A Letter from Prof Dr Vythilingam on Hinduism and Deepavali

 

Below in blue is a letter I received from Professor Dr Vythilingam s/o Palaniandy Pillai who is a friend of mine in private medical practice.

He also shared with me separately in another letter about Dewali (Deepavali) below in pink 

My dear Prof JB Lim, 

Your blog appeared on Deepavali Day 31st October on the significance of this Festival. Sorry for the delayed response. I am no authority on the subject. As you mentioned this is celebrated symbolising triumph of Light over Darkness, Good over Evil and Knowledge over Ignorance. As I noticed over my younger years, the values are fading to more of a holiday and enjoyment. 

But before I post on Deepavali, let me mention about Hinduism first. 

Again, I am no authority but quoting the views and beliefs of some Scholars and Sages and Philosophers. To me, Hinduism is a way of life. Live the way you want as long as it is within your conscience and not offending others. Hinduism does not believe in conversions and respect all beings. 

Hinduism as expressed……

Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest religions, is a rich tapestry of philosophical, theological, and spiritual traditions. It emphasizes a path of righteousness (Dharma) and self-realization (Moksha), integrating diverse beliefs, practices, and schools of thought. Here’s a perspective on Hinduism’s essence with references to insights from Hindu scholars and traditional texts.

1. Dharma - Swami Vivekananda, a 19th-century Hindu monk, emphasized that Hinduism is a way of life rooted in the principle of Dharma, which is often understood as righteousness or moral duty. He stated, “The eternal law of the Hindus… was that all beings are the same and should be treated with respect.” Dharma guides personal and societal conduct, balancing the cosmic order.

2. Unity in Diversity - The renowned Hindu philosopher and commentator Adi Shankaracharya (8th century CE) advocated for Advaita Vedanta, which sees all of reality as an expression of a single, formless consciousness (Brahman). This belief underlines the Hindu view that, despite diversity in practices and deities, there is unity in the ultimate truth, stating, “Brahman is real, the world is an illusion.”

3. Pursuit of the Four Aims - Hinduism identifies four Purusharthas (aims of life): Dharma (duty), Artha (prosperity), Kama (pleasure), and Moksha (liberation). Hindu sages, including those in the Manusmriti and Mahabharata, have highlighted that a balanced life seeks fulfillment in all four dimensions.

4. Bhakti (Devotion) and Karma (Action) - Hinduism values the paths of Bhakti (devotion), Karma (selfless action), and Jnana (knowledge) as ways to attain spiritual growth. The Bhagavad Gita, a key Hindu scripture, contains Lord Krishna’s guidance on these paths, encouraging the pursuit of any or all of them based on one’s temperament.

 5. Inclusivity of Beliefs - As Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, a philosopher and former President of India, noted, “Hinduism is more a culture than a creed.” Hinduism has been shaped by countless sages, each contributing unique teachings that coexist without rigid dogmas, welcoming diverse practices, and allowing for personal exploration.

6. Respect for Nature and All Life Forms - Many Hindu texts, such as the Rig Veda, celebrate nature as sacred. Hindu thought encourages Ahimsa (non-violence) and reverence for all living beings, reflecting the interconnectedness of all creation.

7.  Sanatana Dharma (Eternal Truth or Duty): Many Hindus refer to their tradition as Sanatana Dharma, which means “eternal law” or “eternal duty.” This implies that Hinduism is not bound to a specific time or place; rather, it is seen as a timeless path based on universal truths and the moral laws governing existence. It emphasizes the pursuit of dharma (ethical duty), artha (prosperity), kama (desires), and moksha (liberation).

Hinduism, thus, is less about adherence to a strict doctrine and more about an ongoing quest for truth, embracing diversity while aspiring to discover the universal self. Hindu scholars and scriptures affirm that the ultimate goal of life is to realize one’s unity with the Divine.

References:

1.      Radhakrishnan, Sarvepalli. The Hindu View of Life. Oxford University Press.

2.      The Upanishads. Translated by Eknath Easwaran.

Deepavali (Diwali):

Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated by millions around the world, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning, rooted in various traditions, myths, and religious stories.

Here are some key aspects of Deepavali’s significance:

1. Spiritual Light and Inner Awakening: The core message of Deepavali is the victory of light over darkness. Symbolically, it represents the inner light, or Atman (soul), dispelling ignorance, spiritual awakening, and the removal of negativity. Many Hindus take this time to reflect on self-improvement, kindness, and purity of thought, as well as to honour their connection to the divine.

2. Return of Lord Rama: According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, Deepavali commemorates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and victory over the demon king Ravana. People lit oil lamps (diyas) throughout Ayodhya to celebrate their homecoming, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness.

3. Goddess Lakshmi and Prosperity: In many regions, Deepavali is closely associated with Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. People clean and decorate their homes, believing that a clean, welcoming environment invites Lakshmi’s blessings. It’s also a time for financial renewals and the beginning of a new fiscal year in some Indian states.

4. Different Cultural Interpretations: Each part of India has its own legends and customs associated with Deepavali. In Bengal, it is celebrated as Kali Puja, honouring the goddess, Kali. In South India, it commemorates the defeat of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. These diverse practices represent the unity in diversity that Deepavali brings.

5. Unity and Social Harmony: Deepavali is also a time for families and communities to come together, offering sweets, sharing in prayers, and exchanging gifts. The lighting of lamps in homes and public spaces fosters a sense of community, symbolizing collective happiness, hope, and resilience.

In summary, Deepavali is more than just a festival of lights. It embodies the spiritual ideals of enlightenment, goodness, prosperity, and unity, carrying universal messages that resonate across different cultures and faiths.

References:

1.      “Significance of Diwali – Light Over Darkness.” Hinduism Today.

2.      “The Story of Ramayana and the Origin of Diwali.” The Times of India.

3.      “Diwali Celebrations and Lakshmi Puja.” Encyclopaedia Britannica.

4.      “Regional Differences in Diwali Celebrations.” Cultural India.