Saturday, October 12, 2024

Missionary Efforts of Hinduism to Spread Dharma

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Senior journalist and editor R. Jagannathan has recently written a book titled, ‘Dharmic Nation: Freeing Bharat, Remaking India’. In his book he highlights some important points which needs modern adaptation in Hindu Dharmic circle. While, Christians are mostly attributed with missionary approach of spreading their religion, Hinduism is known to be subtle and fluid. On the contrary, Hinduism’s missionary path was more holistic and all-expansive. It was not based on the ways to undermine other cultures, rather maintained the essence of Dharma in accordance to the nature.

Was Hinduism a Missionary religion?

The Hindu religion, a rich and ancient faith with a long and storied history, has lost its way in terms of spreading its message and teachings to others, says R. Jagannathan. He believes that Hinduism must become “missionary” once again in order to keep its legacy alive and pass on its valuable teachings to future generations.

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He explains that Hinduism has always been a missionary religion, spreading its teachings and philosophy through peaceful means and interactions with other cultures. The religion has had a major influence on Indian society and culture, shaping the way people think, act, and live their lives. However, over time, Hinduism has become more inward-looking and focused on internal practices and rituals, leading to a lack of effort to reach out and share its message with others.

(p.c. – goodreads)

This is a major problem, according to the author, as Hinduism has much to offer the world, including its teachings on non-violence, unity, and the interconnectedness of all things. These teachings, he says, are just as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago and could have a major positive impact on the world if more people were exposed to them.

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To address this problem, Hinduism must become more proactive in spreading its message and teachings.

This could include organizing events and seminars to introduce Hinduism to non-Hindus, creating educational materials and resources to help people learn about the religion, and establishing temples and community centers in areas with large non-Hindu populations.

Additionally, it is important for Hindu communities to engage with other faith communities, promoting religious tolerance and understanding.

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This method can be seen the way Srila Prabhupad had organised ISCKON all over the world.

(p.c.- isckonbangalore.com)

Dharma is the New world order

In addition to spreading its message, the Hindu community must also work to preserve its traditions and teachings. This means being more proactive in passing on Hindu teachings and traditions to future generations, as well as ensuring that the religion remains relevant and adaptable to changing times and circumstances. For example, Hinduism can embrace new technologies such as the internet and social media to reach out to younger generations and help them connect with their heritage.

(p.c.- blogspot.com)

The Hindu community can help ensure that the religion remains a source of inspiration and guidance for generations to come.

In ancient time we could see the way Adi Shankaracharya had united Bharat and spread the Dharma. Jagadguru ensured the ways of Buddhism which were detrimental to the stability of Bharatiya civilization must be changed. Therefore he brought back whole of Bengal to Sanatan fold and established Shakt-Shaiva- Vaishnav unity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, R Jagannathan calls to action highlights the importance of keeping Hinduism relevant and spreading its valuable teachings to future generations. By becoming more proactive in spreading its message and teachings, Hinduism can continue to have a positive impact on the world and serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for all. It is now up to the Hindu community to take up this challenge and help ensure the future of their rich and ancient religion. By preserving its traditions and working to share its teachings with others, the Hindu community can help ensure that this magnificent religion continues to thrive for many years to come.

 


 

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