Namaste,
In this edition of Tattva Magazine, we have 3 articles, each focusing on a different level of Hindu activity in this world. The piece on the Diwali celebrations around the world reminds us that this way of life that has been dubbed “Hinduism” is an entity that has a religious, cultural, social, and political impact on this world, and a significant one at that. The report on the University of Cincinnati Hindu YUVA trip to Red River Gorge exemplifies the notion that this Hinduism functions at the local level. And Jayant Avva’s investigation into the differences, or rather, the similarities between Jnana and Bhakti Yogas is significant in our individual lives. However, can an individual practice Hinduism at just one of these levels? If an attorney carries an honorable practice from 8am to 5pm, but does not seek to live the personal life of a Hindu, is she a Hindu? If a young professional performs yoga and regularly visits the temple, but does not pursue service to society, is he a Hindu? And where do you stand; in what social arenas are you a Hindu? Or do the connotations of being Hindu implicitly negate this question itself? Think about it…
Graciously,
Tattva Team