In a recent publication on comparative religious study, Dr. Rajiv Malhotra in his book- Being Different: An Indian Challenge to Western Universalism, has brought forward a most comprehensive and objective approach to the ever changing interaction between religion and humankind. In the coming months, a number of think points will be brought to the fore for us; for the modern man to ponder and brainstorm, as we seek intellectual development informed only through proper understanding of philosophy, history, science and religion.
Sanaatan Dharma has always been one that emphasises the divine experience that comes from within. It is not limited to any one historic event or events. It is not realised by or associated with any prophet, adept, philosophy, race, geographical location or institution. In History-centric religions, not Sanaatan Dharma, the human is always subordinate to GOD. Dr. Malhotra says,
“…while unusual individuals or prophets can attain direct contact with the divine, it is always initiated by the divine form from without and not through a person’s own spiritual practice or discipline…Since the prophets are the only channel for knowing God’s will, human beings would live in the darkness if they do not study the history of the prophets.”
By contrast, he continues…
“…the Gita argues that only knowledge free from dualism can enable one to see the undivided spiritual nature in all living entities. Knowledge which apprehends all beings as a multiplicity, without underlying unity, is of a lower order. For example, knowledge of Buddha’s life story, or those of the enlightened sages are not necessary for Buddhist principles to work.”
We are continually impressed upon to understand Sanaatan Dharma at a deeper intellectual level through various studies. It creates a sound, stable and unflinching devotee who can instead realise his/her spirituality with greater grit and determination through knowledge in this modern day and age.
Pt. Vasistha Persad
