Bhakti worship misunderstood

DR NAIDOO is speaking primarily from an academic perspective. His column may be a reference for research and investigation for academics as such, but adds no value to the sum and substance of true and ardent worship of the heart.

Sanatana Dharma (The Eternal Truth/Hinduism) is the base for many types of spiritually aspiring and consciously awakened devotees.

That is why Hinduism is rightly called the Mother of all Religions. It provides for the right to worship in different ways. There is a devotion and practice suited to each one’s demeanour and character. Therefore, to senselessly relegate Murugan worship as being irrelevant and obsolete is the uttering of one bereft of understanding the heart and core of Bhakti worship.

Our organisation is home to thousands of Lord Muruga devotees annually and they always leave with a strong sense of faith. There are continuous discourses presented at our Kovil by people or organisations who have an authority on Murugan worship.

One such organisation is the Muruga Bhakti Foundation of South Africa, led by the esteemed Shri Kovilan Ramsamy.

Dr Naidoo is invited to participate in Lord Muruga worship to enhance his understanding and experience of one aspect of Hinduism and more importantly of what it means to be a Murugan devotee.

Ironically, Thillayvel is a reference to the lance of enlightenment that Lord Muruga uses in His quest to lead us from darkness unto light.

It may be also be that the universe is asking Dr Naidoo to live up to and experience the power of his name – Thillayvel.

Nothing is gained by pontification of a subject matter, when one’s body, mind and spirit; thought, word and deed; and head, heart and hand are not in harmony and unity and if the motive is not underpinned by love and purity.

For such a seeker, many lifetimes are essential to understand and experience the lessons of love and devotion.