Faith and Belief System

   Indians are mostly emotional when it comes to religious faith and belief. Broadly, the people follow Shaiva, Vaishnava, or Shakta system (worship Devi -Devata). Nobody questions why one follows any particular system since much has come as a family tradition. Howver, the trend is changing fast. Now the modern (so called?) youth do not bother about any religion, caste or creed and just mind their own interests! Most of the young people do not believe in any system of worship of God or even respect elders and think it is rational? This trend is mostly attributed to lack of time since they are running to schools and colleges, or friends and engaged in other activities. Now, the question is not 'who is right or wrong'? It is about the trend.

   The questions of religious faith, caste and creed, have lost all meaning due to the life style, increasing pressure from outside and guarantee of freedom under Constitution. Even conversion is barred now!

   What the Gita says in this regard is interesting. Bhagavan says, "Do not disturb one's faith. Let them follow whatever they like. Ultimately all come to Me. Some come directly and most come by detour and waste their time. The latter are fools, mudhas!"

   In fact, the two dominant forces- desire and fear, govern the faith and belief systems of the people. Desire prompts invoking some higher power for success. Fear of losing is another. When a person is ignorant, afraid of the unknown, he/she runs to a super power, God. People pray God for favors or adore God simply for the sake of adoration!
   However, the underlying principle is "There is a Creator and an unknown power that protects, prompts us for action." Spirituality comes into question here. Since this is an unknown factor, many do not bother to know about this. Those who inquire into this supreme power that governs the universe will come to know the forces and call it by names of Gods! Those who dwell in materialist world will jot question these invisible forces.