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Social System of
Hinduism
Should all Youths be urged to marry
?
All but the rare few inclined
to monastic life should be encouraged to marry and schooled in
the skills they will need to fulfill dharma. Young boys destined
to be monastics should be raised as their satguru's progeny.
Traditionally, boys with monastic tendencies are encouraged and
provided special training under their satguru's direction. It is
considered a great blessing for the family to have a son become a
monastic and later a swami. Generally, children should be taught
to follow and prepare themselves for the householder path. Most
boys will choose married life, and should be schooled in
professional, technical skills. Girls are taught the refinements
of household culture. Both girls and boys should be trained in
the sacred Vedic arts and sciences, including the sixty-four
crafts and social skills, called kalas. Boys benefit greatly when
taught the profession of their father from a very young age. The
mother is the role model for her daughters, whom she raises as
the mothers of future families. Sons and daughters who are gay
may not benefit from marriage, and should be taught to remain
loyal in relationships and be prepared to cope with community
challenges.
How is Family Harmony maintained ?
In the Hindu family, mutual
respect, love and understanding are the bedrock of harmony. By
not fighting, arguing or criticizing, members cultivate a
spiritual environment in which all may progress. For a harmonious
joint family, it is vital to make the home strong, the center of
activity and creativity, kept beautiful and clean, a sanctuary
for each member. While striving to increase wealth, the wise
families live within their means, content with what they have.
Activities are planned to bring the family close through shared
experiences. A gentle but firm hierarchy of respect for elders is
maintained throughout the family. In general, the younger, in
humility, defers to the elder, allowing him or her the last word.
The elder is equally obliged to not misuse authority. Older
children are responsible for the safety and care of their younger
brothers and sisters. Disputes among children are settled by
their mother, but not kept a secret from the father. Actual
discipline in the case of misconduct is carried out by the
father, responsibility for restoring harmony falls first to the
men. However, any concerned member can take the lead if
necessary.
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