Guru Stotram

Guru Stotram: An ancient homage to the Guru A true spiritual teacher is likened to God and is revered by his loyal students. The word guru means remover of the darkness of ignorance (gu - darkness, ignorance, fear ru - remover, dissolver). In these verses, homage is offered to the true teacher who, like God, dissolves the ignorance from within us and fills us with the illumination of wisdom. Homage is also paid to God, the Guru of all Gurus. The four most used mantras of the Guru Stotram are presented here. The central message of the Guru Stotram is that…
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The “debts” of Human Life

The concept of ऋण: ṛiṇ – the debts of Human Life Dr Yog B Mahadeo The concept of ऋण: ṛiṇ is a fundamental conscious duty for everyone. The fulfillment of human birth comes within the consequence of cosmic order (cosmic logic, also called Rita). In the unfolding of cosmic logic, one of the natural consequences of life is the utilization of universal materials. For example, the light of the sun, the matter of space, and so on.  The ancient philosophy of Hinduism teaches that the utilization of cosmic/universal materials to meet our life’s requirements incurs a debt towards these cosmic materials. Thus,…
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Chitta Content

स्तुता मया वरदा वेदमाता प्रचोदयान्तां पावमानी द्विजानाम्।आयुः प्राणं प्रजां पशुं कीर्तिं द्रविणं ब्रह्मवर्चसं मह्यं दत्त्वा व्रजत ब्रह्मलोकम्।। अथर्ववेद १९.७१.१ Stutaa mayaa varadaa vedamaataapracho-dayantaampaavamaanee dvijaanaam.Aayuh praaṇam prajaampashum keertimdraviṇam brahmavarchasam.mahyam dattvaavrajata brahmalokam. Atharva Veda 19.71.1 I pay homage to Vedamaata (the pure wisdom of the Vedas) and humbly request such cleansing and purifying blessings so that I become reawakened into the wisdom of the Vedas. O Lord, bless me with a long and healthy life. And may my life be blessed with noble children, material advancement, good fame and reputation, and wealth. May my life be so highly honored to receive your blessed light. Let your Glory, your light, shine upon me so that  I can attain your heavenly liberation. Chitta Index Gems from the VedasFirst & Last mantras from the 4 Vedas Shantih mantras from the UpanishadsGems from the UpanishadsIshopanishad Gems of…
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Contemplations – popular collection

A collection of inspirational quotes from various sources. ContentA rogue's promise is nothingSunlight reflects, like God's blissA snake vs an evil personTalkativeness vs SilenceA snake vs wicked personThe ideal wifeA noble heart is gentleThe trees shelter everyoneBe good to allThis too shall passBe silent when others speak loudlyThoughts, words and actionBracelets & rings beautify, not purifyTitle cannot define a personCharcoal cannot give up its darknessTitle is useless if unhelpfulConquer the inner self firstTruth is mother, knowledge is fatherContentmentVirtuous vs viciousCow or snake?Who is a good friend?Diamonds are rare, stones are everywhereWicked persons come like saintsDon't give to those who do…
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Motivational corner

You are holding a cup of coffee when someone comes along and bumps into you or shakes your arm, making you spill your coffee everywhere. Why did you spill the coffee? “Because someone bumped into me!!!” Wrong answer. You spilled the coffee because there was coffee in your cup. Had there been tea in the cup, you would have spilled tea. Whatever is inside the cup is what will spill out. Therefore, when life comes along and shakes you (which WILL happen), whatever is inside you will come out. It’s easy to fake it until you get rattled. So we…
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Contemplations – Kabir

KABIR DAS Kabir was a 15th-century poet whose work focused on devotion, mysticism, and discipline. He openly questioned some of the popular practices of Hindus and Muslims in India. His work was so philosophical and inspirational that followers from both religions claim Kabis as their own. Kabir's work was largely in Hindi. He was persecuted for his outspoken criticism of the various practices under the name of religion. Kabir Das's approach was one of outspoken but fervent love and devotion to God without the distraction of rituals. His writings are usually dually interpreted, that is, literally and figuratively. Here are…
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Contemplations – Chanakya

चाणक्य नीति न कश्चित् कस्यचिन्मित्रं न कश्चित् कस्यचिद्रिपुः ।व्यवहारेण जायन्ते मित्राणि रिपवस्तथा ॥ Na kashchit kasyachinmitram na kashchit kasyachidripuhVyavahaarena jaayante mitraani ripavastathaa No one is a friend per se and no one is an enemy per se; friends and enemies are created out of personal dealings and behaviour. सर्प क्रूरः खल क्रूरः सर्पात् क्रूरतर खलः।मन्त्रौषधिवशः सर्पः खलः केन निवार्यते ॥ Sarpah kroorah khalah kroorah sarpaat krooratarah khalahMantraushadhivashah sarpah khalah kena nivaaryate The sepent is cruel, the evil person is cruel; the evil person is more cruel than the serpent. The serpent can be controlled by mantra and medicines. By what…
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Contemplations – Bhartri Hari

Bhartri Hari Bhartri Hari was a philosopher of the 5th century. His Trikaandi was a text on grammar and language that outlined the sciences of word/sentence constructs and set out theories and paradoxes like the Bhartrihari's paradox, for example, if something insignificant is mentioned, does mentioning it make it significant. His Shatakatraya consisted of hundreds of Sanskrit poetry that are deeply philosophical and gave rise to numerous translations and debates. He wrote on life, love, worship, religion, humanity and numerous topics. His Neetishatak and vairagya shatakam are widely quoted. Index of Topics A biased person cannot see logicLabeta sikataasu tailamapi लभेत…
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Contemplations – Kabir

KABIR DAS Kabir was a 15th-century poet whose work focused on devotion, mysticism, and discipline. He openly questioned some of the popular practices of Hindus and Muslims in India. His work was so philosophical and inspirational that followers from both religions claim Kabis as their own. Kabir's work was largely in Hindi. He was persecuted for his outspoken criticism of the various practices under the name of religion. Kabir Das's approach was one of outspoken but fervent love and devotion to God without the distraction of rituals. His writings are usually dually interpreted, that is, literally and figuratively. Here are…
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Gems of Hindu thoughts

Miscellaneous collection [glossary_exclude]This is a collection of verses, philosophy, and thoughts from various sources of Sanatan Dharma. Confessional - I can't help doing wrongJaanaami dharmam na  - Pandava GitaMaya, the illusionSanna-api-asanna-apy - Vivekachudamani (Shankaracharya)Veda is the best giftSarveṣhaam-eva daanaanam - ManusmritiBad food (we are what we eat)Deepo bhakshayate - Vriddha ChanakyaMost surprising about humansAhanyahani bhootaani - MahabharataDharma protects those who protect itDharma eva hato hanti - Manusmriti [/glossary_exclude] I cannot help doing wrong - Confessional Sometimes, we feel we cannot help ourselves commit to our habits, temptations, and the "nice" vices of life. There are things we all love to do, even…
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Shruti (incomplete)

In this collection, labelled as Shruti, numerous gems of hindu wisdom is documented. The arishadvarja (shadrippu) the six enemies:Lust or desire for sensual pleasure – काम – KamaAnger – क्रोध – KrodhaGreed – लोभ – LobhaAttachment – मोह – MohaSense of I – मद – MadaPartiality – मात्सर्य – Matsarya The Pancha tanmatraGyanindriyas and karmaindriyasMahabhootasAsuddha tattvaThe Gunas (rajas, satva, tamas)The darshanasthe UpanishadsThe ashtakamsThe shruti and smritiThe stages of lifethe sanskaarasthe chakrasGuyan
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Pratah Smaranam

This collection of verses originates from the Vamana Puraana (Chapter 14). They are often referred to as the navagraha mantras.These verses allows us to focus on the Almighty God and his wonderful creation within which we live. These verses, recognize the nature of creation, the link between nature, God and the self and the sacrifices of the Sages who brought us the Vedas and means of contemplation and meditation. Click here for an audio version of these verses. ब्रह्मा मुरारिस्त्रिपुरान्तकारीभानुः शशी भूमिसुतो बुधश्च ।गुरुश्च शुक्रः शनिराहुकेतवःकुर्वन्तु सर्वे मम सुप्रभातम् ॥१॥ Brahmaa muraaris-tripuraanta-kaareeBhaanuh shashee bhoomi-suto budhash-cha.Gurush-cha shukrah shani-raahu-ketavahKurvantu sarve mama suprabhaatam…
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Holi songs – English

A collection of Chautaals, Ullaraa/Dhamari, Belwara, Lej, Jogira and Phagwah/Holi songs. Send in your chautaal or other songs for inclusion to mahadeofoundation@gmail.com ChautaalDevi shaarad sumiri manaavo, hridaya se jaaniDhani dhani siyaa teree bhaagee raam var paayeeDhanu bhang suno brigunaath parashu lai dhaayeeGokulaa beech janama kanhaayee, suran sukhdaayeeGouree poojat janak dulaaree, baiṭhee phulavaareeKaanhaa deta musukiyan gaaree dhare moree saareeMuni maangat raajaa raam, laṣhan mohi deejeRaghunandan avadh bihaaree, keshar rang maareeSakhi ye do-u bhoop kishor samaaj me aayeeShiva shankar deen dayaal mahaa vardaani BelwaaraaBrij karat bihaar DhamaariBinu laakh karo chauraaiBraj me hari horee machaaeeDekhan chale phulavaareeNadee bahe jaladhaaraaShyaam kare larikaayeeSiyaa ḍaale raam…
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Holi Songs – Hindi

चौतालकान्हा देत मुसुकियन गारी धरे मेरी सारी गोकुला बिच जनमे कन्हाई सुरन सुखदाई गौरी पूजत जनक दुलारी बैठी फुलवारी देवी शारद सुमिरि मनावो ह्रदय से जानी धनि धनि सिया तेरी भागी राम वर पायो धनु भंग सुनो भृगुनाथ परशु लाई धायो मुनि माँगत राजा राम लषन मोहिं दीजे रघुनन्दन अवधबिहारी केशर रंग मारी शिव शंकर दीनदयाल महा वरदानी सखी ये दोउ भूपकिसोर समाजमें आई बेलवाराबृज करत बिहार शाम राधिका दोनों जेन धमारिआवे न कोई काम राम बिनु लाख करो चतुराईदेखन चले फुलवारीनदी बहै जलधाराव्रज में हरि होरी मचाईश्याम करैं लरिकाईसिया डाले राम गले जयमालासूजन जान राम राम कहु भाई कबीराअरे…
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Gems from the Bhagavad Gita

[glossary_exclude]A special selection of verses from the Bhagavad Gita. TOPICVerse (click for link to verse)Anger brings delusionKrodhaad-bhavatiAt the time of deathAnta-kaale cha maam-evaYam yam vaapi smaranBe the best you can be (You are your own friend)Uddhared-aatmanaatmaanamCharacteristics of Noble PersonsAbhayam sattva-sanshuddhirAhimsaa satyam-akrodhasTejah kshamaa dhritihDo everything as an offering to Me(and I accept whatever is offered to me)Patram puṣhpam phalamYat-karoṣhi yad ash-naasiFree willIti te gyaanamHe envelopes allSarvatah paaṇi-paadamHow to get close to GodYo na hriṣh-yati na dveṣhtiI am in the heart of allAham-aatmaa guḍakeshaProphesyYadaa yadaa hi dharmasyaParitraaṇaaya saadhoonaaṁRepentenceSarva-dharman-parit-yajyaApi chet-su-duraachaaroRebirth and reincarnationVaasaansi jeerṇaani yathaa vihaayaSee Me in everything, everywhereYo maam pashyati sarvatraSelfless serviceKarmanye vaadhikaarasteWherever God…
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Sangatan Sukta

Prayers for universal peace This संगठन सूक्त (Sangathan sukta) is the final four verses of the Rig Veda. This sukta extols the virtues of unity, harmony, and collective action. It emphasizes the importance of people coming together with one mind, one purpose, and one voice to achieve common goals and live in peace and prosperity. It is often cited for its powerful message of solidarity and cooperation within a community or society. The first verse in this sukta is a recognition of God's unique powers and the other three verses are Vedic Injunctions, instructions from God to Humans. Below are…
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Brahma Stotra

Brahma Stotra - In praise of the Divine नमस्ते सते ते जगत्कारणायनमस्ते चिते सर्वलोकाश्रयाया।नमोऽद्वैततत्त्वाय मुक्ति प्रदायनमोब्रह्मणे व्यापिने शाश्वताय॥ Namaste sate te jagat-kaara-ṇaayanamaste chite sarva-lokaa-shrayaaya.Namo-advaita-tatvaa-ya mukti pradaaya namo-brahamaṇe vyaapine shaash-vataaya. English Meaning & Word meaning We bow in reverence to You, O Supreme Conscious Cause of the World, Salutations to you the highest Intellect and the one in whom the world takes refuge. Salutations to you O unique giver of liberation, You are the Supreme all-pervading eternal Creator. O Primal Truth, the Cause of all we see,O Purest Mind, our Refuge eternally,To You, the conscious source from which worlds rise,I bow in…
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1000 names of Shiva

शिव सहस्रनाम स्तोत्रम्Shiva Sahasranaama Stotram These are the thousand names of Shiva as per the Shiva Puraana (Kotirudra samhita 4.35,1-133). Contemplation of God's name brings bliss and peace. The format for reciting these names is to say Om (Prabhave) namah (that is, add Om before and namah after)  1ॐ स्थिराय नमःOm Sthi-raaya namahEverlasting One2स्थाणवेSthaaṇaveAxis of the world3प्रभवेPrabhaveLord of all4भीमायBheemaayaSource of strength5प्रवरायPravaraayaSpecial One6वरदायVaradaayaGiver of Boons7वरायVaraayaDispeller8सर्वात्मनेSarvaatmaneSoul of Souls9सर्वविख्यातायSarva-vikhyaa-taayaKnown to all10सर्वस्मैSarvasmai All pervading (in everything)11सर्वकरायSarva-karaayaDoer of everything12भवायBhavaayaSource of Everything13जटिनेJaṭineWith tangled hair14चर्मिणेCharmiṇeDresses in hides (nature)15शिखण्डिनेShi-khaṇḍineWhose hair flows beautiful like Peacock's feather16सर्वाङ्गायSarvaaṅ-gaayaThe world as His organs17सर्वभावनायSarva-bhaava-naaya Creator-preserver18हरायHaraayaDissolver at time of chaos19हरिणाक्षायHari-ṇaak-shaayaAll seeing20सर्वभूतहरायSarva-bhoota-haraayaDissolves everything21प्रभवेPrabhaveEnjoyer of everything22प्रवृत्तये Pravrit-tayeThe form of all work23निवृत्तयेNivrit-tayeForm of all…
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Other Mantra Sources

Upanishads भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवा Bhadram karṇebhih Mundaka  भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवा Bhadram karṇebhih Maandukya भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवा Bhadram karṇebhih Prashna वेदाहमेतं पुरुषं महान्तम् Vedaahametam purusham Taittreeya वेदाहमेतं पुरुषं महान्तम् Vedaahametam purusham Shvetashvatara सत्यमेव जयते Satyameva Jayate Mundaka  यश्छन्दसामृषभो विश्वरूपः Yash-chanda-saam-riṣhabho Taittreeya पूर्णमदः पूर्णमिदम् Poorṇamadah poorṇamidam Isha पूर्णमदः पूर्णमिदम् Poorṇamadah poorṇamidam Paingala पूर्णमदः पूर्णमिदम् Poorṇamadah poorṇamidam Brihadaaranyaka सहनाववतु सहनौ भुनक्तु Sahanaa-vavatu Katha सहनाववतु सहनौ भुनक्तु Sahanaa-vavatu Shvetashvatara सहनाववतु सहनौ भुनक्तु Sahanaa-vavatu Mundaka सहनाववतु सहनौ भुनक्तु Sahanaa-vavatu Naaraayana भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवा Bhadram karṇebhih Mundaka भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवा Bhadram karṇebhih Maandukya भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवा Bhadram karṇebhih Prashna शं नो मित्रः शं वरुणः Shanno mitrah sham varunah Taittireeya वाङ् मे मनसि प्रतिष्ठिता Vaaṅg me…
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Veda Mantras Index

Rig Veda: त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे Tryambakam yajaamahe Rig Veda तु॒ञ्जेतुञ्जे य उत्तरे Tuńje-tuńje ya uttare Rig Veda उत देवा अवहितं Uta devaa avahitam Rig Veda महे चन त्वामद्रिव: Mahe chana tvaam-adrivah Rig Veda इन्द्रं मित्रं वरुणमग्निमाहुरथो Indram mitram varuṇam-agnim Rig Veda शन्नो देवीरभिष्टय Shanno deveer-abhiṣhṭaya Rig Veda यो हत्वाहिमरिणात्सप्त Yo hatva-ahim-ariṅaat-sapta Rig Veda गणानां त्वा गणपतिं हवामहे Gaṇaanaam tvaa gaṇapatim Rig Veda भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवा Bhadram karṇebhih   अग्निं मन्ये पितरमग्निमापिमग्निं Agnim manye pitaram   भद्रं कर्णेभिः शृणुयाम देवा Bhadram karṇebhih   अग्निमीळे पुरोहितं Agnim-eeḍe purohitam   समानी वा आकूतिः Samaanee va aakootih                                      …
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Guru Asktakam

Adi Shankaracharya - see https://isha.sadhguru.org/us/en/blog/article/guru-ashtakam-lyrics-meaning or seehttps://www.siddhayoga.org/2019/gurupurnima/celebration/gurorashtakam#:~:text=Please%20do%20not%20copy%2C%20record,known%20philosophers%20and%20poet%2Dsaints. शरीरं सुरूपं तथा वा कलत्रं यशश्र्चारु चित्रं धनं मेरुतुल्यंगुरोरङ्घ्रिपद्मे मनश्र्चेन लग्नं ततः किं ततः किं ततः किं ततः किं ||1 śarīram surūpam tathā vā kalatraḿyaśaścāru citram dhanam merutulyamgurorańghripadme ḿanaścenna lagnaḿtataḥ kiḿ tataḥ kiḿ tataḥ kiḿ tataḥ kiḿ Translation : One’s physique may be superb, one’s consort likewise, one’s reputation resplendent and renowned, and one’s riches as high as Mount Meru; yet if one’s mind be not centred upon the lotus feet of the Guru, what then, what then, what then? कलत्रं धनं पुत्रपौत्रादि सर्वं गृहं बान्धवाः सर्वमेतद्धि जातम्गुरोरङ्घ्रिपद्मे मनश्र्चेन लग्नं ततः किं ततः किं…
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All mantras in Chitta

[glossary_exclude] यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य Yadaa yadaa hi dharmasya Bhagavad Gita परित्राणाय साधूनां Paritraaṇaaya saadhoonaaṁ Bhagavad Gita अच्युतंकेशवंरामनारायणं Achyutam keshavam Adi Shankaracharya (Achyutashtakam) ओंकारं बिंदुसंयुक्तं Omkaaram bindu-samyuktam Adi Shankaracharya (Shiva Shadakshar Stotram) नमंति ऋषयो देवा  Namanti riṣhayo devaa महादेवं महात्मानं Mahaadevam mahaa-aatmaanam शिवं शांतं जगन्नाथं  Shivam shaantam jagannaatham सन्नाप्यसन्नाप्युभयात्मिका Sanna-aapi-asanna Adi Shankaracharya (Vivekachudamani) ब्रह्ममुरारिसुरार्चितलिङ्गं Brahma-muraari-suraarchita Adi Shankaracharya (Lingashaakam) देवमुनिप्रवरार्चितलिङ्गं Deva-muni-pravaraaarcita सर्वसुगन्धिसुलेपितलिङ्गं Sarva-sugandhi-sulepita-liǹgam कनकमहामणिभूषितलिङ्गं Kanaka-mahaamannibhooshita कुङ्गकुमचन्दनलेपितलिङ्गं Kuǹgkuma-chandana-lepita देवगणार्चितसेवितलिङ्गं Deva-ganna-aarchita-sevita-liǹgam अष्टदलोपरिवेष्टितलिङ्गं Aṣhṭa-dalo-pariveṣhiṭa-liǹgam सुरगुरुसुरवरपूजितलिङ्गं Suraguru-suravara-poojita-liǹgam मनोबुद्धयहंकार Mano buddhyahankara Adi Shankaracharya (Atmashatakam/Nirvaanshatakam) न च प्राणसंज्ञो न वै पंचवायुः Na cha praaṇa saṅgyo न मे द्वेषरागौ न मे लोभमोहौ Na me dveṣha raagau न पुण्यं न पापं न सौख्यं  Na puṇyam na paapam न मे मृत्युशंका न मे जातिभेदः Na me mrityu shankaa अहं निर्विकल्पो निराकार रूपो Aham nirvikalpo niraakaara मूकं करोति वाचालं Mookam karoti vaacaalam Gita Dhyaanam त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे Tryambakam yajaamahe Veda (Rig, Yajur) तु॒ञ्जेतुञ्जे य उत्तरे Tuńje-tuńje ya uttare Veda (Rig)…
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Prophesy

The Bhagavad Gita has two verses that explicitly outline the return of Lord Krishna. Taken literally, this means for many people that God would take human form again and again as the need arise. In its philosophical context, God presence is re-energized and re-awakened when we are ready to renounce the negatives that could cause the 'return'. In other words, instead of awaiting the physical appearance or re-appearance of the Divine, one can have that internal realization that leads to the experience of Godliness. Here are the two verses from the Bhagavad Gita. यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत ।अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य…
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Lingashtakam

These eight verses of the lingashtakam is one of many astakams (eight-verse-poetry) composed by the Rishis. The authorship of the lingashtakam is usually ascribed to Adi Shankaracharya, but is also referenced to be even under the more ancient authorship of Sage Agastya, however, no direct reference has been found. The Linga in Hinduism represents both symbolic as well as philosophical thought. While it is the symbol of Lord Shiva, it also represents that pillar of light that is said to run throughout the cosmos, much like the milky way in deep space. A similar pillar of "light" runs through our internal world,…
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Earth – Bhoomi Suktam

The Atharva Veda 12.1 describes the relationship with Earth and the care and obligations we have towards Earth. Even the United Nations has set out "World Environment Day" as a conscious effort towards the earth and environment. The Vedas outline our relationship with nature and with the Earth. There are 63 Verses of the Atharva Veda that specify the creation of the Earth and its due maintenance by its inhabitants. Earth is not viewed scripturally as an inanimate or non-living thing, instead the Vedas specify the Earth as a living entity, that is, it is efficient, effective and self-sustaining -…
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Mahaavaakya

Mahaavaakyam (महावाक्यम् plural = महावाक्यानि) = great utterances. These are the great singular statements or sentences from the Upanishads that encompass the entire paradigm of belief, or God.  These mahaavaakyas are said to be the heart of Vedanta, the typical representation of Advaita philosophy (non-dual = there is only One). The Vedas and Upanishads are written in cryptic language that requires deep study and contemplation to unlock both the meaning and impact of the verses. These mahaavaakyas exemplify the depth of knowledge that can be contained in cryptic statements of the scriptures. Four principal mahaavaakyas, one from each of the Vedas, have…
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God as family – tvameva maataa

In every approach to worship, we revere God as, firstly, the highest, purest form of the Self. He is called Paramaatma, the soul of our soul. We all call God by various names, the most intimate of which are Father, Mother, Brother, friend and teacher. The popular tvameva maataa cha pitaa tvameva verse exemplifies the closeness with which we view the Almighty. These three verses from the Pandava Gita, Sharanagati and Bhaagvatam are very similar in expression. FROM THE PANDAVA GITA: This popular verse is can be found in the Pandava Gita (V28) as an appeal by Gandhari to Lord Krishna.…
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Pradakshina

Pradakshina is an ancient tradition for various reasons. Like the earth revolving around the sun, pradakshina is a religious act undertaken in various rituals. For example, in the wedding ceremony, the bride and groom take pradakshina around the Vedi, thereby cementing their vows in taking a 360-degree walk around the fire. When we use our rosary mala for prayers, we make a mental pradakshina around with the 108 beads. The Atma pradakshina is a special circumambulation (clockwise) around the atma or the “self ”. It is the turning of the self in a clockwise manner in a full 360-degree turn, centering…
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Yudhishthir’s answers

In the Mahabharata (Vana parva 313.116), the great Yudhishthira was asked, "What is the most surprising thing in the world?" His answer: अहन्यहनि भूतानि गच्छन्तीह यमालयम्।शेषाः स्थावरमिच्छन्ति किमाश्चर्यमतः परम्॥ Ahanyahani bhootaanigachchhantee yamaalayam.Sheṣhaah sthaavaram-ichchhantikim-aascharyamatah param. We see people die every day, but those remaining (alive) still wish to be immortal.  अहन्यहनि day and night, daily भूतानि all living beings गच्छन्तीह go यम death आलयम् abode शेषाः remaining स्थावरम् established इच्छ want, desire किमाश्चर्यम् what surprising, what astonishment अतः at the end परम् so be it The various questions that Yudhishthira faced Background: The Mahabharat gives a unique philosophical Q&A session that involved the…
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Gems of Sanatan Dharma

This section of Chitta contains many verses of realization, divinity, bliss, compassion and even confession. These verses are from a variety of sources including the Pandava Gita, the Mahabharata, the Shiva Taandava Storam, the Srimad Bhagavatam, the Tattireeya Aranyaka; This is a collection of verses from various sources within Hindu philosophy. [glossary_exclude] TOPICVerseSee God in EverythingDriṣhad-vichitra-tal-payor - Shiva Taandava StotramOne Amighty GodEk onkaar satnaam - Guru Granth SahibDedicate thoughts, words & actionsKaayena vaachaa - Srimad BhagvatamPlease remove darkness & enmityLakshmi karotu kalyaanamAyur Mantra - Be blessed, spread blissMakhaaya tvaa sheerṣhne Taittiriya AranyakaHe makes the dumb speakMookam karoti vaacaalam - Gita DhyaanamSalutations to the ever-present…
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Guru Stotram

Guru Stotram: An ancient homage to the Guru A true spiritual teacher is likened to God and is revered by his loyal students. The word guru means remover of the darkness of ignorance (gu - darkness, ignorance, fear ru - remover, dissolver). In these verses, homage is offered to the true teacher who, like God, dissolves the ignorance from within us and fills us with the illumination of wisdom. Homage is also paid to God, the Guru of all Gurus. The four most used mantras of the Guru Stotram are presented here. The central message of the Guru Stotram is that…
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Shantih Mantras from the Upanishads

The Upanishads generally start with an invocation, a verse that forms the deep contemplation preceding the details of the respective Upanishad. These verses are usually referred to as "Invocation" or "Shantih Mantras" The following verses are the Shantih Mantras taken from various Upanishads. [glossary_exclude] VerseSourcePoorṇamadah poorṇamidamBraahmanGrantha, Brihadaranyak Upanishad, Isha Upanishad, Paingala UpanishadSahanaa vavatu sahanau bhunaktuKath Upanishad, Mundaka Upanishad, Shvetashvatara Upanishad, Naaraayana UpanishadBhadram KarnebhihRig Veda 1.89.8, Yajur Veda 25.21, Taittireeya Aaranyaka, Mundaka Upanishad, Mandukya Upanishad, Prashna UpanishadShanno mitrah sham varunahTaittireeya Upanishad, Yajur VedaVaang me manasi pratishthitaaAitareya UpanishadApyaayantu mamaangaaniChhaandogya Upanishad, Kena Upanishad [/glossary_exclude]
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Gems from the Vedas

Compiled by Dr Yog Mahadeo This is a special selection of verses from the four Vedas. These verses are scientific as well as emotive and would have inspired many years of thought and contemplation. The verses included are: [glossary_exclude] Subject MatterMantraBless our country with noble and good citizensAa brahman brahmaṇo Yajur VedaGrant me luxury, fameAnnadyena yashasa Atharva VedaEver-living, ever-young LordArchantya-arkam Saama VedaProtect me, O LordAsau te senaa Saama VedaSpiritual filter for my sensesBhadram karnebhih shrinuyam Rig Veda, Yajur VedaHe brings Wealth & ProsperityBhago na chitro Saama VedaGenesisBrahma jagyaanam prathamam Saama VedaTruth is One though explained differentlyEkam sat vipra bahudhaa vadanti…
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First & Last Mantras of Vedas

This section captures the first and last mantra of each of the four Veda. There is uniqueness in the introductory verse and departure verse of each Veda. For example, the first mantra of the Rig Veda deals with the concept of the singular force of God and his powers of creation and preservation. The last verse of the Rig Veda outlines the necessity for unity amongst all so as to develop common Goals and Common Worship, that is for the entire society to focus on developing a singular and united goal in life. Rig Veda - page 2Yajur Veda - page 3Saama Veda - page 4Atharva Veda - page 5
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Gems from the Upanishads

A collection of inspiring verses from various Upanishads. [glossary_exclude] Aapyaayantu mamaangaani - Kena, ChhandogyaMay God never abandon meApaaṇi-paado javano - Shvetaashvatara Without any form he does everythingAsatoma sadgamaya - BrihadaaranyakFrom darkness to lightBhadram karnebhih - Mundaka, Prashna, etcSpiritual filter to my sensesDharmo vishvasya jagatah - MahanarayanDharma is our foundationKeneshitam papati - Kena Who is it that gave us everything?Na samdrishe tishthati - ShvetaashvataraFormless, invisible, omniscientPoornamadah poornamidam - Ishopanishad, BrihadaranyakaPerfect Creator, perfect creationRitam cha svaadhyaaya - TaittireeyaRules for blissSahanaa vavatu - Kathopanishad, Shvetashvatara etcProtect us O lordSarve kaamaa mano - ParamhansaWhen all desires ceaseSatyam Vada - Taittireeya Speak the truthSatyameva jayate - MundakaOnly truth prevailsShanno mitraah…
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Speech

The Scriptures all advise us to control our thoughts, words, and actions. Our interactions and cohabitation with the world are very much dependent on our words and manner of speech. The Manusmriti proclaims, for example, speak the truth and speak it sweetly, and thus, great focus is placed on control of the mind and control of speech. The great sages have advised the practice of mauna vrata, or a vow of silence. While silence is a must for aspirants, everyone should undertake a vow of silence whenever convenient. This allows for the reconciliation of mind (intent) and words. The two verses below are…
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Time

This is a collection of texts on the aspect of time. मा कुरु धनजनयौवनगर्वं हरति निमेषात्कालः सर्वम्।मायामयमिदमखिलं बुध्वा ब्रह्मपदं त्वं प्रविश विदित्वा॥  Maa kuru dhana-jana-yauvana-garvamharati nimeṣhaat-kaalah sarvam.maayaamayam-idam-akhilam budhvaabrahmapadam tvam pravisha viditvaa. Do not boast of wealth, friends, and youth. Each one of these is destroyed within a minute by time. Free yourself from the illusion of the world of illusion and attain the eternal Truth. मा note कुरु do, to do धन money, wealth जन people यौव youth, adolescence न not गर्वं arrogance, pride, haughtiness हरति loots/steals away निमेषात् in a moment; in a blink of the eye कालः time; (time…
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Characteristics of Noble People

Comparative notes on the characteristics of Noble Persons from the Bhagavad Gita and from the Bible Characteristics of Noble Persons - Bhagavad Gita अभयं सत्त्वसंशुद्धिर्ज्ञानयोगव्यवस्थिति:।दानं दमश्च यज्ञश्च स्वाध्यायस्तप आर्जवम् ॥ Abhayam sattva-sanshuddhir-gyaana-yoga-vyavas-thitihDaanam damash-cha yagyash-cha svaadhyaayas-tapa aarjavam. Bhagavad Gita 16.1 अहिंसा सत्यमक्रोधस्त्याग: शान्तिरपैशुनम्।दया भूतेष्वलोलुप्त्वं मार्दवं ह्रीरचापलम्॥श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता 16.2 Ahimsaa satyam-akrodhas-tyaagaḥ shaantir-apaishunam.Dayaa bhooteṣh-valo-luptvam maardavam hreer-achaapalam. Bhagavad Gita 16.1 तेज: क्षमा धृति: शौचमद्रोहोनातिमानिता।भवन्ति सम्पदं दैवीमभिजातस्य भारत ॥ Tejah kshamaa dhritih shaucham-adroho-naati-maanitaa.Bhavanti sampadam daiveem-abhi-jaatasya bhaarata. Bhagavad Gita 16.3 Fearlessness - abhayamPurity of mind - sattva samshruddhiKnowledge - gyaanaPhysical discipline - yogaSteadfastness (of character) - vyavasthitihCharity - daanamControl of the senses - damahSelfless sacrifice (doing for others) - yagyaStudy of the sacred books…
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Ten commandments

The ten commandments of Hinduism are given in Manusmriti 6.92. This verse, like others in the Manusmriti, is deeply philosophical. At face value, it presents ten commandments that we strive towards in life. At a deeper philosophical level, these commandments allow us to develop a deeper consciousness that leads us to God-realisation. For example, whereas dhritih is patience, it is innate patience and perseverance that allows consistent and constant meditation. Damah refers to self-control; it also relates to control of the mind, which is necessary for spiritual evolution. The approach toward absorbing this verse is to contemplate its impact on…
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Parents

माता शत्रुः पिता वैरी येन बालो न पाठितः । न शोभते सभामध्ये हंसमध्ये बको यथा ॥ (चाणक्यनीति २.११) Maataa shatru pitaa vairee yena baalo na paaṭhitah. Na shobhate sabhaamadhye hamsa-madhye bako yathaa. (Chaanakya Neeti 2.11) Mothers and fathers who do not ensure that their children are educated are enemies and opponents to their own children. Such parents are responsible for making their children appear out of place in a gathering of wise people, (like a crane among swans).
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Mealtime Prayer

In the Vedic tradition, grain (food grains), (Anna) is revered not merely as sustenance for the body but as a divine gift, a sacred energy that nourishes life at all levels – physical, mental, and spiritual. The act of preparing and consuming food is often seen as a form of yajna or sacred offering, a moment to connect with the natural forces and the divine principles that provide for us.  Before partaking in a meal, prayers are offered as an expression of gratitude, a recognition of the interconnectedness of life, and an invocation for the food to bring health, strength,…
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Manaavartan sootra

मनावर्तन सूत्र: Oh Mind, come to the center In the Yoga Vashishtha, Rama queries of Rishi Vashishtha: "What is mind?". The Rishi responded, "Space is the emptiness in which matter appears, and mind is the emptiness in which space appears." While the power of the mind is within our grasp, we are often controlled by the mind (instead of the other way around). Depression, sickness, anger, jealousy...the various negatives that affect us can be resolved by control of the mind and control of our relationship and attachment with the world and things of the world. The Vedas address the concept of the…
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Purity of mind

Control of our mind is of paramount importance to one who seeks peace and godliness. There are numerous verses of the Vedas and other shastras that identify with the powerful mind and how it should be in our control so as to keep away from any tendency to sin. In this section, we provide verses that identify with the mind, how to control the mind, and how to pray for the control of the Mind. These selected verses, from various scriptures, provide a glimpse into the importance of the mind in our journey to enlightenment and contentment. A mind that…
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The Yugas

The Yugas: The yugas are periods of time that are related in the various hindu scriptures. Summary of the various "ages" are as follows: FOUR Yugas:SatyaTretaDvaparaKali Satyuga - 1,728,000 years; - The golden era; the age of truth and light. One religion, one God. No rituals, no penance - everyone living in accordance with righteousness.- Lord Vishnu took 4 incarnations: Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasimha.Mahabharata describes this period as having equality in society (no gap between rich and poor), worldly and personal desires were not prevalent, willpower was foremost. There were no diseases, vanity, corruption, fear, vanity. Treta Yoga - 1,296,000…
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Bath/Snaan

Gange cha yamune chaiva गङ्गे च यमुने चैव गोदावरि सरस्वति।नर्मदे सिन्धु कावेरि जलेऽस्मिन् संनिधिं कुरु॥(आह्निकसूत्रावलि १०६) Gaǹge cha yamune chaivagodaavari sarasvati.Narmade sindhu kaaverijale-asmin sannidhim kuru.(Ahnik Sutraavali v 106) May the same spiritual and healing powers of the Ganges, Yamuna, Godavari, Sarasvati, Narmada, Sindhu and Kaveri rivers be within these waters and infuse similar holiness for my purification and health. Note: The 7 holy ancient rivers are mentioned in this verse. While rivers typically flow ceaseless and the water cycle refreshes and purify the waters, the ancient holy rivers have been historically known for their cleansing and holy attributes. These prayers…
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Repentance – Praayashchitta

Verses on Praayaschitta (Repentence) with introduction by Dr Shanie Mahadeo-Heads प्रायश्चित्त Praayashchitta means atonement, penance, repentance, expiation. The Hindu concept of repentance embraces the admission or confession by anyone who has partaken or been involved in wrong or sinful actions, committed against another. Such acts can arise from harsh and hurtful words or deeds that are done by a person directly but can also arise indirectly by someone either by consent or commission (i.e. giving permission) and omission (not acting to prevent avoidable pain and suffering). Such undesirable thoughts, words or action can also have different intensities such as mild,…
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Fearlessness (अभयं)

Fear is one of the most primal emotions that drive us, touching every aspect of our lives. According to the Yoga sutras of Patanjali, Fear is born from ignorance (Avidya) and Asmita or I-am-ness, which causes us to misidentify our real self with our physical self that is subject to birth, death and decay. In fact, fear of death (Abhinevesha) is one of the fundamental Kleshas or afflictions that affect the human mind. Fear drives us in so many tangible and intangible ways and is the source of mental and physical pain and illnesses, including anxiety and depression. It is…
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Family welfare verses

Sukta 30 of the Atharva Veda provides instructions and guidance on family relationships and fostering long-term love and respect among family members. List of versesSa-hridayam saamanasyam - Atharva Veda 3.30.1Anuvratah Pituh Putro - Atharva Veda 3.30.2Maa bhraataa bhraataram - Atharva Veda 3.30.3Yena deva na viyanti - Atharva Veda 3.30.4Jyaayasvant-aschittino - Atharva Veda 3.30.5Samaanee prapaa saha - Atharva Veda 3.30.6Saadheechinan vah - Atharva Veda 3.30.7 Sa-hridayam saamanasyam सहृदयं सांमनस्यमविद्वेषं कृणोमि वः। अन्यो अन्यमभिहर्यत वत्सं जातमिवाघ्न्या॥ Sa-hridayam saam-manasyam-avidvesham kriṇomi vah.Anyo anyam-abhi-haryatavatsam jaatam-iva-aghnyaa. Live with sincerity and unity. Live in harmony, without wishing or causing injury to others. Remain connected with each other, and…
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Birthday/long life

Tach-chakshur-devahitam तच्चक्षुर्देवहितं पुरस्ताच्छुक्रमुच्चरत् ।पश्येम शरदः शतं जीवेम शरदः शतंश्रृणुयाम शरदः शतं प्रब्रवाम शरदः शतंअदीनाः स्याम शरदः शतं भूयश्चा शरदः शतात् ॥ Tach-chakshur-devahitampurastaach-chhukram-uch-charatPashyema sharadah shatamjeevema sharadaḥ shatamShriṇuyaama sharadah shatamPrabravaama sharadah shatamAdeenaah syaam sharadah shatamBhooyash-cha sharadah shataat.(Yajur Veda 36.24) That Almighty One is aware of everything; He permeates every particle of energy in the world. He protects and blesses those who maintain a noble life. May we be so favored by Him to see and perceive; breathe/function and be healthy; hear and retain positive sounds and words; speak, teach, and spread (the Vedas); and be independent and free from any negative for a hundred years and more.. Notes:1. This verse is used in several ways:- as a Birthday Prayer- as a prayer given during सूर्य अवलोकन (soorya avalokan) in…
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Universal Prayers

These verses are for the upliftment of the society and the world at large. It is said our individual happiness lies in the happiness of all. Our level of individual well-being is dependent on the well-being of all. List of verses (click to select)[glossary_exclude]Sarveshaam svastir bhavatu[/glossary_exclude][glossary_exclude]Sarve bhavantu sukhinah[/glossary_exclude][glossary_exclude]Lokaah samastaah sukhino bhavantu[/glossary_exclude][glossary_exclude]Dyauh shantir-antariksham shaantih[/glossary_exclude] Sarveshaam svastir bhavatu सर्वेषां स्वस्तिर्भवतु ।सर्वेषां शान्तिर्भवतु ।सर्वेषां पूर्णंभवतु ।सर्वेषां मङ्गलंभवतु ॥ Sarveṣhaam svastir-bhavatuSarveṣhaam shaantir-bhavatuSarveṣhaam poorṇam-bhavatuSarveṣhaam maǹgalam-bhavatu. May all be blessed with auspiciousness (swasti);May all be blessed with peace (shanti);May all be blessed with fulfilment (poornam);May all be blessed with prosperity (mangalam). सर्व - all, everyone शाम् -…
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