Class Summary
What is Sanatana Dharma?
Sanatana Dharma is defined as "Eternal Values" or an "Eternal Code of Conduct." It teaches that there is one supreme power, transcending space, matter, and time. This supreme power manifests in various forms to protect humanity and restore dharma, or righteousness. It serves as a guide for individuals to be good human beings, helping them navigate the path to happiness and understand the nature of supreme consciousness (God).
Civilizational Context:
The class highlighted the flourishing of the Indus Valley Civilization, where people engaged in introspection and philosophical contemplation, giving rise to sacred texts like the Puranas and Upanishads. Historical migrations played a significant role, with those living on the eastern side of the Sindhu River developing a prosperous culture. Over time, the term "Sindhus" evolved into "Hindus." The impact of British colonization was also discussed, as the British employed tactics of segregation and fear to divide various religious communities, seeking power and control.
Teaching Themes:
Several essential questions were addressed in the class, including:
The Nature of Happiness: Students explored the essence of happiness, questioning whether it stems from actions and whether it is an internal or external experience.
Understanding Emotions: The class delved into the origins of emotions, considering how they influence our perceptions and actions.
Concepts of Body, Mind, and Intellect: Differences among these components were discussed, emphasizing their roles in the human experience.
Scriptural Diversity: Sanatana Dharma does not adhere to a single scripture but comprises numerous texts, including the Vedas and Puranas, categorized as Shruthi (heard) and Smriti (remembered). The transmission of these teachings through generations was also highlighted.
Reincarnation and the Concept of God:
The class set the groundwork for future discussions on significant topics such as reincarnation, exploring the science behind birth and death. Additionally, the nature of God (Brahman) will be examined in upcoming sessions, encouraging students to ponder profound questions about divinity.
Cultural Narratives:
The session concluded with an inspiring story of Shivaji, illustrating divine intervention through the deity Vithoba. In this narrative, Vithoba takes the form of Shivaji to protect a temple from the Mughal forces. This story reinforces themes of righteousness, bravery, and the protective nature of divine forces in the context of Sanatana Dharma.
This class provided a comprehensive introduction to Sanatana Dharma, exploring its teachings, historical context, and philosophical questions. The discussions encouraged participants to reflect on their understanding of happiness, divinity, and their place in the world. The engaging stories and themes set the stage for deeper exploration in upcoming sessions, inviting students to further engage with these timeless principles.
