धर्म हमें क्या देता है

Summary

The text explores the nature of true religious experience, defining it as a state of "samadhi" or direct realization where the distinction between the self and the other, the seer and the seen, dissolves. It posits that the ultimate source of consciousness—that which enables the mind to think, the eyes to see, and nature to function—cannot be perceived by the mind, intellect, or senses, but is the very force that empowers them. This source is described as unknown, unthinkable, and ineffable, beyond the reach of speech and thought. The text contrasts this inner, mystical conception of religion with external practices, noting that while a Christian worshipper may raise hands to a deity outside, a Hindu in devotion turns inward, closing his eyes to merge with the divine within. The etymology of "religion" is cited as meaning "to bind back," suggesting it reconnects a person to their original source. The text argues that true religion is a singular essence underlying all faiths, including Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity, and involves realizing this ultimate reality beyond all distinctions of caste, creed, time, and space. It further contends that this state of egoless absorption is the wellspring of all profound human achievements, including knowledge, courage, love, and bliss. Great discoveries, like those of Newton, and acts of heroism and devotion arise when the individual ego is forgotten and the mind merges with this universal source. The text concludes that while philosophy and science have failed to grasp this ultimate mystery through intellect, the pursuit of this inner realization is the essential purpose of religion, offering a path to lasting peace beyond the endless cycle of worldly desires.