Why are Brahmins Called Deities in Scriptures? The Complete Truth
Almost all of you will know that in Hinduism, Brahmins are considered no less than deities. In essence, they are considered worthy of worship like deities. However, many among you might also have questioned why Brahmins are considered divine? What is the reason behind it? Why is such respect given to Brahmins? These kinds of questions are a source of curiosity for the younger generation in society. Let's delve into what our religious scriptures say on this matter.
Scriptural Viewpoint:
Pṛthivyām yānī tīrthāni tāni tīrthāni sāgare |
Sāgare sarvatīrthāni pāde viprasyā dakṣiṇe ||
Caitramāhāत्मye tīrthāni dakṣiṇe pāde vedāstanmukhamāśritāḥ |
Sarvāngeṣhvāśritā devāḥ pūjitāste tadarcayā ||
Avyakta rūpiṇo viṣṇoḥ svarūpaṃ brāhmaṇā bhuvi |
Nāvamānyā no virodhā kadācicchubhamicchhatā ||
According to the above verses, all the holy places on earth ultimately converge in the ocean, and all the holy places in the ocean are contained within the Brahmin's right foot. The four Vedas reside in their mouth, and all the deities reside in their limbs. Thus, the belief is that worshipping a Brahmin is equivalent to worshipping all deities. Brahmins are considered to be embodiments of Lord Vishnu on Earth. Therefore, those seeking well-being should never disrespect or harbor animosity towards Brahmins.
Devādhinā jagatsarvaṃ mantradhināśca devatāḥ |
Te mantraḥ brāhmaṇādhīnāḥ tasmāद् brāhmaṇa devatā.
Another significant reason why Brahmins are considered deities is that the entire universe is under the control of deities, deities are under the control of mantras, and mantras are under the control of Brahmins.
Om janmanā brāhmaṇo jñeyah saṁskārairdvija uccate |
Vidyayā yāti vipratvaṁ tribhiḥ śrotriya lakṣaṇam.
A child born a Brahmin should be considered a Brahmin. Through rituals, one attains the designation of 'twice-born,' and through learning, one becomes a 'Brahmin scholar.' Those who are purified through the Vedas, mantras, and Puranas, and through sacred ablutions, are considered supremely revered Brahmins.
Om purāṇakathako nityam dharmākhyānasya santatiḥ |
Asyaiva darśanān nityam aśvamedhādijam phalam.
In scriptures, it is said that a Brahmin who constantly narrates ancient stories and propagates dharma, possessing devotion towards gurus, deities, parents, and guests, and inspiring others on the path of devotion, is like achieving the rewards of an Ashvamedha sacrifice through mere sight.
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