūtras metaphorically refers to an aphorism (or line, rule, formula), or
large a collection of such aphorisms in the form of a manual — is a distinct
type of literary composition, based on short aphoristic statements, generally
using various technical terms. Sūtras form a school of Vedic study, related to
and somewhat later than the Upanishads.
sastra The overview of Hindu Scriptures.
Vedas The Vedas are the oldest extant Hindu texts. The ideas expressed in the
Vedas were traditionally handed down orally from father to son and from teacher
to disciple.
Agama The Ãgamas are theological treatises and practical manuals of divine
worship. The Agamas include the Tantras, Mantras and Yantras. These are
treatises explaining the external worship of God, in idols, temples, etc
Purāṇas The aim of the Puranas is to impress on the minds of the masses the
teachings of the Vedas and to generate in them devotion to God, through concrete
examples, stories, legends, lives of saints, kings and great men, allegories and
chronicles of great historical events.
Bhagavad Gītā The Bhagavad Gita is known as the Song Celestial. It is the most
important sacred text in the Hindu tradition. It is Brahma-vidya, the knowledge
of existence, as well as Yoga-shastra, scripture on the science of the Self.
Ramayana The Rãmãyana has been a perennial source of spiritual, cultural and
artistic inspiration, not only to the people of India but also to the people all
over the world. It has helped to mold the Hindu character and has inspired
millions of people with the deepest of love and devotion.
Mahābhārata It is an historical epic about the great kingdom of Bharatavarsa, or
the region of India. It contains 110,000 couplets making it the longest poem and
greatest epic in world literature.
Upanishads The Upanishads are epic hymns of self-knowledge and world-knowledge
and God-knowledge. There is no book in the whole world that is so thrilling,
soul-stirring and inspiring as the Upanishad. The philosophy taught by the
Upanishads has been the source of solace for many, both in the East and the
West. The human intellect has not been able to conceive of anything more noble
and sublime in the history of the world than the teachings of the Upanishads.
vedāṅga The Vedanga ("member of the Veda") are six auxiliary disciplines for the
understanding and tradition of the Vedas.




Brahma Brahma is the creative aspect of the Trinity, the first god to have been
separated from Iswara. Know more about Brahma, his significance in Hindu
pantheon and his numerous attributes. Vishnu Vishnu is the preserver and
maintainer of the worlds. A minor god of Vedic pantheon, Vishnu assumed great
importance during the post Vedic period. know about his attributes, his
incarnations and his various aspects Siva Siva is the destroying and evolving
aspect of the universe. He is the most powerful, popular and dynamic god of
Hinduism with roots definitely outside the pale of Hinduism. Know the aspects,
manifestations and greatness of Ganesha Ganesha is the first among the gods, the
leader of the gods and the Siva Ganas. He is remover of all obstacles and
impediments, who is worshipped invariably by devout Hindus, before starting any
venture or offering worship to other gods. Lakshmi She is the goddess of wealth
and consort of Mahavishnu. She was born from the milky ocean when the gods and
demons churned it in search of immortality. She is referred in the Vedas both as
Sri and Lakshmi. Sri means agricultural wealth… Saraswathi She is the goddess of
learning, who is extolled in the Vedas as the sacred river with seven sisters,
who helps the gods by destroying their foes. The early Vedic Aryans worshipped
not the Ganges, but the Saraswathi river… Parvathi Parvathi is the consort of
Siva. She got the name because she is the daughter of the mountains (parvathas)
and also because she as Prakriti occupies one half (parva) of the universe while
the other half is occupied by Siva in his aspect as Iswara or Purusha Hanuman
Hanuman is one of the most popular gods of Hinduism today. A devotee of Lord
Rama, Hanuman is worshipped and admired by children and adults alike for his
devotion, strength and courage and for his commitment to the path of
righteousness and divine centered life… Skanda Kumaraswami, also known as Skanda
is the elder son of Siva and Parvathi. Unlike Ganesha, he is of beautiful form,
intelligent and knowledgeable and uses a peacock as his vehicle. According to
the legends, he was created by Siva and Parvathi to slay a demon by the name
Tarakasura… Ashtadikpalas The dikpalas are eight in number. As their collective
name suggests, they rule the eight quarters or the eight zones of the universe.
Ashta means eight, dik means quarters or directions and palas means rulers.
According to Hinduism each quarter is assigned to a particular divinity.
Navagrahas Just as many ancient civilizations had their own versions of
astronomy, Hindus had their own version of astronomy since ancient times. Hindu
astronomy was characterized by the presence of nine planetary influences and
their respective positions in space. The nine planets are collectively called
navagrahas. Surya Surya is the blazing sun. He is one of the Adityas, god among
gods, the light that is most excellent, golden colored, who rides the skies in
his golden chariot, drawn by

seven bay horses, who are described in the hymns as the daughters of heaven.

Indra Indra is the lord of the heavens. He is the most popular and powerful of
the vedic deities. He is described as the god of the blue sky.

Shri Veda Vyasa (वेद व्‍यास) The name of Veda Vyasa is one of the most
celebrated names among the great sages of India. He is the author of Mahabharata
and the puranas. He is also the author of the Vedanta Sutras (Brahma Sutras).
Maharshi Valmiki Claims the distinction of being the author of the epic
Ramayana. He is also the author of Yoga Vasistha, a text that elaborates on a
range of philosophical issues. Adi Sankaracharya (आदि शङ्कर) The first Hindu
philosopher who consolidated the principles of the Advaita Vedanta philosophy in
his writings. Maharishi Patanjali Patanjali was a great sage that lived
thousands of years ago. The Yoga Sutras he wrote seem to have transcended time
remaining one of the most influential spiritual writings in Yoga. Also the
author of a commentary on Panini's Ashtadhyayi, known as Mahabhasya. Rishi
Vishwamitra Considered to be one of the most revered rishi (sages) of the
ancient India. Madhvacharya (Kannada:ಶ್ರೀ ಮಧ್ವಾಚಾರ್ಯರು) The chief proponent of
Tattvavāda (True Philosophy), popularly known as dvaita-advaita or dualistic
school of Hindu thought. He wrote several commentaries on the Vedas, Upanishads
and the Bhagavad Gita. Vallabhacarya Develop the doctrine called Suddhadvaita
which, literally meaning "pure advaita". Rāmānuja (रामानुज) A Tamil theologian,
philosopher, and scriptural exegete, Ramanuja was a leading expounder of
expounder of Viśiṣṭādvaita (one of the classical interpretations of the Vedanta
school of Hindu philosophy), in his writings. Nayanmars Refer to the 63 devotees
(and 9 general devotees) of Lord Shiva. Alvars Vaishnava Saints. Tradition
reckons 12 Alvars. They come from all walks of life and all strata of society
and include in their ranks one woman. Saptarshis The seers are mysterious beings
related to the origin of both man and knowledge. Often represented as 'human'
sages, they nevertheless are conceived as eternal powers, symbolizing the
primordial energies responsible for all manifest creation. They are 'seers' by
virtue of being able to see the divine law which governs all creation, and
indeed sustains it.

vedanga There are texts which form part of vedic literature to explain the
linguistic meanigs of Veda- they are called Vedangas. They are six in number —
Siksha (rules to govern the language or phonetics), Vyakaranam (grammar),
Chandhas (meter), Niruktam (context or conclusive meaning), Jyotisham and Kalpam
(rituals). Kaala Vyavahara Hindu Metrics of Time. Ganita is the term used in
Sanskrit for mathematics; is derived from the root ‘gana’, which means to count
or to enumerate. Ayurveda the Science of Life Jyotisha the Science of Astronomy
Vastu Shastra the Science of Space and Architecture The Chakras 14 mystical
forces that govern awareness

The Sanskrit word yoga stems from the verbal root yuj meaning "to yoke" or "to
unite." Thus, in a spiritual context, yoga stands for "training" or "unitive
discipline." The Sanskrit literature contains numerous compound terms ending in
-yoga. These stand for various yogic approaches or features of the path. The
following is a descriptive list of forty such terms. Not all of these form
full-fledged branches or types of Yoga, but they represent at least emphases in
diverse contexts. All of them are instructive insofar as they demonstrate the
vast scope of Hindu Yoga.

Abhâva-Yoga The unitive discipline of nonbeing, meaning the higher yogic
practice of immersion into the Self without objective support such as mantras; a
concept found in the Purânas; cf. Bhâva-Yoga Adhyâtma-Yoga The unitive
discipline of the inner self; sometimes said to be the Yoga characteristic of
the Upanishads Agni-Yoga The unitive discipline of fire, causing the awakening
of the serpent power (kundalinî-shakti) through the joint action of mind (manas)
and life force (prâna) Ashtânga-Yoga The unitive discipline of the eight limbs,
i.e., Râja-Yoga or Pâtanjala-Yoga Asparsha-Yoga The unitive discipline of
"noncontact," which is the nondualist Yoga propounded by Gaudapâda in his
Mândûkya-Kârikâ; cf. Sparsha-Yoga Bhakti-Yoga The unitive discipline of
love/devotion, as expounded, for instance, in the Bhagavad-Gîtâ, the
Bhâgavata-Purâna, and numerous other scriptures of Shaivism and Vaishnavism
Buddhi-Yoga The unitive discipline of the higher mind, first mentioned in the
Bhagavad-Gîtâ Dhyâna-Yoga The unitive discipline of meditation Ghatastha-Yoga
The unitive discipline of the "pot" (ghata), meaning the body; a synonym for
Hatha-Yoga mentioned in the Gheranda-Samhitâ Guru-Yoga The unitive discipline
relative to one's teacher Hatha-Yoga The unitive discipline of the force
(meaning the serpent power or kundalinî-shakti); or forceful unitive discipline
Hiranyagarbha-Yoga The unitive discipline of Hiranyagarbha ("Golden Germ"), who
is considered the original founder of the Yoga tradition Japa-Yoga The unitive
discipline of mantra recitation Jnâna-Yoga The unitive discipline of
discriminating wisdom, which is the approach of the Upanishads Karma-Yoga The
unitive discipline of self-transcending action, as first explicitly taught in
the Bhagavad-Gîtâ Kaula-Yoga The unitive discipline of the Kaula school, a
Tantric Yoga Kriyâ-Yoga The unitive discipline of ritual; also the combined
practice of asceticism (tapas), study (svâdhyâya), and worship of the Lord
(îshvara-pranidhâna) mentioned in the Yoga-Sûtra of Patanjali Kundalinî-Yoga The
unitive discipline of the serpent power (kundalinî-shakti), which is fundamental
to the Tantric tradition, including Hatha-Yoga Lambikâ-Yoga The unitive
discipline of the "hanger," meaning the uvula, which is deliberately stimulated
in this yogic approach to increase the flow of "nectar" (amrita) whose external
aspect is saliva Laya-Yoga The unitive discipline of absorption or dissolution
of the elements prior to their natural dissolution at death Mahâ-Yoga The great
unitive discipline, a concept found in the Yoga-Shikhâ-Upanishad where it refers
to the combined practice of Mantra-Yoga, Laya-Yoga, Hatha-Yoga, and Râja-Yoga
Mantra-Yoga The unitive discipline of numinous sounds that help protect the
mind, which has been a part of the Yoga tradition ever since Vedic times
Nâda-Yoga The unitive discipline of the inner sound, a practice closely
associated with original Hatha-Yoga Pancadashânga-Yoga The unitive discipline of
the fifteen limbs (pancadasha-anga): (1) moral discipline (yama), (2) restraint
(niyama), (3) renunciation (tyâga), (4) silence (mauna), (5) right place
(desha), (6) right time (kâla), (7) posture (âsana), (8) root lock
(mûla-bandha), (9) bodily equilibrium (deha-samya), (10) stability of vision
(dhrik-sthiti), (11) control of the life force (prâna-samrodha), (12) sensory
inhibition (pratyâhâra), (13) concentration (dhâranâ), (14) meditation upon the
Self (âtma-dhyâna), and (15) ecstasy (samâdhi) Pâshupata-Yoga The unitive
discipline of the Pâshupata sect, as expounded in some of the Purânas
Pâtanjala-Yoga The unitive discipline of Patanjali, better known as Râja-Yoga or
Yoga-Darshana Pûrna-Yoga The unitive discipline of wholeness or integration,
which is the name of Sri Aurobindo's Yoga Râja-Yoga The royal unitive
discipline, also called Pâtanjala-Yoga, Ashtânga-Yoga, or Râja-Yoga Samâdhi-Yoga
The unitive discipline of ecstasy Sâmkhya-Yoga The unitive discipline of
insight, which is the name of certain liberation teachings and schools referred
to in the Mahâbhârata Samnyâsa-Yoga The unitive discipline of renunciation,
which is contrasted against Karma-Yoga in the Bhagavad-Gîtâ Samputa-Yoga The
unitive discipline of sexual congress (maithunâ) in Tantra-Yoga Samrambha-Yoga
The unitive discipline of hatred, as mentioned in the Vishnu-Purâna, which
illustrates the profound yogic principle that one becomes what one constantly
contemplates (even if charged with negative emotions) Saptânga-Yoga The unitive
discipline of the seven limbs (sapta-anga), also known as Sapta-Sâdhana in the
Gheranda-Samhitâ: (1) six purificatory practices (shat-karma), (2) posture
(âsana), (3) seal (mudrâ), (4) sensory inhibition (pratyâhâra), (5) breath
control (prânâyâma), (6) meditation (dhyâna), and (7) ecstasy (samâdhi)
Shadanga-Yoga The unitive discipline of the six limbs (shad-anga), as expounded
in the Maitrâyanîya-Upanishad: (1) breath control (prânâyâma), (2) sensory
inhibition (pratyâhâra), (3) meditation (dhyâna), (4) concentration (dhâranâ),
(5) examination (tarka), and (6) ecstasy (samâdhi) Siddha-Yoga The unitive
discipline of the adepts, a concept found in some of the Tantras Sparsha-Yoga
The unitive discipline of contact; a Vedantic Yoga mentioned in the
Shiva-Purâna, which combines mantra recitation with breath control; cf.
Asparsha-Yoga Tantra-Yoga The unitive discipline of the Tantras, a
kundalinî-based Yoga Târaka-Yoga The unitive discipline of the "deliverer"
(târaka); a medieval Yoga based on light phenomena Yantra-Yoga The unitive
discipline of focusing the mind upon geometric representations (yantra) of the
cosmos.

Maha Shivaratri (Shiva Ratri) Celebrated on the new moon night in the month of
Phalguna, this Hindu festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Rama Navami This
nine-day Hindu festival, celebrated in the bright fortnight in the month of
Chaitra, commemorates the birth of Shri Rama who was born to annihilate the
demon King Ravana. Krishna Janmashtami This Hindu festival, which falls during
the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadra, is celebrated to commemorate the
birth of Krishna to annihilate Kansa. It is marked by fasts, prayers and the
enactment of incidents from Krishna's childhood. Ganesha Chaturthi (Ganesha
Utsava) Celebrated essentially in Maharashtra, this festival celebrates the
birthday of Ganesha, the elephant-headed god who is the son of Shiva and
Parvati. Vijaya Dashami (Dassera) Victory of Shri Rama over Ravana. Navaratri
This nine-day festival of the Hindus is celebrated in almost all parts of India
in the month of Ashvina, and is marked by fasting and praying to different
aspects of Devi. Diwali This is one of the oldest Hindu festivals occurring in
the month of Kartik, which commemorates the return of Rama to Ayodhya after an
exile of 14 years. It also marks the beginning of the New Year and is celebrated
with the lighting of lamps. Ekadashi Hindu Vaishnavas observe Ekadashi
(alternatively called 'Gyaars') by fasting on that day. Guru Purnima The day,
also known as “Vyasa Purnima” is observed by devotees who offer pujas (worship)
to their beloved Gurus. Hanuman Jayanti It is celebrated largely in North India
to commemorate the birth of the monkey god, Hanuman, during Chaitra. It marks a
symbolic acceptance of the human race's peaceful co-existence with nature and
the worship of an animal. Lakshmi Puja Lakshmi Puja is performed to propitiate
Goddess Lakshmi and to thank her for the bestowal of her blessings on the
humans. Saraswati Puja The worship of Hindu goddess of learning, is observed on
the Basant Panchami day annually. Durga Puja This nine-day festival of the
Hindus is celebrated in the month of Ashvina in Bengal. It marks the victory of
Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura after a long battle, signifying
the victory of good over evil. Kumbh Mela Pilgrimage every 12 years to four
cities in India. Holi This colorful festival of the Hindus, celebrated on the
full moon day in the month of Phalguna, heralds the advent of spring. Raksā
Bandhana Renewing bonds between brothers and sisters. Gayatri Japa Day The
Gayatri Japa Day is one such very holy and glorious day intended to remind all
of the greatest and most glorious of all Mantras, the sacred Gayatri Mantra.
Thaipusam Hindu festival celebrated mostly by the Tamil community on the full
moon in the Tamil month of Thai. Makara Shankranti or Pongal SALUTATIONS and
adorations to the Supreme Lord, the primordial power that divided the year into
the four seasons. Salutations to Surya, the Sun-God, who on this great day
embarks on his northward journey. Gita Jayanti THE GITA Jayanti, or the birthday
of the Bhagavad Gita, is celebrated throughout India by all the admirers and
lovers of this most sacred scripture on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the
bright half of the month of Margaseersha (December-January), according to the
Hindu almanac. Kartigai Deepam ON THE full moon day of the month of Kartigai
(November-December) which falls on the ascension of the Kritigai star, the
Hindus celebrate the Kartigai Deepam. Chaitra Purnima The Hindu scriptures
prescribe elaborate worship of the Chitra Guptas on this day.

 * System of Knowledge
 * Sacred Symbols
 * Culture & Tradition
 * Worship

Avasthas The most comprehensive study of the Science of Consciousness. It
expounds the various levels of consciousness, states of consciousness, the
nature of consciousness at each level, the nature of Truth at each level of
consciousness and methods to attain those levels. Shariras The vehicle of
consciousness with which one passes from life to life. Yoga Sutras The Yoga
Sutra of Patanjali. Lokas The various planes of existence. Vyuhas Stages of
Emanation of the Universe. Sankhya The Principles of the Universe. Vedic Time
System In the Vedic Time System, kala (Time) is not a linear, single-directional
movement, like an arrow speeding from past to future. The idea of Time itself
was quite advanced in Hindu Heritage. Srishti and Pralaya Creation of the
Universe — the cosmos follows one cycle within a framework of cycles. It may
have been created and reach an end, but it represents only one turn in the
perpetual "wheel of time", which revolves infinitely through successive cycles
of creation and destruction. Hindu Cosmology Hindu Cosmology upholds the idea
that creation is timeless, having no beginning in time. Each creation is
preceded by dissolution and each dissolution is followed by creation. Panchanga
The Hindu Almanac provides vital information about astrological factors, planets
and stars — aspects of our subtle environment which are unseen but strongly
felt. It is far more complex than the simple Gregorian calendar normally used in
the West and far more useful.

OM, AUM The most sacred single syllable in the entire literature of Hinduism is
OM. This word is constantly on the lips of devout Hindus from the cradle to the
grave. It stands for Brahman, both as personal and impersonal God. swastika An
ancient solar sign considered to invoke auspiciousness. dipa Lamp — symbol of
light. padma Lotus – symbol of purity/transcendence. Growing out of the mud, it
is beautiful, and though resting on water, it does not touch it. trishul Trident
– the symbol of Shiva; often carried by Saiva sannyasis (renunciates). nataraj
The dance of Shiva — represents the constant biodance of life — creation,
maintenance and transformation and indicates the perfect balance between life
and death. prasada literally means "mercy," and refers to anything that has been
sanctified through offering to God (e.g. flowers). It specifically refers to
food offered to God. Rudrakshas Rudrakshas beads have been worn by Hindu Sadhus
(holymen) and Gurus since the last 5000 years. Hindus believe that rudraksha
beads will bless the wearer with with health, wealth, intelligence, luck,
divinity, power, prosperity, happiness, spirituality and anything else you
desire in life. It has the power and ability to bless the wearer/worshipper with
almost everything he/she desires. Devatas The Gods. Dasavatharam The prime ten
avathara (incarnations) of Shri Maha Vishnu. Sriman Narayana out of compassion
and to save HIS bhakthas from asuras have incarnated in this material world time
and again.

India is renowned for its rich Cultural Heritage. Various Artforms like Music,
Dance, Painting, Sculpture, Architecture & other Allied Arts have thrived in
this country for Centuries now & needless to say, have reached high amounts of
Sophistication. The role of Art as an integral part of life was recognized by
Indians very early. The ancient scholars have divided, identified & natured as
many as 14 techniques or lesson forms and 64 art forms.

sanskriti The word for culture and heritage is Sanskriti, "refinement". Namaskar
When Hindus meet others they greet them with "Namaskar" or "Namaste". natya
Classical Indian dance comprises three aspects, Nritta, Nritya and Natya. Eight
Indian dance styles: 1. Bharatanatyam (Tamil Classical Dance), 2. Odissi (Orissa
Classical dance), 3. Kuchipudi (Telugu Classical dance), 4. Manipuri (Manipur
Classical Dance), 5. Mohiniaattam (Kerala Classical Dance, 6. Sattriya (Asamese
Classical Dance), 7. Kathakali (Malayalam Classical Dance) and 8. Kathak (North
Indian Classical Dance). sangeet Music chatuh shashti kala Sixty-four arts — a
classical curriculum of sacred sciences, studies, arts and skills of cultured
living listed in various Hindu shastras. yagna A yajna is a fire ceremony. The
tradition of yajna is well known in India, as it is the most ancient of Vedic
rituals, which Indians have carried on till the present day. saṃskāraṃ The
Samskāra are a series of Sacraments, Sacrifices and Rituals that serve as rites
of passage and mark the various stages of the Human life and to signify entry to
a particular Ashrama. vivaham Marriage. An elaborate and joyous ceremony
performed in presence of God and Gods, in which the homa fire is central. Holy
Festivals In the Vedic/Hindu tradition, there are many festivals that are
observed throughout the year. There are major festivals and numerous minor ones,
as well as those that are celebrated on a local or regional basis, which are
celebrated differently according to the location, or even named differently.
tilak Hindus apply distinctive marks on their forehead. puja Hindu worship
(puja) involves images of God/Goddesses (murtis), prayers and chanting of
mantras and use of diagrams of the universe known as yantras. surya namaskar Sun
Salutation — is one of the most popular and well-known practices of hatha yoga
today. It has sprung forth out of one of the oldest forms of worship known to
man — the adoration and homage paid to that core of our natural existence that
is the sun. asanas postures. seva service. Great Hindu Sages Great Hindu Sages
Great Indians Biographies of great men and women from Bharat (India). Manu
Smriti (मनुस्मृति) The Manu Smriti translated Codes of Manu is regarded as an
important work of Hindu law and ancient Indian society.

AUM ॐ Known as the ‘pranava mantra,’ the source of all mantras. Gāyatrī Mantra
The Gayatri Mantra is the universal prayer enshrined in the Vedas, the most
ancient Scriptures of Man and the most powerful of Sanskrit mantras. It is
believed that chanting it can bring happiness in life and rescue the chanter
from adversity. Guru Mantra Guru Mantra. Shanti Mantra The Mantra of Peace. Bija
Mantra The concept of mantra as mystical sounds was carried to its logical
conclusion in ‘seed’ (Sanskrit bija) mantras that have no precise meaning but
instead are thought to carry within their sounds connections to various
spiritual principles and currents. Vidya Mantra Vidya Mantra. Hare Krishna
Mantra Hare Krishna Maha Mantra. 108 Names 108 Names Of Deities. puja The
ceremonial act of showing reverence to a God or Goddess through invocation,
prayer, song, and ritual. An essential aspect of Puja is communion with the
Divine. tirthayatra A pilgrimage to sacred sites involving the performance of
pujas and other religious activities. Prarthana Prarthana in other words means
prayer or worship. Bhajan Hindu Devotional Music. mantra Sacred words or
syllables used repeatedly in religious and ceremonial rituals. Japa It involves
repetition of a mantra over and over again, in cycles of auspicious numbers (in
multiples of three), the most popular being 108. Aarties Aarties.

 * Sanskrit Terms
 * History
 * Contemporary Issues
 * Society
 * Resources

saptarshis saptarshis (Sanskrit: सप्तर्षि; saptarṣi; "seven sages") from sapta,
"seven" + rishi, "sage" — are the seven rishis or the 'prajapatis', the mind
born sons of Brahma who are extolled at many places in the Vedas and Hindu
literature. They are Atri, Gautama, Bharadwaja, Vasishta, Viswamitra, Jamadagni
and Kashyap. The Mahabharata presents them as Marichi, Atri, Angiras, Pulaha,
Kratu, Pulastya andVasishta. They are regarded in the Vedas as the patriarchs of
the Vedic Tradition. The seven rishis are also said to mark the time and the
duration of events in our septenary life cycle.
kali yuga kali yuga (Sanskrit: कलियुग, "age of Kali"; "age of vice") — is one of
the four stages of development that the world goes through as part of the cycle
of Yugas, the others being satya-yuga, treta-yuga and dwapara-yuga. The human
civilization degenerates spiritually throughout the Kali Yuga — it is mostly
referred to as the Dark Age, mainly because people are the furthest possible
from Divinity. During the Kali Yuga righteousness has diminished by
three-quarters, and the age is one of devolution, culminating in the destruction
of the world prior to a new creation and another Krita Yuga in an endless cycle
of time.
jiva jiva (Sanskrit: "the embodied atman") Individual Self.
kriyamana karma kriyamana karma (Sanskrit: "Being made.") The karma being
created and added to sanchita in this life by one's thoughts, words and actions,
or in the inner worlds between lives. What we are currently creating through our
choices right now. It is our creativity that is unfolding, it is our "free
will". See: karma
Hanuman Jayanti It is celebrated largely in North India to commemorate the birth
of the monkey god, Hanuman, during Chaitra. It marks a symbolic acceptance of
the human race's peaceful co-existence with nature and the worship of an animal.
sūtras sūtra (Sanskrit: सूत्र, "a rope or thread that holds things together")
metaphorically refers to an aphorism (or line, rule, formula), or large a
collection of such aphorisms in the form of a manual — is a distinct type of
literary composition, based on short aphoristic statements, generally using
various technical terms. The literary form of the sutra was designed for
concision, as the texts were intended to be memorized by students in some of the
formal methods of svādhyāya (scriptural and scientific study). Since each line
is highly condensed, another literary form arose in which bhāṣya (commentaries)
on the sūtras were added, to clarify and explain them.
manomaya kosha manomaya kosha (mind-stuff-apparent-sheath) is the mental and
emotional sheath which also is included in the sukshma sharira (subtle body).
Manomaya means composed of manas or mind. The manas (thought, will, wish) along
with the five subtle sensory organs is said to constitute the manomaya kosha.
The instinctive-intellectual sheath of ordinary thought, desire and emotion. It
is the seat of the indriyas, sensory and motor organs, respectively called
jnanendriyas and karmendriyas. The manomaya kosha takes form as the physical
body develops and is discarded in the inner worlds before rebirth. It is
understood in two layers: 1) the buddhi (odiccausal sheath) and 2) the manas
(odic-astral sheath). The manomaya kosha, is said more truly to approximate to
personhood than annamaya kosha and pranamaya kosha. It is the cause of
diversity, of I and mine.
vairāgya vairāgya or vairaagya (Sanskrit: वैराग्य, "dispassion; detachment; or
renunciation") — desire and ability to give up all transitory enjoyments. In
particular renunciation from the pains and pleasures in the material world.
Vairāgya is a compound word joining vai meaning "to dry, be dried" + rāga
meaning "color, passion, feeling, emotion, interest" (and a range of other
usages). This sense of "drying up of the passions" gives vairāgya a general
meaning of ascetic disinterest in things that would cause attachment in most
people. It is a "dis-passionate" stance on life. An ascetic who has subdued all
passions and desires is called a vairāgika.
mukti mukti or mukhti (Sanskrit: "liberation") is deliverance from the samsara
(cycle of birth and death). The condition of freedom from ignorance (avidyâ) and
the binding effect of karma. Liberation from material existence. See: moksha.
Vijaya Dashami Also known as Dussehra, Vijaya Dashami is the celebration of
Rama’s victory over the asura Ravana. Vijaya means victory and dashami means
tenth and so Vijaya Dashami is the victory on the 10th lunar day.
panchamahayajna panchamahayajna — five great daily yagna (sacrifices) that are
to be performed by every householder. They are: (1) Brahma Yajna, called also
Veda Yajna, "homage to Brahman or the Vedas or the sages"; (2) Deva Yajna,
"homage to Gods and elementals."; (3) Pitri Yajna, "homage to ancestors"; (4)
Bhuta Yajna, "homage to beings"; and (5) Manushya Yajna, "homage to men".
Bhakti Yoga Bhakti Yoga or Bhakti Marga (Devanāgarī: भक्ति योग) — denotes the
spiritual practice of fostering bhakti (loving devotion) to a personal form of
God that involves devotion, attachment and love for God. bhakti is a Sanskrit
term that signifies an attitude of devotion to a personal God that is typically
based on a number of human relationships such as beloved-lover, friend-friend,
parent-child, and master-servant. The Bhagavad Gita and Bhagavata Purana are two
important scriptures which explain and develop the attitude of bhakti.
manomaya kosha manomaya kosha (mind-stuff-apparent-sheath) is the mental and
emotional sheath which also is included in the sukshma sharira (subtle body).
Manomaya means composed of manas or mind. The manas (thought, will, wish) along
with the five subtle sensory organs is said to constitute the manomaya kosha.
The instinctive-intellectual sheath of ordinary thought, desire and emotion. It
is the seat of the indriyas, sensory and motor organs, respectively called
jnanendriyas and karmendriyas. The manomaya kosha takes form as the physical
body develops and is discarded in the inner worlds before rebirth. It is
understood in two layers: 1) the buddhi (odiccausal sheath) and 2) the manas
(odic-astral sheath). The manomaya kosha, is said more truly to approximate to
personhood than annamaya kosha and pranamaya kosha. It is the cause of
diversity, of I and mine.
Guru Purnima The day, also known as Vyasa Purnima is observed by devotees who
offer pujas (worship) to their beloved Gurus. . The festival is usually
celebrated as an occasion for initiation of new disciples by their Gurus. On the
purnima (day of full moon) in the month of Aashadh in the Hindu Calendar is
traditionally celebrated as Guru Purnima by many Hindus. On this day devotees
offer worship (puja) to their guru. According to tradition this was the day when
Vyasadeva, author of the Mahabharata and the Puranas was born. All religious
teachers (gurus) are revered on this day by remembering their life and
teachings.
paramātmā paramātmā or paramātmān (Sanskrit: परमात्मा, "supreme atma;") from
roots param, "supreme or highest", and ātman, "individual spirit or Self" — is
the supreme ātman situated in the hearts of all living entities as the witness
and source of remembrance, knowledge, and forgetfulness.
mantra mantra (Sanskrit; Devanāgarī: मन्त्र) or mantram, consists of the root
man- "to think" (also in manas "mind") and the suffix -tra meaning, "tool or
protection" — hence a literal translation would be "instrument of thought". They
are primarily used as spiritual conduits, words or vibrations that instill
one-pointed concentration in the devotee.
Brahma Brahma is the God of Creation and He is attributed to the creation of the
brahmãnd (entire universe) and the life forms within it. Brahma is the first
member of the Trimurthi, Vishnu being the second and Shiva, the third.
avidya avidya (Sanskrit) Spiritual "ignorance." Wrongful understanding of the
nature of reality. Mistaking the impermanent for the everlasting. The state of
ignorance which needs to be dispelled at the outset , before one can begin the
journey in earnest towards self fulfillment and Moksha. 'Ignorance is bliss ' or
so the satire goes. Ignorance most certainly is not bliss. Avidya (pAra or
apAra) is an unpardonable excuse and as soon as a person determines he/she is in
a state of Avidya, they should take steps to remedy the situation.
maharloka maharloka: (Sanskrit: "Plane of greatness.") from mahas, "greatness,
might, power, glory." Also called the Devaloka, this fourth highest of the seven
upper worlds is the mental plane, realm of anahata chakra. See: loka.
samskara samskara (Sanskrit: "patterned or conditioned behaviors; subconscious
tendencies; worldly life; impression.") — 1. The imprints left on the
subconscious mind by experience (from this or previous lives), which then color
all of life, one's nature, responses, states of mind, etc. 2. A sacrament or
rite done to mark a significant transition of life. These make deep and positive
impressions on the mind of the recipient, inform the family and community of
changes in the lives of its members and secure inner-world blessings. The
numerous samskaras are outlined in the Grihya Shastras. Most are accompanied by
specific mantras from the Vedas.
pralaya pralaya (Sanskrit: ";") — A period of obscuration or repose - planetary,
cosmic or universal - the opposite of manvantara.
prema prema (Sanskrit: "real, spontaneous, divine love"), the result of sraddhâ
and bhâva.
Hanuman Jayanti It is celebrated largely in North India to commemorate the birth
of the monkey god, Hanuman, during Chaitra. It marks a symbolic acceptance of
the human race's peaceful co-existence with nature and the worship of an animal.
Truth Truth — When capitalized, "ultimate knowing" which is "unchanging". Lower
case (truth): "correctness", "according with fact", "honesty", "integrity";
"virtue". See: Satya.
Supreme Brahman The Supreme Infinite Brahman. See: Parabrahm.
Yamas and Niyamas The yamas and niyamas have been preserved through the
centuries as the foundation, the first and second stage, of the eight-staged
practice of yoga: yama — niyama — asana — pranayama — pratyahara — dharana —
dhyana — samadhi. Yet, they are fundamental to all beings, expected aims of
everyone in society, and assumed to be fully intact for anyone seeking life's
highest aim in the pursuit called yoga.
samadhi samadhi (Sanskrit: "standing within one's Self; sameness; contemplation;
union, wholeness; completion, accomplishment.") which represents "super
consciousness"; "complete absorption into the absolute", "Universal
Consciousness" — is the state of true yoga, in which the meditator and the
object of meditation are one. The separation of manas (mind) from the body, and
its union with the paramatma (Universal Consciousness, Godhead); the complete
“forgetting” of the “small self” (Jivatman) and mergence with the unchanging
“Higher Self” (paramatma). The eighth of Patanjali’s Ashtanga Yoga (“eight limbs
of Yoga”).
agnikaraka agnikaraka (Sanskrit: "fire ritual") — the Agamic term for yagna.
Jyotisha Vedanga Jyotisha Vedanga (Sanskrit: "Veda-limb of celestial science or
astronomy-astrology") — ancient texts giving knowledge of astronomy and
astrology, for understanding the cosmos and determining proper timing for Vedic
rites. (Jyoti means light "of the sun, fire, etc.") See: jyotisha, vedanga.
lobha lobha (Sanskrit: "covetousness; cupidity; avarice; greed; craving;
possessiveness;") from the verbal root lubh (to desire greatly) — stands for
impatience, eager desire for or longing after. It is regarded as one of the
arishadvarga (six passions of mind) or enemies of desire, the others being kama
(lust), krodha (anger), moha (delusion), mada (pride) and matsarya (jealousy).



History of Bharat India's history essentially includes all of the Indian
subcontinent, including the more recent nations of Pakistan founded in 1947
after the partition of India, and Bangladesh founded in 1971. Hindu Timeline
Human civilizations in India are some of the earliest ever. Dwaraka Dwaraka is
one of the holiest city in ancient India and one of the 4 main "dhams" along
with Badrinath, Puri, Rameshwaram. Dwaraka was a city-state extending upto Bet
Dwaraka (Sankhodhara) in the north and Okhamadhi in the south. Ayodhya Ayodhya
is an ancient city, is one of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus and is the
birth Place of Lord Rama. Archeological Findings Latest archeological findings
on India. History of Mathematics in India In India a decimal system was already
in place during the Harappan period, as indicated by an analysis of Harappan
weights and measures. Vedic History of Afghanistan The Kandhar city in
Afghanistan is the current mispronunciation of the Sanskrit term “Gandhar” which
was the capital of a flourishing ancient Hindu kingdom. Gandhari (wife of King
Dhritarastra) belonged to the region. The Indus-Sarasvati Civilization The
largest civilization in the ancient world developed in the Indus Valley of India
over 5,000 years ago. History of Ganit Ganita (Mathematics) has been considered
a very important subject since ancient times. We find very elaborate proof of
this in Veda (which were compiled around 6000 BC). Ancient Indian Cities The
history of ancient cities and civilizations in India is of the ages or eras in
the evolution of Indian history generally, commencing from pre-historic era to
the modern India. Kingdoms of Ancient India The historical context of the
Ancient Kingdoms of Bharat. Taj Mahal Known as one of the Seven Wonders of the
world, this magnificent seven storied temple mansion comprises of majestic
garden, interior water well, 400 to 500 rooms, 22 apartments, archaded
verendahs, terraces, multi stored towers, guest rooms, stables, music house,
drum chamber, cowsheds, and guard rooms.

Dharma and Religion Our failure to be conscious of this difference has resulted
in the creation of several crucial problems that we, as humans, have faced in
this century and continue to face even today. Vedic and Abrahamic Thought There
are two major thought systems or worldview in this world: Vedic and Abrahamic.
Common Misconceptions about Hinduism General social, philosophical and religious
misconceptions about Hinduism. Academic Hinduphobia Indian studies in the West
(especially the US and the UK) are overwhelmingly hostile to their object of
study. An unbroken straight line can be drawn, from this burgeoning British
hostility towards Hindus over a hundred years ago to the constant fabrications
of British journalists and editors in the print media and television about India
today. Hindutva Represents the resistance movement against the cultural,
religious and economic domination of India by Western powers. Adharmic Doctrines
Absence of Dharma from the Consciousness of the Western Mind Colonial-Marxist
Historiography History books in India still largely teach the British view of
India from the colonial era and have not changed much since the independence of
the country over fifty years ago. The Myth of the Aryan Invasion Theory Today,
this theory is being challenged more and more by new discoveries, both
archaeological and linguistic. Darwin's Theory Darwin's Theory of Evolution
Debunked Christianism Covert methods which the Christian missionaries employ to
harangue and/or hoodwink the unsuspecting Hindus. Islamism Indicates the state
of Muslims who takes pride in the purity of its Arab, Persian or Turkish descent
and do not refer to Indian Muslims in the general context. Macaulayism The
creation of new history of India that was fabricated to ensure that present and
future generations of mentally colonized people would believe in the inherent
inferiority of their own traditional knowledge and in the superiority of the
colonizers' 'modern' knowledge.

Temples Temples in India were regarded as sacred places or vital links that can
connect finite man to infinite God. The temples are built on the principles of
vastushastra. The vastushastras describe temple as a symbolic, miniature
representation of the cosmos. Pilgrimages Pilgrimages. Organizations
Organizations, Foundations, Groups and Councils. Communities Communities.
Customs and Practices Customs & Practices. Study Centers Study Centers,
Institutions and Universities.

Articles Articles and stories on contemporary events, issues, events,
inspiration, news and periodicals relating to Hindus and India. Books An
abundance of both contemporary and ancient books on Hinduism. eBooks Links to
online version and downloadable version of both contemporary and ancient books
on Hinduism. Online Videos Videos relating to Hinduism, yoga, history,
biographies, documentaries and contemporary issues. Audios Streaming audio
contents. Links Important links to websites on Hinduism and India. Downloads
Files and resources that can be downloaded online. Glossary of Hindu Terms
Glossary of Hindu Terms




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