Hinduism

[close] Welcome to the Hindu and Sanatan Scripture Reading Group, a space for individuals seeking to explore the profound wisdom and timeless teachings of ancient Hindu scriptures. Our group is dedicated to the study and understanding of sacred texts that form the foundation of Sanatan Dharma (Eternal Truth). Objectives: Engage with Sacred Texts: We delve into revered scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita, Vedas, Upanishads, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puranas, and other essential works of Hindu philosophy. Promote Spiritual Growth: Through group readings and discussions, we aim to inspire spiritual reflection and personal growth based on the timeless principles of Dharma (righteousness), Karma (action), and Moksha (liberation). Cultural and Philosophical Insights: read about Hindu rituals, festivals, and philosophy while exploring the diversity of beliefs within Sanatan Dharma, from Advaita Vedanta to Bhakti traditions. Who Can Join? Whether you're a devout practitioner, a spiritual seeker, or someone curious about the rich heritage of Hinduism, all are welcome. Prior knowledge of Hindu scriptures is not required; the group is open to people of all levels of familiarity with the texts.

[close] Black Maven is discussion group dedicated to the discovery and exposition of occultist literature that would appeal to the late Aleister Crowley. Everyone is welcome, especially transhumanists, alchemists, astrologists, dowsers, egyptologists, freemasons, kabbalists, gnostics, magicians, metaphysicists, ninjas, numerologists and the like. So, you may first ask, what is a maven? A maven (also mavin) is a trusted expert, often self-proclaimed, in a particular field, who seeks to pass knowledge on to others. The word maven comes from the Hebrew, via Yiddish, and means one who understands, based on an accumulation of knowledge.1 Moreover, maven knowledge is typically gained outside a culture's traditional educational apparatus. For example, college or university degrees in Alchemy just aren't to be pursued anywhere in the Occident. A Black Maven is a particular kind of expert of "occult" knowledge. More often than not, a cultural taboo is associated with occult knowledge, and sometimes quite perniciously. Well, you don't have to look far for examples of that kind of cultural phenomenon--simply reference the Spanish Inquisition as a prime example. Ironically, if we take stock of the hugely popular Harry Potter phenomenon, we surely must reach the prima facie conclusion that occultism has captivated the minds of young and old alike (the old are at least paying for all the Harry Potter media and spinoff merchandise their children are clamoring to purchase). Perhaps the polemic that naturally evolves from that realisation is something that can be pursued through this group. In summary, the purpose of this group is to entertain. If it does something other than that, such as enlighten, so be it. 1 Dictionary.com

[close] Vedic Dharma has undergone many ordeals over centuries. It’s more important than ever that all Bharatiyas come together to know Veda Dharma to set right goals and understand interfering issues from chosen lifestyles. This is the opportunity to understand what we Bharatiyas are and know each other in the face of ignorant views about Veda Dharma, and that we come together in the quest of glorifying our self-esteem. That means marching for things you care about. That means making your self stand out and lifting each other up. That means educating yourself about experiences outside your own.

[close] A space for thoughtful discussion on theology and its relationship to meaning, morality, human psychology, and society. This group welcomes diverse traditions, philosophical inquiry, and reflective dialogue about sacred texts, inner life, ethical questions, and the role of religion in the modern world. The goal is not preaching or debate for victory, but understanding, exploration, and respectful exchange of ideas. Remember that respect comes first. Disagree with ideas, not with people. No insults, ridicule, or hostility toward beliefs or non-belief. Feel free to share perspectives, interpretations, and experiences, but this is a discussion space, not a place to persuade others to adopt a faith, so basically no preaching or conversion attempts. Stay thoughtful and on topic, posts should relate to theology, meaning, morality, sacred texts, psychology of belief, or religion in society. Interpretations are welcome, claims of absolute authority are not. All comments and conversations must be in English. Don’t hesitate to open a topic under any theme that has already been featured. If you’re unsure where your topic belongs, you’re welcome to ask in the open discussion under the thread titled “Topic Creation”.