In the broad sense, 'denigration' means displaying something in an undesirable form/shape, one that is different from its original form/shape. Denigration of God, Deities, Holy symbols, etc. can shatter faith of individuals and set unwanted examples for future generations. As mentioned in the Bhagwad Gita, "धर्मो रक्षति रक्षित:" (God protects the one who strives to protects the Dharma) It is our duty to stop adharma happening through these denigrations by lawful protest.In this section you will see various kinds of denigrations happening in the society and how HJS is making efforts to stop these denigrations in order to establish Dharma in the society.
Recent Campaigns to stop Adharma
Types of Denigrations
FAQ
Why must we stop adharm through denigrations?
In the broad sense, 'denigration' (adharma) means displaying something in an undesirable form/shape, one that is different from its original form/shape. On a Dharmik / spiritual level Any act or object that obstructs emanation of subtle sattvik vibrations of the Divine Principle can also be considered as denigration. (All creation is made of three kinds of vibrations - tamasik, rajasik and sattvik. Each creation has a combination of these three, with one being predominant. These are the subtlest of all basic qualities. The tamasik qualities are the most inferior and the sattvik are the most superior.) Denigration can find expression in a painting, sculpture, text, words, sentences, play, films etc.
What is the importance of Divine symbols ?
1. Divine symbols emanate Sattva component (or Divine vibrations).
2. A Divine symbol embodies the Divine being it represents. Hence, it represents Divine qualities and serves as a beacon for the common man to walk the right path in this life.
3. A Divine symbol serves as a source of inspiration to an individual, to live his life in a righteous manner.
4. For a believer in the Divine being, His symbol draws equal reverence. (In contrast, a non-believer finds it impossible to feel anything for the symbol, when he does not believe in the Divine.)
5. Because of such qualities and their nature, Divine symbols occupy a special place in the hearts and minds of the devout. Faith, which follows, is a by-product of this phenomenon.
6. Divinity of the mind is the ultimate stage in evolution of a man. To achieve this, he requires the help of some form/shape. Symbols serve this purpose. Note : For the current discussion, we will treat a human being and a Divine being as separate entities. However humans who have attained Divinity are included in the category of Divine beings.
What are the types of denigration ?
1. Intentional : When the denigration is intended to hurt the feelings of the devout
A. Out of malice
Example: 1. Paintings by MF Husain
B. To destroy its importance and create confusion about it in the minds of people
Example: 1. Sri Ganesh depicted as Hitler, Laden and Bush
2. Unintentional: When the denigration takes place unknowingly
A. Out of ignorance
Example: 1. Deity Shiva depicted as Dog
B. For commercial gains
Example: 1. Sri Durga with whisky bottles in Her hand
C . Due to lack of pride for its qualities
Example: 1. Srikrushna in shorts
Impact and need to combat adharma through denigration
A. Denigration can shatter faith of individuals and set unwanted examples for future generations.
B. Create a doubt about the credibility of the Divine and / or its symbol. Finally, it can even cause exclusion of religious practices, and facilitate gradual demise of certain important practices.
Character assassination versus Denigration
Character assassination tarnishes a person's reputation. Commenting on a Politician / public figures misdeeds or sketching their cartoons, are examples where a difference of opinion can lead to a person being shown in bad light. This is a very base example of denigration. However denigrating the Divine questions the very relationship humans have with the Divine. It questions the one's faith in Divinity and Its powers. It erodes moral, social and spiritual values. Therefore there is an urgent need to educate and oppose any denigration of Deities and Divine symbols, that may occur through any medium.