PUROHITA - An Excellent Component of Indian Society

प्रब्रवाम शरदश्शतम्, अजीतास्स्याम शरदश्शतम्।

Preamble

The word PUROHITA is a grand nomenclature, intended to bring harmony to the society. It has another synonym called PURODHAS. An inspection at the etymology, gives us the deep insight propounded by Vedas in myriad texts. I deem it appropriate to delve into this topic, on this joyous occasion.

Choices of Life Hitam - Priyam

            In life, we find two important choices, often contrary to each. Sages have categorised them as HITAM and PRIYAM. Hitam is the better of the two as it seeks to promote absolute welfare of the person in this life as well as next births, and even in the achievement of salvation. However, Hitam may be hard to follow, as common trait of the mortals is to jump for short term gain, rather than concentrating on long term eternal benefit.

Where as Priyam (temporary comfort) is the obvious choice for most of the people, as it gives happiness instantaneously in short term. But, it is bound to lead to a chaotic situation, which could be horrendous.

Let us illustrate an example to explain the difference. A child always likes to spend time in play (PRIYAM) and dislikes the strict rigorous discipline in studies and ethics (HITAM). But, parents and guardians do not allow him to spend all the time in casual Play, as it will jeopardise his career and affect his life later.

Hitam, though seems the harder choice of the two; is not that difficult, as it is appears at the entry level. Let us consider the fact that, once attuned to the rigorous study schedules and moral ethics, the child will start relishing it too. Therefore, all the mortals require a person to advise them to choose the better choice of life, at all times.

Who is a PUROHITA?

            In light of the above explained scenario, the Vedic Tradition devised the system of PUROHITA, which can be correlated as the conscience keeper of the society, at large. Explaining the term further – PURAS means Forward. Hitam is the welfare. If you need to get ahead continuously, you need to adhere to path of Dharma. (Dharma Aacharanam alone could ensure the competitive edge, required to achieve ever lasting stupendous success. (For an example: By luring gullible people to invest in unrealistic high interest yielding deposit scheme, one may mobilise lots of money to dispense with. Failure to honour the commitment could land him in serious trouble, later).

            The synonym PURODHAS further explains the purpose beautifully. It is not only sufficient to achieve one time success, but the more important goal is to maintain it all times to achieve respect and dignity. (DHA – is the root Dhaatu, which is translated as: to hold, maintain or nourish.) For this, the society requires an essential conscience keeper, called PUROHITA. In order to make us realise this importance, VEDA starts with the first hymn:

अग्निमीळे पुरोहितम्। यज्ञस्य देव मृत्विजम्।

As mortals, are bound to die at some time, it is essential to know the eternal PUROHITA who is none other than AGNI. He is the primordial RITWIK (a partner) of our YAGNA and its fruits. As it is difficult to stipulate a blanket rule and implement it by mere oral instruction at macro level; micro level consultation and assistance is necessary for smooth implementation. Hence, the society is categorised with several nuclei such as Gender, Family, Clan, Race, Family and Sect for easier implementation of DHAARMIKA JEEVANA (Righteous living) that is to opt for HITAM in life.

It is very important to realise, that this categorisation in done with a great bonafide intention of ensuring success for all the humans. Further classifying the duties of the society, Vedic tradition stipulated that a BRAAHMANA, as representative of AGNI shall undertake this sacred and honorary duty as PUROHITA, with nil expectation of any dividend. To qualify as a PUROHITA, a person is required to be scholastic in Dharma Saastra (Ethical Code), Karma Kaanda (Rituals) and Jyotishya (Astrology). Last but not least, a PUROHITA needs to set an example by overcoming the personal temptations to jump for unscrupulous interim benefits and should practise Dharma at personal level through out life.

It is mutually convenient to seek/ provide consultation at personal level, to meet individual requirements. Hence, the duties for PUROHITA are envisaged as under:

1.     To assist and support a family (Client) in Personal Rites

2.     To fix the Muhoortam for several rituals

3.     To advise the family, as a guide during entire life cycle from birth to death (in 16 Samskaaras (Rituals to shape and invigorate important stages of life)

4.     To advise at times of adversity such as defeat, ailments and calamities; by diagnosing the symptoms; analysing the causes and suggesting remedies enlisted in Dharma Sastra.

5.     Consultation and Implementation partnership, at micro level

6.     To fix dates for Rituals and course of action for the welfare of the society

7.     To advise rulers and administrators in determining best practices of Dharma and judging righteous actions.

It is a gracious fact, that PUROHITA was a necessary component of society, requiring each family to have a dedicated PUROHITA for life. It even extended from generations to next generations, inventing the term KULA PUROHITA.

We can draw the reference to several instances in our epics, where Great Sages such as Vasishtha, Garga etc have supported rituals in many incarnations such as Rama and Krishna. Brahma, himself conducted many rituals himself and accepted to be PUROHITA at many instances. Dakshina (Money/ Emoluments) offered to PUROHITA, as a courtesy represented their respect towards the scholar.

Current Status

With changing times, the stark reality is that this respected honorary Profession of PUROHITA has started to become derogatory, due to the decline of ethics and morality in society. In changing circumstances, Scholarly persons have declined to be PUROHITA, as it was being associated with connected with unjustified gains. Dwindling income from the profession was another important reason, for knowledgeable persons avoiding this profession.

Due to the paucity of qualified scholars as PUROHITA, the dynamics of demand supply have led to an unhealthy proposition. Thus, the remaining few Purohitas have lesser time for their clients and underserved families are either ignorant of this necessity or could not afford for the services of a Purohita. In this reprehensible process, the profession of Purohita, started to be depicted as inferior at many important forums of the society such as literature, drama and it continues till date, as Purohita is lampooned as buffoon in movies. All these factors are dissuading youngsters to yearn for other jobs.

Conclusion

            To revitalise the institution of PUROHITA, an effort has to be made to enlighten and educate the professionals about its purpose and importance. On the other hand, it is also pertinent to sensitise the society in honouring the Professionals, whom it requires at all times. May God amply bless all of us, in this direction!!

Jaya Guru Datta