The principles of Arya Samaj, founded by Swami Dayananda Saraswati in 1875, are based on the teachings of the Vedas and aim to promote social reform, rationality, and monotheism.
The following are some of the key principles of the Arya Samaj:
Back to the Vedas:
The Arya Samaj advocates a return to the Vedas as the ultimate authority in matters of religious and spiritual knowledge. They consider the Vedas to be divine revelations and emphasize the study and propagation of Vedic teachings.
Monotheism:
The Arya Samaj promotes the belief in one supreme God who is formless, eternal, all-powerful, and the creator of the universe. They reject polytheism, idol worship, and other forms of worship that do not align with the concept of a monotheistic God.
Dharma:
Arya Samaj emphasizes the practice of righteous living based on the principles of dharma. Dharma encompasses moral and ethical duties, social responsibilities, and the pursuit of truth. It encourages individuals to lead virtuous life and fulfill their societal roles with integrity.
Social Reform:
A significant aspect of Arya Samaj's philosophy is the promotion of social reform. It aims to eradicate social evils such as caste-based discrimination, untouchability, child marriage, and gender inequality. Arya Samaj advocates for equality, education for all, and the upliftment of marginalized sections of society.
Rationality and Scientific Outlook:
The Arya Samaj encourages the use of reason, logic, and a scientific outlook in understanding religious and spiritual matters. They promote intellectual inquiry, critical thinking, and the application of Vedic knowledge to contemporary issues.
Universal Brotherhood:
Arya Samaj promotes the idea of universal brotherhood, considering all human beings as part of one human family. It rejects discrimination based on caste, creed, race, or gender and advocates for social harmony, unity, and cooperation among people.
Swadeshi and Self-reliance:
The Arya Samaj emphasizes the importance of promoting Swadeshi (self-reliance) and nationalism. They encourage individuals to support local industries, work towards economic independence, and contribute to the development and welfare of their nation.
Education:
Education is considered a fundamental aspect of Arya Samaj's philosophy. The movement emphasizes the importance of education for all, regardless of caste, gender, or social status. They believe that education is crucial for personal development, social progress, and the eradication of ignorance and superstitions.
These principles reflect the philosophical foundation of the Arya Samaj and its aim to reform society, promote Vedic knowledge, foster rationality, and establish social equality and harmony.
