As I reflect on my early teenage years, the concept of parenting started to take root in my thoughts. When I began reading “It is not for NOTHING that we STAND for SOMETHING,” I questioned if it was too early for me to delve into such topics. However, upon further reflection, I realized the relevance of the book extended beyond my age.
Divided into six chapters, the book takes us through the nuances of intellectual self-defense for Hindu parents. Firstly, it unveils the narrow approach of liberalism and its effects on families and society, and also how liberalism is similar to Abrahamic religions on how it approaches “others”.
It then briefly delves into changes the Hindu society went through because of waves of invasions and colonizations, and how because of that, there is no longer a society where the children automatically grow up with a Hindu perspective. Parents need to actively create such environments. Using the analogy of “forest of ideas” to understand ideologically competitive world we are currently in. The author stresses the crucial role parents play in guiding their children through it using this powerful line –
“Hindu parents need to internalize this – any space that is not occupied by you will be occupied by someone else.”
The book then takes a reflective turn, offering a list of introspective questions. Suitable for parent-child discussions, these questions prompt a nuanced analysis of the world around us and the perspectives we hold dear. It also delves into the essential understanding of dharmic and adharmic actions, stressing the importance of such clarity in thought to navigate the complex forest of ideas.
The author contrasts Hindu and liberal ideas of freedom by showing how “freedom” might appear as a common feature between Hinduism and liberalism, but how, in reality, they are completely opposite to each other. The author then, briefly discusses the the purpose of one’s life. He highlights the need to protect the Hindu way of life in the face of aggressive ideologies.
At the finality, the importance of taking a stand in preserving Hindu values is emphasized. It critiques extremes of liberal ideals, highlighting the sustainability and clarity the Hindu value system provides us.
The book’s overall message centers on the essentials of being dharmic, emphasizing the relationship between earning and discipline in service to dharma. It calls for proactive steps by dharmic individuals to prevent the prevalence of adharma.
In summary, “It is not for NOTHING that we STAND for SOMETHING” is a vital resource for individuals at various stages of parenthood, offering profound insights into parenting philosophies and the preservation of Hindu values. If there were a curriculum for Hindu-oriented minds, I would like this book to be a mandatory read.
Buy the book: Amazon Link , Notion Press