Clarifying the acquisition of wealth in Hinduism

Clarifying the acquisition of wealth in Hinduism

Does Hinduism make no provision for the acquisition of wealth, or enjoyment upon earth? A widespread misconception and criticism of Hinduism is that its philosophy on life is all about ‘other-worldliness’ and that it strains too much on the esoteric – the world of Spirit – and neglects the present world of matter, which gives us birth, sustenance and opportunities to realize the world of Spirit.

But this is not quite true. The primary Hindu Scriptures, the Vedas, not only deal with matters relating to God, Soul, and Salvation, but also make direct references to every aspect of society – political, economic and social. For example, the Yajur Veda says: “Enjoy the resources of the world as the gift of God.”

Discussions on kingdoms and empires; references to democracy and the social organization of everyday life are also found in the Vedic texts. Hinduism does not prohibit freedom of enquiry; nor does it prohibit earning wealth and enjoyment upon earth. On the other hand, it advocates a strong interest in enjoyment of life. Hinduism says: “Enjoy; but do not end the joy.” Hindu sages and philosophers have written on every aspect of human behavior and relationship. For Hindus, acquiring or producing wealth is a legitimate human activity. Why? Even the Sanskrit word for prayer – ‘Pra-arthna’ – means “to seek wealth.” Thus, in Hinduism, praying is synonymous with seeking some kind of wealth. It is very wrong to suggest that Hinduism strains after the ‘other-world’ and neglects this world.

Hinduism emphasizes that before attaining Moksha, (salvation), it is essential for human beings to first enjoy worldly pleasures by creating wealth with hard work and honesty that would also benefit the rest of the society. The Vedas recommend: “Let a person think well on wealth and strive to win it by the path of Law and by worship; and let him take counsel with his own inner wisdom and grasp with spirit still greater ability.” Lord Sri Krishna lays special emphasis on work: “Therefore, you must perform your assigned work, for action (working) is better than inaction (not working). And even the maintenance of your physical body cannot be possible without action.”  (Gita 3:8).

The tenets of Hinduism grade the life-span of an individual into four stages, called Ashramas: the Student stage (Brahmacharya), the Householder stage (Grihastha – Family Life), Age of Retirement (Vanaprastha), and wandering Ascetic (Sannyaasa).

BRAHMACHARYA. The first quarter of one’s life should be single-mindedly dedicated to Learning – acquiring life’s skills and formal education. These prepare him for fulfilling his ambitions in the future. During this period, he is expected to lead a celibate life.

GRIHASTHA. The second stage is that of the ‘Grihastha’, or householder. In this stage, a person must acquire wealth, get married, enjoy pleasures and raise a good family. This phase of life is considered extremely important for the development of society at large. The duty of a householder is to create wealth in order to satisfy his own desires, offer a good standard of living for his family as well as to prepare himself to discharge broader social obligations.

Hindu theology legitimizes acquisition of wealth; it is lawful and in accordance with the teachings of Hinduism for a person to earn money – lots of it. According to Hindu belief, the main goal in life is to attain Moksha or salvation – release from the cycle of birth and death. One pursues this through virtuous living or Dharma. Hinduism also recognizes that it is very difficult, if not impossible, to achieve this supreme goal until all legitimate worldly desires and cravings – called Kaama – are satisfied. It is therefore, necessary to follow the path of Artha, meaning, economic or wealth producing activities. However, Hindu scriptures caution that during the process of producing wealth, he must not deviate from the path of Dharma or Righteousness. He should encourage the teaching of the scriptures, practice of daily worship and encourage religious functions, and at the same time be kind and hospitable to guests, the homeless and the destitute.

VANAPRASTHA. The third stage is the ‘Vanaprastha’. When the householder sees that his sons are able to bear the burden of his duties, and his grandchildren are born, he, along with his wife, retires from worldly activities and spends his time in religious study, Sadhana (practice of spiritual disciplines), and meditation. Traditionally, such retirees feel that they have outgrown the worldly activities of amusement and entertainment, and, therefore, seek higher things in life. They want to reflect, pursue spiritual studies and meditate. The more active retirees devote their time to selfless community service.

SANNYAASA. This is the last station in the Hindu journey of life. When saturated with spiritual knowledge, a person renounces all worldly pleasures and gives up everything – personal identity, family, wealth, material possessions and all bonds of relationship to become an ascetic.

Hinduism is a way of life as its scriptures touch upon every aspect of human behavior, activities and relationships in this world. It would be a fallacy to think that it focuses only on renunciation of worldly pleasures and promotion of ascetism.

Hinduism is not only of the other world, but also of this world. It is a grave mistake to deny this world. Just as a person who aims for a Higher University education must pass through primary and Secondary Schools, similarly, an aspirant for Salvation must have the experience of the lower world-school of life and living.

(Pandit Ramdial Balbadar is a prominent Aachaarya (Teacher) of Hinduism in Guyana. He is the compiler and author of many titles and has over 30 years experience in Pandits’ Training across Guyana. He is currently the President of the Sanatan Vaidic Dharma Pandits’ Sabha, Region 3).