3 Global Necessity of the Indian Knowledge Tradition
The Indian knowledge tradition has been promoting education systems, traditions, and humanity since ancient times. It emphasizes discipline, self-reliance, and respect for all as universal values.
In the Vedas, knowledge is considered the best foundation for humanity. The original Indian knowledge system includes the philosophy and practical education of the Vedas, arts and crafts, craftsmanship, agriculture, health, science, architecture, astronomy, and many other subjects. The study of which leads to adaptation and integration in modern life and in the direction of change. It includes a vast range of ancient knowledge and science passed down through generations, including traditional medicine, astrology, yoga, meditation, martial arts, and community life. Which play an important role in Indian culture and history.
The main pillars of all these are Vedic literature. Which includes Indian culture and spirituality. Vedic literature has influenced various fields of literature, art, music, architecture and governance by providing philosophical teachings, ethical principles and practices, schooling as well as a deep understanding and insight of ancient India. Which has been shaping the Indian lifestyle for thousands of years.
Today, the role of yoga and meditation in physical, mental and spiritual development is recognized globally. Indian word philosophy presents a unique perspective of introspection. The philosophy of justice focuses on logic and epistemology. While Nyaya philosophy explores the reality of nature through analysis and their combination. Sankhya, Yoga, Mimamsa and Vedanta philosophies have laid the foundation for profound philosophy.
Ancient Indian mathematicians like Aryabhata and Brahmagupta made significant discoveries in arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. Aryabhata’s knowledge of the heliocentric model of the solar system was centuries ahead of its time.
The 21st Century is the Century of Modernity
The 21st century, the century of modernity, has witnessed unprecedented progress in science and technology, leading to undeniable advancements. However, alongside these material advancements, several problems have also emerged. If these problems are not adequately addressed, progress will slow down. Humanity's fundamental quest is for peace, which will remain elusive in the face of these challenges. Some of these Global problems are:
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1. Family breakdown |
2. Terrorism |
3. Global pandemics |
4. Corruption |
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5. Global warming |
6. Poverty |
7. Mental stress |
8. Global problems |
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9. Pollution |
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Family Unity in Indian Tradition: In Indian tradition, the concept of family extends beyond the immediate household to encompass a broader sense of community and social responsibility. This emphasis on collective well-being is deeply rooted in the cultural values of India, shaping the way individuals perceive their place within society. Central to this notion of family unity is the idea of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', which translates to "The world is one family." This philosophy promotes universal brotherhood and compassion, recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings. It encourages individuals to extend their care and concern beyond their immediate circle, fostering a sense of global citizenship.
The Contrast of Terrorism: Terrorism, on the other hand, stands in stark contrast to these values of unity and harmony. It is a destructive force that thrives on division, fear, and violence. Terrorists seek to disrupt peaceful societies and instil a sense of insecurity and chaos. Their actions are driven by extremist ideologies that often distort religious or political beliefs, justifying violence against innocent people. The attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai, and the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat serve as grim reminders of the devastating impact of terrorism. These acts of violence not only cause immense physical harm but also leave deep psychological scars on individuals and communities.
Mental Stress: The fundamental knowledge and education system were designed in accordance with nature and health. The aim was to create a healthy, well-mannered, cultured, and diverse society. In this, the individual was a part of a group and personal development and contribution to the development of the state were emphasized, with religion, wealth, work, and liberation being the four important points. In sum, the individual could develop by being healthy in body and mind.
In contrast, modern culture is self-centred and focuses on self-development. As a result, Western society has developed economically very rapidly, but mentally the individual becomes isolated and lonely. Even though the individual has everything, he is not happy with it because he cannot cope with the situation.
To address this, yoga philosophy in Indian tradition is the most useful science. Through the eight limbs of yoga, one can achieve physical and mental health, as well as cope with any adverse and favourable situations in life and attain liberation.
Pollution (Global Warming): One of the biggest problems of the present age is environmental pollution. The main culprits for this are rampant industrialization, urbanization, and population growth. The blind rush of rural people towards cities and excessive industrialization have increased the levels of air, water, and soil pollution to alarming levels. As a result, there is a serious health crisis on human life. Air pollution and the problem of drinking water have taken their toll. A situation of great imbalance has arisen between human life and nature. As a result, many environmental and health issues have arisen. These serious crises have created many problems for human life.
Inflation: In Vedic times, India was so prosperous that homes had granaries and fruits and vegetables grew in abundance. It is said that rivers of milk and ghee flowed, and the people were hardworking and contented. Everywhere, life was full of joy and happiness. In contrast, the West expanded its trade in everything, leading to inflation, instability, and imbalance in the market. The individual became self-centred, and the accumulation of wealth became paramount. Thus, the Vedic Indian system has proven to be more practical, exemplary, and conducive to collective progress than the Western system.
Solving Global Problems: In the pursuit of material pleasures, man has become detached from the real realities of life and has become more unhappy and disturbed, focusing only on success and forgetting moral values. He has forgotten about natural life and peace of mind. Western education has made it a matter of "babu culture", while the Indian knowledge system is a well-established educational tradition that provides a healthy, peaceful, and successful life, far better than Western education, which everyone is gradually realizing.
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