Being human, handed down form ancient Sanskrit
credit: Vitality Lyubezhanin
You will receive a body
You will learn lessons
There are no mistakes, only lessons
A lesson will be repeated until it is learned
Learning lessons does not end
‘There’ is no better than ‘here’
Others are merely mirrors of you
What you make of your life is up to you
Life is exactly what you think it is
Your answers lie inside you
You will forget all of this
You can remember it whenever you want
Source: The Natural Optimist
Ancient Sanskrit literature is vast and diverse, encompassing the Vedas, Upanishads, epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, philosophical treatises, and more. Within these texts, you can find a rich tapestry of ethical, spiritual, and philosophical teachings, that further explain these basic rules.
Synthesis of core principles
Recognize the divinity within (Atman and Brahman): A central tenet of much of ancient Sanskrit thought, particularly the Upanishads, is the inherent divinity within each individual (Atman) and its ultimate oneness with the universal consciousness (Brahman). This implies a profound respect for oneself and all beings, recognizing the sacred spark within everyone.
Uphold Dharma (righteous conduct and duty): Dharma is a complex concept encompassing one’s duty, righteousness, cosmic order, and the natural law of things. Being human involves understanding and living according to one’s dharma, which varies based on individual roles, social context, and stage of life. This emphasizes ethical conduct and fulfilling one's responsibilities.
Strive for self realization (Moksha): Many traditions within ancient Sanskrit thought emphasize the ultimate goal of liberation (Moksha) from the cycle of birth and death. This involves understanding the true nature of the self and its connection to the divine, often through practices like yoga, meditation, and self-knowledge.
Practice Ahimsa (nonviolence): Ahimsa, non-violence in thought, word, and deed, is a fundamental ethical principle across many ancient Indian traditions. Recognizing the interconnectedness of all life, humans are called to refrain from causing harm.
Cultivate truthfulness (Satya): Truthfulness in speech and action is another vital ethical principle. Aligning oneself with truth is seen as essential for personal and societal well-being.
Practice nonattachment (Aparigraha): While not advocating for complete renunciation for everyone, the concept of non-attachment encourages detaching from material possessions and the fruits of one’s actions. This fosters inner peace and reduces suffering caused by clinging.
Engage in right action (Karma Yoga): The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes Karma Yoga, the path of selfless action. Performing one’s duties without attachment to the results is seen as a way to purify the mind and progress spiritually.
The ancient Sanskrit traditions recognized the complexity of human existence and the diversity of individual paths. Rather than a single rule, they offered a framework of principles and practices to guide human life towards meaning, purpose, and ultimately, liberation.
Recognizing our inherent divinity, upholding righteous conduct (dharma), striving for self-realization (moksha), practicing non-violence (ahimsa) and truthfulness (satya), cultivating non-attachment (aparigraha), and engaging in selfless action (karma yoga) are interconnected principles provide a rich and nuanced guide for living a meaningful human life.
