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What are his teachings and beliefs?
Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, also known as Gurudeva, was a highly respected and influential Hindu spiritual leader who dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of Sanatana Dharma (eternal truth) to people all over the world. He was the founder of the international Hindu magazine, Hinduism Today, and the Kauai Aadheenam, a spiritual community and monastery in Hawaii.
Gurudeva's teachings were rooted in the ancient Hindu scriptures, particularly the Vedas, Upanishads, and Agamas. He believed in the oneness of all beings and the divinity within each individual. He emphasized the importance of self-discovery and self-realization as the ultimate goal of human life. According to him, the purpose of life is to know the true nature of the self and to merge with the divine.
One of the core beliefs of Gurudeva was the concept of karma, the law of cause and effect. He taught that every action, thought, and word has a corresponding consequence, and that we are responsible for our own destiny. He also stressed the importance of dharma, the righteous way of living, and encouraged his followers to follow the principles of ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), and dana (charity).
Gurudeva's teachings also emphasized the importance of meditation and spiritual practices as a means to attain inner peace and spiritual growth. He believed that through regular meditation and introspection, one can overcome the limitations of the mind and experience the divine within.
Another key aspect of Gurudeva's teachings was the concept of guru-shishya parampara (teacher-disciple tradition). He believed that having a spiritual guide or guru is essential for spiritual progress and that the guru's role is to guide and inspire the disciple on their spiritual journey.
Gurudeva also placed great importance on the preservation and promotion of Hindu culture and traditions. He encouraged his followers to practice their faith with pride and to share its beauty and wisdom with others. He believed that Hinduism is not just a religion, but a way of life that can benefit people of all faiths.
In addition to his teachings, Gurudeva was also known for his humanitarian work. He established several charitable organizations and projects, including the Hindu Heritage Endowment, which supports Hindu temples, schools, and cultural institutions worldwide.
In conclusion, Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami's teachings were based on the principles of Sanatana Dharma and emphasized the importance of self-discovery, karma, dharma, meditation, and the guru-disciple relationship. His message of unity, peace, and service continues to inspire people from all walks of life, making him a beloved and respected figure in the Hindu community and beyond.