Navroz: A Parsi New Year's Celebration of Accepting New Beginnings

1. Building Blocks of Faith: Jesus' Life and Teachings: The life and teachings of Jesus Christ form the basis of Christianity. His teachings on forgiveness, love, and compassion serve as the cornerstone of Christianity. His life and career are chronicled in the Gospels, which provide believers with spiritual and moral guidance that is relevant to all eras and societies. The profound Beatitudes presented in the Sermon on the Mount serve as an encapsulation of the transforming ethics that continue to shape Christian morality.

1. 1.Principles of Ahimsa: Non-Violence as a Way of Life

At the core of Jainism lies the principle of Ahimsa, or non-violence. Jains believe in the sacredness of all living beings, promoting a lifestyle that minimizes harm to any form of life. This commitment to non-violence extends not only to actions but also to thoughts and words, emphasizing the profound impact of our choices on the well-being of others.

"Dehī nityam avadhyo ’yaṁ dehe sarvasya bhārata
Tasmāt sarvāṇi bhūtāni na tvaṁ śhochitum-arhasi"

Translation in English:

"O descendant of Bharata, he who dwells in the body is eternal and can never be slain. Therefore, you should not grieve for any creature."

Meaning in Hindi:

"हे भारतवंश के संतानों! जो शरीर में वास करने वाला है, वह नित्य है और कभी नष्ट नहीं हो सकता है। इसलिए, तुम्हें किसी भी प्राणी के लिए शोक करने की आवश्यकता नहीं है।"

Meaning in Culture: Navroz, which translates to "New Day," has its origins in antiquated Zoroastrian customs. It represents the arrival of prosperity and progress as well as the victory of light over darkness. Navroz, which falls on the vernal equinox, is widely observed by Zoroastrians, especially those of the Parsi community in India.

Hinduism, one of the oldest religions on earth, has a global presence with followers scattered all over the world. Temples are central to Hindu rituals and they are sacred structures as well as divine abodes and spiritual practice centers. Although India remains at its core, there are Hindu temples in different parts of the world each reflecting distinct architectural styles, religious practices, and cultural influences. In this comprehensive exploration, we go on a journey to discover Hindu temples around the globe while delving into their rich history, spiritual significance, and lasting legacy within Hinduism.

Hindu Temples in Southeast Asia: Apart from India, Southeast Asia is home to some of the most famous Hindu temples in the world that serve as reminders of its ancient links with Hinduism. In Cambodia for example stands Angkor Wat; an exquisitely domineering building dedicated to Lord Vishnu during the Khmer Empire era centuries ago. The structure is an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 12th century and known for its magnificent architecture as well as complex bas-reliefs depicting stories from ancient Indian mythology.

Java, one of the thousands of Islands in Indonesia has a grand Prambanan Temple complex which is dedicated to the Trimurti – Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The towering spires and intricate carvings of Prambanan make it an architectural marvel of Hinduism where visitors from across the globe come to behold its beauty and historical value.

Another famous Hindu temple in Southeast Asia is the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok, Thailand which is dedicated to the God, Brahma. Amidst the city’s cacophony, worshippers gather at this shrine for praying purposes as well as seeking blessings for success in their businesses.

Understanding the Deeper Logic: Hinduism is primarily a way of life that aims to investigate the big questions of existence rather than merely a religion. The core of Hindu philosophy is the idea of "Dharma," or living a moral life. It places a strong emphasis on pursuing moral and ethical duty, guiding people toward a balanced and peaceful existence.