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Arya Samaj 1875

The Arya Samaj is a transformative Hindu reform movement founded in the nineteenth century, dedicated to reviving Vedic principles, challenging social injustices, and advocating rational spiritual belief centered around one God.

Founding and Origins

Arya Samaj was established by Swami Dayanand Saraswati on April 10, 1875, in Bombay (now Mumbai). Dayanand, deeply influenced by the Vedas, rejected idol worship, ritualism, and social ills prevalent in Hindu society. He called for a return to Vedic teachings, viewing them as the unaltered source of spiritual and ethical guidance.

Core Philosophy and Principles

Arya Samaj is underpinned by ten guiding principles rooted in Vedic wisdom:

  • Belief in one formless, intelligent, omnipotent, and eternal God worthy of worship
  • Acceptance of the Vedas as the supreme source of true knowledge
  • Commitment to truth, righteousness, and the regular study and propagation of the Vedas
  • Rejection of idolatry, superstition, and non-Vedic texts as sources of ultimate authority
  • Advocacy for universal love, social welfare, and the pursuit of knowledge

Arya Samaj stresses that good deeds (karma) and deliberate consideration of truth and untruth (Dharma) should guide all actions. Individual and societal well-being are intrinsically linked, and every member should work for collective progress, not just personal gain.

Social and Religious Reform

Arya Samaj pioneered numerous reforms:

  • Campaigns against the caste system, untouchability, and other forms of social discrimination
  • Advocacy for the equality of women, support for widow remarriage, and abolition of child marriage, polygamy, and Sati
  • Promotion of female education and establishment of schools and colleges, including the influential DAV institutions
  • Opposition to animal sacrifice, ancestor worship, pilgrimage rituals, and ritualism
  • Emphasis on self-reliance and Indian cultural pride, inspiring patriotism and engagement in India's independence movement

Unique Practices and Contributions

  • Monotheism: Arya Samaj worships a single, formless God ("Aum" from the Yajurveda), strictly prohibiting idol worship.
  • Religious Proselytizing: It was the first Hindu organization to engage in missionary activities, spreading Vedic teachings and facilitating "shuddhi" (purification) programs to bring converted Hindus back to the fold.
  • Education and Social Service: Founding of hundreds of schools and colleges; extensive work in disaster relief, orphanages, and charities.
  • Law and Reform Advocacy: The Arya Samaj has notably campaigned for civil rights, secular law, and the modernisation of Indian society.

Legacy and Global Impact

The phrase “Krinvanto Vishvam Aryam” (“Make This World Noble”) captures Arya Samaj’s mission. It continues to be dynamic across India and internationally, fostering rational spirituality, gender equality, and the quest for a just society.

Conclusion

In summary, the Arya Samaj remains a powerful force in religious rationalism and social reform, steadfastly advocating Vedic values and universal human welfare. Its enduring influence is seen in India’s educational landscape, social institutions, and reformist spirit.