Definition and Purpose of Wealth: An Environmental Perspective - By Sachin Awasthi
Understanding the concept of wealth in the context of nature conservation is crucial.
The Western ideology of wealth, driven by GDP calculations, is leading to destruction.
It aggressively seeks to exploit and deplete the Earth’s resources.
Comparative Religious Analysis
Western (Abrahamic) Business Perspective:
• Focuses on individual profit and sustainable development as a means to continue economic growth.
Sanatan (Eastern) Perspective:
• Aligns wealth with religion, society, and harmony with nature rather than individual accumulation.
Role of Nature in Different Perspectives
Western View:
• Nature is treated as a resource to be maximally exploited for human benefit.
• The belief that humans are masters of nature originates from the biblical story of Adam and Eve.
Sanatan View:
• Nature is regarded as sacred and worthy of preservation.
• The story of Manu and Shatarupa in Hindu scriptures emphasizes the reverence and responsibility towards nature.
Mindset Towards Consumption
Western Perspective:
• Built on consumerism, where continuous consumption drives the economy.
Sanatan Perspective:
• Promotes contentment, self-restraint, and minimal consumption for a balanced life.
Environmental Ethics
Western Approach:
• Focuses on controlling pollution rather than preventing it at the source.
Sanatan Approach:
• Emphasizes duty towards nature with a deep sense of reciprocity.
• Considers nature as a mother, fostering an attitude that seeks to eliminate pollution at its root.
Solutions to Environmental Crisis
Western Approach:
• Technological innovations like green tech are used to manage environmental issues.
• However, these solutions are often inadequate because Western society is driven by the “Carpe Diem” (seize the day) mentality, which prioritizes short-term gains over long-term sustainability.
Sanatan Approach:
• Encourages simplicity, moderation, and deep respect for nature.
• Advocates for an eco-friendly lifestyle that prevents environmental degradation rather than merely controlling its symptoms.
The Need for an Eco-Friendly Future
The contrast between Western and Sanatan perspectives on environment and resources is stark. A sustainable future requires a nature-centric approach, which is deeply embedded in Sanatan Dharma.
As the world faces escalating environmental crises, the choice is clear:
• Should we continue on the Western path of exploitation?
• Or should we embrace the Sanatan way of harmony with nature?
The time to decide is now before nature’s fury becomes uncontrollable.
Final Thought:
To truly understand the connection between spirituality and nature, read Sanatan scriptures through the lens of environmental wisdom.
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