Hindu temples should disseminate Hindu thought.
The report on the Minneapolis Hindu temple (India Abroad, July 30) is a testimony of the abiding faith of Hindus in their religion and also the liberty of thought and faith assured by the American Constitution to its citizens. That so many people worked so hard for several years to raise money for the temple and work selflessly is an indication of the own. After all, man cannot live by bread alone. It is heartening that young generation is equally enthusiastic to take part in the various activities of the temple. A small library and classes in Hindu scriptures and Carnatak music is truly music to the ears. The scriptures are the foundation of Hindu faith and music is one of the flowers of the faith. Vasudaiva kutumbakam (world is a family) is a part of the foundation of Hindu civilization which was mentioned by the Prime Minister of India Dr.Man Mohan Singh in a note to the recent G-8 meeting. Great thoughts such as man is a spark of the Divine Flame (brotherhood of man and Fatherhood of God) and diversity of routes to reach Divinity ( freedom of thought and expression) were proclaimed by Hindu sages centuries ago which the world today finds necessary for world peace and harmony.
Hindus in USA constitute a small community, and Hindu religion and culture are not well-known and well-understood, sometimes by Hindus themselves. Implications of idol worship ( we keep photographs of dear and near ones ) and the theory of re-incarnation ( what you sow, you reap) is not known to many people. It would be a good idea if the temple authorities undertake to distribute books on Hinduism to the devotees and others who would like to know more about Hindu religion, culture and civilization. The books could be given at a subsidized cost, if not free of cost. Understanding the basics of the Hindu religion by Hindus and non-Hindus would promote harmony in the community and country. One of the best books on Hinduism is The Hindu View of Life by Dr. S. Radhakrishan, India's former President and the great philosopher. Though the book is small (about 100 pages), its clarity of thought and expression are great. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan and Ramakrishna Mission have many publications which throw light on Hindu thought and civilization. These could be re-printed with permission to disseminate knowledge and information on Hindu way of life.
July 9,2009.
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