Hindu Scriptures (March 2012)

2012, Monthly Articles

Hindu Scriptures

The topic for this month is Hindu Scriptures. Before we start, lets first talk about what Scriptures are and what makes a book a Scripture. Scriptures are books that contain the knowledge of our religion. They directly and indirectly guide us. That is, they tell us what we should and should NOT do. Not only do they impart knowledge by helping us understand the religion but also act as the moral compass by letting us differentiate right from wrong. Every Hindu is highly advised and encouraged to read, comprehend (understand and internalize) and memorize the scriptures.

While Hindu religion boasts of a large number of Scriptures, few most important ones are Vedas (Rig, Saam, Yajur, Atharva), Bhagvat Gita, Ramayana, and Mahabharat.

Scripture

Theme

Rigveda

Spiritual Sciences including Biological and Life Sciences

Yajurveda

Spiritual Sciences including Purushartha, Duties, Deeds, Civil & Military Sciences

Saamveda

Spiritual Sciences, Devotional Music

Atharvaveda

Spiritual Sciences, Astronomy, Mathematics, Geometry, Algebra, Engineering, Economics, Political Science

Bhagvat Gita

Discourses by Yogeshwar Sri Krishna to Arjuna

Ramayana

Biography of Maryada Purushottam Sri Ram

Mahabharat

One of the great Indian epics depicting the role of four goals (purusharthas) in the dynastic struggle between Kaurvas and Pandavas

Kids are encouraged to research the above mentioned and other Hindu Scriptures for this month’s hawan.

Mantra of the Month (MoM)

Second mantra of Ishwar Stuti Prarthana Upasana Mantras

Mantra: 

Om Hiranya-garbhah sama-var-tataa-gre bhootasya jaatah patir eka aaseet.

Sa daa-dhaara prithiveem dhyaam ute-maam kasmai devaaya havishaa vidhema.

Meaning:

God is the sole master of the entire universe. He existed prior to the creation of the universe. He sustains the entire world including other planets. Let us offer our worship for that God.

As always, please take time to discuss this topic with kids, and encourage them to memorize the MoM with meanings.

Regards,

Harsh Mendiratta