Let us look at Mother Earth. Do we treat her like a mother? Do we respect and love her? Do we make sure that our air is nontoxic? Do we make sure our waters are not poisoned? My list can go on.

The Shanti Mantra. Om Dhyauh Saantih from the Yajur Veda invokes peace not only for human beings but for the atmosphere, earth, air, waters, herbs, vegetation and the entire cosmos. It reflects a deep ecological consciousness. Understanding this mantra means there must be equilibrium of existence.

In the Hindu Dharma, we are expected to venerate Prakriti as the sacred manifestation of the Divine. We worship and revere our rivers as Mothers. We worship the Sun as the deity, who gives life and energizes the world. In Panchamahabhuta Upasana we meditate on earth, water, fire, air, and ether. We look upon them as the foundational elements.

Trees such as Peepal, Banyan, Neem and Tulsi are worshipped as protectors of life and symbols of continuity, purity and healing. We have a great respect for birds and animals. The bull Nandi of Shiva represents strength and patience; Garud, the eagle of Vishnu represents courage and higher vision; the tiger of Durga reflects power guided by righteousness; Ganesha’s mouse reminds one that even the smallest life form has importance in cosmic harmony.

How sincere are we in our veneration of the Planet? We have to still the war raging within us and seek collective peace to protect Mother Earth.

Aim Hrim Klim