When discussing the Hindu Dharma with my non-Hindu friends, they often express a bit of what is known in interfaith circles as “holy envy.” This is what we feel when we learn about an aspect of another religion that our tradition does not share. But we admire it so much that we are a bit envious of the adherents to that faith. For instance, I have holy envy of the Jewish tradition of Bar/Bat Mitzvah. While there is an coming... Read more
image: https://app.designwizard.com/ I was recently involved in an informal chat with some Hindu homies of mine. Someone had found a statement by Manu (sometimes referred to as the Hindu version of Moses or “lawgiver”) that indicated a ban on organ donation. I was quite pleased with the comments. To a person, everyone on the thread agreed that organ donation was a good thing, and that they were all on board with allowing their eyes, heart, kidneys, marrow, etc.... Read more
Which religion is the most misunderstood of all? That’s easy. Yours. Whatever faith you subscribe to, chances are you have to deflect a series of false notions, half-truths and plain old meanspirited lies from time to time. Catholics have to constantly reaffirm that they don’t worship Mary (they venerate her). Muslims don’t all look forward to a worldwide jihad. And Hindus? Well, where do we start? Fate vs. Karma Let’s just focus on one issue for today. That would be... Read more
Suppose you had a new acquaintance, and you asked her to join you for some weekend activity. And say that she responded enthusiastically, as long as in met with schedule. She tells you that she’ll be in church on Friday evening for a Novena, then back again on Saturday afternoon for Confession. And of course, Sunday morning she’ll attend Mass. You might at that moment say you didn’t realize she was Catholic. Naturally, she will confirm her spiritual identity. Of... Read more
Over the years I’ve been questioned about this very challenging virtue that is extolled in The Bhagavad Gita. For context, Lord Krishna is encouraging his disciple Arjuna to fight a righteous battle that he wants to avoid. The opposing side is made up of relatives whom he loved until they entered “the dark side.” Keep in mind that this army is a malevolent gang. They must be defeated for the good of the kingdom. But Arjuna just doesn’t see that.... Read more
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