Arya Samaj

The Arya Samaj is a Hindu reform movement founded by Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati in 1875. It was established with the aim of revitalizing and purifying Hinduism by returning to the Vedic scriptures—the ancient texts that Dayanand believed were the source of true knowledge. The movement sought to eliminate superstitions, rituals, and practices that had crept into Hinduism over time, such as idol worship, caste discrimination, and child marriage.

Key Principles of Arya Samaj:

1. Belief in the Vedas: Arya Samaj holds that the Vedas are the ultimate and infallible source of spiritual and worldly knowledge.
2. Opposition to Idol Worship: The movement rejects idol worship, emphasizing that God is formless, omnipresent, and must be worshiped directly.
3. Promotion of Education: Arya Samaj promotes universal education, especially for women, as a means of social upliftment.
4. Equality and Social Justice: The Samaj advocates for equality, opposing the caste system and promoting gender equality.
5. Social Reform: It fights against practices like untouchability, child marriage, and the mistreatment of widows.
6. Focus on Ethical Living: The movement encourages a life of moral purity, truthfulness, and righteous action (Dharma).

Arya Samaj has played a significant role in social and religious reforms in India, including promoting women’s rights, education, and national pride, while influencing the Indian independence movement. It continues to be an important force in modern Hinduism, with a focus on Vedic teachings and social responsibility.