I join Ram Temple celebration on Mana TV/TV 5's Community Special with Jyotsna

On August 5th 2020 I joined with Mana TV/TV5 on the Community Special with Jyotsna to celebrate the laying of the Ram Temple. Video below. 

Indian Hindu LGBTQs need to disintegrate their Leftist image... how?

In the West and in India political turmoil is brewing and boiling faster every day. Perhaps the only reason we are not seeing violence in the streets yet is because the older generation is still in charge, the Indian version of the American Baby Boomers if you will. It might not be all that far away when both younger Leftists and the younger less understanding elements of the Right, even though they are both minorities, will turn to violence to accomplish their goals... revolutions are always started and led by small minorities. The social and verbal violence is already here, we don't need for things to get physically violent for us to understand that LGBTQs are already caught in the crossfire of the confrontation... but why?

Being LGBTQ in the West and being LGBTQ in India are two very different things, but there are similarities. What is the main difference between being LGBTQ in the West and being LGBTQ in India? The West for more than 1,000 years has been built upon the edifice of Christianity. As hopefully most Hindus know, despite the stupid coverup and silence by hypocritical Indian Leftists, the Bible is most definitely anti-LGBTQ. The Old Testament in the law book of Leviticus makes it clear that homosexuality is an abomination and that homosexuals should be killed:

"You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination." Leviticus 18: 22

"If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them." Leviticus 20:13

In the New Testament, Apostle Paul makes it a requirement to refrain from "sexual immorality" to become a Christian, and homosexuality is admonished throughout the New Testament:

"Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood." - Acts 15:20

“That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.” Romans 1:26-27

“Don’t you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don’t fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” - 1 Corinthians 6:9-11

“We know that the law is good when used correctly. For the law was not intended for people who do what is right. It is for people who are lawless and rebellious, who are ungodly and sinful, who consider nothing sacred and defile what is holy, who kill their father or mother or commit other murders. The law is for people who are sexually immoral, or who practice homosexuality, or are slave traders, liars, promise breakers, or who do anything else that contradicts the wholesome teaching that comes from the glorious Good News entrusted to me by our blessed God.” - 1 Timothy 1:8-11

Homosexuality is also strongly admonished in the Muslim Quran, and in the Hadiths homosexuals are called to be killed and driven out of their houses. For the quotes below "people of Lot" means the people of Sodom and Ghammora (homosexuals).

"And (We sent) Lot when he said to his people: What! do you commit an indecency which any one in the world has not done before you? Most surely you come to males in lust besides females; nay you are an extravagant people. And the answer of his people was no other than that they said: Turn them out of your town, surely they are a people who seek to purify (themselves). So We delivered him and his followers, except his wife; she was of those who remained behind. And We rained upon them a rain; consider then what was the end of the guilty." - Sura 7:80–84 

"Narrated by Abdullah ibn Abbas: The Prophet said: If you find anyone doing as Lot's people did, kill the one who does it, and the one to whom it is done." — Sunan Abu Dawood, 38:4447, Al-Tirmidhi, 17:1456, Ibn Maajah, 20:2561

"Narrated Abdullah ibn Abbas: If a man who is not married is seized committing sodomy he will be stoned to death." — Sunan Abu Dawood, 38:4448

It was narrated that Ibn 'Abbaas said: "The Prophet said: "... cursed is the one who does the action of the people of Lot." — Musnad Ahmad:1878

"Ahmad narrated from Ibn 'Abbas that the Prophet of Allah said: "May Allah curse the one who does the action of the people of Lot, may Allah curse the one who does the action of the people of Lot," three times." — Musnad Ahmad: 2915 

"Narrated by Abdullah ibn Abbas: The Prophet cursed effeminate men; those men who are in the similitude (assume the manners of women) and those women who assume the manners of men, and he said, "Turn them out of your houses." The Prophet turned out such-and-such man, and 'Umar turned out such-and-such woman." — Sahih al-Bukhari, 7:72:774

 It is this backdrop in which the West as we know it developed. Hatred for homosexuality was and still is ingrained in the culture of the West, in many places until recently it was classified as a crime. Why are Western homosexuals so uppity about being visible and gaining all rights and privileges held by the heterosexuals? Because in the West homosexuals were and still are socially harassed. 

From birth, if he is effeminite, the homosexual male (or masculine female) is cursed to be misunderstood, less loved, chastised, and even despised by relatives and associates. People who hate homosexuals try to claim that homosexuals are never socially harassed by any significant portion of the population and the only reason there is any animosity toward them is because they "throw it in people's faces". First of all, many of these people consider ANY visible homosexuality as throwing it in people's faces, while they allow and maintain visible heterosexuality. Secondly, while heterosexuals are allowed to bring up spouses, lovers, children, weddings, anniversaries and any heterosexual engagement at any point in time in a conversation... because these things can naturally arise during any discussion... yet those who hate LGBTQs take any mention of them being gay in the same reasonable circumstance as throwing your homosexuality in their face. 

The level of stupidity and hypocrisy the Western (and modern Indian) homosexual has to go through is endless. Homosexual children often go to great lengths to hide their homosexuality as best as they can, but for those who are naturally effeminate and male, this is virtually impossible. While they would never bring up homosexuality so as to avoid the topic, everywhere s/he goes the young LGBTQ is accused of being homosexual and taunted, even though s/he denies it. These same people who will endlessly mock and bring up homosexuality in front of the attempting to hide LGBTQ, these same people will accuse gays of bringing up homosexuality all the time and throwing it in people face. 

The truth of the matter is that the homosexual or LGBTQ is bombarded with speech and gesture about just how homosexual they are, even if they deny it and never bring it up themselves. What happens is that when the LGBTQ grows older and accepts himself/herself, then they say.. "yeah, I am gay!" What others use to say in jest now the LGBTQ says in accepting defense. Homosexuals are not "proud" they are homosexuals, they are proud that they have accepted themselves despite social pressures. Everyone else has made such a big deal about just how gay we are for our whole lives... so yeah, now we are going to make a bid deal about it, and we are going to let you know that we don't care what others think. Yes, we are a minority and yes we are socially repressed often, and like all minorities, we are more vocal to compensate for the injury and pain and to ward off further attacks. The taunted child LGBQT grows up to be the fiercest advocate for the protection of gay children in schools and for programs to foster their acceptance. 

I would like to say the push for gay marriage is only because heterosexuals get financial, insurance, and hospital visit rights under the system, not to mention the social recognition of their relationship. LQBTQs want to be on one another's insurances, they want hospital visit right, and they want to file joint taxes. They want society to acknowledge their commitment to one another just as much as they acknowledge those of heterosexuals. The issue arises when LQBTQs overcompensate and demand to have access to religious ceremonies from religions that reject them. LGBTQs should have no interest in getting married in a Church or a Mosque or having a Christian bake them a cake, homosexuals are foolishly attempting to reform an unreformable movement. However, this overcompensation only exists because of their previous persecution... LGBTQs are complexed. 

But the homosexual needs allies, s/he is a small minority and without allies they would succumb to the weigh of hatred and torture which could easily retake society, especially a society which was built upon Abrahamism. Well guess what, there are plenty of groups and individuals who make sure to make it known to everyone that homosexuals are not welcome amongst them. I am not saying all heterosexuals in the American or Indian right act like this, but there are enough of them to color the community in a certain shade. While things have changed in the mainstream right of America, until recently and even still, homosexuals were generally not viewed with pleasure within the traditionally Christain conservative movement. Now it is almost 100% true (but not totally true) that LGBTQs are certainly not welcome in far-right movements in America, particularly those that cater to Whites, even Pagan far-right movements. These people often use harsh and humiliating language against homosexuals and some even call for them to be killed or injured. These same people will then tell the homosexual that homophobia does not exist and that we just have a persecution complex; anti-homosexual are usually very unscrupulous people who also have no problem tormenting women, children, and racial minorities in this same way, a denial of their reality and experience, and so they turn everyone into an enemy. 

First the homosexual is pushed out of sectors of society... but then the Left comes in and not only accepts them but wants to make them part of the machinery of destroying the system which wounded them. The LQBTQ generally gains a wide distaste for broad society because we must admit, anti-homosexuality is not a small problem, it is huge, perhaps not most but many many many people harbor deep hatreds for homosexuals which they have integrated into society and which they are trying to resurge. The LGBTQ was hounded out by half of society and had no other refuge but the Left, and so they become endeared to the cause and LQBTQs make up some of the most fanatical Leftists. It was generally Leftists heterosexuals who accepted them, there are plenty of right-wing heterosexuals who are accepting, it is just the homophobic streaks in the community cloud the waters.

The solutions for dealing with the LGBTQ question is the West is going to be much different than solving a similar but different problem for LGBTQs in Hinduism and India. What is the difference between anti-homosexuality in India, especially within some (not all) of Hindutva, and what has happened in the West? The most important aspect is that ancient Hindu society was not built upon a vicious hatred for homosexuals. Vedic literature makes it clear that LGBTQs were not generally harassed in ancient India and even enjoyed protections from being mocked in public. Hindu medical texts acknowledge that certain persons, though born one sex, display even physical attributes of the other sex, and these are given special designations of different degrees of "3rd sex" which is acknowledge to have been determined in the womb and even by astrology. Here is a list of some of what the Vedic literature says about LQBTQs, but I would like to add that the Kama Sutra does mention that some people did not accept homosexuality personally or socially, it was one thing to have an opinion, it was another to force it upon others (there were also some anti-LGBTQ laws in certain smritis, but that was regional and not systemic):

Vedic Sources On Homosexuality & Gender

List retrieved from the Gay & Lesbian Vaishnava Association 
https://www.galva108.org/

1) Three categories of sex or gender are mentioned throughout the Vedic canon—virile males, fertile females, and an impotent third sex having both male and female qualities. (Srimad Bhagavatam 8.3.24, Manusmriti 3.49, Sushruta Samhita 3.3.4)

2) Vedic texts contain important lists defining third-gender men (napumsa, kliba, shandha, panda, etc.). These lists cite many different types of men considered impotent with women and include homosexuals, transgenders, the intersexed, and so on. Simplistic English translations such as eunuch, neuter, hermaphrodite, etc. are inaccurate and in most cases incorrect. (Narada-smriti 12.12-13, Sushruta Samhita 3.2.36-43, Caraka Samhita 4.2.17-21, Kamatantra, Smriti-ratnavali, Sabda-kalpa-druma, etc.)

3) The primary definition of third-gender people is that they are not sexually procreative and do not beget offspring, being either physically impotent or devoid of any desire for the opposite sex. (Naradasmriti 12.8-19)

4) People who are impotent with the opposite sex by nature and birth are known as tritiya-prakriti— people of the third nature or sex. They have both male and female qualities and are described as homosexual, transgender and intersexed. (Kama Sutra 2.9, Sushruta Samhita 3.2.36-43, Caraka Samhita 4.2.17-21)

5) All three sexes (male, female and third sex) are biologically determined at the time of conception. (Sushruta Samhita 3.3.4, Manusmriti 3.49)

6) Vedic medical texts (the Ayur Shastra) specifically mention how third-sex conditions (homosexuality, transgender identity and intersex) are caused at the time of conception. (Sushruta Samhita 3.2.38, Sushruta Samhita 3.2.42-43, Caraka Samhita 4.4.31, respectively)

7) The sex of the fetus—whether male, female or third sex—becomes fully manifest during the second month of pregnancy and cannot be changed after that. (Caraka Samhita 4.4.10, 4.8.19)

8) Vedic astrological texts (the Jyotir Shastra) analyze the sex of any child, whether male, female or third sex, through the adhana or conception chart. Various planetary configurations indicate the conception of third-gender offspring. (Brihat Jataka 4.13, Jaimini Sutram 4.3.12, Saravali 8.18-20)

9) The Jyotir Shastra furthermore mentions hundreds of signs in the janma or birth chart indicating thirdgender characteristics such as male and female homosexuality, transgender identity, bisexuality, impotence, sterility and so on. (Bhrigu Sutram 3.54-65, 7.35; Brihat Parasara Hora Sastra 80.5051, Jaimini Sutram 4.3.84, Brihat Jataka 17.3, Garga Hora 465, Jataka Parijata 16.18, respectively)

10) Living entities take birth as male, female and third sex for many different reasons that include desire (kama), past deeds (karma), divine ordinance (daiva) and so on. In any case, Krsna directs material nature and sanctions the birth of all living entities. (Caraka Samhita 4.2, Bhagavad Gita 9.10, 18.61)

11) The Narada-smriti specifically states that homosexuals (mukhebhaga, sevyaka, etc.) are incurable and unfit for marriage to the opposite sex. Bisexuals (paksha) are possibly fit for opposite-sex marriage if confirmed as potent with women through testing. (Narada-smriti 12.11-19)

12) Vedic texts reiterate that women should not be married to third-gender men and that wives should leave such husbands. The same is true for men married to third-gender women. The Artha Shasta nullifies such marriages, returns the dowry and imposes fines whenever a spouse is thus deceived. (Baudhayana Dharmasutra 2.3.17, 27, Artha Shastra 3.15.12-15)

13) The Kama Shastra acknowledges third-gender marriages wherein same-sex couples with “great attachment and complete faith in one another” get married together. (Kama Sutra 2.9.36)

14) Vedic teachings recommend minimizing and moderating the four basic necessities of life (eating, sleeping, mating and defending). Forbidding these entirely, however, is deemed unrealistic and inhumane. Regarding mating, even people outside the varnasrama system are entitled to marry and establish households. (Bhagavad Gita 6.16, Jaiva Dharma, p. 172, Kama Sutra 7.2.59)

15) Vaishnavas should not get married with the desire to beget children or worship their ancestors. Rather, a marriage is considered successful only when it is God-centered and one’s spouse is viewed as a servant of Krsna. This is true despite whatever mundane priests or relatives may say. (Jaiva Dharma, p. 164)

16) Vedic law promotes virtue and sense control but also allows for various regulated expressions of vice such as intoxication, meat-eating, prostitution and gambling, especially among the general public. Total prohibition of vice in society is not the Vedic system. (Srimad Bhagavatam 1.11.19, Manusmriti 5.56, Artha Shastra 2.25, 26, 27; 3.20)

17) No Vedic law specifically penalizes third-gender men or women (napumsa, kliba, etc.) for their characteristic behavior (homosexuality, crossdressing, etc.). The Narada-smriti states that third-gender citizens are not to be fined. (Narada-smriti 15.15)

18) No Vedic law prescribes castration for third-gender men. Rather, it is mentioned only as a punishment for heterosexual adultery and rape. (Manusmriti 8.374, Narada-smriti 12.72-74. Gautama Dharmasutra 12.2)

19) Homosexual behavior among ordinary, twice-born males (pums) is considered a minor offense atoned for by taking a ritual bath or paying relatively small fines. (Manusmriti 11.175, Artha Shastra 4.13.40)

20) Vedic law punishes homosexual behavior among females only when it involves the violation of young unmarried girls (traditionally aged 8 through 12). Such offenses are fined variously and can include corporal punishment. (Manusmriti 8.369-370, Artha Shastra 4.12.20-21)

21) Vedic law books regard heterosexual crimes such as rape, adultery and the propagation of unwanted progeny as the foremost threat to human society (not homosexuality). (Manusmriti 8.364, 352-387, Bhagavad Gita 1.40-41)

22) Parents must provide basic necessities (food, clothing, etc.) to their third-gender offspring according to their means. The king should provide for third-gender citizens without family. (Manusmriti 9.202, Artha Shastra 3.5.32, Vasistha Dharmasutra 19.35-36)

23) It is an offense to vilify or publicly mock people of the third sex. This is punishable by various small fines. (Artha Shastra 3.18.4-5, Manusmriti 28.274, Narada-smriti 15.19)

 24) Third-gender men are foremost determined by testing them with women. (Artha Shastra 3.18.6; Mahabharata, Virata Parva)

25) The Kama Shastra specifically mentions homosexual men, lesbians and transgenders as a third nature or sex (tritiya-prakriti). It describes their various homosexual practices, masculine and feminine types, crossdressing, and traditional occupations as barbers, masseurs, house servants, florists, prostitutes, etc. (Kama Sutra 2.8, 2.9)

26) In the Artha Shastra, third-gender men and women are described working for the king variously as bedroom servants, armed guards, harem supervisors, spies, assassins and so on. (Artha Shastra 1.21.1, 1.20.21, 1.12.21)

27) The Jyotir Shastra associates third-gender men and women with the planets Mercury, Saturn and Ketu; with expertise in the arts and sciences; with asceticism, and with the worship of Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. (Brihat Samhita 16.18-19,Brihat Jataka 2.5-6)

28) The third gender exists throughout the natural and supernatural worlds. Third-gender animals (snakes, elephants, etc.), humans (such as Brihannala) and demigods (such as Sri Ardhanarisvara) are mentioned here and there throughout the Vedic canon. (Sushruta Samhita 5.4.18, 25; Brihat Samhita 67.9-10; Mahabharata; Brihat Samhita 58.43, Prasna Marga15.214)

29) No Vedic texts specifically associate the third sex with Kali Yuga. Rather, texts on omen reading (the Nimitta Shastra) associate creatures of unusual birth and the third sex with prosperity, the special power to bless or curse, and variously as good or bad omens. (Brihat Samhita 46.95, Prasna Marga 3.17, Srila Prabhupada tape #67-002)

30) In the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s appearance as a male-to-female transgender (Brihannala) serves as an important example of the acceptance of third-gender people in Vedic society. Brihannala’s traditional role as a skilled teacher of the fine arts and her acceptance by Maharaja Virata are exemplary. (Mahabharata, Virata Parva)

31) Everyone should work for Krsna or God according to their respective nature (svakarma or svadharma), even if performed imperfectly. To follow another’s path or to artificially suppress one’s nature is considered dangerous and ill advised. (Bhagavad Gita 3.33, 35; 18.45-48)

32) Some law codes in the Dharma Shastra place restrictions on third-gender men and other types of people including women, sudras, artisans, dark-skinned races, etc. Vaishnavas, however, easily reject such mundane codes (naimittika-dharma) when deemed unnecessary or unfavorable in the worship of Krsna. (Jaiva Dharma, p. 54; Bhagavad Gita 18.66)

33) Bodily designations such as gender (male, female or third sex), race, nationality, and so on play no role in determining whether a person is divine or demonic. That is determined by individual qualities and personal behavior alone. (Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 16)

34) Truthfulness, honesty, revealing one’s mind in confidence, compassion, inclusiveness and so on are all important Vaishnava qualities that should be practically applied in cases of third-gender people and issues. (Bhagavad Gita 10.4-5, 16.1-3, Bhagavata Purana 1.17.25, Sri Upadesamrta 4, Krsna book Ch. 24)

35) A spiritually advanced person views everyone equally as part and parcel of Krsna. He never hates anyone. Rather, he is friendly and kind to all creatures. Conversely, mundane religionists discriminate against and exclude others based on bodily differences. (Sri Isopanisad 6, Bhagavata Purana 3.29.2627, Sri Tattva-sutram 35, Bhagavad Gita 5.18, 11.55, 12.13-14)

36) Krsna Himself never hates nor envies anyone. He is equal to all but especially inclined to His devotees. (Bhagavad Gita 9.29, 12.20)

37) Anyone can attain the supreme destination regardless of birth or body type. Vaishnava- or sanatana dharma is very liberal and all living entities have a right to practice it. Anyone can serve Krsna in their natural capacity and chant the holy names whether fit or unfit, strictly following the regulations of bhaktiyoga or not strictly following. (Bhagavad Gita 9.32, 12.9-12, Caitanya-caritamrta 1.9.29, Jaiva Dharma, p. 172)

38) The material world is a reflection of the spiritual world. Every material manifestation (including the third gender) has its pure, original counterpart in spiritual existence. (Bhagavad Gita 15.1, Caitanyacaritamrta 1.4.29, 65; 1.14.62)

If ancient India was accepting of LGBTQs, then where did Indian anti-LGBTQ sentiments come from in the modern era? Now there must be extensive history about how the Islamic invasion brought homophobia to India, but because it would take extensive research to show this in as much detail as would satisfy our enemies, for now I will focus on how the Christain British brought anti-LGBTQ sentiments to India. We all know how within recent years, India overturned the colonial-era Section 377 which outlawed homosexuality in India. While Indian Leftists tried to pin this on Hindutva, homosexuality did not become illegal in India until the arrival of the British, it was a British invention. 

For hundreds of years both Islam and Christianity ruled India and touted Abrahamic monotheism as the superior religion over Hinduism, and many Hindus fell into having an inferiority complex. The culture became much more conservative, it became more obsessed with women covering themselves up, the bare-breasted statues found in Hindu temples were retrofitted with new mythology... they were put there to remind us of what we should not be doing... kind of silly. Indians started trying to act more Victorian than Victorians, and many of them still do. Even though the Indian LGBTQ may now today experience harassment, his/her society was not built upon this and can much more easily be remedied. 

Even though Britain gave up the Indian colony in 1947, the colonial era still infects Indian society in many ways. Yes, Hindus were always free to have opinions against homosexualities, and communities could choose to accept it or not, but anti-LGBTQ sentiments were not a megalith. The Britsh era homophobia however organized homophobia, institutionalized it, polemicized it, universalized it, and otherwise propagated it in Indian society until many Indias and Hindus felt homophobia to represent a superior colonial trait of the oppressors. It is because of this reason that we have seen the springing up of militant, crass, harsh, and mocking anti-homosexuality in some areas of the right-wing in India today. No this does not infect all of Hindutva and there is plenty of Hindutwatis who understand the LGBTQ issue, but there are too many voices screaming out the ugliest versions of homophobia of the general LGBTQ community to feel comfortable or safe within the movement. 

Another problem has been the imitation of the rise of the White right-wing movement in the United States. The White right-wing movement is much more uniform in its disdain for homosexuals and much more bellicose and violent in its language. So many in the younger Hindutva crowd have seen the White right-wing as an inspiration and follow their lead. They are also taking on other negative traits from the modern White right-wing like confronting feminism in a dark and threatening manner with that "get back to the kitchen" attitude... they are making sure that women feel threatened like they are not going to like their life under the new Hindutva auspices... they are doing the same to LGBTQs... "you are not going to like it when we are in charge". This is a counter-productive trait in the White right-wing movement that only gains them many enemies within their own ranks. Even if not all or most of younger Hindutva is like this, there is enough for concern. 

I am not an Indian homosexual, and I cannot understand the situation fully, but there is commonality in the struggle of all LGBTQs, India is unique, but not so different that other people can't understand or give advice. Homophobia is a recent and foreign invention in India, though it is certainly still truly felt by LGBTQs living there. The problem is that the LGBTQ community has not thought this through thoroughly, though they cannot be blamed as they are desperate. LGBTQs went running to the Left because that is the place where they found the most acceptance. But what is the Left? 

The Left claims to accept everyone, that they are here to help minorities escape any feelings if discontent they may have. This post is not about the structure of Leftism, but for those who can see it, Leftism creates a structure where no one person or group of people would ever have the power to replace or overthrow the Leftist government. Leftists governments can be just as corrupt and even racist and homophobic as any other government. But when there is a level of free enterprise (I believe in the ancient Hindu guild system and not capitalism) and groups are allowed to organize their community in ways they see fit, then certain communities and individuals can rise in power high enough to fight off governmental tyranny which always happens in centralized Leftism, because the government has too much power and oversight. They use protecting minorities as an excuse, even homophobic minorities like Islam and Christianity.

The problem arises when LGBTQs notice that those people and groups, if unregulated, who could challenge the government, are anti-LGBTQ. What are LGBTQs to do if they see the factions which is fighting Leftism to be too saturated with homophobia for the LGBTQs taste? The solution to this problem is to make the general society, as well as those right-wing elements which oppose Leftism, to be less anti-LGBTQ. How would this be done? The solution is many-fold but all solutions ask the LGBTQs to take all of the initiatives and to be the mature people in the situation. 

First, the LGBTQs need to be mature enough to see that any and all anti-LGBTQ sentiments which are organized in modern Indian society come from Abrahamic influence. I know that is not an excuse for individual people's behavior, but that is where it stems from, not from Hindu society proper. What the Left does is it turns you against the general society, the general idea which created the society. In the USA this is easier since the society was built upon Christianity, even I say the USA must change in a fundamental way, the struggle for LGBTQs here is just a little different. But Indian Hindu LGBTQs don't need to change Hindu society fundamentally, they just need to weed out those elements which have crept in from the outside, to extricate the poison. If this becomes your attitude you will automatically notice you have become at odds with the Left, because they want to change the society on a basic level, they want to uproot what had once been good for homosexuals only because it has been corrupted, they are not interested repairing it but totally replacing it with a system that if it becomes entrenched, there is very little hope of removing it when it does inevitably become corrupt from too much central power and incursion. 

How do Indian Hindu LGBTQs change the tempo of Hindutva so as to remove those elements which make the general LBGTQ community feel threatened and as though they have no other refuge than the Left? At the moment, it is likely the majority of LGBTQs will stay with the Left, but as I have stated before revolutions are often led by minorities. Minorities need to speak louder and work harder to be noticed. The fact of the matter is there are plenty and not few homosexuals in India who have seen through the fog of Abrahamism and have noticed that Hinduism proper is not a threat to him or her. They have also seen that if Leftists had their way, perhaps when they came to power, there would be little ability to thwart them when they became corrupt. The Left makes less power for the individual and more power for those who are administrating the collective, a collective which they don't mind if it is fundamentally, at its base ideology, anti-homosexual (Muslim/Christian).

It needs to start with those minority LGBTQs who understand and see the issue. Their first mission must be to become the most visible and active critics of the Left, but what should they criticize? The Left's hypocrisy! Both the Left in the West and in India are extremely two-faced and hypocritical. They speak of gay rights on one hand, yet they expect gays to be accepting of Islam and in India, Christianity. Islam and Christianity slowly affect society. They are generally an anti-homosexual doctrine and homophobia is central enough that this would be preached in many Mosques and Churches throughout India. The Left NEVER attacks Muslim homophobia and in India, they never hold Christians accountable for this in any way. The Left includes Christianity and Islam without qualifiers, they are never asked to curb their own homophobia... no, it is the minority homosexual who is asked to silently accept this hypocrisy, the Left still treats its minorities like minorities, there are more Muslims and Christians, so they are catered to. 

The first campaign needs to be a general LGBTQ led right-wing front against the generally anti-homosexual nature of Islam and Christianity. Each and every instance of anti-homosexual sentiments in the Christian and Muslim world, particularly those groups within India, must be recorded and highlighted. Homosexuals in India need to set up watch groups to report on the spreading of homophobia out of Mosques and Churches, as well as highlight their generally homophobic doctrines. The minority of right-wing LGBTQs in India must become a bane on the Church and the Mosque, we must become their worse enemies. First, we need to get Hindutva seeing that, and first, we need to get them to recognize we can actually be useful to their cause. We must eventually find Hindutva elements that are willing to silently and even openly support us in this campaign to eradicate Abrahamism from India. We must also get the Abrahamics seeing LGBTQs as enemies, this will help break up the Left' LQBTQ-Muslims alliance... get the Muslims and Christians feeling attacked by LGBTQs and they will fight back with subtle homophobia, breaking the bond.

The second part is a little more difficult and that is to convince those elements of Hindutva who are anti-homosexuals to understand that original Hinduism was much more lenient and less obviously averse to LGBTQs. We need to get them to recognize that certain levels of homophobia actually go against the principles of ancient Hinduism and that by engaging in blanket anti-homosexuality they are actually making India less Hindu and more Muslims/Christian. Hindutva does not need to become PRO-LGBTQ, it just can't be ANTI-LGBTQ, and I don't think that this would be too terribly hard to accomplish once Hindutva sees some LGBTQs as allies. Notice, if the right-wing minority LGBTQs are loud enough and put a dent into Leftist LGBTQ rhetoric, we could be easily recognized as we would stand out. The more viciously anti-Abrahamic the LGBTQs appear, the more they will be accepted in Hindutva and seen as a weapon against the enemy, and the more attention they will get form everyone. But what is most important is to recognize that many many people in Hindutva hold no anti-LGBTQ sentiments, and they can never be painted with a broad brush.

The third step would be to criticize the Left for their blatant hypocrisy. Their silence on the persecution of LGBTQs in Muslim lands and their denunciation in the Churches. Liberal Christian and Muslim movements must be exposed for what they are, smokescreens for their more radical brethren. How dare Christians and Muslims try to hide the obvious anti-LGBTQ sentiments of their religion... no matter how much talk these people give Abrahamic homophobia will always rise to the top, those who preach liberal Christianity are trying to dupe homosexuals into accepting what is no good for them. This is what the Left tolerates. The Left is not stupid, they know the Islamic and Christian doctrine leads to homophobia, but they will never criticize it, because they need numbers, they have sold LGBTQs out. And what exactly is supposed to happen to LGBTQs in India when Muslims and Christians have more power? Wasn't it a Hindu majority nation which repealed Section 377? If India was a Muslim or Christain nation Section 377 would never have been repealed and probably would have only been made worse, like what we see in Pakistan or Bangladesh. How silent is the Left about those murders of LGBTQ activists in Bangladesh? Pindrop silent! This is what we must use against the Left. 

Now it would be irresponsible to end this post without addressing some hard issues that both LGBTQs and Hindtuva must accept and that is there is going to be tension, even among those who are not anti-LGBTQ, against the institutions of gay marriage and adoption. As I have stated, LGBTQs want the same benefits heterosexuals get in terms of inheritance, insurance, taxes, hospital visits and social recognition of their relationships. I have noticed many Indian heterosexuals think of marriage as an institution for raising children, and they have never thought of the peripheral benefits they receive. I am a legally married homosexual living in the United States and I am very appreciative of the services I am provided because of that legal recognition, if it were not for my marriage I would have no health care. Some of the issue arises when religion gets involved rather than just practical terms as some Hindus believe only heterosexual marriage is sacred and meant for the rearing of children and so does not apply to homosexuals... however, not all definitions of marriage need to be religious. Also, there are many things which never existed in Hinduism yet which arrived at different times, different practices, different beliefs different gods. I have heard it argued that Hinduism has no tradition of gay marriage... but there are many traditions which have been incorporated into Hindu society so why not gay marriage? We should not force priests or temples who are against gay marriage to enact ceremonies, but there really should be no conflict in gays getting married in accepting cults of Hinduism. This is something that will need to be further discussed within the community and I think hostility toward the idea will decrease when LGBTQs are recognized as a valuable contribution to the community. Either way, I think it is safe to say that many right-wing LGBTQs, even though they support Hindutva, will still want the benefits of marriage, but this is a debate which can be fought out civilly amongst Hindus themselves and should not impede the plan to pit LGBTQs against Abrahamism first and then by extension Leftism. 

The plan is not too hard to understand. First we must find those Indian Hindu LGBTQs who understand the true nature of Hindu society and understand that it has been corrupted by Abrahamism. Then we need to turn those same LGTBQs against the Church and the Mosque in India, causing friction. Then, when the Left's hypocrisy on the issue is exposed by their silence or even aid to the Abrahamics, the Left can also be attacked. But LGBTQs must take the first step, we must be the first ones to realize what is going on and what to do. We are the ones who will have to tolerate some abuse and misunderstanding and even opposition, we are going to have to be the mature ones in this. If we do not take the stance now, LGBTQs will forever be affiliated with the Left, and if things ever got violent, it could spell disaster for us. 

Naga Panchami and snakes in the Vedas

Today, 25 July 2020, is Naga Panchami, a day in which Hindus turn toward the veneration of snakes, as within Hinduism all forces and thus all animals and beings contain some degree of sacredness and worthiness of worship. The festival falls on the 5th day of the bright half of the Hindu lunar-solar month of Shravana (July/August). Usually, an idol or picture of a snake is venerated and dipped in milk in request for the welfare of the person and family. Living snakes may also be worshipped. The holiday marks the saving of all snakes by the sage Astika who interfered in the sacrifice of serpents (sarpa satra) of King Janamejaya who was taking revenge upon the race for killing his father Parikshita due to the death bite of the king of the snakes Takshaka. Naga Panchami marks the day the sarpa satra was stopped. 

Snakes usually come with a negative connection, even within Hinduism, but like in Hinduism nothing is totally black and white and so the Vedas do make some good references to snakes, here are a few of them, not to mention Vishnu always rested upon the giant snake Shesha:

Agni protects like a snake  

Thou art the eastern quarter, the favourable by name; of thee as such Agni is the overlord, the black (snake) the guardian; the overlord and the guardian, to them homage; may they be gentle to us; him whom we hate and who hateth us I place within the jaws of you two. Thou art the southern quarter, the mighty by name; of thee as such Indra is the overlord, the scorpion, &c. Thou art the western quarter, the forward by name; of thee as such [1] Soma is the overlord, the viper, &c. Thou art the northern quarter, the stable by name; of thee as such Varuna is overlord, the striped snake, &c. Thou art the great quarter, the lady paramount by name; of thee as such Brhaspati is overlord, the white, &c. Thou art this quarter, the powerful by name; of thee as such Yama is the overlord, the spotted necked (snake) the guardian; the overlord and the guardian, to them homage; may they be gentle to us; him whom we hate and [2] who hateth us I place within the jaws of you two. - Yajur Veda 5.5.10

Visvedevas take on from of serpents 

The Visvedevas, changing shape like serpents, fearless, void of guile, Bearers, accept the sacred draught - Rig Veda 1.3.9

Maruts have serpents' fury

Exceeding wise they [Maruts] roar like lions mightily, they, all-possessing, are beauteous as antelopes; Stirring the darkness with lances and spotted deer, combined as priests, with serpents' fury through their might. Heroes who march in companies, befriending man, with serpents' ire through strength, ye greet the earth and heaven. - Rig Veda 1.64.8-9 

Gods wind through the grass like serpents  

What time the Holy One, wind-urged, hath risen up, serpent-like winding through the dry grass unrestrained, Dust lies upon the way of him who burneth all, black-winged and pure of birth who follows sundry paths. - Rig Veda 1.141.7 

Maruts gleam like serpents  

WONDERFUL let your coming be, wondrous with help, ye Bounteous Ones, Maruts, who gleam as serpents gleam. - Rig Veda 1.172.1 

Gods are beautiful as serpents 

Beauteous as serpents, worthy to be looked upon, they whom each sacred gift and all our prayers have pleased. - Rig Veda 9.77.3 

Gods have serpents power 

Looking on men, ne'er slumbering, they by their deserts attained as Gods to lofty immortality. Borne on refulgent cars, sinless, with serpents' powers, they robe them, for our welfare, in the height of heaven. - Rig Veda 10.63.4 

Hymn of the serpent queen brings food 

'Earth in depth, sky in breadth,' he says; with this benediction he establishes it. The serpents thought that they were growing worn out; Kasarnira Kadraveya beheld this Mantra; then did they strike off their worn-out skins. With the verses of the queen of serpents he establishes the Garhapatya, and so renewing it he establishes it as immortal. Pure food did not come to the earth; she [1] beheld this Mantra; then food came to her. In that he establishes the Garhapatya with the verses of the serpent queen (it serves) for the winning of food; verily he establishes it firm in the (earth). - Yajur Veda 1.5.4 

Prajapati prays to have serpent children  

The Mantras used by the Diksita Prajapati desired, 'May I create offspring.' He did penance, he created serpents. - Yajur Veda 3.1.1 

Gods rage like serpents  

He hath golden tresses in the expanse of the air, A raging serpent like the rushing wind, With pure radiance [4], knowing the dawn, Like true, glorious and toiling (women). - Yajur Veda 3.1.11.u 

 HE in mid-air's expanse hath golden tresses; a raging serpent, like the rushing tempest: Purely refulgent, knowing well the morn. ing; like honourable dames, true, active workers. - Rig Veda 1.79.1 

Homage to serpents  

Homage to the serpents Which are on the earth, The serpents in the atmosphere, in the sky, To those serpents homage. - Yajur Veda 4.2.8.g 

Songs and praises to the serpent queen 

At any rate it should be pointed out. They sing the verses of the serpent queen on that day. The queen of what creeps is this (earth). Whatever on this (earth) they praise, whatever they have praised, through that is this (earth) the serpent queen. - Yajur Veda 6.9.1 

Arya pray for the brilliancy of serpents 

The brilliancy that is in the lion, the tiger, and the serpent; in Agni, the Brâhmana, and Surya (shall be ours)! May the lovely goddess that bore Indra come to us, endowed with lustre! - Atharava Veda 6.38.1 

Serpents as guides
55. Thee here we hand over to the eastern direction, to Agni as sovereign lord, to the black serpent as guardian, to Âditya as bowman: do ye guard it for us, until we arrive! To the goal here he shall lead us, to old age; old age shall hand us over to death: then shall we be united with the cooked (porridge)! 56. Thee here we hand over to the southern direction, to Indra as sovereign lord, to the serpent that is striped across as guardian, to Yama as bowman: do ye guard it for us, until we arrive! To the goal here, &c. 57. Thee here we hand over to the western direction, to Varuna as sovereign lord, to the pridâku-serpent as guardian, to food as bowman: do ye guard it for us, until we arrive. To the goal here, &c. 58. Thee here we hand over to the northern direction, to Soma as sovereign lord, to the svaga-serpent as guardian, to the lightning as bowman: do ye guard it for us, until we arrive. To the goal here, &c. 59. Thee here we hand over to the direction of the nadir, to Vishnu as sovereign lord, to the serpent with blackspotted neck as guardian, to the plants as bowmen: do ye guard it for us, until we arrive. To the goal here, &c. 60. Thee here we hand over to the direction of the zenith, to Brihaspati as sovereign lord, to the light-coloured serpent as guardian, to the rain as bowman: do ye guard it for us, until we arrive. To the goal here. - Atharava Veda 7.3.55-60

Hinduism and compassionate adoption, a response to an accusative Parsi

Have you heard of the Indian Parsis? The Parsis are Persian Zoroastrians who migrated to India in the 600s CE to escape Islamic persecution there, not to be confused with the Irani who are also Zoroastrians but whom came to India in teh 1600s to 1800s. When they arrived on the shores of Gujrat the Hindus of India readily adopted them into their new home. This post is not about the loyalty (or lack thereof) of the Parsis, but if you are interested in seeing how they paid the Hindus back please see my latest blog on the Parsis, www.TheParsiList.blogspot.com. One example of how the Parsis returned the favor to Hindus comes from an essay written by a Parsi named Polly Nashir Chenoy, a member of the Department of English, Osmania University, Hyderabad. In the quote, Chenoy states that a philanthropic Parsi woman one evening found a Hindu baby on her doorstep, which she quickly adopted. Chenoy says that no Hindu woman would think of doing this. Later, when it was found that the baby was of "low caste", Chenoy says the Hindu woman chastised her for her compassion. 

"One evening she [a Parsi woman] found on her doorstep, an infant in a basket. Bhikibai gave it shelter, an act no Hindu woman would have thought of doing. The next day, it turned out that the founding was a child of a street-sweeper, (a Mahar by caste) (the lowest in the scale of castes in India). Her Hindu (women) neighbours spared no pains to make her bitterly feel the consequences of the temerity of her zeal." - "Anglicisation of the Parsis"by Polly Noshir Chenoy

I was very shocked and disturbed to see this and could not believe that a person who comes from a people who were readily adopted by the whole of India would make such a statement. So now let me do what I have come here to do and that is to show that Hinduism does speak of compassionate adoption. Now I don't know quite how to think of this yet, but in my quest to defend Hindus against this attack on their dignity I turned to the Vedas. In the Rig Veda there is a verse stating that the children of strangers are unwelcome for adoption. 

" Unwelcome for adoption is the stranger, one to be thought of as another's offipring, Though grown familiar by continual presence. May our strong hero come, freshly triumphant." Rig Veda 7.4.8

I don't want to do what Abrahamics do and explain this away by referring to the fact that this was a long time ago and things were different then, but they were. But the Vedas and Hinduism question themselves and Hinduism allows this questioning, the Vedas are not free of contradictions, but  this more represent and evolution in Hinduism rather than in inconsistency. Whenever I find something in Hinduism which disturbs me, I always find a counter-point that rests my mind. For example, the Lakshmi Purana can correct any misogynistic terms found in Hinduism by making Lakshmi the bestower if calamity upon those who dare to question strong independent woman who do not take upon themselves the traditional role of females. 

But as I have just stated, there are many instances in Hindu mythology where men, women and gods adopt the children of others. In the Mahabharata, an unmarried young princess named Kunti becomes pregnant with the son of the sun god Surya. Without a husband, princess Kunti abandons her son in a river, but he is found and adopted by a couple named Radha and Adhiratha. The child grows up to be Karna who is a famous and wise warrior who is known for his fidelity and loyalty to friends. 

"From fear of relatives she brought forth in secrecy that child who had come out with ear-rings and coat of mail. And he was gifted with the beauty of a celestial infant, and in splendour was like unto the maker of day himself. And every part of his body was symmetrical and well-adorned. And Kunti cast the handsome child into the water. But the child thus thrown into the water was taken up by the excellent husband of Radha and given by him to his wife to be adopted by her as their son. And the couple gave him the name of Vasusena (Karna), by which appellation the child soon became known all over the land. And, as he grew up, he became very strong and excelled in all weapons. The first of all successful persons, he soon mastered the sciences. And when the intelligent one having truth for his strength recited the Vedas, there was nothing he would not then give to the Brahmanas." - The Mahabharata, Book 1: Adi Parva: Sambhava Parva: Section LXVII

In another story, perhaps who could be a rishi named Visakha, adopts the children of the god Skanda after he is struck by a lighting bolt.  

"Markandeya continued, 'Now hear of those terrible and curious-looking followers of Skanda. A number of male children came into being when Skanda was struck with the thunder-bolt,--those terrific creatures that steal (spirit away) little children, whether born, or in the womb and a number of female children too of great strength were born to him. Those children adopted Visakha as their father. That adorable and dexterous Bhadrasakha, having a face like that of a goat was at the time (of the battle, surrounded by all his sons and daughters whom he guarded carefully in the presence of the great mothers. And for this reason the inhabitants of this earth call Skanda the father of Kumaras (little children). - The Mahabharata, Book 3: Vana Parva: Markandeya-Samasya Parva: Section CCXXVII

We also learn in the Mahabharata that the god Shiva adopts the children of the sage Bhrigu.

These are the seven. They are children of Bhrigu and are hence Bhargavas. They are also called Varunas in consequence of their ancestor Bhrigu having been adopted by Mahadeva in the form of Varuna. - The Mahabharata, Book 13: Anusasana Parva: Section LXXXV

While I was unable to find their references in scripture, through internet research and information from friends I found the following additional adoptions:

• Rishi Kanva adopts a baby girl he finds and names her Shakuntala 
• Dasharaj, a fisherman, finds a baby girls and names her Daseyi who later marries one of the Kuru dynasty. 
• King Shantanu of Hastinapur adopts the abandoned twin Kripa and Kripi
• Sita from the Ramayana is adopted when she is found in the furrow of a field by King Janak and his wive Sunaina
• Krishna was adopted a raised by a women named Yashoda
• The king of Pandalam adopts a baby boy he finds in the forest who turns out to be the god Ayyappan

Now back to what the Parsi said about Hindus and adoption, especially of "low caste" children. Notice that in all of the stories above the parents find the children randomly and have no idea of the baby's caste, yet they adopt them immediately. I think we can see from these anecdotes that adoption is common and even encouraged in Hinduism for humanitarian reasons. These types of attacks are common for Hindus, I remember learning from Christian documentaries that Hindus don't believe in charity because they believe that if one is unfortunate they deserved this due to past lives of immorality. But what could be more unfortunate than being abandoned as a baby? Did these Hindus pass they poor babies by, or did they pick them up regardless of their caste or condition? These sorts of accusations must be confronted every time so that the dignity and integrity of the eternal religion is never sullied by outsider. 

Why as a White Hindu I still try to influence racist Whites

I have never been one to wait for rumors about me to spread, I like to foresee any gossip and set the record straight myself before anyone else thinks to malign me.  I don't think I need to explain to most people that I am a radical character. I am a Vedic supremacist and absolutely hate anything which contradicts this. I am not afraid to aggressively preach against Christianity, Judaism, and Islam and when it comes to Hindu issues I do not shy away from taboo topics like sex. Now it might not be intuitive to some people but radicals tend to like the company of radicals, even if they are of a different cloth.  I can not say I am friends with extremist Muslims, Zionist Jews, radical Christian, Nazis, Communists, Fascists, and cut throat Capitalists, but if I had to spend my time talking with someone it is much more entertaining to have arguments with such people then to sit and sip tea with someone with whom I see eye to eye.

But there is another reason why I associate with even my polar opposite fanatics and that is because I want to influence them. A fanatic is usually a fanatic no matter what they are doing and so it would be best to siphon their fanaticism toward Hinduism and turn them against their old way. As I have said I debate and associate with (but am not necessarily friendly with ) all sorts of extremists, but I know the one community I try to influence which would bring me the most flack is the White Nationalist Movement.  If you looked through my facebook list you would find mostly Hindus, but also sprinkles of White Alt-Righters who spew venomous racism and hatred, even for Hindus (and gays, which I am gay). I am sure that at some point in time, since I am so controversial, that this could be used against me and so let me lay the record straight.

One thing I admire about Indian Hindus is that they have concern for their race and nationality, they wish to see India and the Indian race thrive, expand and evolve. I also see that many Indian Hindus also realize that this is a natural desire and they respect it within other races. However, as it is obvious to see, there is one race which today is chastised for being race conscious and that is the White race. Now yes I can understand why people would take exception to the White race since they were the most recent colonizers of the earth and did the greatest amount of damage, but other races have also been horrific to others and themselves... just look at what the Arabs did in Persia and the Turks did in India, Hindus cannot deny that it has not only been the White race which has caused them grief.

Now I hope that most Hindus are mature enough to understand that many Whites, like all other races, have this desire for race preservation and evolution, and I also harbor these desire, just as many of you do. Let me ask every Indian Hindu here... are there not racists among you? Are there not traitors among you who side with Christians, Islamists and Leftists? Are there not Hindu sects among you whom you feel are backward, bizarre or even perhaps reprehensible?  Now let me ask you this, do you allow this condition of your fellow Indians to dampen your ardor to recreate your race and see it thrive? Would you not want to influence these people to take on your state of mind if you could?

So just like many of you, I want to influence my race to evolve, expand and further perfect itself, but just like you I am working with impure materials. The fact of the matter is that the only Whites who are race conscious come from the racialist Right, while Whites on the Left  tend to be against thinking in White racial terms. If you wanted to advance your race who would you target for subversion? This may come as a surprise to many Hindus but in many ways the White Right is much closer to adopting Hinduism than the Left is. While the Left tends to be atheist, there is a lot of paganism on the White Right and those who are Christian already have their mind bent toward religion so of course they would be more open to discussion. Because of their obsession with "Aryanism" those on the White Right are also much more open to learning about the Vedas which they believe were written by their White ancestors, whether this is true or not.

And who said that Hinduism cannot dampen the negative racism on the right? Who says they cannot further appreciate the Indian race for Hinduism and perhaps rethink their malice? Am I not allowed to try to save my race? Am I not allowed to try to change my race? I believe Hinduism is the best system for evolving humanity, so why wouldn't I want it for my race, especially to correct them in their errors? I know my race is not perfect, no race is perfect, but I believe all races can be perfected under Hinduism and so I am trying to bring this religion to my people whether they deserve it or not. I don't think anyone would curse me for trying to influence Communists and Christians toward Hinduism for there own good, so I ask that the Hindu community understand my intentions here and not get any wrong ideas. 

The odd position of psychics and astrologers in Hinduism

It was around the age of 12 that I began to rebel against my Christian upbringing. The first anti-Christian movement I turned to was witchcraft, or at least what has been popularized as witchcraft in the West over the past half century. I got as many books as I could at the library about magic, superstitions, palmistry, astrology and spell-casting. As a child, I always hated the Israelites in the bible who were invading the pagan land of Canaan and who were instructed to kill and slay all the astrologers, omen readers and sorcerers. Fortune-telling and astrology are strictly forbidden in the bible. 

No divination or witchcraft 

"Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead." - Deuteronomy 18:10-11

No astrology 

"And beware not to lift up your eyes to heaven and see the sun and the moon and the stars, all the host of heaven, and be drawn away and worship them and serve them, those which the LORD your God has allotted to all the peoples under the whole heaven." - Deuteronomy 4:19,

Kill those who read omens 

"'A man or woman who is a medium or spiritist among you must be put to death. You are to stone them; their blood will be on their own heads.'" - Leviticus 20:27

Whenever I heard these pronouncements against the diviners and especially the calls to have them killed, I would become very angry and I took these versus very personally. My childhood instilled in me a strong passion to defend divination.

One of things that attracted myself and so many other people to Hinduism is its accent of divination. Hinduism is full of astrology, palmistry, numerology and other omen reading, and it figures quite prominently. From all of its advertisement one would obviously come to think that of course Hinduism takes no exception with the divining arts, but recently I found out that that is not necessarily true.

The Samhita Vedas (old Vedas) do not mention much about astrology or the like, but there is definitely opinions on divination in some of the less authoritative texts such as legal treatises produced under certain Vedic kingdoms and some verses from the Mahabharata. Here are just a few negative laws and statements against fortune telling in the Vedic literature:

Astrologers likened to demon possessed people and enemies

"Nor one possessed by a demon, nor an enemy of the king, nor a weather-prophet, nor an astrologer, nor a malicious person, nor one self-sold, nor one who has a limb too little, nor a Bhagavritti." - The Minor Law Books by Julius Jolly: First Title: The Law of Debt, 14. False Witnesses, 183

Fortune-tellers are to be punished  

[Are  to be punished] Those who take bribes, cheats and rogues, gamblers, those who live by teaching (the performance of) auspicious ceremonies, sanctimonious hypocrites, and fortune-tellers. - Manusmriti 9.258

Ascetics may not earn alms through fortune-telling 

Neither by (explaining) prodigies and omens, nor by skill in astrology and palmistry, nor by giving advice and by the exposition (of the Sastras), let him (ascetics) ever seek to obtain alms. - Manusmriti 6.50

Astrologers are excluded from Sraddha (ancestor rituals)  

[Excluded from Sraddha] "A trainer of elephants, oxen, horses, or camels, he who subsists by astrology, a bird-fancier, and he who teaches the use of arms" - Manusmriti 3.162

Astrologer lumped in with those who hate the Vedas and other criminals  

One that setteth fire to a dwelling house, an administerer of poison, a pander, a vendor of the Soma-juice, a maker of arrows, an astrologer, one that injureth friends, an adulterer, one that causeth abortion, a violater of his preceptor's bed, a Brahmana addicted to drink, one that is sharp-speeched, a raker of old sores, an atheist, a reviler of the Vedas, and taker of bribes, one whose investiture with the sacred thread has been delayed beyond the prescribed age, one that secretly slayeth cattle, and one that slayeth him who prayeth for protection,--these all are reckoned as equal in moral turpitude as the slayers of Brahmanas. - The Mahabharata, Book 5: Udyoga Parva: Section XXXV

Now if this is all Hinduism had to say about reading omens and astrology, I would have a very hard time accepting it and it would not go along with the current Hindu culture which is steeped in astrology and divination. However, this is not where the Vedic literature ends on divination and so here are a few positive things the Vedas have to say about astrology: 

The Brahmanas (holy books) contain knowledge on astrology 

There are, with us, many aged Brahmanas, versed in various sciences, of amiable behaviour, well-born, acquainted with the cycle of the years, engaged in the study of astrology, capable of understanding with certainty the motions of planets and the conjunctions of stars as also of explaining the mysteries of fate, and answering questions relating to the future, acquainted with the signs of the Zodiac, and versed with the occurrences of every hour, who are prophesying the great destruction of the Kurus and the Srinjayas, and the ultimate victory of the Pandavas, so that Yudhishthira, who never made an enemy, already regardeth his objects fulfilled in consequence of the slaughter of his foes. - The Mahabharata, Book 5: Udyoga Parva: Sanat-sujata Parva: Section XLVIII

A King should entertain astrologers 

He [the King] should entertain with honour and attention preceptors (of different sciences), Ritwijas, and priests, mighty bowmen, persons skilled in architecture, astronomers and astrologers, and physicians, as also all men possessed of wisdom and intelligence and self-restraint and cleverness and courage and learning and high birth and energy of mind, and capable of close application to all kinds of work. - The Mahabharata, Book 12: Santi Parva: Rajadharmanusasana Parva: Section LXXXVI

Astrologers produce victories and ward off calamities 

When the gods become angry and inert are urged by fate, persons of learning,

beholding everything with the eye of heavenly knowledge, perform diverse auspicious acts and expiatory rites including homa and the silent recitation of mantras, and thus allay all evils. (1) 

FOOTNOTES

1: The object of these two verses is to indicate that a learned astrologer and a learned priest are certain means for procuring victories by warding off all calamities caused by unpropitious fate and the wrath of the gods. 

- The Mahabharata, Book 12: Santi Parva: Rajadharmanusasana Parva: Section CII

Astrology is contained within the holy books of the Vedangas  

In the matter, again of all sacrifices ordained in the Sutras, of that Vedanga which deals

with religious rites and observances, astrology and astronomy the reborn Rishi attained great excellence. - The Mahabharata, Book 13: Anusasana Parva: Anusasanika Parva: Section X

Astrology is one of the eight limbs of a Vedic kingdom 

Then the son of Amvika, O monarch, addressing Kunti's son who was seated near him and touching his back with his hand, said, 'Thou shouldst always, O delighter of the Kurus, act without heedlessness as regards everything connected with thy kingdom consisting of eight limbs, O foremost  of rulers, and in which the claims of righteousness should ever be kept foremost. (1) 

FOOTNOTES

1. The eight limbs of a kingdom are the law, the judge, the assessors, the scribe, the astrologer, gold, fire, and water. 

- The Mahabharata, Book 15: Asramavasika Parva: Asramavasa Parva: Section V

Treatises on astrology are counted among the four Samhita Vedas  

"The holy one said, 'In the Rigveda, in the Yajurveda, in the Atharvans and the Samans, in the Puranas and the Upanishads, as also in the treatises on Astrology, O Arjuna, in the Sankhya scriptures, in the Yoga scriptures, and in the treatises also on the Science of Life, many are the names that have been mentioned by the great Rishis. - The Mahabharata, Book 12: Santi Parva: Section CCCXLII

Consult astrology to find out which constellations are forbidden  

"Indeed, in this respect, all these constellations should be avoided which are forbidden in treatises on astrology." - The Mahabharata, Book 13: Anusasana Parva: Section CIV

King Yudhisthira consults astrologers on the future of his son 

"Thus those who were expert in astrological knowledge and in performance of the birth ceremony instructed King Yudhisthira about the future history of his child. Then, being sumptuously remunerated, they all returned to their respective homes." - Bhagavata Purana, Chapter 12, verse 29

So as usual, nothing is ever black and white in Hinduism, and that includes sentiments on divination. But I cannot help but wonder why there is still a shadow cast over astrology, palmistry, and fortune-telling in some the of the Vedic laws and texts. What is it about these arts that create such a mixed reaction in Hinduism? Does anyone know?

Did Krishna and Dattatreya condone prostitution?

Some weeks ago I wrote a post on why Hindus should take over the sex industry (here), I have also explained why I worship the god of sex and love, Kama Deva (here). I know these sentiments may come as a shock to many Hindus, but I think we all need to admit that prostitution has always existed in Hindu society, and there have been different opinions on it. 

I don't think most Hindus would say that sexual tantra is not Hinduism, whether you like it or not, tantra is part of the Hindu experience. But what is most important about tantra is that Hinduism has made a space for its legitimate practice, and so has sublimated the desire into the greater society in a way which spiritualizes sex rather than leaving it to be gobbled up by the lower elements who only pander it as smut. 

Sex and tantra are always going to exist, so you might as well make it for the gods and the best of society, many tantric practitioners use the sexual movements to awaken their consciousness and thus gain a closer understanding and relationship with god. Whatever you think about it, this is how Hinduism has dealt with it, and that is not going to change. But what do the Vedas say about prostitution? 

According to one Hindu law book, the Manusmriti, those who were born to prostitutes should not be elected as king. 

Let him not accept presents from a king who is not descended from the Kshatriya race, nor from butchers, oil-manufacturers, and publicans, nor from those who subsist by the gain of prostitutes. - Manusmriti 4.84

The Bhagavata Purana states that it is best to cohabit with ones own wife, below this in morality is cohabitation with prostitutes and worse still is to stay with the wife of another (or husband, women can cheat too!)

That which describes the people to live with their legitimate wives is the best; which describes about prostitutes is the middling; and that which makes people live with other's wives is the worst. - Bhagavata Purana, Book 1, Chapter 6, Verses 1-44

So is that the end of it? Are Hindus totally banned from practicing prostitution for all time? One of my favorite holy teachers is Dattatreya (here) who wrote the Avadahoot Gita. In the Vishnu Purana it is said that Dattatreya looked not to gurus for his understanding of the universe but to animals, and also, yes you guessed it, prostitutes.  If prostitution was totally taboo how on earth could it be the vehicle for holy knowledge? Hinduism is a monistic religion, even evil has something to teach us and has its place in the story, can't the gods appear in any form? Isn't there a road of dharma for every type of person? If these prostitutes were keeping the company of a holy man and teaching him divine wisdom no less than there must be some exception to the exception against prostitution. 

Lord narrated thus: "Uddhav, Once, our ancestor Yadu happened to see Lord Dattatreya in a forest. Lord was indulged in the supreme joy in the guise of Avadhoot. Yadu asked him about the reasons for his whimsical state. Avadhoot had said: "O king, making the various animals, birds, insects etc as my teacher, I have learned about spirituality from them. That is why I am free from mourning and attachment. Earth, air, sky, water, fire, the moon the sun, pigeon, python, sea, grasshopper, bumblebee, honey bee, elephant, extractor of honey, deer, fish, prostitute, osprey, boy, girls, arrow-maker, snake, spider and wasp are all my teachers. I took refuge at these twenty-four teachers and learned from their behaviour. - Vishnu Purana, Chapter 3, Verse 6

But perhaps the most telling story of all is one where Lord Krishna happens upon a hunchback woman named Trivakra who is a seller of oils which produce ecstasy. Trivakra shows respect for Krishna by giving him much of her oil, and in return Krishna transforms here from a hunchback into a beautiful women. Trivakra then makes it clear she lusts for the men of Krishna's party. Krishan then blesses her by telling her that his men will visit her house where they may "relieve their anxiety" and that her home is a refuge for travelers, obviously men who would pay for room and board and receive sexual favors as well from the now blessed Trivakra, this also implied from the fact that Trivakra is a peddler of ecstasy ointments.

Canto 10

Chapter Forty-Two The Breaking of the Sacrificial Bow

1. Sukadeva Gosvami said: As He walked down the King’s road, Lord Madhava then saw a young
hunchback woman with an attractive face, who carried a tray of fragrant ointments as she walked along.
The bestower of the ecstasy of love smiled and inquired from her as follows.
2. [Lord Krsna said:] Who are you, O beautiful-thighed one? Ah, ointment! Who is it for, my dear lady?
Please tell Us truthfully. Give Us both some of your finest ointment and you will soon gain a great boon.
3. The maidservant replied: O handsome one, I am a servant of King Kamsa, who highly regards me for
the ointments I make. My name is Trivakra. Who else but You two deserve my ointments, which the lord
of the Bhojas likes so much?
4. Her mind overwhelmed by Krsna’s beauty, charm, sweetness, smiles, words and glances, Trivakra
gave both Krsna and Balarama generous amounts of ointment.
5. Anointed with these most excellent cosmetics, which adorned Them with hues that contrasted with
Their complexions, the two Lords appeared extremely beautiful.
6. Lord Krsna was pleased with Trivakra, so He decided to straighten that hunchbacked girl with the
lovely face just to demonstrate the result of seeing Him.
7. Pressing down on her toes with both His feet, Lord Acyuta placed one upward-pointing finger of each
hand under her chin and straightened up her body.
8. Simply by Lord Mukunda’s touch, Trivakra was suddenly transformed into an exquisitely beautiful
woman with straight, evenly proportioned limbs and large hips and breasts.
9. Now endowed with beauty, character and generosity Trivakra began to feel lusty desires for Lord
Kesava. Taking hold of the end of His upper cloth, she smiled and addressed Him as follows.
10. [Trivakra said:] Come, O hero, let us go to my house. I cannot bear to leave You here. O best of
males, please take pity on me, since You have agitated my mind.
11. Thus entreated by the woman, Lord Krsna first glanced at the face of Balarama, who was watching
the incident, and then at the faces of the cowherd boys. Then with a laugh Krsna replied to her as
follows.
12. [Lord Krsna said:] O lady with beautiful eyebrows, as soon as I fulfill My purpose I will certainly visit
your house, where men can relieve their anxiety. Indeed, you are the best refuge for Us homeless
travelers.

So is prostitution totally invalid in Hinduism? Some sources say that kings should not be born of prostitutes and that it is less moral to keep their company than that of a wife (or husband). However prostitutes were the source of teaching for Dattatreya and Krishna seemed to condone the prostitution of Trivakra. Nothing is totally black and white in Hinduism, so it makes sense neither would be the Hindu position on prostitution. 

NYC Hindu conference and rally for CAA

On December 29th, 2019 I was invited to attend both a conference put on by the Indian American Intellectuals Forum and a separate rally by NYC Hindus in support of CAA. The 2019 CAA bill in India gives citizenship to Hindus who are being persecuted in the Muslim nations of Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan. This has caused Muslims to riot in India. Here are highlights from the conference and pictures from the rally.

I could not catch the names of all the speakers in order but hear is a list of who spoke at the conference: Dr Narindar Kukar, Dr. Basuli Deb, Mr Vibhuti Jha, Prof.  Dwijen Bhattacharya, Mr Sitangshu Guha, Mr Pabitra Chaudhuri and Prof. Sabyasachi Ghosh Dastidar

 

Arish Sahani
Indian American Intellectuals Forum

I have some question. Hinduism is humane, educated and the oldest culture that exists. Our enemies have a clear goal. Are you telling people about this? Have you told people they are bad, why not? Do you have a leader who can speak for you? Do you know the history of Christianity, Islam and conversion? Hindus are unique. These questions should be in your mind. You should know what Christians and Muslims are doing in India, you have internet, use google search, why did they convert, why can't they come back? Hindus are not doing anything because we are not united. We have no leaders? They don't know what to do? Islam destroyed the Mid East, Pakistani and Bangladeshi Muslims don't want to live in their own Muslim nations. We must spread our Hindu culture, invite Hindus to come back to India, there is no Hindu Nation. Muslims are bringing violence about CAA. Be a proud Hindu. Know why you are here and what you can do for your country. We need leaders. The Hindu majority can be lost. We can only survive if we do something and our children see us sacrifice. Make use of America to help India.

Speaker 2

What is life like for Pakistani and Bangladeshi Hindus? In 1947 trains came from Pakistan with dead bodies, these are my childhood memories. Any nation who helps the oppressed is rewarded and respected. CAA after 73 years is a correcting measure. People are walking for days to get to India, but none are speaking about it. In Kashmir in 1990 from the Masjid loud speakers they said leave your daughters and go. Bangladeshi Hindus have been suffering sine 1971, most don't use the straight words, massacred. Even through Western Journalism and  human rights groups some times speak up, Hindus are silent. What can Bangladeshi Hindus do? Write open letters to newspapers, send petitions to ministers, those who committed the crimes should be prosecuted because the Bangladeshi government won't do it, only the government India; raise this in international courts. There is no reaction by educated people. They know about Bangladeshi Hindus' daughters being raped before family but there is nothing in the Indian newspapers. Are we dumb or stupid? If you don't speak none will know. Take out warning ads in the Bangladeshi newspapers. Say we need to rescue Hindus from "Islam", don't say Bangladeshi government, name the enemy, "Islam". While Hindus elaborate on their arguments the Muslims are sharpening their swords. Hindus are reasonable people but go and do something. Hindus should file suit against the Bangladeshi government in USA courts. Have whites file suits in white countries, it gets attention. I get death threats but I'm still alive. Gita says take action, don't worry about the results. We need to come up with an action plan and take some action. Inform yourself, get media attention, protest with signs, use social Media. Tell your stories. Hindu principles are going to save the world.

Speaker 3

Thank you India for rescuing Bangladeshi people, thanks for CAA, we are the direct beneficiaries. There are more than 50 Islamic nations, they can take care of Muslims, there are only 2 Hindu majority nations (India & Nepal). Hindus need a shelter to go to, this is what CAA does. Look at what just happened with the slaughter of Nigerian Christians. Bangladeshi Nationalist Party secretary general said no minority persecution  is going on in Bangladesh yet Bangladeshi massacres/rapes are well documented. The Enemy Property Act calls Hindus "enemies" and has taken 3 million acres from them. CAA has nothing to do with Muslims in India. What to do? Social media, we meed to show masses supporting CAA on social media. We must do more writing. The percentage of  Muslims in West Bengal is approx 40%, this is 30 years of Communist party rule and the Didi government in vote bank politics. If Didi gets another 5 years, they will be hoisting Islamic Flags in West Bengal. If West Bengal burns all of North East will go. A solid plan is needed, Modi/BJP must win in West Bengal in 2020 or 2021. Hindus have been persecuted for hundreds of years, our divisions are destroying us, Modi/BJP is the only way. If a country becomes 16% Muslim it becomes an Islamic country because they have a plan. Hindus are academic and secular, if we stay like this then no India, there is barely any research done on Hindu genocides, intellectuals are not working on it, now or never.

Speaker 4

India was divided on religion only due to uncle Gandhi's leadership. Bangladeshi leaders wanted it this way. My family were Bengali Brahmins, my family was told to leave. My dad told me one day help those who became like us. Being Hindu is the most valuable thing you have, use it. Say it, don't just think about it, they think our gentleness we will never allow us to attack their atrocities. Raise your voice for tortured Hindus, no others know our pain unless we speak. Thank god you are Hindu and can do something. Gita says if you do god will help, if you fight you have reaction but when you win it gives much help.

Satya Dosapati

Hinduism speaks for diversity, inclusiveness and is open to science. If we lose Hinduism not only we lose but humanity will lose. Hinduism is the answer to the problems of the world. We must support BJP. Western media does not focus on the good of CAA, only Muslim riots, and Christians are using CAA Hindu/Muslim divide to convert. Inform yourself, no Western media talks about this, make the media, protest with signs and spread it on social media. Tell your stories. Hindu principles are going to save the world. The Christian West wants to harp on Rohingyas to divert attention away from India's problems. They want to use Muslim/Hindu cultural fight to pave way for the control of India. They want India to be weak, they don't want another China.

Speaker 6

CAA is asylum law for victims. There is asylum laws for the persecuted in the USA, why not for Hindus in India? Also, the demographic is changing in India, this will change the culture. West Bengal is now different from decades ago. There are talks of West Bengal cessation. Muslims are gaining power and want West Bengal. This will spread if nothing is done.

Speaker 7

For CAA thank you Modi and Indian government, If Hinduism dies in India that is end of the world. Like Israel India should let in any Hindu in the world, Modi should do this. CAA effects Bengalis mostly. Victims need to get benefits, we must not let Bangladeshi atrocities go in vain. The mainstream media is biased against CAA. Ram Krishna Mission wrote against CAA, if Bangladesh becomes Muslim they will have not place to practice.

Sitanghsu Guha
Bangladeshi Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council

Bangladeshi Hindus want to live in Bangladesh in peace. Keep Modi in power. Next step uniform civil code.

Vincent Bruno
www.JusticeForHindus.org

I gave a speak on how I visited the Pakistani Hindu refugee camps in Delhi and saw the children there. Now they have citizenship. Why do Muslims from Bangladesh of Pakistan need refugee status? They are not fleeing any nation. There are Hindu refugee camps in India but no Muslim refugee camps. That is why we need CAA. Video of my speech below:

Speaker 10

Under the disguise of secularism the Hindu holocaust is being ignored. Muslim immigration does not support secularism. Society is destroyed when good people act like intellectuals.