Yaksha Prashna: Foreward

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YAKSHA PRASHNA

FOREWORD

Hinduism is one of the greatest and oldest religions in the world. The Indian culture provides us with a great and noble heritage that must not be forgotten or forsaken.

In the present age of material success, but lack of inner happiness, people all over the world are looking to the East for its rich wisdom and answers to the multifarious problems humanity faces. Yet our own Hindu youth are growing up without any knowledge of their origins or culture. If we really care about our children, we will take the time to educate them properly They must learn moral and ethical values, as well as the eternal spiritual truths revealed by our saints, sages and scriptures of yore.

Some Hindus would even say that our scriptures may be ancient but they have become outdated; of what relevance can they be for modern youth? This is like saying that the sun is too old and has no use in modern life! Our scriptures are our shining suns which have nourished and nurtured our souls since ancient times! Their light has not diminished.

The Mahabharata is the subject and focus of this "Hindu Primer" This great Hindu epic shines forth with the radiant teachings of a timeless classic. The great Rishi, Ved Vyasa, composed this Purana to explain the essential truths of spiritual knowledge. Illumined saints and sages since that time have glorified and praised it. It IS alive with a message for modern Hindu youth and for all people. The Mahabharata clearly shows how qualities such as righteousness, virtue, dedication, self-sacrifice and self-discipline are the foundation stones for peaceful, easeful and useful living.

True Hinduism is a synthesis of all faiths - it is all embracing. We should educate our youth with that kind of ecumenical spirit. Let all our differences be set aside and let us be united as one Indian family. Let us come together in the name of educating our children in the essential principles and moral values of the great Indian culture.

Dr. Srinivasan has rendered a great and noble service in bringing forth this beautiful publication - "Yaksha Prashna." He has given Hindu parents a wonderful and valuable tool that will help instill qualities essential for successful living.

What better way to reaffirm our commitment to the Vedic heritage than by taking up the study of this Hindu Primer with our children? Let it become a regular part of his or her education. Spend some time each day with your child reading and going over the various points of this Primer. The effort will be well worth it as the foundation is laid for your child's spiritual and ethical development.

The hope and promise of our rich and ancient culture is in the hands of our modern Indian youth. Let this study be a firm investment in our future. May the Lord and all of the great saints and sages bless your spiritual endeavours and bring you peace and joy, happiness and prosperity.

Om Shanthi Shanthi Shanthi.
H. H. Sri Swami Satchidananda