WHAT DO संस्कार MEAN?

Sanskaars, that is, संस्कार in Hindi,  mean actions or processes by which things can be used in the best possible way, for example, removing impurities of water through chemical or other means, washing majority of fruits before eating them, segregation of rotten or un-useful parts, chopping, washing et cetra of vegetables, cooking various eatables, mixing various eatables with a purpose to draw maximum benefits out of them. Almost everything, used by man, is tried to be improved or specific sanskaars are applied to improve them so that those things can be used in the best possible manner. But the plight is this that there is no effort at all to improve the quality of man, who is to use all these worldly things. Only perfect man can draw the maximum out of these worldly things for his benefit. But how to improve the quality of man? Rishis and Maharishis of this country after vigorous research mentioned certain actions or processes to improve the quality of man and these actions or processes are termed as sanskaars.

            No doubt, genes play an important role in formation of a person’s body and mind. But, the role played by genes in making one’s body and mind is not final. One can improve one’s body and mind by his present actions and thought behavior. The rituals suggesting of the right actions or processes necessary for improvement of body and mind are termed as sanskaars.

sanskaars related to different stages of life have been developed by rishis, who can be termed as scientists of olden times. All these sanskaars are equally relevant in all times and at all places irrespective of any community. These sanskaars are referred to certain customs. These customs are symbols of the set of thoughts behind them. Symbols have a very important place in human life. Even words act as symbols of the meanings hidden in them. But symbols draw their power from their source. If the source is corrupted then the symbols get meaningless. Let’s apply this fact on the customs of sanskaars. If customs only are followed without any heed to the thoughts behind them, then they are worthless. As such, there is a scope for change in customs provided their source (set of thoughts) remains intact.