Hindu Values: Rational Non-violence

Hindu value #5: rational non-violence that does not exclude the self

With the law of karma as one of its key guiding force, Hindu philosophy strongly recommends to "do unto others as you might have them do to you". Non-violence is a natural offshoot of this thinking. However, Hindu non-violence is very different from the non-violence at all cost as in Jainism, or as advocated by Gandhi. Hindu non-violence includes yourself. Therefore, if somebody attacks you, you are allowed to defend yourself without guilt. Neither is it considered wrong to use violence to protect people from a violent person, or to use violence to protect what is yours by law against a person who is violent and will not listen to reason. Excessive fasting, suicide, not taking care of the body, self-mutilation qualify as violence as well. 

Hindu mythology is full of instances of Gods slaying demonic forces with utter disregard for their human rights. There is no concept of human rights for people who do not respect human rights for others. Even historically, taking the example of Mahabharata, Lord Krishna did everything possible to broker peace. But when Kauravas refused reason he had no hesitation in recommending war and winning it at every cost. In fact, for many years he counselled Pandavas to diligently prepare for war. 

The message is clear. Peace is preferable to war, but peace of a weak person has no value. Therefore, even if one is peaceful, one should be well-prepared for war and be ready to fight against the wicked without mercy. Forgetting this simple lesson cost India years of subjugation. Remembering it will help us to get less conflicted and more effective in dealing with our enemies.

Hindu Values: Sexuality is Normal

Hindu value #4: sexuality is normal

Hinduism has a multi-pronged, complex take on sexuality. Unlike Abrahamic religions, it is not considered sinful and is acknowledged as a powerful force necessary for the world to continue. Nevertheless, its highly addictive nature is considered an obstruction in self-realisation. It is considered important to both understand and revere it to escape its negative impact. However, years of subjugation and cultural influence has made us forget this, and unfortunately the Indian society is still subjugated by the misogynistic mindset of the children of Abraham. 

The sexual revolution in the US, evolution of human rights, and rise of feminism have helped to slightly correct a destructive, nihilistic approach to sexuality. However, denial and suppression over a very long time have led to perversion and criminalisation of sexuality. Horrible working conditions of prostitutes are a direct result of a mindset that sees sex as a sin. Rape is a result of a mind that sees women as objects and second class citizens, or as a temptress who needs to know her place and limits. Even most of the words people use to abuse others are related to sex!

Hinduism's approach, at least in theory, is very refreshing and practical. Our philosophers recognised four pillars for a fulfilling life: Dharma, Artha, Kaama, and Moksha. Dharma is being able to do the right action in the present moment. Artha is being able to do well economically. Kaama is being able to enjoy the pleasures of this world. Moksha is attaining liberation from the cycle of life and death by means of self-realisation. In context of this article, it is worth nothing sex is an integral part of Kaama (hence the Kamasutra). Nothing is forbidden, but moderation is strongly advised. The wise sages understood the havoc hormones can play with the human mind, and did not try to control the basic instinct by forbidding it. They did not recommend Roman style promiscuity or orgies either. Marriage was held sacred. The yoni (womb) and linga even found place as symbols of worship, subtly trying to establish that sexuality is natural and sacred for there can be no life without it. Not making a big deal about it prevented the perversion that we witness in the world today. 

More of the same will not solve the problem. Muslim hordes brought rape as an instrument of war to the Indian subcontinent. Their long rule pushed the women down the social ladder and changed our attitude to sexuality. British Christian rule did not help much. Not too long ago even US didn't allow women to vote, and equal pay for men and women is still a big issue in the west. I understand that it is very difficult to go back to the free-minded, rational approach of the sages as the predominant cultures of the world are ruled by Abrahamic religions, who cannot accept this. Even most people within India, conditioned so long by their rulers, cannot imagine such a society. And will never do until we have high level of literacy and establish the rule of Dharma. Nevertheless India would do well to not emulate such misogynistic cultures and try to revive at least some elements of its own ancient rational approach.