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Source: The Hindu (http://www.the-hindu.com)

 

Judicious way of enjoying life

 

CHENNAI, JULY 12. While the general belief of many among us is

that the revelations in the Vedas deal with matters relating to

spiritual affairs, it will surprise them and also others to

realise that these divine utterances lay great emphasis on the

importance of man's material welfare. ``When they spend their

time in this world, people should enjoy material comforts'', the

Vedas declare. Science and technology have enabled people to

produce articles needed for their own enjoyment.

 

Simultaneously, the Vedas urge humanity to ``work hard and by

doing so, you can also experience divinity within because you are

contributing to the progress of the entire universe.'' Another

vital statement made therein is the policy of ``live and let

live''. The advice that comes from the divine words is that the

performance of certain rigid rites, penance, sacrifice and

similar exercises may not be so relevant in the modern context.

At the same time, ``Nature'', in its various forms, is quietly

challenging men from all sides to be vigilant while enjoying the

worldly pleasures. There is a change in the ancient system of

approaching God, when primitives worshipped stones and animals

while now idols have come to stay. In olden days, all efforts

were directed towards securing liberation alone and there is a

beautiful description of heaven (Moksha) by Ramanuja that it

contains rivers, parks and other necessities. Such benefits are

available now here, before us and so enjoying them, one can

gradually rise above and above, and get elevated to the summit.

Secular life will provide people of present days to experience

Bliss here itself.

 

In a lecture, Sri Agnihotram Ramanuja Thathachariar said that the

Vedas explain the relevance of one's duty. ``Do your work with

steadfastness and then draw what is required for you from the

material world.'' The Bhagavatam provides examples of deriving

such pleasures here and now. Religion and philosophy are equally

important but they should lead him towards a happy and prosperous

life here itself, taking advantage of secular benefactions.

 

The Lord's saying in His Bhagavad Gita ``Do not prescribe

anything which can prejudice natural life'' is intended to make

men to choose a judicious way of enjoying life. The Lord has not

left insisting on one's ``duty''. Holy texts also refer to the

three debts a man has to discharge to celestials, to forbears and

parents. There is a fourth one - his contribution to society.

Interpreters of the Vedas have said that God can be visualised

even while kept amidst material activities. The Upanishads have

echoed the same sentiments. ``Be in the world and see God''.

 

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