The Vedas, the treasure-trove of Hindu religion, tradition and culture, containing codes of righteous conduct, were taught by God Himself thousands of years ago and have been preserved carefully and handed over to us. They are absolutely essential for building moral integrity and being eternal, the norms are applicable to all people even to this day. The holy utterances and the foundation for Hindu religion, termed the Vedas, are unique in that the revelations therein are not only relevant for all ages but they have raised several doubts which a commoner may harbour within him and have provided suitable and valid explanations. They are classified as exoteric and esoteric, the former dealing with the ceremonial acts and the latter with the acquisition of spiritual knowledge.
The Vedas-Divine utterances annotated by Sages with reference to specific contexts – provide the answer. It is possible to experience God, the seers have assured, provided man becomes really human, shedding the beastly traits in him. In this connection, the following four commandments have been given priority: Worship your mother; Revere your father; Obey your spiritual mentor; and Honour your guest. The prime dedication should go to the mother, who has delivered us into the world. Next is the father who tends us. The spiritual guide, the third in order, removes our ignorance, imparts knowledge and shows the path of God-realisation. The Guru should distinguish himself by the basic qualifications – desirelessness and total detachment. Then comes the true guest; he is one who remains indebted to the host for his hospitality.
The Vedas, which exist from time immemorial, disclose the presence of the Almighty, the soul and of virtue. Righteous conduct alone can keep society in a disciplined manner. If it is argued that righteousness depends on strength, the mightier men can wipeout the less mighty. Hence mankind has to stand by a principle, other than mere physical strength, to govern the world and ‘Dharma’ will sustain it.
India’s culture and glorious tradition spring from the Vedas, which are God’s gift to mankind. No one can say when they were first dedicated nor predict when they will end. They are external commands for shaping man’s good conduct and for developing an impeccable character. They reveal God and contain advice as well as correctives. If they are upheld, humanity’s happiness and prosperity will be assured.
Unity in diversity at the world level is the favourite theory of Vedas. Even enemies should thrive but their wickedness should turn to goodness. A criticism often directed against the Vedas is that their prayers and rituals are aimed only at the prosperity of a particular race or caste. It is not a fact. They are intended for the welfare of the entire humanity. Thus, Indian culture is based on the Vedas, whose traditions are timeless and have been passed on orally from the teachers to the disciples. Having a divine origin, they contain directives which sustain the activities of the universe in an organized manner so that there is peace and harmony. To help maintain this harmony, everyone should see eye to eye. Harmonious existence thus supports everything, from the individual to the cosmos.
When there is no mind, time does not exist. In deep sleep there is no time. Mind makes the future real and the present unreal. In this illusion and delusion we live and expect our lives to be happy.