WE SHOULD WORSHIP GOD OUT OF LOVE FOR HIM, NOT BECAUSE WE FEAR HIM

There are only two emotions in the world — fear and love. Where there is love, fear cannot survive; and where there is fear, love cannot exist.

We need to understand whether we love god or fear him. For me, there is no need to be afraid of god as he is called the ocean of love. We should worship him because we love him. And if we’re in fear, we are not in a place of love. Loving god lets you come closer to him.

It was a Saturday not long ago when I found a long line of devotees waiting for their turn to enter the Shani mandir. It was then that this question popped up in my mind — why is the fear of god put in people’s mind to get them to mend their ways? Now, before assumptions are made, I would like to clarify that I have no objection to religious practices; they have their own significance and one must abide by them.

Nonetheless, when someone says, “I’m offering flowers, eatables, clothes, etc to god for not hindering my progress”, I have strong objection to such views. You can bribe a policeman, a politician, or maybe even a minister; but god! One of the dominant teachings of the Bhagvad Gita is to not be afraid. One must love god and give him utmost respect. It is said that god likes pure things, and pure love is unconditional.

(Inner Voice comprises contributions from our readers The views expressed are personal)