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Srimad Bhagavatham

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Bhattathity M P • November 30, 2002 


Where did religion originate from?

The Srimad Bhagavata Purana describes the origin of religion as follows:

dharmam tu sakshad bhagavat-pranitam
"True religion (dharma) is enacted directly by God." Thus it becomes
impossible to trace out the history of religion based on archaeological or
anthropological evidence. Since God is beyond the
perception of the material senses, it is impossible to try to study or
measure Him based on matter.

The Vedic texts, which are the basis of religion (dharma), exist eternally
in the ethereal space. Through meditation one can begin to hear the
recitation of vedic mantras everywhere. The vedic mantras are the foundation
of matter. If you can trace out the origin of matter, you will be close to
the origin of religion.

If you look for the origin of religion based on modern concepts of history
you will fail in your attempt. Though you may come to a conclusion, it will
not be based on knowledge (vidya), and thus such an endeavour is ultimately
a waste.






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