The Omnipresence of God: A Reflection on Dharma and Humanity
Sanjay Pattnayak
Sundargarh
God is omnipresent—this profound truth resonates across cultures and religions, transcending linguistic and regional barriers. Whether articulated in Sanskrit as "सर्वव्यापी," in Odia as "ସକଳ ଘଟେ ନାରାୟଣ," or in English as "God is everywhere," the essence remains universal: divinity resides in every corner of existence. This belief forms the cornerstone of many faiths, emphasizing unity, compassion, and the sacredness of all life.
Early Lessons in Spirituality
My journey into understanding this profound truth began in my childhood. Following my father’s wish, I reluctantly read the Srimad Bhagavad Gita aloud during evening gatherings at our home. A Pandit would explain its teachings to the small audience of 8 to 10 people. Although my initial engagement with the Gita lacked enthusiasm, its impact on my life has been enduring. It shaped my character, instilling patience, resilience in adversity, and a steadfast commitment to ethical living.
Interestingly, despite the spiritual atmosphere at home, my parents never compelled us to visit temples. They believed in nurturing a spiritual connection that transcended rituals. When I did visit temples, my prayers were simple yet profound—I sought wisdom, not material wealth or worldly possessions. This upbringing cultivated in me an understanding of spirituality that is inclusive and devoid of discrimination, whether based on caste, creed, or religion.
Understanding Dharma
The concept of dharma is central to our existence. In its simplest sense, dharma refers to the intrinsic nature or duty of a being. Just as water manifests in three forms—solid, liquid, and gas—humans, too, have a unique dharma: to be human. This humanity lies in compassion, empathy, and the pursuit of truth. As Swami Vivekananda and other spiritual luminaries have emphasized, the ultimate quest is to discover God within ourselves rather than seeking divinity in temples, mosques, churches, or other religious institutions.
Regrettably, many modern interpretations of spirituality have strayed from this core principle. Today, a plethora of self-proclaimed godmen and storytellers monetize sacred texts like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, amassing wealth through social media platforms and extravagant pravachans (discourses). While these epics contain invaluable lessons, their true essence can only be grasped through proper interpretation and understanding. It is not enough to listen to or read these stories; one must internalize their teachings and apply them in daily life.
Karma and Intellect: Agents of Change
A crucial realization that has guided my life is that no scripture or sermon can transform us unless we take charge of our actions. It is our karma (deeds) and intellect that shape our destiny. The Gita emphasizes this through its doctrine of nishkama karma—selfless action without attachment to results. This philosophy underscores the importance of personal responsibility in achieving spiritual and material fulfillment.
A Call for Universal Love
In a world rife with division, it is imperative to rediscover our shared humanity. By embracing love and compassion, we can transcend barriers of religion, caste, and nationality, creating a harmonious global community. As Swami Vivekananda urged, let us find God within ourselves and others. Let us prioritize kindness over ritual, and understanding over dogma.
Conclusion
The path to spiritual and personal growth lies not in outward displays of piety but in the quiet cultivation of virtues like empathy, integrity, and wisdom. By understanding our dharma and aligning our actions with our higher purpose, we can make the earth a better place for all. As we navigate life’s complexities, let us remember that God’s omnipresence calls us to honor the divine in every being and to strive for a world rooted in love and mutual respect.
In doing so, we fulfill not just our human potential but also our sacred duty to humanity.
