Author: Ellen Kaufman

The Golden Rule in the Great Cultures and the Great Religions

The Golden Rule Poster, Golden Rule in the Great Cultures and the Great Religions

The Golden Rule or the ethic of reciprocity is the definitive, all-encompassing principle for ethical behavior. In essence, this maxim states, “One should treat others as one would like others to treat oneself” in the positive form and “One should not treat others in ways that one would not like to be treated” in the negative form, the latter called the Silver Rule. The utility of the Golden Rule is primarily in developing a framework of personal ethics, in forming a psychological outlook toward others, and not necessarily in directing behavior.

We find the Golden Rule in all the great cultures and the great religions of the world:

  • Golden Rule in Baha’i Faith: “Lay not on any soul a load that you would not wish to be laid upon you, and desire not for anyone the things you would not desire for yourself.” [Source: Baha’u’llah, Gleanings]
  • Golden Rule in Buddhism: “Treat not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful.” [Source: Udana-Varga 5.18]
  • Golden Rule in Christianity: “In everything, do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.” [Source: The Bible, Matthew 7:12]
  • Golden Rule in Confucianism: “One word which sums up the basis of all good conduct….loving-kindness. Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself.” [Source: Confucius, Analects 15.23]
  • Golden Rule in Hinduism: “This is the sum of duty: do not do to others what would cause pain if done to you.” [Source: Mahabharata 5:1517]
  • Golden Rule in Hinduism: “Why does a man inflict upon other creatures those sufferings, which he has found by experience are sufferings to himself?” [Source: Tiruvalluvar, Tirukkural Verse 318]
  • Golden Rule in Islam: “Not one of you truly believes until you wish for others what you wish for yourself.” [Source: The Prophet Muhammad, Hadith]
  • Golden Rule in Jainism: “One should treat all creatures in the world as one would like to be treated.” [Source: Sutrakritanga 1.11.33]
  • Golden Rule in Judaism: “What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour. This is the whole Torah; all the rest is commentary. Go and learn it.” [Source: Hillel, Talmud, Shabbath 31a]
  • Golden Rule in Native Spirituality: “We are as much alive as we keep the earth alive.” [Source: Chief Dan George]
  • Golden Rule in Sikhism: “I am a stranger to no one; and no one is a stranger to me. Indeed, I am a friend to all.” [Source: Guru Granth Sahib, p.1299]
  • Golden Rule in Taoism: “Regard your neighbour’s gain as your own gain and your neighbour’s loss as your own loss.” [Source: Laozi, T’ai Shang Kan Ying P’ien, 213-218]
  • Golden Rule in Unitarianism: “We affirm and promote respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.” [Source: Unitarian principle]
  • Golden Rule in Zoroastrianism: “Do not do unto others whatever is injurious to yourself.” [Source: Shayast-na-Shayast 13.29]

Notes: Poster compiled by Paul McKenna for “Guidelines for Golden Rule” Workshop, published by Scarboro Missions, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada

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The Significance of the Golden Rule

Norman Rockwell Mosaic called Golden Rule at the United Nations

The Golden Rule describes a guide to a fundamental behavior and is taught in most major religious and moral traditions.

The Golden Rule has been articulated either positively as “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Matthew 7:12); or negatively, counseling that you not do to others what you would not wish them to do to you, as in the teachings of Confucius (“Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself.”) or Hillel (“What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour”).

The Golden Rule’s all-inclusive simplicity has invited innumerable belittling counter-examples. For example, should masochists impose their favorite annoyances on unsuspicious acquaintances? Nonetheless, such counter-examples and critiques the point of the Golden Rule. The Golden Rule was never proposed as a guide to practical choice unaided of all other principles of moral conduct and behavior. In fact, the Golden Rule alludes to nothing about particular moral and ethical considerations, nor does it validate specific moral principles, qualities, and ideals.

To be more precise, the Golden Rule has to do with a perspective philosophy that is indispensable to the exercise of even the most rudimentary morality: one of seeking to situate oneself in the position of those affected by one’s actions, in an attempt to counteract the natural tendency to ignore moral considerations and ethical short-sightedness.

The Golden Rule directs one to treat others with the compassionate considerations that one wishes to contend with (in the positive form,) and, in particular, not to perpetrate misfortunes on others that one would abhor to have inflicted on oneself.

The Golden Rule has long been thought fundamental. Therefore many moral philosophers have compared it to their own principles concerning moral choice and conduct.

  • Immanuel Kant, German philosopher In “Foundations of the Metaphysics of Morals”, German philosopher Immanuel Kant dismissed the Golden Rule as inconsequential and too limited to be a universal law: “Let it not be thought that the trivial quod tibi non vis fieri, etc. [what you do not will to be done to you, etc.] can here serve as a standard or principle. For it is merely derived from our principle, although with several limitations. It cannot be a universal law, for it contains the ground neither of duties to oneself nor of duties of love toward others (for many a man would gladly consent that others should not benefit him, if only he might be excused from benefiting them). Nor, finally, does it contain the ground of strict duties toward others, for the criminal would on this ground be able to dispute with the judges who punish him; and so on.”
  • John Stuart Mill, English philosopher In “Utilitarianism”, English philosopher John Stuart Mill claimed that, “In the golden rule of Jesus of Nazareth we read the complete spirit of the ethics of utility. To do as you would be done by, and to love your neighbour as yourself, constitute the ideal perfection of utilitarian morality.”

Related Posts

  1. The Golden Rule in the Great Cultures and the Great Religions
  2. “La Justice” by French Painter Bernard d’Agesci
  3. Dharma: Does the Universe Have an Inherent Order?
  4. Buddhism: Philosophy or Theology?
  5. The Idea of Religious Tolerance is to Allow Religious Freedom

Indian Food Menu on Carnival Cruise Lines: Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Dishes

Carnival Cruise Lines offer many wonderful and delicious food choices onboard. Carnival offers “taste of the nations” buffet during lunch featuring an international cuisine every day during lunch. We’ve seen Mexican, Caribbean, Italian, French, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Indian food on offer during lunch in addition to the regular offerings at the Lido buffets.

Contact Carnival guest services no less than two weeks before embarkation to request Indian vegetarian or non-vegetarian food. Indian food is a fairly popular choice, especially with the increasing popularity of cruising among tourists from South Asia and the United Kingdom. Also contributing is the emergence of Indian food emerging as the de facto national cuisine in England. For this reason, even if guests do not pre-book Indian vegetarian food, Carnival’s ships tend to stock up on constituents of Indian food.

Carnival Cruise’s Typical 5-Day Rotation of Vegetarian Indian Food

Carnival Cruise Indian Vegetarian Food: Aloo Shimla Mirch, Khumb Matar, Rajmah

Carnival Cruise Indian Vegetarian Food: Basmati Jeera Pulao, Raita, Achar, Papad, Kachumber

Carnival Cruise Indian Vegetarian Food: Day 1

Dinner on Day 1

  • Aloo Shimla Mirch: potatoes with green bell pepper
  • Khumb Matar Dahi Wale: mushroom and peas in yogurt sauce
  • Basmati Jeera Pulao: basmati rice with roasted cumin seasoning
  • Rajmah Raseela: red kidney beans in spicy gravy
  • Traditional Accompaniments: Raita (yoghurt relish), Achar (Indian pickle), Roasted Papad (crisps), and Kachumber Salad

Carnival Cruise Indian Vegetarian Food: Day 2: Aloo Baingan, Malai Kofta, Channa Dal, Matar Pulao

Dinner on Day 2

  • Aloo Baingan: potatoes with eggplant
  • Malai Kofta: fried cheese-balls in creamy gravy
  • Basmati Matar Pulao: basmati rice with stir-fried peas
  • Channa Dal Masala: spicy yellow split peas
  • Traditional Accompaniments: Raita (yoghurt relish), Achar (Indian pickle), Roasted Papad (crisps), and Kachumber Salad

Carnival Cruise Indian Vegetarian Food: Day 3: Boondi Kadi, Palak Paneer, Mattar Subzi, Basmati Rice

Dinner on Day 3

  • Boondi Kadi: fried chickpea pearls in thick chickpea-yoghurt gravy
  • Palak Paneer: spinach and Indian cheese
  • Basmati Safed Chawal: plain basmati rice
  • Sookhe Mattar Ki Subzi: green peas with spices
  • Traditional Accompaniments: Raita (yoghurt relish), Achar (Indian pickle), Roasted Papad (crisps), and Kachumber Salad

Carnival Cruise South Indian Vegetarian Food: Day 4: Beans Poriyal, Zucchini Kootu, Sambar, Dahi Bhath

Carnival Cruise South Indian Vegetarian Food: Day 4: Dahi Bhath Yoghurt Rice, Raita, Achar, Papad, Kachumber

Carnival Cruise South Indian Vegetarian Food: Day 4: Beans Poriyal, Zucchini Kootu, Sambar

Dinner on Day 4

  • Green Beans Poriyal: curry of green beans in South Indian-style
  • Zucchini Kootu: stew of zucchini and lentils in South Indian-style
  • Dahi Bhath: basmati rice in yogurt in South Indian-style
  • Sambar: vegetable stew with tamarind in South Indian-style
  • Traditional Accompaniments: Raita (yoghurt relish), Achar (Indian pickle), Roasted Papad (crisps), and Kachumber Salad

Carnival Cruise Indian Vegetarian Food: Day 5: Bhindi Masala, Aloo Matar, Onion Pulao, Chole Pindi

Carnival Cruise Indian Vegetarian Food: Day 5: Basmati Onion Pulao, Raita, Achar, Papad, Kachumber

Carnival Cruise Indian Vegetarian Food: Day 5: Bhindi Masala, Aloo Matar, Chole Pindi

Dinner on Day 5

  • Bhindi Masala: okra with spices
  • Jeera Aloo Matar: potatoes and peas garnished with cumin
  • Basmati Onion Pulao: basmati rice with glazed onions
  • Chole Pindi: chickpeas with spices
  • Traditional Accompaniments: Raita (yoghurt relish), Achar (Indian pickle), Roasted Papad (crisps), and Kachumber Salad

Carnival Cruise’s Typical 5-Day Rotation of Non-Vegetarian Indian Food

Carnival Cruise Indian Menu: 5 Day Cycle

Dinner on Day 1

  • Murg Dahiwala: chicken in yoghurt sauce
  • Aloo Shimla Mirch: potatoes with green bell pepper
  • Basmati Jeera Pulao: basmati rice with roasted cumin seasoning
  • Rajmah Raseela: red kidney beans in spicy gravy
  • Customary Accompaniments: Raita (yoghurt relish), Achar (Indian pickle), Roasted Papad (crisps), and Kachumber Salad

Dinner on Day 2

  • Aloo Baingan Baingan: potatoes with eggplant
  • Chicken Tariwala: chicken with spices
  • Basmati Matar Pulao: basmati rice with stir-fried peas
  • Channa Dal Masala: spicy yellow split peas
  • Customary Accompaniments: Raita (yoghurt relish), Achar (Indian pickle), Roasted Papad (crisps), and Kachumber Salad

Dinner on Day 3

  • Gosht Palak: spinach and (sheep) mutton curry
  • Boondi Kadi: fried chickpea pearls in thick chickpea-yoghurt gravy
  • Basmati Safed Chawal: plain basmati rice
  • Sookhe Mattar Ki Subzi: green peas with spices
  • Customary Accompaniments: Raita (yoghurt relish), Achar (Indian pickle), Roasted Papad (crisps), and Kachumber Salad

Carnival Cruise Dining Room

Dinner on Day 4

  • Chicken Chattinad: chicken cooked in Chettinad-style
  • Green Beans Poriyal: curry of green beans in South Indian-style
  • Dahi Bhath: basmati rice in yogurt in South Indian-style
  • Sambar: vegetable stew with tamarind in South Indian-style
  • Customary Accompaniments: Raita (yoghurt relish), Achar (Indian pickle), Roasted Papad (crisps), and Kachumber Salad

Dinner on Day 5

  • Goan Fish Curry: fish with spices cooked as in Goa-style
  • Bhindi Masala: okra with spices
  • Basmati Onion Pulao: basmati rice with glazed onions
  • Chole Pindi: chickpeas with spices
  • Customary Accompaniments: Raita (yoghurt relish), Achar (Indian pickle), Roasted Papad (crisps), and Kachumber Salad

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Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Roundup of Hindu Parables

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836–1886,) the eminent Hindu mystic of 19th-century India, used stories and parables to portray the core elements of his philosophy. The meaning of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa’s stories and parables are usually not explicitly stated. The meanings are not intended to be mysterious or confidential but are, in contrast, quite uncomplicated and obvious.

In the Hindu and other traditions of the major religions of the world, parables form the language of the wise for enlightening the simple, just as well as they form the language of the simple for enlightening the wise.

Recommended Books

Related Posts

  1. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Devotion & Consecration or the Parable of the Milkmaid
  2. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: The Vastness of God’s Creation or the Parable of the Frog in the Well
  3. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Omnipresence or The Parable of Ganesh and the Divine Mother
  4. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Providence & God’s Will or The Parable of Raghuram and Lord Sri Rama’s Will
  5. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Thagya and Vairagya or the Parable of Akbar and the Fakir

How Amtrak Deals with Daylight Time Changes

Amtrak

When the clocks go forward an hour in Spring, Amtrak trains just run an hour behind and try to make up for the delay during the rest of the trip. In Fall, when the clocks go back an hour, Amtrak simply stops its trains in the station immediately after the time change, wait one hour for the time to “catch up.”

From the notes section on the Amtrak timetable:

Amtrak operates according to prevailing local time, either standard time or daylight saving time. At the spring time change (second Sunday in March), Amtrak trains traveling overnight will become one hour late and will attempt to make up the time. At the fall time change (first Sunday in November), Amtrak trains traveling overnight will normally hold at the next station after the time change then depart on time. Arizona does not observe daylight saving time. Please observe footnotes in schedules for trains serving Arizona to determine your departure or arrival time.

Apparently, Amtrak has followed this procedure since it began operations in 1971. This Chicago Tribune article from 29-Oct-1985 states,

R. Clifford Black, Amtrak’s manager of corporate communications in Washington, conceded that “it’s a rather confusing procedure unless you spend a lot of time pondering it, and not many people do.”

Asked why Amtrak must brake for time when planes do not circle in the air for an hour, Black answered: “There aren’t that many planes flying at night. They can adjust their departure times, and they don’t make numerous intermediate stops like trains do.”

In contrast, airlines and air traffic management primarily operate on UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) and simply adjust their published arrival and departure schedules where UTC times are translated into local times. Pilot and crew schedules are changed accordingly. When time changes in Spring or Fall, there are always passengers and crew members who forget to change their clocks. Consequently, in Fall, some people arrive to the airport too early. In Spring, people arrive late and miss their flights.

No related posts.

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Providence & God’s Will or The Parable of Raghuram and Lord Sri Rama’s Will

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836–1886,) the eminent Hindu mystic of 19th-century India, used stories and parables to portray the core elements of his philosophy. The meaning of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa’s stories and parables are usually not explicitly stated. The meanings are not intended to be mysterious or confidential but are, in contrast, quite uncomplicated and obvious.

In the Hindu and other traditions of the major religions of the world, parables form the language of the wise for enlightening the simple, just as well as they form the language of the simple for enlightening the wise.

The Parable of Raghuram and Lord Sri Rama’s Will

Raghuram was a pious weaver. He was a devotee of Lord Sri Rama. He firmly believed that everything happens by the will of Lord Sri Rama. The sun shines, the rain falls, the wind blows, men walk, and fish swim – all by the will of Lord Sri Rama. If Lord Sri Rama’s will is not there, everything will come to a standstill. This was Raghuram’s strong faith.

Raghuram never forgot Lord Sri Rama. As soon as he got up early in the morning, he would repeat the name of Lord Sri Rama. After bathing, after offering Naivedyam (offering) to Lord Sri Rama, he would take his breakfast saying, “by the will of Lord Sri Rama.” Again, before starting weaving he would take the name of Lord Sri Rama. As he plied the shuttle, weaving the cloth, he would be chanting Lord Sri Rama’s name. He would take the woven clothes to the bazaar for sale. If someone asked him what the price of a particular cloth was he would say, “By the will of Lord Sri Rama, the yarn costs one rupee. By the will of Lord Sri Rama, my labor costs 50 paisa. By the will of Lord Sri Rama, the profit is 25 paisa. So the price of the cloth, by the will of Lord Sri Rama, is rupees1.75.”

Raghuram’s sincerity and simplicity would charm men and women. No one would bargain with him. They would pay him whatever he demanded. They were sure he would never overcharge them or cheat them.

After the sales were over, Raghuram would return home chanting Lord Sri Rama’s name all the way. He would have his food and go to sleep again taking the Lord’s name.

On one hot and humid day, Raghuram thought he would sit in the verandah of his home for some time. He was chanting ‘Ram, Ram’. A gang of robbers passed that way. They had burgled a rich man’s house. They had a big bundle, which contained lots of cash, jewels, and other valuable articles. They saw Raghuram sitting in the verandah. “Here is a hefty fellow. We can make him carry the heavy bundle. They put the bundle on his head and told him, “Walk with us, or else we shall trash you.”

Raghuram, without any protest, went with them carrying the heavy load. He continued chanting ‘Ram, Ram’ all the way. At the end of the street, three police officers were doing their beats. The robbers got frightened. They ran away.

Raghuram was left alone with the bundle on his head. He did not run away. He stood there chanting ‘Ram, Ram’. The police opened the bundle and discovered the loot. They were happy thinking they had caught the robber red-handed. They marched Raghuram to the police station. He was kept in the lock-up that night. Next morning the police produced Raghuram and the bundle before the Magistrate. They charged Raghuram with the robbery.

The news of Raghuram’s robbery charges quickly spread in the village. Men, women, and children rushed to the court in wonder. “How could he commit any robbery?” they speculated.

The Magistrate also had heard of Raghuram. He too could not associate robbery with this peaceful-looking weaver. However, the police had caught him with the bundle. Anyway, the Magistrate pondered, “I will not punish this man until I am sure he has committed the robbery. Let me ask him for his own explanation.”

The Magistrate asked the prisoner, “Tell the court what exactly happened.”

All the while, Raghuram was standing as if he was in another world. His lips were continuously moving, uttering ‘Ram, Ram’. No one who saw his face would think he was a criminal.

Raghuram now turned to the Magistrate and told him in a clear voice. “Your Lordship, by Lord Sri Rama’s will, I was sitting in my verandah. By Lord Sri Rama’s will, some robbers came that way, By Lord Sri Rama’s will, they put their bundle on by head and made me walk with them. By Lord Sri Rama’s will, there were some police officers ahead. By Lord Sri Rama’s will, the robbers ran away. By Lord Sri Rama’s will, the police arrested me, and kept in the lock-up. By Lord Sri Rama’s will, they have produced me before you. By Lord Sri Rama’s will, you want to punish me.”

Tears began to flow down the cheeks of the magistrate. This man was so utterly like a child. He had nothing to hide. He was not calculating or clever in the usual sense. His trust in God was absolute. He must be not punished but worshipped.

The Magistrate said in open court, “I am convinced this man is innocent. I discharge him. Let him be set free.”

Raghuram joined his palms before the Magistrate and told him, “By Lord Sri Rama’s will, you have set me free.”

The huge crowd assembled in the court shouted “Jai Ram, Victory to Lord Sri Rama.” They took him procession back to his home.

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa once said, “More are the names of God and infinite are the forms through which He may be approached. In whatever name and form you worship Him, through them you will realize Him.”

Recommended Books

Related Posts

  1. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Roundup of Hindu Parables
  2. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Thagya and Vairagya or the Parable of Akbar and the Fakir
  3. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Devotion & Consecration or the Parable of the Milkmaid
  4. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: The Vastness of God’s Creation or the Parable of the Frog in the Well
  5. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Devotion and Grace or the Parable of Devicharan and Sarvamangala

Three Ways to Use AutoHotKey to Rock Your Firefox Experience

AutoHotkey Numeric Keypad for Firefox

We are devoted aficionados of AutoHotkey, an open-source scripting language that can be used to religiously automate repetitive tasks on the Microsoft Windows operating system tasks and save time. AutoHotkey primarily works by overriding the default key commands on any software that runs on Windows. The core of AutoHotkey is a custom scripting language that can help define keyboard shortcuts or hotkeys.

If the keyboard on your Windows computer has a numeric keypad, you can use the keys on the numeric keypad to assist you with using the Firefox browser. By installing and running these scripts to scroll and close tabs, you don’t need to move your hands a long way from the mouse. Here are three simple scripts.

Scroll Down a Firefox Page using the ‘Add’ Key on the Numeric Keypad

This simple script substitutes the ‘Page Down’ key with the ‘Add’ key on the numeric keypad, thus helping you scroll down on Firefox pages.

NumpadAdd::
        Send {PgDn}
Return

Scroll Up a Firefox Page using the ‘Subtract’ Key on the Numeric Keypad

This simple script substitutes the ‘Page Up’ key with the ‘Subtract’ key on the numeric keypad, thus helping you scroll up on Firefox pages.

NumpadSub::
        Send {PgUp}
Return

Close a Firefox Tab using the ‘Pause’ Key

This simple script substitutes the ‘Control + F4’ key combination with the ‘Pause’ key on your keypad, thus helping you close the current tab in the Firefox application.

Pause::
        Send ^{F4}
Return

This AutoHotkey Script Needs ‘MozillaWindowClass’

To restrict the customization of these special keys just to the Firefox browser, you will need to an #IfWinActive block with the ahk_class set to MozillaWindowClass. Here is the full script. Actually, MozillaWindowClass refers to any window in any Mozilla application; hence you will notice that these shortcuts work on the Mozilla Thunderbird email application as well.

#IfWinActive ahk_class MozillaWindowClass
        Pause::
                Send ^{F4}
        Return
        NumpadAdd::
                Send {PgDn}
        Return
        NumpadSub::
                Send {PgUp}
        Return
#IfWinActive

For a basic introduction to the utility of AutoHotkey and a tutorial on installing AutoHotkey and compiling AutoHotkey scripts, see this useful YouTube video or this orderly guide from howtogeek.

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Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: The Vastness of God’s Creation or the Parable of the Frog in the Well

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836–1886,) the eminent Hindu mystic of 19th-century India, used stories and parables to portray the core elements of his philosophy. The meaning of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa’s stories and parables are usually not explicitly stated. The meanings are not intended to be mysterious or confidential but are, in contrast, quite uncomplicated and obvious.

In the Hindu and other traditions of the major religions of the world, parables form the language of the wise for enlightening the simple, just as well as they form the language of the simple for enlightening the wise.

The Parable of the Frog in the Well

A frog lived in a well. It had lived there for a long time. It was born and brought up there. Moreover, it was a small little frog.

One day another frog that lived in the sea came upon the first frog. The frog of the well asked the newcomer, “Whence are you?”

The frog of the sea replied, “I am from the sea.”

The frog of the well questioned, “The sea! How big is that?”

The frog of the sea said, “It is very big.”

The frog of the well stretched its legs and questioned, “Ah! Is your sea so big?”

The frog of the sea said, “It is much bigger.”

The frog of the well then took a leap from one side of the well to the other and asked, “Is it as big as this, my well?”

“My friend,” said the frog of the sea, “how can you compare the sea with your well?”

The frog of the well asserted, “No, there can never be anything bigger than my well. Indeed, nothing can be bigger than this! This fellow is a liar, he must be turned out.”

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa concluded, “Such is the case with every narrow-minded man. Sitting in his own little well, he thinks that the whole world is no bigger than his well.”

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa once said, “If you first fortify yourself with the true knowledge of the Universal Self, and then live in the midst of wealth and worldliness, surely they will in no way affect you.”

Recommended Books

Related Posts

  1. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Roundup of Hindu Parables
  2. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Omnipresence or The Parable of Ganesh and the Divine Mother
  3. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Desire and Indulgence or the Parable of the Barber and the Seven Jars of Greed
  4. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Devotion & Consecration or the Parable of the Milkmaid
  5. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Devotion and Grace or the Parable of Devicharan and Sarvamangala

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Omnipresence or The Parable of Ganesh and the Divine Mother

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836–1886,) the eminent Hindu mystic of 19th-century India, used stories and parables to portray the core elements of his philosophy. The meaning of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa’s stories and parables are usually not explicitly stated. The meanings are not intended to be mysterious or confidential but are, in contrast, quite uncomplicated and obvious.

In the Hindu and other traditions of the major religions of the world, parables form the language of the wise for enlightening the simple, just as well as they form the language of the simple for enlightening the wise.

Once Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was asked why he did not lead the life of a householder with his wife. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa is supposed to have related the following story.

The Parable of Ganesh and the Divine Mother

One day, Lord Ganesh (son of Lord Shiva) happened to scratch a cat with his nail.

Upon returning home, Lord Ganesh observed that there was a mark of a scratch on the cheek of his divine mother, Goddess Parvati. Seeing this Lord Ganesh asked her, “Mother, how did you get this ugly scar on your cheek?”

Goddess Parvati, regarded in Hindu mythology as the Mother of the universe, replied, “This is the work of your hand; it is the scratch of your nail, Ganesh.”

Lord Ganesh asked in wonder, “How is it, Mother? I do not remember to have scratched you at any time.”

The Mother replied, “Darling, have you forgotten the fact of your having scratched a cat, this morning?”

Lord Ganesh said “Yes, I did scratch a cat, but how did your cheek get the scar?”

The Mother replied, “Dear child, nothing exists in this world but me. The whole creation is I; whomsoever you may hurt you only hurt me.”

Lord Ganesh was greatly surprised to hear this and then he determined never to marry. For, whom could he marry? Every woman was mother to him. Realizing thus the motherhood of woman, he gave up marriage.

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa concluded, “I am like Lord Ganesh. I consider every woman as my Divine Mother.”

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa once said, “A devotee who can call on God while living a householder’s life is a hero indeed. God thinks: ‘He is blessed indeed who prays to me in the midst of his worldly duties. He is trying to find me, overcoming a great obstacle — pushing away, as it were, a huge block of stone weighing a ton. Such a man is a real hero.'”

Recommended Books

Related Posts

  1. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Roundup of Hindu Parables
  2. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Divine Grace or the Parable of Jatila and Madhusudhan
  3. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Devotion & Consecration or the Parable of the Milkmaid
  4. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: The Vastness of God’s Creation or the Parable of the Frog in the Well
  5. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Tells Stories: Providence & God’s Will or The Parable of Raghuram and Lord Sri Rama’s Will

The Very Best of GS Elevator Gossip’s Tweets

Goldman Sachs Logo If you think twitter is just a waste of time, think again. One could argue that twitter is first and foremost just noise and clutter—merely, one more time drain. Twitter can actually be good for something beyond revealing, in less than 140 characters, your whereabouts, posting unintelligent commentary, or which of your friends needs to get out more.

Consider @GSElevator, GS Elevator Gossip, a twitter account. Obscuring the thin line between the hysterically preposterous and extremely realistic, this twitter claims to dish the dirt on the happenings in the elevators at Goldman Sachs’s offices. “The first few were either conversations that I have overheard directly, or that have been told to me by colleagues,” he claims in this interview with NYT’s Deal Book column.

Here’s a sampling of some of the very best of GS Elevator Gossip’s tweets:

  • The most and least successful people all share the same trait: thinking they’re never wrong.
  • Don’t worry, some people are their own punishment in life.
  • #1: A lot of people who start their own business do it because they’re unemployable.
    #2: Yup. Look at Meredith Whitney.
  • Most people don’t understand that God cast them as extras in this movie.
  • You’ll never feel special if 100% of your friends are in the top 1%.
  • Handshakes and tie knots. I don’t have time for someone who can’t master those basic skills.
  • Relationships are like a seesaw. If one of you gets too bored or too fat, the fun is over.
  • The difference between us and everybody else is that, even in a bad year, we still make the playoffs.
  • Listening is part waiting for your turn to speak and part reminding yourself to change facial expressions every 10 seconds.
  • Only idiots get bored when we’ve all got handheld devices containing infinite knowledge at our fingertips.
  • Before people are allowed to opine about Syria, they should have to locate it on a map.
  • Too many people are smart enough to be angry, but not smart enough to be successful.
  • 'What Would Machiavelli Do? The Ends Justify the Meanness ' by Stanley Bing (ISBN 0066620104) Let’s be honest. There’s no way your guess is as good as mine.
  • Don’t apologize for being late with a Starbucks latte in your hand.
  • Most celebrities barely have high school diplomas so who gives a shit what they think on substantive issues.
  • And sometimes, people who don’t say much, don’t say much for a reason.
  • It’s okay to trade the possibility of your 80s and 90s for more guaranteed fun in your 20s and 30s.
  • 98% of people making comments about Nelson Mandela on social media would fail a history quiz on Nelson Mandela.
  • I never said I was better than anyone, just more successful.
  • When I hear, “Got a minute?” I know I’m about to lose a half hour of my life that I can never get back.
  • I never give money to homeless people. I can’t reward failure in good conscience.
  • I don’t even remember how I managed to ignore my wife at dinner before the Blackberry era.
  • Checking your phone after someone else pulls out their phone is the yawn of our generation.
  • Date women outside your social set. You’ll be surprised.
  • In life, as in sports, the boos always come from the cheap seats.
  • 'The Dilbert Principle: A Cubicle's-Eye View of Bosses, Meetings, Management Fads & Other Workplace Afflictions' by Scott Adams (ISBN 0887308589) It’s not the lie that bothers me. It’s the insult to my intelligence that I find offensive.
  • Do 50 push-ups, sit-ups, and dips before you shower each morning.
  • Some of the best moments in life are the ones you can’t tell anyone about.
  • Being spotted in economy class must be like having your parents visit you at boarding school in a shitty rental car.
  • Pretty women who are unaccompanied want you to talk to them.
  • For people who believe everything happens for a reason, that reason is that they’re idiots who make shitty decisions.
  • Act like you’ve been there before. It doesn’t matter if it’s in the end zone at the Super Bowl or on a private plane.
  • You shouldn’t retire until your money starts making more money than you made in your best year.
  • Money might not buy happiness, but I’ll take my chances!
  • I start every cell conversation with “my phone’s about to die” so they don’t waste my time.
  • I doubt alcohol kills more people than it creates.
  • There are only 2 paths to happiness in life. Stupidity or exceptional wealth.
  • If life’s a game, money is how you keep score.
  • 'Crazy Bosses' by Stanley Bing (ISBN 0060731575) Clearly the NSA doesn’t monitor Facebook. That’s where all the experts are solving this Government standoff.
  • Black Friday is the Special Olympics of Capitalism.
  • People who always fly business class don’t post photos of themselves flying business class.
  • Skirt #1: I can always tell a banker within the first 2 minutes of meeting him in a bar… because he tells me.
  • Feminists are just ugly underachievers who need an excuse for their failures.
  • It’s too bad stupidity isn’t painful.
  • Flowers and an apology are a lot easier than actually changing.
  • If she expects the person you are 20% of the time, 100% of the time, then she doesn’t want you.
  • There are no feminists when the ship hits an iceberg.
  • You can never awaken a man who Is pretending to be asleep.
  • Bribery, corruption… It’s the cost of doing business in emerging markets. As Mao said, “no fish can live in pure water.”
  • Stop talking about where you went to college.
  • I don’t care if any one comes to my funeral. It’s not like I’ll be there.
  • '21 Dirty Tricks at Work: How to Beat the Game of Office Politics' by Mike Phipps, Colin Gautrey (ISBN 1841126578) Too many people still answer the phone like they don’t know who’s calling.
  • If you abstain from smoking, drinking, and using drugs, you don’t actually live longer. It just seems longer.
  • #1: “The only reason I have a home phone is so I can find my cell phone.”
    #2: “Our maid does that.”
  • If you brag about starting at the bottom and making it to the top, you are probably still closer to the bottom.
  • The fact that most people are too stupid to know how dumb they really are is the fabric holding our society together.
  • The difference between petting and hitting a dog is it’s tolerance for pain. Same goes for 1st year analysts.
  • The Cheesecake Factory looks like a restaurant poor people think rich people might eat at.
  • I’d rather be me now, than have been the quarterback in high school.
  • If you love something, set it free. If it comes back, it tried to do better, but decided to just settle with you.
  • Don’t confuse friends, work friends, and friends of convenience.
  • Talent hits a target no one else can hit; genius hits a target no one else can see.
  • Getting an idea around is as important as getting an idea.
  • If riding the bus doesn’t incentivize you to improve your station in life, nothing will.
  • 'Throwing the Elephant: Zen and the Art of Managing Up' by Stanley Bing (ISBN 0060934220) The lottery is just a way of taxing poor people who don’t know math.
  • In sensitivity training, they say we should avoid sports analogies bc they’re sexist… Which seems even more sexist.
  • It’s sweet how my wife thinks the silent treatment is a punishment for me.
  • Getting rich isn’t hard. Any hot girl with questionable morals can do it.
  • Work hard. Eat right. Exercise. Don’t drink too much. And only buy what you can afford. It’s not rocket science.
  • Guys who mime golf swings in the office never break 100 on the course.
  • One of the biggest problems with todays society is that we’ve run out of colonies to send our undesirables to.
  • I wish I loved anything as much as I hate almost everything.
  • Truly intelligent people don’t feel compelled to talk about their IQ. In fact, I don’t even know what mine is.
  • #1: “A year from now, he’ll be the guy that starts off every sentence with “When I was at Goldman Sachs …””
    #2: “I hate those people.”
  • “Just be yourself” is good advice to probably 5% of people.
  • Blacking out is just your brain clearing it’s browser history.
  • If you can’t dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bullshit.
  • Remember, “rules are for the obedience of fools and the guidance of wise men.”
  • 'How to Lie with Statistics' by Darrell Huff (ISBN 0393310728) Skirt #1: “It really hurts my feelings when an ugly guy hits on me.”
  • When you tell a story, all I can think about is how much shorter it should be.
  • Right now is the oldest you’ve ever been & the youngest you’ll ever be again.
  • If you can only be good at one thing, be good at lying… because if you’re good at lying, you’re good at everything.
  • Most people wouldn’t even be the main character in a movie about their own lives.
  • My favorite part of dinner with my fiance is when she goes to the bathroom and I can check my Blackberry.
  • I say “keep the change” purely for my own convenience.

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