Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 23

"Nainaṁ chhindanti śhastrāṇi nainaṁ dahati pāvakaḥ
Na chainaṁ kledayantyāpo na śhoṣhayati mārutaḥ"

Translation in English:

"The soul can never be cut into pieces by any weapon, nor can it be burned by fire, nor moistened by water, nor withered by the wind."

Meaning in Hindi:

"यह आत्मा किसी भी शस्त्र से कटाई नहीं होती, आग से जलाई नहीं जाती, पानी से भीगाई नहीं जाती और हवा से सूखाई नहीं जाती।"

In this verse,  Krishna explains the imperishable nature of the soul. He describes how the soul is beyond the reach of the physical elements and cannot be affected or harmed by  external forces. 



  Lord Krishna says that the soul is imperishable and invincible. It cannot be cut into pieces by any weapon, symbolizing its transcendence beyond physical harm. The soul remains intact and untouched  by the material world.  He goes on to explain that the soul cannot be burned by fire, moistened by water, or withered by the wind. These elemental forces represent the changing and transitory aspects of life. The soul, which is eternal and unchanging, is not affected by them. 


This verse teaches us  the eternal nature of the soul and its inherent power. It emphasizes that our true identity is beyond the perishable body and is imperishable. Understanding this enables us to face life's challenges with courage and determination. 
 Lord Krishna's teachings in this verse remind us to connect with our eternal nature and find solace in our spiritual nature. By recognizing the immortality of the soul, we can overcome the fear of death and develop a deeper understanding of our true selves.

 This verse inspires us to turn away from the momentary aspects of life and focus on our spiritual growth. It encourages us to seek lasting fulfillment and joy in realizing our divine nature. Anchored in the consciousness of the immortal soul, we can move calmly through the ups and downs of life  and find inner peace in the midst of outer circumstances. It encourages us to live in harmony with our higher selves and strive for spiritual enlightenment.


Fire Temples and Parsi Community Culinary Traditions Zoroastrian Cultural Heritage

Zoroastrianism, which is amongst the oldest religious faiths on Earth, has a rich cultural background displayed by its ceremonies, signs, and culinary arts. We will be discussing two important components of Zoroastrian cultural heritage; the symbolism behind Zoroastrian fire temples (Atash Behrams) as well as an exclusive Parsi cuisine that reflects influences from different cultures and religions in this article.

The Importance and Significance of Zoroastrian Fire TemplesZoroastrian fire temples (Atash Behrams) are decorated with deep symbolic meaning and are at the very heart of Zoroastrian religious worship. These houses of worship contain sacred fires that represent divine presence and are therefore held in high regard by followers. 

Normal Flames:Meaning of Fire: In Zoroastrianism, fire represents purity, enlightenment, and Ahura Mazda’s divine presence. The unceasing fire within Atash Behram symbolizes eternal truth lightened with wisdom.

Ceremonial acts & Sacrifices: In front of the sacred flame priests (mobeds) carry out rituals or prayers called Yasna where they offer sandalwood fruits among other items as a show of their love for God’s creation through gratitude while ensuring holiness is maintained by those looking after it.

Understanding Four Views of Religious Education

Exploring Belie­fs: Exploring beliefs is key in unde­rstanding religions. It's all about learning the main ide­as, teachings, and beliefs of diffe­rent religious practices. Stude­nts study important books, theories, and interpre­tations to really grasp the basic rules and be­liefs in faith. They might study Christian belie­fs, learn about Buddhism philosophy, or explore inte­rpretations of Quran in Islam. No matter their focus, e­xploring beliefs gives a full unde­rstanding of the religious and intelle­ctual sides of faith.

 

Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 25

"Avyaktādīni bhūtāni vyakta-madhyāni bhārata
Avyakta-nidhanānyeva tatra kā paridevanā"

Translation in English:

"It is said that the soul is invisible, inconceivable, immutable, and unchangeable. Therefore, considering the soul to be eternal, you should not grieve for the temporary body."

Meaning in Hindi:

"कहा जाता है कि आत्मा अदृश्य है, अविचार्य है, अबद्ध है और अविकारी है। इसलिए, अस्थायी शरीर के लिए आपको दुःख नहीं करना चाहिए, क्योंकि आपके अनुसार आत्मा अनन्त है।"