The Doctrine of Avatara and the Anthropogeocentric Perspective of Hinduism
The Doctrine of Avatara and the Anthropogeocentric Perspective of Hinduism
The doctrine of Avatara, a concept often misunderstood or misrepresented, plays a crucial role in Hindu cosmic and moral philosophy. Contrary to the popular misconception that it prescribes a specific theological stance, the doctrine of Avatara is an explanatory mechanism, rooted in mathematical models and metaphysical realities, that describes the relationship between the ultimate divine essence, ParamAtma, and individual souls, jeevAtma. This article explores how Hinduism’s view of divinity and creation aligns with an anthropogeocentric perspective, where the focus is on the direct involvement of the divine in earthly affairs.
Understanding Avatara as a Mathematical Model
The concept of Avatara is frequently mischaracterized as a ‘doctrine’ or belief rather than the intricate mathematical and metaphysical model it truly is. According to Hindu shastras, the supreme ParamAtma, or the divinity, is not a separate entity but an integral part of the creation itself. This fundamental belief posits that all qualities, attributes, and excellences observed in individuals are manifestations of the divine potency, headquartered in ParamAtma.
This perspective is encapsulated in the Bhagavad Gita, a text revered in Hinduism. It states that all human qualities, such as intellect, knowledge, and truthfulness, are merely expressions of ParamAtma. Therefore, when one claims an attribute, they are actually acknowledging the presence and expression of the divine within themselves. For instance, Sri Krishna ParamAtma declares:
From Me alone arise the varieties of qualities in humans such as intellect, knowledge, clarity of thought, forgiveness, truthfulness, control over the senses and mind, joy and sorrow, birth and death, fear and courage, non-violence, equanimity, contentment, austerity, charity, fame, and infamy.
This declaration underscores the pervasive presence of ParamAtma in human life and highlights the inseparability of the divine from the material world.
The Mathematical Description of ParamAtma
The relationship between ParamAtma and the jeevAtma can be described using mathematical models. This is because ParamAtma, the ultimate essence, manifests in varying degrees of potency through the jeevAtma. Sri Krishna ParamAtma further elucidates this concept:
Therefore if I can claim to be “an intelligent person” it is not by my own intelligence—that rather it is the intelligence of the ParamAtma that shines through my intellect and expresses itself.
The classification of an Avatara is based on the degree of the divine potency it manifests. Unlike the Abrahamic religions, which posit a detached and separate ‘God’, Hinduism inherently views the divine presence as an integral and omnipresent part of all creation. This makes Hinduism an anthropogeocentric belief system, where the divine directly interacts with and cares for the Earth and its inhabitants.
The Application of Anthropogeocentric Perspective in Hinduism
The anthropogeocentric view in Hinduism extends to ethical and moral guidelines. The belief that ParamAtma is not only present but also intimately connected with material affairs means that actions have direct consequences on the divine. As Sri Krishna ParamAtma states:
He feels the pain of what they do in His own supreme awareness. That karma of torturing others is recorded by your higher Self and reflected back at you in the future that you may know the folly of what you do.
This perspective encourages a strong sense of responsibility and empathy. It suggests that every individual’s actions, particularly those that harm or benefit others, are felt directly by the divine. Hence, the act of protecting and preserving the Earth is not only beneficial for humanity but also a spiritual duty towards the ParamAtma.
The pesticide-laden produce, deforestation, and every form of environmental degradation are direct assaults on the ParamAtma. Even the mistreatment of animals, such as cows, which are considered sacred in Hinduism, is seen as a violation of divine law. Through the lens of the anthropogeocentric perspective, every life form is interconnected and has a purpose in the grand scheme of existence.
Concluding Thoughts
The doctrine of Avatara, when correctly understood, offers a profound and inclusive view of the divine that goes beyond the anthropocentric and geocentric frameworks. It posits a worldview where the divine is not only present but actively engaged in the lives of individuals and the functioning of the Earth. This anthropogeocentric perspective underscores a deep sense of responsibility and interconnectedness, fostering a holistic approach to living, ethics, and ecology. Understanding this perspective is crucial for a comprehensive appreciation of the spiritual and philosophical tenets of Hinduism.