Guest guest Posted February 26, 2009 Report Share Posted February 26, 2009 Dear Mr. Ganesh Ram, I recently wrote to my American friend who is working on an University Project in Hindu Philosophy, where this 'reincornation' came to find place. I am sending its copy, which may help you to understand better on "MunJanma" theory available with us. "..............It's me, Ty, again. I've thought of some questions to ask you about Hinduism and reincarnation. Thanks for helping me on my research paper. 1. Define reincarnation from a Hindu point of view. In India the concept of reincarnation is first recorded in the Upanishads[1] (c. 800 BCE), which are philosophical and religious texts composed in Sanskrit. 2. What principles form the basis of reincarnation? According to Hinduism, the soul (atman) is immortal, while the body is subject to birth and death. The Bhagavad Gita states that: Worn-out garments are shed by the body; Worn-out bodies are shed by the dweller within the body. New bodies are donned by the dweller, like garments. The idea that the soul (of any living being - including animals, humans and plants) reincarnates is intricately linked to karma, another concept first introduced in the Upanishads. Karma (literally: action) is the sum of one's actions, and the force that determines one's next reincarnation. The cycle of death and rebirth, governed by karma, is referred to as samsara. 3. Does reincarnation ever stop or reach a final destination? After many births, every person eventually becomes dissatisfied with the limited happiness that worldly pleasures can bring. At this point, a person begins to seek higher forms of happiness, which can be attained only through spiritual experience. When, after much spiritual practice (sadhana), a person finally realizes his or her own divine nature —ie, realizes that the true "self" is the immortal soul rather than the body or the ego—all desires for the pleasures of the world will vanish, since they will seem insipid compared to spiritual 'ananda'-sublimation. When all desire has vanished, the person will not be reborn anymore. When the cycle of rebirth thus comes to an end, a person is said to have attained 'moksha', or salvation. While all schools of thought agree that moksha implies the cessation of worldly desires and freedom from the cycle of birth and death, the exact definition of salvation depends on individual beliefs. For example, followers of the Advaita Vedanta school (often associated with jnana yoga) believe that they will spend eternity absorbed in the perfect peace and happiness that comes with the realization that all existence is One (Brahman), and that the immortal soul is part of that existence. The followers of full or partial Dvaita schools ("dualistic" schools, such as bhakti yoga), on the other hand, perform their worship with the goal of spending eternity in a loka, (spiritual world or heaven), in the blessed company of the Supreme being (i.e Krishna or Vishnu for the Vaishnavas and Shiva for the dualistic schools of Shaivism). 4. What forms can reincarnated beings take? Hinduism teaches that the soul goes on repeatedly being born and dying. One is reborn on account of desire: a person desires to be born because he or she wants to enjoy worldly pleasures, which can be enjoyed only through a body. Hinduism does not teach that all worldly pleasures are sinful, but it teaches that they can never bring deep, lasting happiness or peace (ananda). According to the Hindu sage Adi Shankaracharya - the world as we ordinarily understand it - is like a dream: fleeting and illusory. To be trapped in Samsara is a result of ignorance of the true nature of our existence. The forms of reincarnated beings are not described. 5. Christians have the Bible. Do Hindus have a sacred book? Vedas Upanishads Puranas Epics Mahabharata Ramayana Bhagavad Gita Vedanta Vedanta (VedÄnta) is a spiritual tradition explained in the Upanishads that is concerned with the self-realisation by which one understands the ultimate nature of reality (Brahman) and teaches the believer's goal is to transcend the limitations of self-identity and realize one's unity with Brahman. Vedanta is not restricted or confined to one book and there is no sole source for Vedantic philosophy. Vedanta is based on two simple propositions: 1. Human nature is divine. 2. The aim of human life is to realize that human nature is divine. The goal of Vedanta is a state of self-realisation or cosmic consciousness. Historically and currently, it is assumed that this state can be experienced by anyone (given the proper training and discipline), but it cannot be adequately conveyed in language. 6. Does your behavior (both good and bad) affect your reincarnation and why? Hindu philosophy, which believes in life after death, holds the doctrine that if the karma of an individual is good enough, the next birth will be rewarding, and if not, the person may actually devolve and degenerate into a lower life form. In order to achieve good karma it is important to live life according to dharma or what is right. 7. From one reincarnation to the next do you have a memory of your past lives? No. Each 'Janana' (birth) is a new chapter - to continue where you left in the old one, to improve or deteriorate. 8. What is Karma and does it affect reincarnation? Swami Sivananda, of the Divine Life Society, Rishikesh classifies karma into three kinds on the basis of action and reaction: Prarabdha (so much of past actions as has given rise to the present birth), Sanchita (the balance of past actions that will give rise to future births - the storehouse of accumulated actions), Agami or Kriyamana (acts being done in the present life). As Lord Krishna said in the Bhagavad Gita: "To the man thinking about the objects (of the senses) arises attachment towards them; from attachment, arises longing; and from longing arises anger. From anger comes delusion; and from delusion loss of memory; from loss of memory, the ruin of discrimination; and on the ruin of discrimination, he perishes". 9. Do all Hindus, from all castes, follow the same path in reincarnation? Yes. But could continue the virtues once held in the privous life. 10. Is reincarnation the reason that animals are sacred in India, like the cow? Not exactly. For other reason as below: Verses of the Rigveda refer to the cow as Devi (goddess), identified with Aditi (mother of the gods) herself. The five products (pancagavya) of the cow — milk, curds, ghee butter, urine and dung — are all used in puja (worship) as well as in rites of extreme penance. The milk of the family cow nourishes children as they grow up, and cow dung (gobar) is a major source of energy for households throughout India. Cow dung is sometimes among the materials used for a tilak - a ritual mark on the forehead. 11. If you've been a human, can you ever be one again? Yes. It is possible12. Are genders ever switched and why? Not listed in Vedas for switch in genders in rebirths. Some people say that Hindu women are prohibited to read Vedas and recite Gayatri mantra. There is no such gender prohibition in Vedas. 13. Can you ever be the same thing twice? No records to enlarge this issue. 14. Are there special ceremonies when a person dies that help them in their reincarnated life? Like the ancient Egyptians prepared the bodies for the afterlife. No such preservation is practiced. The Holy Vedas, as these are the undisputed Supreme Scriptures of all Hindus, superseding anything and everything to the contrary. Hindus believe that humans are born again and again according to their karma, until they finally gain respite - moksha. By living a life of value without sin, it is possible to come closer to moksha, and perhaps be reborn in a higher form in the next life. To drink or bathe in water from the holy river Ganges contributes to rinsing oneself from sin. 15. Is spirit or soul a part of reincarnation? Yes.16. Does being a vegetarian have a role in reincarnation? No.I hope I've thought of everything to ask. From what I've learned so far reincarnation seems to be a controversial subject depending on your religion. Some religions accept it and some think it's taboo. Human faculty always ponder over their religious belief and division in opinion is part of it! “When there is man you have woman too !!†- ‘difference’ - Dvaitha (Two divisions)- is part of life. A.V.Pathi, USA ganesh ram <cgram25 Sent: Thursday, February 26, 2009 8:18:35 AM how to believee I am Ram I have a doubt for a very long time in the "Munn Janmam" whether "Munn Janmam" was a topic belongs to true or not how to believe the Munn Janmam and how to understand i have seen the astrology which is written in the Palm leaves (OLAI SUVADI) but i cant able to believe it please give a clear cut solution about the topic MUNN JANMAM i am awaiting the reply with an example Sreenadh <sreesog >ancient_indian_ astrologyThursday, February 26, 2009 6:03:48 PM[ancient_indian_ astrology] Re: how about a writeup? Dear Neelam ji, The statement that - " (Nirayana) Astrology is a vedanga" it self must be of later origin, since we don't find much Nirayana astrology in Vedas but only Sayana astrology. Of course it would be true to say that Sayana (Tropical) astrology is a Vedanga; but that statement may not be true about Nirayana astrology. I believe that Nirayana astrology is of Non-Vedic/Tantric/ Agama origin. ==>> But where is the origin of Indian Astrological Philosophy? <== It could be stated that - it is in Tantra. But even that statement would only be partially true, since astrology in itself was a religion and a philosophical system. The statement I would prefer better is - "The origin of astrological philosophy is in astrology itself!". Astrology was more than a predictive system, it was in itself a complete philosophy, it was in itself almost a religion - even though the whole system is in tune with Agama (Tantric/Non- vedic) tradition, and astrology in itself was called "Agama Sastra" (A tantric branch of knowledge).==>> How can we delink astrology from ancient thoughts and philosophy?<== It is not about any delinking, it is just aboout understanding where we stand (as the followers of Nirayana astrology) and it all originated.Love and Regards,Sreenadhancient_indian_ astrology, neelam gupta <neelamgupta07@ ...> wrote:>> Dear Sreenadh ji,> > If you disagree with the statement as such, it is a different matter. But> where is the origin of Indian Astrological Philosophy? I thought astrology> was one of the Vedangas and one studied it after being well versed in Vedas> and such subjects as Theory of Karma. How can we delink astrology from> ancient thoughts and philosophy?> > Regards> Neelam> > > 2009/2/26 Sreenadh sreesog > > Dear Neealm ji,> > ==>> >> > *> astrology demonstrates the Theory of Karma*> > <==> > I disagree with this statement and think that Karma theory was not> > originally part of indian astrological philosophy. Any way, that is another> > issue. > > Love and regards,> > Sreenadh> >> > ancient_indian_ astrology, neelam gupta> > neelamgupta07@ wrote:> > >> > > Dear Shankar ji,> > >> > > You are most welcome to compile the write up and I am sure members will> > be> > > happy provide their input.> > > Gaurav ji has already sent his 'penny'.> > >> > > Here's my 'paisa', if I may,> > >> > > Astrology is the only study which can make us understand the past and> > reveal> > > the future, thereby enabling us to make the best use of our present. This> > > judgement can help us in various ways as given by Gaurav ji and we can> > find> > > innumerable uses of it in our day-to-day life.> > >> > > But more importantly, * astrology demonstrates the Theory of Karma and> > allows> > > us to understand the cycle of life with ACCEPTANCE, and urges us to> > improve> > > our karmas and become better human beings. To whatever is inevitable, it> > > lends a cooperative hand. Whatever is to be, it does not madly struggle> > > against. Whatever is not to be, it does not absolutely demand.> > > *> > > Please feel free to take it or leave it.> > >> > > Regards> > > Neelam> > >> > >> > >> > > 2009/2/26 ShankaraBharadwaj Khandavalli shankarabharadwaj@> > >> > > > Dear Neelam ji,> > > >> > > > My intention in changing the title of the thread was to deal with it> > > > separately, not really as a fallout of that thread. Let me for now> > think of> > > > the sincere cases only > > > >> > > > Shankar> > > >> > > >> > > > ------------ --------- ---------> > > > ** neelam gupta neelamgupta07@> > > > *To:* ancient_indian_ astrology> > > > *Sent:* Thursday, February 26, 2009 2:47:58 PM> > > > *Subject:* Re: [ancient_indian_ astrology] how about a writeup?> > > >> > > > Dear Shankar Bharadwaj ji,> > > >> > > > While it a good idea to compile such a write up as you suggest and it> > may> > > > help some people who are sincere in their approach. They might> > sincerely try> > > > and to understand the space they are venturing in. But if a person only> > > > enters with the purpose of creating nuisance and disturbance will not> > bother> > > > to read anything. This member has just written a very nasty mail to me> > now> > > > after my message to Gaurav ji. We may not waste our valuable time on> > such> > > > people who do not appear to be sincere in their queries. For all we> > know,> > > > their purpose might only be to make fun of astrologers and abuse them.> > > >> > > > Regards> > > > Neelam> > > >> > > >> > > >> > >> > > >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 26, 2009 Report Share Posted February 26, 2009 Dear Shri Pathi ji, This is one of the best pieces, and to the point written article , I have read after a long time, which refreshes, what we must always be reading, again and again. Thanks. regards/Bhaskar. , venkatachala pathi <pathiav wrote:>> Dear Mr. Ganesh Ram,> >  I recently wrote to my American friend who is working on an University Project in Hindu Philosophy, where this 'reincornation' came to find place.  I am sending its copy, which may help you to understand better on "MunJanma" theory available with us.> > "..............It's me, Ty, again. I've thought of some questions to ask you about Hinduism and reincarnation. Thanks for helping me on my research paper. > > 1. Define reincarnation from a Hindu point of view. In India the concept of reincarnation is first recorded in the Upanishads[1] (c. 800 BCE), which are philosophical and religious texts composed in Sanskrit.> > 2. What principles form the basis of reincarnation? According to > Worn-out garments are shed by the body; Worn-out bodies are shed by the dweller within the body. New bodies are donned by the dweller, like garments.> The idea that the soul (of any living being - including animals, humans and plants) reincarnates is intricately linked to karma, another concept first introduced in the > After many births, every person eventually becomes dissatisfied with the limited happiness that worldly pleasures can bring. At this point, a person begins to seek higher forms of happiness, which can be attained only through spiritual experience. When, after much spiritual practice (Hinduism, the soul (atman) is immortal, while the body is subject to birth and death. The Bhagavad Gita states that:Upanishads. Karma (literally: action) is the sum of one's actions, and the force that determines one's next reincarnation. The cycle of death and rebirth, governed by karma, is referred to assamsara.sadhana), a person finally realizes his or her own divine nature â€"ie, realizes that the true "self" is the immortal soul rather than the body or the egoâ€"all desires for the pleasures of the world will vanish, since they will seem insipid compared to spiritual 'ananda'-sublimation. When all desire has vanished, the person will not be reborn anymore. When the> cycle of rebirth thus comes to an end, a person is said to have attained 'moksha', or salvation. While all schools of thought agree that moksha implies the cessation of worldly desires and freedom from the cycle of birth and death, the exact definition of salvation depends on individual beliefs. For example, followers of the Advaita Vedantaschool (often associated with jnana yoga) believe that they will spend eternity absorbed in the perfect peace and happiness that comes with the realization that all existence is One (Brahman), and that the immortal soul is part of that existence. The followers of full or partial Dvaita schools ("dualistic" schools, such as bhakti yoga), on the other hand, perform their worship with the goal of spending eternity in a loka, (spiritual world or heaven), in the blessed company of the Supreme being (i.e Krishna or Vishnu for the Vaishnavasand Shiva for the dualistic schools of Shaivism).Adi Shankaracharya- the world as we> ordinarily understand it - is like a dream: fleeting and illusory. To be trapped in Samsara is a result of ignorance of the true nature of our existence. The forms of reincarnated beings are not described.VedasUpanishadsPuranasEpicsMahabharataRamayanaBhagavad GitaVedantaUpanishadsthat is concerned with the self-realisationby which one understands the ultimate nature of reality (Brahman) and teaches the believer's goal is to transcend the limitations of self-identity and realize one's unity with Brahman. Vedanta is not restricted or confined to one book and there is no sole source for Vedantic philosophy. Vedanta is based on two simple propositions:cosmic consciousness. Historically and currently, it is assumed that this state can be experienced by anyone (given the proper training and discipline), but it cannot be adequately conveyed in language.dharmaor what is right.Bhagavad Gita: "To the man thinking about the objects (of the senses) arises> attachment towards them; from attachment, arises longing; and from longing arises anger. From anger comes delusion; and from delusion loss of memory; from loss of memory, the ruin of discrimination; and on the ruin of discrimination, he perishes". puja(worship) as well as in rites of extreme penance. The milk of the family cow nourishes children as they grow up, and cow dung (gobar) is a major source of energy for households throughout India. Cow dung is sometimes among the materials used for a tilak- a ritual mark on the forehead. >  > 11. If you've been a human, can you ever be one again? > Yes. It is possible> 12. Are genders ever switched and why? > Not listed in Vedas for switch in genders in rebirths. Some people say that Hindu women are prohibited to read Vedas and recite Gayatri mantra. There is no such gender prohibition in Vedas. > 13. Can you ever be the same thing twice? > No records to enlarge this issue.14. Are there special ceremonies when a person dies that help them in their reincarnated life? Like the ancient Egyptians prepared the bodies for the afterlife. > No such preservation is practiced. The Holy Vedas, as these are the undisputed Supreme Scriptures of all Hindus, superseding anything and everything to the contrary. Hindus believe that humans are born again and again according to their karma, until they finally gain respite - moksha. By living a life of value without sin, it is possible to come closer to moksha, and perhaps be reborn in a higher form in the next life. To drink or bathe in water from the holy river Ganges contributes to rinsing oneself from sin.> 15. Is spirit or soul a part of reincarnation? > Yes.> 16. Does being a vegetarian have a role in reincarnation? > No.> I hope I've thought of everything to ask. From what I've learned so far reincarnation seems to be a controversial subject depending on your religion. Some religions accept it and some think it's taboo. > > Human faculty always ponder over their religious belief and division in opinion is part of it! “When there is man you have woman too !!†- ‘difference’ - Dvaitha (Two divisions)- is part of life.>  > 9. Do all Hindus, from all castes, follow the same path in reincarnation? > Yes. But could continue the virtues once held in the privous life.10. Is reincarnation the reason that animals are sacred in India, like the cow?> Not exactly. For other reason as below: Verses of the Rigveda refer to the cow as Devi (goddess), identified with Aditi (mother of the gods) herself. The five products (pancagavya) of the cow â€" milk, curds, ghee butter, urine and dung â€" are all used in > 7. From one reincarnation to the next do you have a memory of your past lives?>  No. Each 'Janana' (birth) is a new chapter - to continue where you left in the old one, to improve or deteriorate.> 8. What is Karma and does it affect reincarnation? Swami Sivananda, of the Divine Life Society, Rishikesh classifies karma into three kinds on the basis of action and reaction: Prarabdha (so much of past actions as has given rise to the present birth), Sanchita (the balance of past actions that will give rise to future births - the storehouse of accumulated actions), Agami or Kriyamana (acts being done in the present life). As Lord Krishna said in the > 6. Does your behavior (both good and bad) affect your reincarnation and why? Hindu philosophy, which believes in life after death, holds the doctrine that if the karma of an individual is good enough, the next birth will be rewarding, and if not, the person may actually devolve and degenerate into a lower life form. In order to achieve good karma it is important to live life according to > Vedanta> 1. Human nature is divine.> 2. The aim of human life is to realize that human nature is divine.> The goal of Vedanta is a state of self-realisation or (VedÄnta) is a spiritual tradition explained in the > > 5. Christians have the Bible. Do Hindus have a sacred book? > 4. What forms can reincarnated beings take? Hinduism teaches that the soul goes on repeatedly being born and dying. One is reborn on account of desire: a person desires to be born because he or she wants to enjoy worldly pleasures, which can be enjoyed only through a body. Hinduism does not teach that all worldly pleasures are sinful, but it teaches that they can never bring deep, lasting happiness or peace (ananda). According to the Hindu sage 3. Does reincarnation ever stop or reach a final destination? > A.V.Pathi,  USA>  >  > > > > > ________________________________> ganesh ram cgram25 > Thursday, February 26, 2009 8:18:35 AM> how to believee> > > >  > I am Ram> I have a doubt for a very long time in the "Munn Janmam"> whether "Munn Janmam" was a topic > belongs to true or not> how to believe the Munn Janmam> and how to understand> i have seen the astrology which is written in the Palm leaves (OLAI SUVADI)> but i cant able to believe it> please give a clear cut solution about the topic> MUNN JANMAM> > i am awaiting the reply with an example> > > > > > > > ________________________________> Sreenadh sreesog >> ancient_indian_ astrology> Thursday, February 26, 2009 6:03:48 PM> [ancient_indian_ astrology] Re: how about a writeup?> > > Dear Neelam ji, >   The statement that - " (Nirayana) Astrology is a vedanga" it self must be of later origin, since we don't find much Nirayana astrology in Vedas but only Sayana astrology. Of course it would be true to say that Sayana (Tropical) astrology is a Vedanga; but that statement may not be true about Nirayana astrology. I believe that Nirayana astrology is of Non-Vedic/Tantric/ Agama origin. > ==>> > But where is the origin of Indian Astrological Philosophy? > <==>  It could be stated that - it is in Tantra. But even that statement would only be partially true, since astrology in itself was a religion and a philosophical system. The statement I would prefer better is - "The origin of astrological philosophy is in astrology itself!". Astrology was more than a predictive system, it was in itself a complete philosophy, it was in itself almost a religion - even though the whole system is in tune with Agama (Tantric/Non- vedic) tradition, and astrology in itself was called "Agama Sastra" (A tantric branch of knowledge).> ==>> > How can we delink astrology from ancient thoughts and philosophy?> <==>   It is not about any delinking, it is just aboout understanding where we stand (as the followers of Nirayana astrology) and it all originated.> Love and Regards,> Sreenadh> > ancient_indian_ astrology, neelam gupta <neelamgupta07@ ...> wrote:> >> > Dear Sreenadh ji,> > > > If you disagree with the statement as such, it is a different matter. But> > where is the origin of Indian Astrological Philosophy? I thought astrology> > was one of the Vedangas and one studied it after being well versed in Vedas> > and such subjects as Theory of Karma. How can we delink astrology from> > ancient thoughts and philosophy?> > > > Regards> > Neelam> > > > > > 2009/2/26 Sreenadh sreesog@> > > > > Dear Neealm ji,> > > ==>> > >> > > *> astrology demonstrates the Theory of Karma*> > > <==> > > I disagree with this statement and think that Karma theory was not> > > originally part of indian astrological philosophy. Any way, that is another> > > issue. > > > Love and regards,> > > Sreenadh> > >> > > ancient_indian_ astrology, neelam gupta> > > neelamgupta07@ wrote:> > > >> > > > Dear Shankar ji,> > > >> > > > You are most welcome to compile the write up and I am sure members will> > > be> > > > happy provide their input.> > > > Gaurav ji has already sent his 'penny'.> > > >> > > > Here's my 'paisa', if I may,> > > >> > > > Astrology is the only study which can make us understand the past and> > > reveal> > > > the future, thereby enabling us to make the best use of our present. This> > > > judgement can help us in various ways as given by Gaurav ji and we can> > > find> > > > innumerable uses of it in our day-to-day life.> > > >> > > > But more importantly, * astrology demonstrates the Theory of Karma and> > > allows> > > > us to understand the cycle of life with ACCEPTANCE, and urges us to> > > improve> > > > our karmas and become better human beings. To whatever is inevitable, it> > > > lends a cooperative hand. Whatever is to be, it does not madly struggle> > > > against. Whatever is not to be, it does not absolutely demand.> > > > *> > > > Please feel free to take it or leave it.> > > >> > > > Regards> > > > Neelam> > > >> > > >> > > >> > > > 2009/2/26 ShankaraBharadwaj Khandavalli shankarabharadwaj@> > > >> > > > > Dear Neelam ji,> > > > >> > > > > My intention in changing the title of the thread was to deal with it> > > > > separately, not really as a fallout of that thread. Let me for now> > > think of> > > > > the sincere cases only > > > > >> > > > > Shankar> > > > >> > > > >> > > > > ------------ --------- ---------> > > > > ** neelam gupta neelamgupta07@> > > > > *To:* ancient_indian_ astrology> > > > > *Sent:* Thursday, February 26, 2009 2:47:58 PM> > > > > *Subject:* Re: [ancient_indian_ astrology] how about a writeup?> > > > >> > > > > Dear Shankar Bharadwaj ji,> > > > >> > > > > While it a good idea to compile such a write up as you suggest and it> > > may> > > > > help some people who are sincere in their approach. They might> > > sincerely try> > > > > and to understand the space they are venturing in. But if a person only> > > > > enters with the purpose of creating nuisance and disturbance will not> > > bother> > > > > to read anything. This member has just written a very nasty mail to me> > > now> > > > > after my message to Gaurav ji. We may not waste our valuable time on> > > such> > > > > people who do not appear to be sincere in their queries. For all we> > > know,> > > > > their purpose might only be to make fun of astrologers and abuse them.> > > > >> > > > > Regards> > > > > Neelam> > > > >> > > > >> > > > >> > > >> > > > > >> >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 26, 2009 Report Share Posted February 26, 2009 I thnak you very much Bhaskar ji. I cherish your valuable appreciation. Regards A.V.Pathi, Bhaskar <bhaskar_jyotish Sent: Thursday, February 26, 2009 1:13:02 PM Re: how to believee Dear Shri Pathi ji, This is one of the best pieces, and to the point written article , I have read after a long time, which refreshes, what we must always be reading, again and again. Thanks. regards/Bhaskar. ancient_indian_ astrology, venkatachala pathi <pathiav wrote:>> Dear Mr. Ganesh Ram,> >  I recently wrote to my American friend who is working on an University Project in Hindu Philosophy, where this 'reincornation' came to find place.  I am sending its copy, which may help you to understand better on "MunJanma" theory available with us.> > "........... ...It's me, Ty, again. I've thought of some questions to ask you about Hinduism and reincarnation. Thanks for helping me on my research paper. > > 1. Define reincarnation from a Hindu point of view. In India the concept of reincarnation is first recorded in the Upanishads[1] (c. 800 BCE), which are philosophical and religious texts composed in Sanskrit.> > 2. What principles form the basis of reincarnation? According to > Worn-out garments are shed by the body; Worn-out bodies are shed by the dweller within the body. New bodies are donned by the dweller, like garments.> The idea that the soul (of any living being - including animals, humans and plants) reincarnates is intricately linked to karma, another concept first introduced in the > After many births, every person eventually becomes dissatisfied with the limited happiness that worldly pleasures can bring. At this point, a person begins to seek higher forms of happiness, which can be attained only through spiritual experience. When, after much spiritual practice (Hinduism, the soul (atman) is immortal, while the body is subject to birth and death. The Bhagavad Gita states that:Upanishads. Karma (literally: action) is the sum of one's actions, and the force that determines one's next reincarnation. The cycle of death and rebirth, governed by karma, is referred to assamsara.sadhana) , a person finally realizes his or her own divine nature â€"ie, realizes that the true "self" is the immortal soul rather than the body or the egoâ€"all desires for the pleasures of the world will vanish, since they will seem insipid compared to spiritual 'ananda'-sublimatio n. When all desire has vanished, the person will not be reborn anymore. When the> cycle of rebirth thus comes to an end, a person is said to have attained 'moksha', or salvation. While all schools of thought agree that moksha implies the cessation of worldly desires and freedom from the cycle of birth and death, the exact definition of salvation depends on individual beliefs. For example, followers of the Advaita Vedantaschool (often associated with jnana yoga) believe that they will spend eternity absorbed in the perfect peace and happiness that comes with the realization that all existence is One (Brahman), and that the immortal soul is part of that existence. The followers of full or partial Dvaita schools ("dualistic" schools, such as bhakti yoga), on the other hand, perform their worship with the goal of spending eternity in a loka, (spiritual world or heaven), in the blessed company of the Supreme being (i.e Krishna or Vishnu for the Vaishnavasand Shiva for the dualistic schools of Shaivism).Adi Shankaracharya- the world as we> ordinarily understand it - is like a dream: fleeting and illusory. To be trapped in Samsara is a result of ignorance of the true nature of our existence. The forms of reincarnated beings are not described.VedasUpan ishadsPuranasEpi csMahabharataRam ayanaBhagavad GitaVedantaUpanisha dsthat is concerned with the self-realisationby which one understands the ultimate nature of reality (Brahman) and teaches the believer's goal is to transcend the limitations of self-identity and realize one's unity with Brahman. Vedanta is not restricted or confined to one book and there is no sole source for Vedantic philosophy. Vedanta is based on two simple propositions: cosmic consciousness. Historically and currently, it is assumed that this state can be experienced by anyone (given the proper training and discipline), but it cannot be adequately conveyed in language.dharmaor what is right.Bhagavad Gita: "To the man thinking about the objects (of the senses) arises> attachment towards them; from attachment, arises longing; and from longing arises anger. From anger comes delusion; and from delusion loss of memory; from loss of memory, the ruin of discrimination; and on the ruin of discrimination, he perishes". puja(worship) as well as in rites of extreme penance. The milk of the family cow nourishes children as they grow up, and cow dung (gobar) is a major source of energy for households throughout India. Cow dung is sometimes among the materials used for a tilak- a ritual mark on the forehead. >  > 11. If you've been a human, can you ever be one again? > Yes. It is possible> 12. Are genders ever switched and why? > Not listed in Vedas for switch in genders in rebirths. Some people say that Hindu women are prohibited to read Vedas and recite Gayatri mantra. There is no such gender prohibition in Vedas. > 13. Can you ever be the same thing twice? > No records to enlarge this issue.14. Are there special ceremonies when a person dies that help them in their reincarnated life? Like the ancient Egyptians prepared the bodies for the afterlife. > No such preservation is practiced. The Holy Vedas, as these are the undisputed Supreme Scriptures of all Hindus, superseding anything and everything to the contrary. Hindus believe that humans are born again and again according to their karma, until they finally gain respite - moksha. By living a life of value without sin, it is possible to come closer to moksha, and perhaps be reborn in a higher form in the next life. To drink or bathe in water from the holy river Ganges contributes to rinsing oneself from sin.> 15. Is spirit or soul a part of reincarnation? > Yes.> 16. Does being a vegetarian have a role in reincarnation? > No.> I hope I've thought of everything to ask. From what I've learned so far reincarnation seems to be a controversial subject depending on your religion. Some religions accept it and some think it's taboo. > > Human faculty always ponder over their religious belief and division in opinion is part of it! “When there is man you have woman too !!â€� - ‘difference’ - Dvaitha (Two divisions)- is part of life.>  > 9. Do all Hindus, from all castes, follow the same path in reincarnation? > Yes. But could continue the virtues once held in the privous life.10. Is reincarnation the reason that animals are sacred in India, like the cow?> Not exactly. For other reason as below: Verses of the Rigveda refer to the cow as Devi (goddess), identified with Aditi (mother of the gods) herself. The five products (pancagavya) of the cow â€" milk, curds, ghee butter, urine and dung â€" are all used in > 7. From one reincarnation to the next do you have a memory of your past lives?>  No. Each 'Janana' (birth) is a new chapter - to continue where you left in the old one, to improve or deteriorate.> 8. What is Karma and does it affect reincarnation? Swami Sivananda, of the Divine Life Society, Rishikesh classifies karma into three kinds on the basis of action and reaction: Prarabdha (so much of past actions as has given rise to the present birth), Sanchita (the balance of past actions that will give rise to future births - the storehouse of accumulated actions), Agami or Kriyamana (acts being done in the present life). As Lord Krishna said in the > 6. Does your behavior (both good and bad) affect your reincarnation and why? Hindu philosophy, which believes in life after death, holds the doctrine that if the karma of an individual is good enough, the next birth will be rewarding, and if not, the person may actually devolve and degenerate into a lower life form. In order to achieve good karma it is important to live life according to > Vedanta> 1. Human nature is divine.> 2. The aim of human life is to realize that human nature is divine.> The goal of Vedanta is a state of self-realisation or (VedÄ�nta) is a spiritual tradition explained in the > > 5. Christians have the Bible. Do Hindus have a sacred book? > 4. What forms can reincarnated beings take? Hinduism teaches that the soul goes on repeatedly being born and dying. One is reborn on account of desire: a person desires to be born because he or she wants to enjoy worldly pleasures, which can be enjoyed only through a body. Hinduism does not teach that all worldly pleasures are sinful, but it teaches that they can never bring deep, lasting happiness or peace (ananda). According to the Hindu sage 3. Does reincarnation ever stop or reach a final destination? > A.V.Pathi,  USA>  >  > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ __> ganesh ram cgram25 ancient_indian_ astrology> Thursday, February 26, 2009 8:18:35 AM> [ancient_indian_ astrology] how to believee> > > >  > I am Ram> I have a doubt for a very long time in the "Munn Janmam"> whether "Munn Janmam" was a topic > belongs to true or not> how to believe the Munn Janmam> and how to understand> i have seen the astrology which is written in the Palm leaves (OLAI SUVADI)> but i cant able to believe it> please give a clear cut solution about the topic> MUNN JANMAM> > i am awaiting the reply with an example> > > > > > > > ____________ _________ _________ __> Sreenadh sreesog >> ancient_indian_ astrology> Thursday, February 26, 2009 6:03:48 PM> [ancient_indian_ astrology] Re: how about a writeup?> > > Dear Neelam ji, >   The statement that - " (Nirayana) Astrology is a vedanga" it self must be of later origin, since we don't find much Nirayana astrology in Vedas but only Sayana astrology. Of course it would be true to say that Sayana (Tropical) astrology is a Vedanga; but that statement may not be true about Nirayana astrology. I believe that Nirayana astrology is of Non-Vedic/Tantric/ Agama origin. > ==>> > But where is the origin of Indian Astrological Philosophy? > <==>  It could be stated that - it is in Tantra. But even that statement would only be partially true, since astrology in itself was a religion and a philosophical system. The statement I would prefer better is - "The origin of astrological philosophy is in astrology itself!". Astrology was more than a predictive system, it was in itself a complete philosophy, it was in itself almost a religion - even though the whole system is in tune with Agama (Tantric/Non- vedic) tradition, and astrology in itself was called "Agama Sastra" (A tantric branch of knowledge).> ==>> > How can we delink astrology from ancient thoughts and philosophy?> <==>   It is not about any delinking, it is just aboout understanding where we stand (as the followers of Nirayana astrology) and it all originated.> Love and Regards,> Sreenadh> > ancient_indian_ astrology, neelam gupta <neelamgupta07@ ...> wrote:> >> > Dear Sreenadh ji,> > > > If you disagree with the statement as such, it is a different matter. But> > where is the origin of Indian Astrological Philosophy? I thought astrology> > was one of the Vedangas and one studied it after being well versed in Vedas> > and such subjects as Theory of Karma. How can we delink astrology from> > ancient thoughts and philosophy?> > > > Regards> > Neelam> > > > > > 2009/2/26 Sreenadh sreesog@> > > > > Dear Neealm ji,> > > ==>> > >> > > *> astrology demonstrates the Theory of Karma*> > > <==> > > I disagree with this statement and think that Karma theory was not> > > originally part of indian astrological philosophy. Any way, that is another> > > issue. > > > Love and regards,> > > Sreenadh> > >> > > ancient_indian_ astrology, neelam gupta> > > neelamgupta07@ wrote:> > > >> > > > Dear Shankar ji,> > > >> > > > You are most welcome to compile the write up and I am sure members will> > > be> > > > happy provide their input.> > > > Gaurav ji has already sent his 'penny'.> > > >> > > > Here's my 'paisa', if I may,> > > >> > > > Astrology is the only study which can make us understand the past and> > > reveal> > > > the future, thereby enabling us to make the best use of our present. This> > > > judgement can help us in various ways as given by Gaurav ji and we can> > > find> > > > innumerable uses of it in our day-to-day life.> > > >> > > > But more importantly, * astrology demonstrates the Theory of Karma and> > > allows> > > > us to understand the cycle of life with ACCEPTANCE, and urges us to> > > improve> > > > our karmas and become better human beings. To whatever is inevitable, it> > > > lends a cooperative hand. Whatever is to be, it does not madly struggle> > > > against. Whatever is not to be, it does not absolutely demand.> > > > *> > > > Please feel free to take it or leave it.> > > >> > > > Regards> > > > Neelam> > > >> > > >> > > >> > > > 2009/2/26 ShankaraBharadwaj Khandavalli shankarabharadwaj@> > > >> > > > > Dear Neelam ji,> > > > >> > > > > My intention in changing the title of the thread was to deal with it> > > > > separately, not really as a fallout of that thread. Let me for now> > > think of> > > > > the sincere cases only > > > > >> > > > > Shankar> > > > >> > > > >> > > > > ------------ --------- ---------> > > > > ** neelam gupta neelamgupta07@> > > > > *To:* ancient_indian_ astrology> > > > > *Sent:* Thursday, February 26, 2009 2:47:58 PM> > > > > *Subject:* Re: [ancient_indian_ astrology] how about a writeup?> > > > >> > > > > Dear Shankar Bharadwaj ji,> > > > >> > > > > While it a good idea to compile such a write up as you suggest and it> > > may> > > > > help some people who are sincere in their approach. They might> > > sincerely try> > > > > and to understand the space they are venturing in. But if a person only> > > > > enters with the purpose of creating nuisance and disturbance will not> > > bother> > > > > to read anything. This member has just written a very nasty mail to me> > > now> > > > > after my message to Gaurav ji. We may not waste our valuable time on> > > such> > > > > people who do not appear to be sincere in their queries. For all we> > > know,> > > > > their purpose might only be to make fun of astrologers and abuse them.> > > > >> > > > > Regards> > > > > Neelam> > > > >> > > > >> > > > >> > > >> > > > > >> >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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