Varna Vyavastha as per Bhagwat Gita

Varna Vyavastha as per Bhagwat Gita

Beginning:

चातुर्वर्ण्यं मया सृष्टं गुणकमववर्भागशः । (Bhagwat Gita - 4-13)

Fourfold social order was created by Me (cosmic law) according to the divisions of qualities (guna) and actions (karma). 

Conclusion:

स्वे स्वे कमवर्ण्यवभरतः संवसद्धं लभते नरः । (Bhagwat Gita 18-45)

One attains purity and fulfillment by performing one’s duty cheerfully and sincerely, according to one’s nature, abilities, and role in society.

Navratri - Nine days of Puja/Upaasana of nine manifestations (Roop)

Sanjay Mehta ji explained this. 

Navaratri
Nine nights/days of Shakti Puja/Upāsanā.

Vrat and Upavās
Yajurved says, "व्रतेन दीक्षामाप्नोति – Vraten Deekshamapnoti" – by observing Vrat one reaches purity, perfection, and agility. The word ‘vrat’ is derived from the Sanskrit root word which means obedience or duty, right choice, solemn vow or undertaking.

Upavās is a Sanskrit word, meaning the attainment of mental proximity with the Bhagwan. Vrat is also translated as fasting. In Vrat one resolves not to eat or to abstain from certain foods and acts, for a specified period.

Vrat and Upavās result in:

• Elimination of negative tendencies
• Raised self-awareness
• Elevation on spiritual path

What heat does to food in cooking, Vrat (Tapas) does to mind in self-development/spiritual development. (From HMEC publ. - Hindu Vrat book)

How to observe Navaratri Vrat?
Pick any slot of four, six, eight or more hours for fasting during the day for nine days. It is ok to drink water, milk, or juice to maintain energy level during fasting period. Chant the following mantra (nine chants) as many times possible during the day, at least once in Puja place at home.

1. Yaa Devi Sarva-Bhuteshu Shakti-Roopena - शक्तिरूपेण Samsthitaa,
   Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namo Namah.

या देवी भूतेषु शक्तिरूपेण संस्थिता, नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः

My pranam to Devi who abides in me and all beings in the form of Strength/fearlessness.

2. Yaa Devi Sarva-Bhuteshu Buddhi-Roopena – बुद्धिरूपेण Samsthitaa,
   Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namo Namah.

My pranam to Devi who abides in me and all beings in the form of Discriminative power/wisdom.

3. Yaa Devi Sarva-Bhuteshu Lakshmi-Roopena – लक्ष्मीरूपेण Samsthitaa,
   Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namo Namah.

My pranam to Devi who abides in me and all beings in the form of Prosperity.

4. Yaa Devi Sarva-Bhuteshu Kshaanti-Roopena - क्षान्तिरूपेण Samsthitaa,
   Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namo Namah.

My pranam to Devi who abides in me and all beings in the form of Forbearance.

5. Yaa Devi Sarva-Bhuteshu Shraddha-Roopena – श्रद्धारूपेण Samsthitaa,
   Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namo Namah.

My pranam to Devi who abides in me and all beings in the form of Reverence.

6. Yaa Devi Sarva-Bhuteshu Kaanti-Roopena - कान्तिरूपेण Samsthitaa,
   Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namo Namah.

My pranam to Devi who abides in me and all beings in the form of Beauty.

7. Yaa Devi Sarva-Bhuteshu Tushti-Roopena - तुष्टिरूपेण Samsthitaa,
   Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namo Namah.

My pranam to Devi who abides in me and all beings in the form of Contentment.

8. Yaa Devi Sarva-Bhuteshu Dayaa-Roopena – दयारूपेण Samsthitaa,
   Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namo Namah.

My pranam to Devi who abides in me and all beings in the form of Kindness.

9. Yaa Devi Sarva-Bhuteshu Shanti-Roopena - शान्तिरूपेण Samsthitaa,
   Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namo Namah.

 

The Mother/Devi/Mata is worshiped in three forms:

• as Durga, who destroys all impurities, negativities, and fear. (grants Abhaya - अभय)
• as Lakshmi, who bestows prosperity and the right objective. (grants Samrddhi - समृद्धि)
• as Saraswati, who bestows knowledge and wisdom (grants Viveka-Buddhi – विवेक-बुद्धि)

 

Nine days of Puja / Upaasana of nine manifestations (Roop):

1. शैलपुत्री
2. ब्रह्मचारिणी
3. चंद्रघंटा
4. कूष्मांडा
5. स्कंदमाता
6. कात्यायनी
7. कालरात्रि
8. महागौरी
9. सिद्धिदात्री

Day 1: Shailaputri: An embodiment of tapas and perseverance

Day 2: Brahmcharini: An embodiment of austerity

Day 3: Chandraghanta: An embodiment of beauty

Day 4: Kushmanda: An embodiment of the creative power of universe

Day 5: Skandmata: An embodiment of motherly love, mother of Skand(or Kartikeya).

Day 6: Katyayani: An embodiment of courage.

Day 7: Kalratri: An embodiment of ferocious (for demons)

Day 8: Mahagauri: An embodiment of intelligence and peace.

Day 9: Siddhidatri: An embodiment of supernatural powers (Siddhi)

First three days, the Mother/Devi is adored as supreme power and force, as Durga to destroy all impurities and fear. (overcome Tamo Guna)

Next three days, the Mother/Devi is adored as the bestower of spiritual wealth, as Lakshmi. (Rajo Guna)

Last three days, the Mother/Devi is adored as the bestower supreme wisdom/ divine knowledge, as Saraswati. (Acquire Sattva Guna)

Significance of Tithis:
Pratipada, Shashti, Ekadashi - Nanda: Delight, happiness
Dwitiya, Saptami, Dwadashi - Bhadra: Auspicious, fortunate
Tritiya, Ashtami, Trayodashi - Jaya: Conquest, victory
Chaturthi, Navami, Chaturdashi - Rikta: Peace, quietude
Panchami, Dashami, Purnima - Purna: Fulfilled, accomplished.

YOGASANS and PRANAAYAM

 🧘 Yogasanas for Everyday Health 

1. Mandukasana (Frog Pose)
2. Shashankasana (Rabbit Pose)
3. Vakrasana (Simple Spinal Twist)
4. Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose)
5. Makarasana (Crocodile Pose)
6. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
7. Salabhasana (Locust Pose)
8. Markatasana (Monkey Pose)
9. Pawanmuktasana (Gas Release Pose)
10. Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
11. Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
12. Vrikshasana (Tree Pose / Dhruv Asan)
13. Garudasana (Eagle Pose)
14. Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)
15. Halasana (Plow Pose)
16. Naukasana (Boat Pose)
17. Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
18. Chakrasana (Wheel Pose)
19. Padmasana (Lotus Pose)
20. Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose)

 

🌬️ Pranayam

 

1. Bhastrika
2. Kapalbhati
3. Anulom Vilom
4. Nadi Shodan
5. Inner Kumbhak
6. Outer Kumbhak
7. Bandhas: Mool, Udiyan, Jalandhar
8. Tratak
9. Surya Bhedi
10. Chandra Bhedi
11. Bhramari Pranayam

 

👐 Mudras

 

1. Dhyan: Index finger to thumb.
2. Vayu (Air): Index finger to the root of the thumb.
3. Akash (Space): Middle finger tip to thumb.
4. Prithvi (Earth): Ring finger tip to thumb.
5. Surya (Agni/Fire): Ring finger to the root of the thumb.
6. Varun (Jal/Water): Little finger tip to thumb.
7. Pran (Life): Ring and little finger to thumb.
8. Apan: Middle and ring finger to thumb.
9. Apan Vayu: Middle and ring finger to thumb + index finger to thumb root.
10. Ganesh Mudra: Hooked hands pulling apart. 

Sanatani Bhajan Kirtan

 

Sanatani Bhajan Kirtan for Every Day - Dr Laxman Prajapat and Team, Pittsburgh USA. 

 

1. Aum Aum Aum Aum Aum Aum Aum Aum-with Clap.
2. Aum Namo Bhagwate Vasudevay-2.
3. Shri Krishan Govind Hare Murari Hey Nath Narayan Vasudevay.
4. Shri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram, Shri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram-2.
5. Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare, Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare.
6. Aum Namo Narayan, Hari, Aum Namo Narayan-2.
7. Jai Jai Narayan Narayan Hari Hari, Shriman Narayan Narayan Hari Hari.
8. Govind Hare Gopal Hare, Jai Jai Prabhu Deen Dayal Hare-2.
9. Govind Bolo Hari Gopal Bolo, Radha Raman Hari Govind Bolo-2. 
10. Krishan Govind Govind Gopal NandLal, Krishan Govind Govind Gopal NandLal-2.
11. Jai Jai Radha Raman Hari Bol, Jai Jai Radha Raman Hari Bol.
12. Jai Jai Ram Krishan Hari, Jai Jai Ram Krishan Hari.
13. Aum Namah Shivay, Aum Namah Shivay, Har Har Bhole Namah Shivay-2.
14. Krishan He, Krishan He , Krishan Krishan Krishan He -2.
15. Hare Rama Rama Ram Sita Ram Ram Rama, Hare Rama Rama Ram Sita Ram Ram Rama.
16. Rama Shri Rama, Rama Shri Rama, Rama Shri Ram Ram Ram Rama.

Meaning of Mandir (मंदिर)?

Audio - Sanjay Mehta ji explanation

Summary - 

Mandir, the word "mandir" comes from the Sanskrit root mand, meaning "rest." A mandir is defined as a place where one's thoughts cease, allowing for a connection between the individual and Bhagwan.

Detailed explanation -  

Mandir not just as a building, but as a mental state of total stillness and unity.

Here is a breakdown of the core concepts:

1. The Etymology of "Mandir"

"Mandir" to the Sanskrit root mand, interpreted here as "rest" or "slow."

• The Concept: It is a place where the constant "noise" of life slows down and stops.
• The Definition: "A place where your thoughts come to rest."

2. The Relationship: You vs. Bhagwan

when you enter a Mandir, there should be "no two people"—meaning no separation between you and the Divine (Bhagwan).

• When you hug with a parent or grandparent, There only love exists, not two separate individuals.
• The Experience you get when you enter into Mandir: You leave all external thoughts (how the building looks, your daily worries) outside.

3. Bhagwan’s Real Name: Sachchidananda

Bhagwan's various names like Krishna, Rama, or Durga are "titles." The "real name" or essence of all Bhagwan is Sachchidananda, which is composed of three words:

• Sat: Truth
• Chit: Consciousness
• Anand: Pure Joy / Bliss

4. Perspectives on Devotion by two famous figures to illustrate why we visit a Mandir:

• Surdas (The Blind Poet): When asked why he goes to the temple if he cannot see, he replied, "I go because Bhagwan wants to see me." This represents a personal, loving relationship with the Divine Bhagwan.
• Mahatma Gandhi: He explained that he doesn't go as a physical body, but his Atma (soul) goes to meet the Paramatma (Supreme Soul).

5. The End Goal: Darshan

The ultimate purpose is Darshan—which is not just as "looking," but as a moment where "everything comes to a stop" and you achieve "pure joy" by becoming one with Bhagwan.

सारांश -

मंदिर, "मंदिर" शब्द संस्कृत की धातु 'मंद' से आया है, जिसका अर्थ है "विश्राम।" मंदिर को एक ऐसी जगह के रूप में परिभाषित किया गया है जहाँ व्यक्ति के विचार थम जाते हैं, जिससे व्यक्ति और भगवान के बीच संबंध स्थापित होता है।

विस्तृत व्याख्या -

मंदिर केवल एक इमारत नहीं, बल्कि पूर्ण स्थिरता और एकता की एक मानसिक स्थिति है।

यहाँ इसके मुख्य सिद्धांतों का विवरण दिया गया है:

1. "मंदिर" की व्युत्पत्ति

• "मंदिर" शब्द संस्कृत मूल 'मंद' से जुड़ा है, जिसका अर्थ यहाँ "विश्राम" या "धीमा होना" है।
• अवधारणा: यह एक ऐसी जगह है जहाँ जीवन का निरंतर "शोर" धीमा हो जाता है और रुक जाता है।
• परिभाषा: "वह स्थान जहाँ आपके विचार विश्राम पाते हैं।"

2. संबंध: आप बनाम भगवान

• जब आप मंदिर में प्रवेश करते हैं, तो वहाँ "दो व्यक्ति नहीं" होने चाहिए—इसका अर्थ है आपके और ईश्वर (भगवान) के बीच कोई अलगाव नहीं होना चाहिए।
• जैसे जब आप माता-पिता या दादा-दादी को गले लगाते हैं, तो वहाँ केवल प्रेम होता है, दो अलग व्यक्ति नहीं।
• अनुभव: जब आप मंदिर में प्रवेश करते हैं, तो आप अपने सभी बाहरी विचारों (जैसे इमारत कैसी दिखती है, आपकी दैनिक चिंताएँ) को बाहर छोड़ देते हैं।

3. भगवान का वास्तविक नाम: सच्चिदानंद

• भगवान के विभिन्न नाम जैसे कृष्ण, राम या दुर्गा "उपाधियाँ" हैं। सभी ईश्वर का "वास्तविक नाम" या सार सच्चिदानंद है, जो तीन शब्दों से मिलकर बना है:
  • सत्: सत्य
  • चित्: चेतना
  • आनंद: शुद्ध सुख / परम आनंद

4. दो प्रसिद्ध हस्तियों के भक्ति पर विचार:

• सूरदास (दृष्टिहीन कवि): जब उनसे पूछा गया कि यदि वे देख नहीं सकते तो मंदिर क्यों जाते हैं, उन्होंने उत्तर दिया, "मैं इसलिए जाता हूँ क्योंकि भगवान मुझे देखना चाहते हैं।" यह भगवान के साथ एक व्यक्तिगत और प्रेमपूर्ण संबंध को दर्शाता है।
• महात्मा गांधी: उन्होंने समझाया कि वे एक भौतिक शरीर के रूप में नहीं जाते, बल्कि उनकी आत्मा, परमात्मा (परम आत्मा) से मिलने जाती है।

5. अंतिम लक्ष्य: दर्शन

• परम उद्देश्य 'दर्शन' है—जिसे केवल "देखने" के रूप में नहीं, बल्कि एक ऐसे क्षण के रूप में समझा जाता है जहाँ "सब कुछ ठहर जाता है" और आप भगवान के साथ एक होकर "शुद्ध आनंद" प्राप्त करते हैं।