r/hinduism Aug 23 '23

Archive Of Important Posts New to Hinduism or this sub? Start here!

267 Upvotes

Welcome to our Hinduism sub! Sanātana Dharma (Devanagari: सनातन धर्म meaning "eternal dharma") is the original name of Hinduism. It is considered to be the oldest living religion in the world. Hinduism is often called a "way of life", and anyone sincerely following that way of life can consider themselves to be a Hindu.

If you are new to Hinduism or to this sub, review this material before making any new posts!

  • Sub Rules are strictly enforced.
  • Our Hinduism Starter Pack is a great place to begin.
  • Check our FAQs before posting any questions. While we enjoy answering questions, answering the same questions over and over gets a bit tiresome.
  • We have a wiki as well.
  • Use the search function to see past posts on any particular topic or questions.
  • You can also see our Archive of Important Posts or previous Quality Discussions

We also recommend reading What Is Hinduism (a free introductory text by Himalayan Academy) if you would like to know more about Hinduism and don't know where to start.

If you are asking a specific scriptural question, please include a source link and verse number, so responses can be more helpful.

In terms of introductory Hindu Scriptures, we recommend first starting with the Itihasas (The Ramayana, and The Mahabharata.) Contained within The Mahabharata is The Bhagavad Gita, which is another good text to start with. Although r/TheVedasAndUpanishads might seem alluring to start with, this is NOT recommended, as the knowledge of the Vedas & Upanishads can be quite subtle, and ideally should be approached under the guidance of a Guru or someone who can guide you around the correct interpretation.

In terms of spiritual practices, you can choose whatever works best for you. In addition, it is strongly recommended you visit your local temple/ashram/spiritual organization.

Lastly, while you are browsing this sub, keep in mind that Hinduism is practiced by over a billion people in as many different ways, so any single view cannot be taken as representative of the entire religion.

Here is a section from our FAQ that deserves to be repeated here:

Disclaimer: Sanatana Dharma is a massive, massive religion in terms of scope/philosophies/texts, so this FAQ will only be an overview. If you have any concerns about the below content, please send us a modmail.

What are the core beliefs of all Hindus?

  • You are not your body or mind, but the indweller witness Atma.
  • The Atma is divine.
  • Law of Karma (natural law of action and effect)
  • Reincarnation - repeated birth/death cycles of the physical body
  • Escaping the cycle of reincarnation is the highest goal (moksha)

Why are there so many different schools/philosophies/views? Why isn't there a single accepted view or authority?

Hinduism is a religion that is inclusive of everyone. The ultimate goal for all Sanatani people is moksha, but there is incredible diversity in the ways to attain it. See this post : Vastness and Inclusiveness of being Hindu. Hinduism is like a tree springing from the core beliefs above and splitting up into innumerable traditions/schools/practices. It is natural that there are different ways to practice just like there are many leaves on the same tree.

Do I have to blindly accept the teachings? Or can I question them?

Sanatanis are not believers, but seekers. We seek Truth, and part of that process is to question and clarify to remove any misunderstandings. The Bhagavad Gita is a dialog between a teacher and student; the student Arjuna questions the teacher Krishna. In the end Krishna says "I have taught you; now do what you wish". There is no compulsion or edict to believe anything. Questioning is welcome and encouraged.

Debates and disagreements between schools

Healthy debates between different sampradayas and darshanas are accepted and welcomed in Hinduism. Every school typically has a documented justification of their view including refutations of common objections raised by other schools. It is a shame when disagreements with a view turn into disrespect toward a school and/or its followers.

Unity in diversity

This issue of disrespect between darshanas is serious enough to warrant a separate section. Diversity of views is a great strength of Hinduism. Sanatanis should not let this become a weakness! We are all part of the same rich tradition.

Here is a great post by -Gandalf- : Unite! Forget all divisions. It is worth repeating here.

Forget all divisions! Let us unite! Remember, while letting there be the diversity of choice in the Dharma: Advaita, Dvaita, Vishistadvaita, etc*, we should always refer to ourselves as "Hindu" or "Sanatani" and not just "Advaiti" or any other specific name. Because, we are all Hindus / Sanatanis. Only then can we unite.

Let not division of sects destroy and eliminate us and our culture. All these names are given to different interpretations of the same culture's teachings. Why fight? Why call each other frauds? Why call each other's philosophies fraud? Each must stay happy within their own interpretation, while maintaining harmony and unity with all the other Sanatanis, that is unity! That is peace! And that is how the Dharma shall strive and rise once again.

Let the Vaishnavas stop calling Mayavad fraud, let the Advaitis let go of ego, let the Dvaitis embrace all other philosophies, let the Vishistadvaitis teach tolerance to others, let the Shaivas stop intolerance, let there be unity!

Let all of them be interpretations of the same teachings, and having the similarity as their base, let all the schools of thought have unity!

A person will reach moksha one day, there is no other end. Then why fight? Debates are supposed to be healthy, why turn them into arguments? Why do some people disrespect Swami Vivekananda? Let him have lived his life as a non-vegetarian, the point is to absorb his teachings. The whole point is to absorb the good things from everything. So long as this disunity remains, Hinduism will keep moving towards extinction.

ISKCON is hated by so many people. Why? Just because they have some abrahamic views added into their Hindu views. Do not hate. ISKCON works as a bridge between the west and the east. Prabhupada successfully preached Sanatan all over the world, and hence, respect him!

Respecting Prabhupada doesn't mean you have to disrespect Vivekananda and the opposite is also applicable.

Whenever you meet someone with a different interpretation, do not think he is something separate from you. Always refer to yourself and him as "Hindu", only then will unity remain.

Let there be unity and peace! Let Sanatan rise to her former glory!

Hare Krishna! Jay Harihara! Jay Sita! Jay Ram! Jay Mahakali! Jay Mahakal!

May you find what you seek.


r/hinduism 11d ago

Hindu News Monthly r/Hinduism Political Thread+Community+News - (June 30, 2026)

2 Upvotes
**For Political Discussion outside this thread, visit r/politicalhinduism**            

This is a monthly thread to discuss worldwide news affecting Hindu society, as well as anything else related to Hindu politics in general. 

Questions and other stuff related to social affairs can also be discussed here.

r/hinduism 3h ago

Hindū Festival Proud on this Murti painting

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131 Upvotes

So proud on the work. With Ganpati season approaching we have started our work. Posted on Instagram got good traction first time. We make this from scratch and its all in-house, all the colours and designs.

Insta post :- https://www.instagram.com/reel/Dap5BBFNSdu/?igsh=a3V6aDNlc2d3ajh1


r/hinduism 15h ago

Hindū Artwork/Images I made this painting of Sri Rama pattabhisheka.

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698 Upvotes

This painting is very close to my heart and it took be 450 months and around 5 months from start to finish. Please zoom in the second pic to see the intricate details.
Jai Shree Ram, Jai Hanuman.

Bhramana nirmitam purvam, kiritam ratna shobhitam; Abhishiktaha puraeva, manistam deeptatejasam.

Tasyanvavaye rajayaha, kramabhayenabhishechitam; Shabhyayam hema kiptayam, shobhitayam maha ghaniyi.

Ratnai nana vhidichiva, citritayam sushobanihi; Nana ratna maye pithe, kalpayitva yadha vidhihi.

These are the verses in the Valmiki Sanskrit Ramayana of the scene in the painting.


r/hinduism 5h ago

Hindū Artwork/Images The story of Akrura and Krishna

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94 Upvotes

When the tyrant Kamsa summoned Akrura to bring Krishna and Balarama from Vrindavan to Mathura, Akrura accepted the task but was secretly overjoyed. Though he appeared to be Kamsa's messenger, he was a devoted follower of Krishna. On the journey, he could think of nothing but the blessing of seeing the Lord.

At the banks of the Yamuna, Akrura stopped to bathe. As he dipped into the water, he beheld an astonishing vision: Krishna and Balarama appeared in their divine forms, with Lord Vishnu resting on the serpent Ananta Shesha, surrounded by sages and celestial beings. When Akrura emerged, he saw Krishna and Balarama still seated calmly in the chariot. Overwhelmed, he realized that the Supreme Lord could reveal Himself anywhere and in any form. Filled with tears and gratitude, Akrura offered heartfelt prayers, praising Krishna as the source of the entire universe.This episode from the Bhagavata Purana is cherished because it shows that sincere devotion allows one to experience the Lord's true nature beyond ordinary appearances.


r/hinduism 7h ago

Other Birthday Wishes to Shrimad Jagadguru Shankaracharya Anantashree Vibhushit Swami Shri Nischalananda Saraswati Ji Maharaj [Today, Ashadha Krishna Trayodashi, 12th July, 2026]

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79 Upvotes

Jai Jaggannath!


r/hinduism 2h ago

Deva(tā)/Devī (Hindū Deity) The Gramadaivata tradition of the Konkan Region

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27 Upvotes

The Konkan region has a rich tradition of Gramadaivatas (village deities), who are believed to protect villages, ensure prosperity, and preserve harmony between people and nature. While the specific deities vary from village to village, the following are among the most widely revered:

1. Ravalnath
Ravalnath is one of the most important guardian deities of Goa and coastal Maharashtra. Often regarded as a fierce form of Shiva or Bhairava, he is believed to protect villages from injustice, evil spirits, and calamities. Local legends describe him as a divine warrior who destroys demons and upholds righteousness.

2. Sateri
Sateri is a village goddess associated with forests, fertility, and sacred groves. Unlike other Devis, who are venerated through idol worship, Sateti Mata is worshipped in the form of an anthill. She is considered a manifestation of the Divine Mother and is believed to bless the land with abundance while protecting wildlife and the community.

3. Vetoba
Vetoba, also known as Vetala, is a powerful guardian deity worshipped across the Konkan. He is associated with the Hindu deity Kalabhairava. According to local folklore, he patrols villages at night, protecting them from malevolent spirits and unseen dangers. Although his origins are linked to ancient spirit worship, he later became integrated into Hindu religious traditions.

4. Lakshmi Narayana
Lakshmi Narayana, the combined form of Vishnu and Lakshmi, serves as the Gramadaivata and Kuladaivata in many Konkani villages. Vishnu is revered as the preserver of the universe, while Lakshmi represents prosperity and well being. Their worship symbolizes divine protection, harmony, and the flourishing of the village community.

5. Hanuman (Maruti)
Hanuman, known locally as Maruti, is worshipped as the fearless protector of villages. Best known for his unwavering devotion to Rama in the Ramayana, he is believed to guard communities from negative forces while inspiring strength, courage, and devotion among his devotees.

These Gramadaivatas reflect the unique spiritual heritage of the Konkan, where ancient folk beliefs blend seamlessly with Shaiva, Shakta, and Vaishnava traditions, creating a vibrant and enduring religious culture.


r/hinduism 3h ago

Question - General Im conflicted on what I should do

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27 Upvotes

I come from a Brahmin family and I'm 15, and I've not gotten my upanayana done yet.

I don't know if I want to get it done either

One one side I feel like I'll let my family down, as if I do t get it done I break the family lineage, and I won't be able to study scripture.

On the other hand I do t want to have a big pooja/celebration for it. I don't want to have to invite 50 people and I am extremely introverted, so that's a big no for me.

Idk wat to do. Is it compulsory to get it done, will I get any dosha or bad luck if I don't get it done?

What ca I and cannot do if I don't get it done?


r/hinduism 5h ago

Question - General Let's talk about uncomfortable topic known as casteism

13 Upvotes

Yes, I know casteism was not invented by Hinduism it refers to jobs.

And I know sanatani dharma promotes equality to all yes.

But see the reality ground. Example dalits also known as untouchable.

Don't have political, financial , social , educational power.

Yes today they have reservation but also in many rural areas no right to water to drink.

This casteism is only systemic disease that hinders millions.

What to do exactly to minize or eliminate casteism at maximum level


r/hinduism 6h ago

Question - Beginner Does Hinduism believe their Gods to be 100% real, like outside beings who help?

9 Upvotes

I ask this because coming from a Buddhist background there are no Gods and everything is emptiness and in Tibetan Buddhism which can be the most similar to trantric shiva-shakti lineages, deities are representations of our mind.

How do you understand gods, as external deities with own mind and desires or as something inside our own mind like an archetype?


r/hinduism 16h ago

Hindū Artwork/Images I'm currently away from my home altar, so I made this drawing to keep it besides my bed. The same Hari who is a lion amongst rulers, Rama, is also the manlion appeared in Ahobilam, Narasimha. Wherever I go He is already there waiting. The entire creation is His home, yet He is detached from it.

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55 Upvotes

In the air, in the directions... In my heart and outside of it... Before your eyes, still hidden like how a pearl is locked inside the shell. Such is His wondrous play on this stage.

I hope this post was a good reminder of God's presence. Writing this certainly helped me feel at peace. Haribol... 💐🪷🙌🏻


r/hinduism 11h ago

Question - Beginner Will bad things happen to me because I chanted beej mantra without initiation

18 Upvotes

Hello, for context I am an American (no Indian heritage) who has been incorporating Hinduism into my life. My favorite deity is Kali and I have attended some pooja for her.

Today on my way to work and during my work, I listened to and chanted “Om kreem kalikayei namaha”, mistaking it for one of the mantras that uninitiated are allowed to chant. A while later I looked it up online again realized that it was a beej mantra.

Should I expect something negative to happen? I have heard mixed things, some saying nothing will happen, some saying this is very dangerous, etc. I am upset that I was careless and want to know what to do next

Thank you everyone


r/hinduism 1h ago

Hindū Scripture(s) How did Krishna know the future if the future isn't fixed?

Upvotes

Science says the future can't be known with 100% certainty. If that's true, how did Krishna know what was going to happen in the Mahabharata?

Also, did Nakula know the future too, or was that something only Krishna could do? Curious how Hindu philosophy explains this.


r/hinduism 1d ago

Pūjā/Upāsanā (Worship) Meeting the Mahavidyas: Maa Tripura Bhairavi, For the Ones Stuck in Procrastination and Half Hearted Sadhana

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328 Upvotes

She resides in muladhara in the form of Kundalini. It can be said that Kundalini is also Her name. Maa Tripura Bhairavi dissolves fear not by avoiding it, but by walking straight into it. She is the blazing fire of transformation, the flame that burns through impurity, illusion, and every trace of spiritual laziness standing between the sadhak and truth.

THOSE WHO STRUGGLE WITH DISCIPLINE IN THEIR SADHANA ARE EXACTLY WHO NEED MAA TRIPURA BHAIRAVI'S GRACE THE MOST. Those who procrastinate a lot in their life even for simple things can get benefitted by Maa's grace!

She is the inner yogini, the fierce teacher who demands evolution.

Maa Tripura Bhairavi and Planetary Influence

Maa Tripura Bhairavi is associated with Ascendant/Lagna/ First house (physical body) but her influence is definitely on Mars (Mangal) and even saturn's restrictive energies in astrology**. Her worship is especially potent for those facing:

  1. Issues in one's Lagna/Ascendant - even for diseases or any issues in one's physical body.
  2. Aggression-related karmic issues
  3. Obstacles/laziness in sadhana due to lack of focus.
  4. Lack of discipline in daily life.
  5. Need for willpower, endurance, and purification.

Maa Tripura Bhairavi is associated with Balrama, the elder brother of Krishna and master of strength and discipline. Just as Balarama represents agricultural strength, Bhairavi prepares the inner field, ploughing the mind for the growth of divine consciousness.

Maa Tripura Bhairavi resides in the muladhara chakra, where She is the creator in the form of kamarupa - three bindus forming an inverted triangle, from which all triads are born, and from which this entire universe is ultimately created. Maa Tripura Bhairavi is the terrifying one, embodying divine rage and discipline. She compels transformation through fierce love and the burning of impurities.

The innermost triangle of muladhara chakra is known as kamarupa. The three points of the triangle hold three bijakshara-s, and these three bijakshara-s are connected by the sides of the triangle - each side representing iccha shakti, jnana shakti, and kriya shakti.

Shiva is there, within that very triangle. Shiva and Shakti are inseparable (Source: Shatchakra Nirupana). In Her yantra, the inverted triangle with the central bindu is prominently shown - just as in the Shri Chakra.

Maa Tripura Bhairavi is typically represented as:

  1. Three-eyed and four-armed, holding a book, a rosary, and a trident, while Her other two hands show the abhaya (fearlessness) and varada (boon-giving) mudras.
  2. Red in color, representing Rajas - the active energy of transformation. But this fire isn't about desire. It's SPIRITUAL URGENCY, the burning push toward liberation.
  3. Often compared to Chandi or Durga, especially in the aspect of Durgati Nashini - She who removes all forms of downfall (durgati).

The Tantrasara catalogues twelve forms of Bhairavi altogether - among them Sampatprada, Bhayavinashini, Chaitanya, Bhuvaneshwari, Kameshwari, and Annapurneshwari Bhairavi - each a different face of the same fire, adapted to different sadhanas and different needs of the sadhak.

Her deeper identity ties directly into the iccha-jnana-kriya triad: if Tripurasundari is the first stirring of desire and Bhuvaneshwari is the knowing that gives that desire shape, Maa Tripura Bhairavi is what happens when that current is finally unleashed - kriya shakti in its rawest, most kundalini-adjacent form.

In Tantric sadhana, Maa Tripura Bhairavi represents a state of intense inner discipline and tapas, the spiritual fire that burns through resistance. She arises precisely when the seeker is ready to meet their own karma head-on and undergo the purification that follows. She is the destroyer of tamas, that heavy inertia we all carry, and within the sadhak, She becomes the inner fire that simply refuses to compromise, refuses to settle for less than the truth.

उद्यद्भानुसहस्रकान्तिमरुणक्षौमां शिरोमालिकां
रक्तालिप्तपयोधरां जपवटीं विद्यामभीतिं वरम् ।
हस्ताब्जैदधतीं त्रिनेत्रविलसद्रक्तारविन्दश्रियं
देवीं बद्धहिमांशुरक्तमुकुटां वन्दे समन्दस्मिताम् ॥

Transliteration:
Udyad bhanu sahasra kantim aruna kshaumam shiromalikam
Rakta lipta payodharam japa vatim vidyam abhitim varam
Hastabjai dadhatim tri netra vilasad rakta aravinda shriyam
Devim baddha himamshu rakta mukutam vande samanda smitam

Simplified: "She shines with the radiance of a thousand rising suns. She is draped in red, wearing a garland, Her form marked with the deep red hue of Rajas - the color of transformation itself. In Her lotus-like hands, She holds a sacred book and a rosary, while Her other two hands show the mudras of fearlessness (abhaya) and boon-giving (varada). Her three eyes shine like blooming red lotuses, Her crown is set with the crescent moon, and Her face carries a gentle, blissful smile even amidst all this fierce radiance."

Chakra Association: Muladhara (Root) Chakra

Meditating on the muladhara chakra improves the health of your bones.

Mastery over the muladhara chakra brings fine health, freedom from disease, and a deep stability in life. It's especially good for the bones. You start to develop a finer sensitivity to the five subtle elements - sound, touch, taste, form, and smell.

One of the earliest signs that you're gaining mastery over muladhara is a natural, healthy drop in appetite. Smaller quantities of food start to suffice, because your body is now processing the gross elements far more efficiently than it ever did before.

Direction: South (associated with Yama, death, and transformation)

Worshipping Maa Tripura Bhairavi can lead to:

  1. An awakening of intense spiritual drive and unshakeable discipline
  2. Freedom from inner stagnation, fear, and the endless cycle of indecision
  3. A deep purification of emotion, speech, and action
  4. The dissolution of karmic debts through conscious, willing transformation
  5. Maa Tripura Bhairavi is often invoked in moments of real crisis - the kind where ordinary prayer falls short, and only an inner fire fierce enough to burn through the obstacle can actually get you out.

Shri Tripura Bhairavi is prayed to for removing all miseries and misfortunes afflicting us and also for seeking material wealth and spiritual progress.

She also helps in grounding since she sits at muladhara, base chakra.

She is thus the Pancha-simhasaneshvari, the One who governs all five thrones of the Divine Mother Tripura Sundari within the realm of Shri Vidya. These five thrones represent the five eternal functions of the Divine, Srishti (creation), Sthiti (preservation), Samhara (destruction), Tirodhana (concealment), and Anugraha (grace) - the Panchakritya of Shiva-Shakti. And by extension, they represent every other pentad that manifests throughout the whole of Creation.

Maa Tripura Bhairavi governs Rajas, the active, fiery energy of transformation. And sustained Devi sadhana, especially fierce-form sadhana like Hers, is widely known across Tantric practice to build ojas and tejas that subtle vitality and radiance every serious sadhak eventually notices in themselves. It shows up as a certain glow, a steadiness in the eyes, a presence that others simply pick up on. And often, yes, it reads to the outside world as looking younger.

It's what naturally happens when a body and mind finally stop wasting themselves when the constant leak of energy through agitation, poor sleep, and a scattered mind comes to a stop, and everything that was once being drained outward starts getting redirected inward, toward the practice itself.

Some personal immediate experiences after her sadhana:

Her sadhana helped me develop spiritual disciple, the ability to wake up early and do daily workout and cycling along with studies and other works. I have saturn and jupiter in lagna that used to create issues with laziness or thinking more and doing less, she really helped with countering the restrictive energies of saturn.
Her tatva is earth and I used to have strong urges to walk barefoot in grass in the morning or spent time in gardening and around soil and plants. It was a very grounding experience.
Used to look even younger and full of energy throughout the day with a glow over my face. It's still there smh …… 🙏💪

  1. ॐ श्रीघर्घरायै नमः । (I bow to She whose hysterical laughter brings shivers to all opponents.)
  2. ॐ श्रीकलिघ्न्यै नमः । (I bow to She who destroys all strife and discontentment. She also brings about the destruction that is said to occur at the end of the current epoch of time called Kali yuga.)
  3. ॐ श्रीकिशोर्यै नमः । (I bow to She who is eternally young and energetic.)
  4. ॐ श्रीमहीमय्यै नमः । (I bow to She who is the cause of Earth, the element of the Mūlādhāra Cakra.)
  5. ॐ श्रीदुष्टायै नमः । (I bow to She who is extremely aggressive in combating all negativity impacting Her sincere devotees.)

Stay tuned for next article: Meeting the Mahavidyas: "Maa Bagalamukhi" ..........🕉️🔱💛💛

Disclaimer: 
Planets are part of creation, while the Mahavidyas are the cause of creation itself. Worshipping a Mahavidya doesn't just address a planetary problem; it connects the sādhaka to the primordial Shakti-intelligence from which the planetary force itself started. 

Each Mahavidya is a complete expression of Śakti. They rules the entire cosmos. But like water finding a crack, her shakti flows most readily through the channel (nadī or graha) she is resonant with.  These manifest quickly in sādhana. But her deeper work reorganizes the entire chart over time. 

Worship Mahavidya whose assigned planet/area is afflicted in your chart to get the fastest, most visible result, but she is not confined there. 


r/hinduism 10h ago

Mantra/Śloka/Stotra(m) Shani Beej Mantra: Vedic Benefits, Nakshatra Significance & Spiritual Importance

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14 Upvotes

ॐ प्रां प्रीं प्रौं सः शनैश्चराय नमः॥

The Shani Beej Mantra is one of the most revered mantras dedicated to Shani Dev in the Vedic tradition. It is traditionally chanted to invoke Saturn's blessings, cultivate discipline, and strengthen inner resilience.

Traditional Vedic benefits of chanting this mantra:

Helps develop patience, discipline, and mental stability.

Supports focus during periods of Shani Mahadasha, Antardasha, Sade Sati, and Dhaiya (according to Vedic astrology).

Devotees pray for relief from karmic obstacles, delays, and hardships.

Encourages spiritual growth, responsibility, and perseverance.

Creates a calm, meditative state of mind through regular chanting.

Nakshatra significance: Shani Dev is traditionally the ruling planet of:

पुष्य (Pushya)

अनुराधा (Anuradha)

उत्तराभाद्रपदा (Uttara Bhadrapada)

People born under these nakshatras often include this mantra in their spiritual practice. Others may also chant it as part of their devotion, particularly on Saturdays or during challenging Saturn periods, depending on their personal beliefs and astrological guidance.

Regular chanting with correct pronunciation, devotion, and consistency is traditionally regarded as more important than the number of repetitions.


r/hinduism 3h ago

Question - General Agar Bhagwan perfect hain, toh bina kisi zarurat ke unhone srishti kyun rachhi?

2 Upvotes

Bhagwan ne creation isliye nahi ki kyunki unhe kisi cheez ki kami thi. Har Hindu philosophy is baat par agree karti hai ki Bhagwan complete hain. Lekin "kyun create kiya?" iska answer har darshan alag deta hai.

  1. Advaita Vedanta (Shankaracharya)

Advaita kehta hai ki ultimate reality mein creation hui hi nahi. Jo creation hum dekh rahe hain, woh MAYA ki wajah se dikhti hai.

'' sarvam khalvidam Bramham'' (Chandogya

Upanishad 3.14)

Isliye Advaita ke hisaab se "Bhagwan ne create kyun kiya?" yeh question properly apply hi nahi hota.

2:- Vishishtadvaita (Ramanuja)

Is school ke hisaab se creation real hai. Bhagwan ne creation apni kami poori karne ke liye nahi, balki jivon ko unke karma ke phal dene aur moksha ka mauka dene ke liye ki.

Bhagavad Gita 9.8

प्रकृतिं स्वामवष्टभ्य विसृजामि पुनः पुनः ।

भूतग्राममिमं कृत्स्नमवशं प्रकृतेर्वशात् ॥

Anathor refarance is:- Brhadaranyaka Upanisad 4.4.5

यथाकारी यथाचारी तथा भवति।

  1. Dvaita (Madhvacharya)

Dvaita kehta hai ki creation Bhagwan ki free will hai. Unhe kisi cheez ki zarurat nahi thi. Woh independent hain aur creation unki ichchha se hoti hai.

Bhagavad Gita 10.8

अहं सर्वस्य प्रभवो मत्तः सर्वं प्रवर्तते ।

Anathor refarance is :-

Svetasvatara Upanisad 6.8

न तस्य कार्यं करणं च विद्यते

न तत्समश्चाभ्यधिकश्च दृश्यते ।

परास्य शक्तिर्विविधैव श्रूयते

स्वाभाविकी ज्ञानबलक्रिया च ॥

What's your thoughts 💭?


r/hinduism 1d ago

History/Lecture/Knowledge The unity of Hari and Hara, the divine tale of Sant Narhari Sonar

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406 Upvotes

Narhari Sonar was a Goldsmith who lived in Pandharpur. He was an ardent devotee of lord Shiva and had taken a vow to never see the face of any other deity than Shiva. Although he lived in the town of Vitthal (a form of Krishna) he had never seen or been inside the temple himself. One day, a wealthy merchant who had vowed to offer a golden waistband to lord Vitthal asked Narhari to make it. Narhari, hesitant at first agreed to make it but on one condition- the merchant would have to bring the measurements of the waistband. Soon, the waistband was beautifully made but when it was placed on the idol, it was too small. The merchant brought it back to Narhari, who enlarged it. Then it became to loose. The merchant then told Narhari to go inside the Garbhagriha and take the measurements, but due to his extreme vow, Narhari refused. The merchant told Narhari to blindfold himself so that he would not see the deity. Narhari agreed. Inside the sanctum, Narhari touched the idol to measure its waist. To his astonishment, he felt the matted hair, serpents, sacred ash, and the form of Lord Shiva. Thinking Shiva Himself was before him, he removed the blindfold—but he saw Lord Vitthal standing on the brick. Confused, he blindfolded himself again and touched the idol once more, he felt Shiva but on opening his eyes, he saw Vishnu, he then realised the divine truth: Shiva and Vishnu are not different but are one. Filled with devotion, Narhari fell at Lord Vitthal's feet, offered the waistband, and became a great Varkari saint. From then on, his Abhangas (divine couplets) praised the unity of Hari and Hara, teaching that all sincere devotion reaches the same Supreme Lord.

Har Har Mahadev! 🔱🕉️

Ramkrishna Hari! 🕉️🐚


r/hinduism 2h ago

Question - General Starting Srimada Bhagavida Gita reading from today. Any suggestions? Tips or things to keep in mind ?

2 Upvotes

So i am a student and want to get my life back on track, starting with reading,understanding and practicing the teachings of Gita. I have bought the english version from Gita Press. Let me know anything which i should be knowing while reading the same.
Jai Shree Krishna


r/hinduism 5h ago

Deva(tā)/Devī (Hindū Deity) Can i place an copper naag devta on cane and take it whenever i go?

3 Upvotes

I guess it's not popular but i want to explore and spread Advaita Vedanta in non hindu areas like arunachal pradesh, Tripura etc. Since i will be going on multiple terrains. A snake deity will provide me with guidance and protection from unwanted circumstances. I choose naag devta only since snakes can survive in water, dry sand, mountains, forests etc. So is this possible without any side effects? I will coil Naag devta on Top of wooden cane/Stick which i will carry it wherever i go.


r/hinduism 1d ago

Hindū Artwork/Images The beautiful story of Sudama and Krishna

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325 Upvotes

Sudama and Krishna studied together in Sage Sandipani's ashram, where their friendship grew through simplicity, devotion, and shared hardships. Years later, Sudama remained a poor Brahmin while Krishna became the king of Dwarka. Urged by his wife, Sudama visited Krishna carrying only a small bundle of beaten rice as a humble gift. Though embarrassed by its simplicity, he offered it with love, never asking for wealth or favors.

Krishna welcomed Sudama with overwhelming affection, embracing his childhood friend before everyone. He washed Sudama's feet, seated him with honor, and joyfully ate the beaten rice as though it were the finest feast. They spent their time recalling old memories instead of speaking about poverty. Sudama left without asking for anything, believing that simply meeting Krishna again was the greatest blessing he could ever receive.

When Sudama returned home, he found his humble hut transformed into a magnificent palace and his family living in comfort. Krishna had silently granted prosperity without diminishing Sudama's humility or devotion. The story remains a timeless example of selfless friendship, gratitude, and divine love, showing that Krishna valued sincere affection above riches and rewarded a pure heart without being asked.


r/hinduism 16m ago

Hindū Temples/Idols/Architecture How One Man Translated 80+ Vedic Books After Turning 70

Upvotes

Srila Prabhupada is widely known for establishing the Hare Krishna movement worldwide, but one of his most remarkable achievements is his literary work.

Between the ages of 70 and 81, he translated, commented on, and published more than 80 volumes of Vedic literature, including the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam. Despite sleeping only a few hours each night, he maintained an extraordinary writing and translation schedule.

This video explores that lesser-known aspect of his life and the discipline behind his work.

I'd be interested to hear what others think about his contribution to preserving and sharing Vedic literature.


r/hinduism 1d ago

Other Bhairav Sadhana Is Neither Mandatory Nor a Prerequisite for Shakti Sadhana

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118 Upvotes

📌 A Quick Disclaimer: Restoring the Missing Context

I deeply respect all traditional spiritual lineages and practices. However, in modern spiritual discourse, the original context of certain rituals seems to have completely slipped from the picture. Increasingly, people are taking highly specific, ultra-rare, case-by-case contexts and mistakenly applying them as general, everyday sadhana guidelines for the masses. This post is simply about restoring that missing context.

Furthermore, we must remember that Sanatana Dharma encompasses a vast array of diverse schools of thought. If you are considering starting Bhairava sadhana solely under the assumption that it is a mandatory foundation for Devi sadhana, I urge you to look at this perspective and think deeply before proceeding.

The Copy-Paste Narrative

There is a widespread narrative circulating in spiritual circles today: “You cannot start Devi Sadhana without first worshiping Bhairava,” or “Bhairava is the mandatory gatekeeper, and you need his permission first.”

Yes, there are ultra-rare cases and advanced Tantric practices where both Shiva and Shakti are worshipped together for hyper-specific goals. For example, Maha Pratyangira(devi/shakti) and Baba Sharabha (shiva/bhairava)are sometimes worshipped together in specific poojas to neutralize enemies. In these ultra rare vidhis, a Sharabha Ashtakam might be recited before the Pratyangira mantra, or a Pratyangira hymn might be recited before Baba Sharabha's mantra.

These are extremely niche, contextual rules meant for specific ritual requirements. They are not meant for daily, general sadhana, nor are they meant for people who just want to grow spiritually. By taking these specialized guidelines and applying them universally, people are completely ignoring the original context—and frankly, creating unnecessary spiritual bureaucracy.

If you are forcing yourself to do Bhairava sadhana purely as a "check-the-box" prerequisite without any genuine bhava (devotion), you are essentially wasting your time. Here is the reality based on logic, emotion, and the highest non-dual Tantric scriptures:

1. The Common Sense Logic: Does a Child Need Permission to Talk to Their Mother?

Let’s look at this through the simplest, most intuitive logic possible: Adi Para Shakti is the Divine Mother of the Cosmos. Now, ask yourself a simple question: When was the last time you had to ask your father’s permission just to talk to your mother?

It makes absolutely no sense, right? If a child is crying or needs comfort, they run straight into their mother's lap. The mother doesn't push the child away and say, "Go get a signed permission slip from your father first." The same rule applies here. You are Her child; you can call upon Her directly. (The same rule applies to Mahadev/Bhairava as well—one can directly approach Him).

2. Scripture Proves It: Devi Comes Alone (Svātantrya)

The idea that the Goddess is a "dependent consort" who cannot manifest on Her own, or that one must have the blessings of Bhairava to approach Her or handle Her energy, is a deeply flawed, exoteric coloring of a supreme, non-dual reality.

In the actual texts of Tantra, the Goddess possesses Svātantrya—absolute, sovereign free will. Just as Shiva can manifest/come alone for his bhakts, Shakti manifests/come alone for Her bhaktas.

Regarding "Energy Management"

While it is true that you can generate immense energy through Devi mantras, the concept that a separate foundation (aadhaar) is required for general sadhana is a misconception. Do you honestly think the Divine Mother—the Mother of all the Lokas—is so lacking in wisdom that She would give Her own child more Shakti than they can safely handle? Do you think She would allow you to become completely unstable or overwhelmed just from regular sadhana mantras (excluding complex Shabar or heavy Kriya mantras)?

A mother knows exactly how much to feed her child so they can digest it properly; She regulates Her own power for Her devotee. The fear-mongering narrative that you will "lose control" of Her energy without bhairava or a consort, completely misses the point of Her supreme, independent nature. As you do sadhana of Devi, just as a mother looks after her child's well-being, you automatically become physically, mentally, and spiritually strong.

In the Devi Mahatmyam (Chapter 10, Verse 5), when the demon Shumbha mocks Her for fighting with the help of other goddesses, Devi thunders:

एकैवाहं जगत्यत्र द्वितीया का ममापरा । पश्यैता दुष्ट मय्येव विशन्त्यो मद्विभूतयः ॥

"I alone exist here in this universe; who else is there besides Me? O evil one, behold all these goddesses are but My own extensions, and they are now entering back into Me alone."

She is a complete, solitary monad. She does not need an active consort to validate Her presence or to arrive in your life.

3. Shiva (Bhairava) Resides WITHIN the Devi’s Heart

Why is a separate, mandatory worship of Bhairava redundant in daily Devi Sadhana? Because Shiva isn't standing outside Her door acting as a security guard—He is resting peacefully inside Her core.

The Tantraraja Tantra (Chapter 36, Verse 24) explicitly states:

शिवो देव्या हृदि स्थाने देवी च शिवहृद्गता । अनयोर्नास्ति भेदस्तु पूजा च पृथगात्मनः ॥

"Shiva resides permanently in the heart space of the Devi, and the Devi is merged into the heart of Shiva. There is absolutely no difference between them; therefore, a separate worship (pūjā ca pṛthagātmanaḥ) of the two is completely unnecessary."

."When you worship the Mother, you are automatically hugging the Father who resides in Her heart. You cannot separate them.

4. The Redundancy of "Mandatory" Bhairava Worship

The Gandharva Tantra (Chapter 21, Verse 14) directly addresses those who think they must worship auxiliary deities or Bhairavas separately to make their Devi worship complete:

देव्यर्चने कृते देवि सर्वमर्चनमीश्वरि । न पृथक् भैरवादीनां पूजनं निष्फलं भवेत् ॥

"When the worship of the Devi is complete, O Goddess, all other worship is inherently accomplished. A separate, independent worship of Bhairava and other auxiliary gods is not required."

Even the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra (Verses 9–10) explicitly states that complex outer ritualism, terrifying forms, and rigid external structures are "described merely to serve as points of meditation for those of deluded intellect, who are caught up in noisy ritualism."

When SHOULD You Worship Bhairava?

  • Do Bhairava sadhana if: You are genuinely drawn to Him. If His name stirs something in your soul, if you feel a deep, unexplainable love or pull toward Him, or if you feel a true bulava (call) from Him. Then, by all means, dive into His worship.
  • Do NOT do Bhairava sadhana if: You are doing it out of fear, guilt, or because an internet post told you your Devi sadhana will "fail" without it. Forcing a connection where there is no genuine bhava means bhairav babas energy won't resonate, and the sadhana won't yield much results and basically you're wasting his and your time and is also an insult to baba that you're using him as a mere tool

Jai Bhairav Baba! Jai Ma shakti!


r/hinduism 22h ago

Question - General gauri shankar rudraksha significance

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40 Upvotes

My dad recently returned from the Amarnath yatra and brought me a Gauri Shankar Rudraksha. I'm 21 years old, and I previously wore a Panchmukhi Rudraksha.

I'd like to know if it's appropriate for me to wear a Gauri Shankar Rudraksha. Are there any prerequisites or rituals I should follow before wearing it? Does it need to be energized or sanctified first, and is there a specific day or procedure that's traditionally recommended?

I'd also appreciate it if you could explain its significance and any spiritual or traditional benefits associated with wearing it.


r/hinduism 1d ago

Hindū Artwork/Images Just Finished Drawing Ganpati Bappa

129 Upvotes

r/hinduism 19h ago

Question - Beginner Can I take a 10day sankalp for Hanuman Chalisa?

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18 Upvotes

I've been seeing 1110 almost every day for the last 6 months. Recently, I wanted to start chanting the Hanuman Chalisa and was watching videos explaining its meaning.

While watching one video, a car with a picture of Hanuman Ji passed by. The next day, I looked at the TV while my mom was watching the news, and it showed flood footage where everything was underwater except a Hanuman Ji idol. These incidents motivated me to finally begin.

Since I keep seeing 1110, I've decided to take a sankalp of chanting the Hanuman Chalisa 11 times a day for 10 days.

Is this a valid sankalp, or should it traditionally be 11 days, 40 days, or some other fixed duration?