READING HOLY BOOKS HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON US

 

Holy books are treasure trove of spiritual knowledge. They are a vast source of wisdom and life lessons. The information inside solves many purposes of life. These books are considered sacred and important as they express spiritual truths, establish relationships with the divine, promote communal identity and and guide us to take up spiritual practices. Above all, they are our assets when it comes to protecting our cultural heritage and traditions.

It cannot be denied that reading and learning holy texts makes people wiser and healthier. This habit empowers them to take strong decisions in their life. Reading holy books not only has a positive impact on our lives but it also benefits the physical and mental health. The positivity is such that it lasts a lifetime. 

Changing your brain — and your body — for the better

Someone has rightly said, "Reading books can change your brain — and your body — for the better". A growing body of research indicates that reading literally improves your mind. Using MRI scans researchers have confirmed that reading triggers a complex network of circuits and signals in the brain. As the reading ability matures, these networks become stronger and more sophisticated.

Some research also claim that people who read holy books and make a genuine attempt to understand the lives of characters — show a heightened ability to understand the feelings and beliefs of others.

Giving a sense of morality and fulfillment

Reading holy books gives a sense of morality, fulfillment ​​and self-discipline, which seems to be disappearing these days. Young generation of today is very reluctant towards reading because they are not inspired enough. Earlier, majority of youth imbibed life lessons after reading these books. They were more respectful, courteous, considerate, decent,  honest and righteous and had enough self-discipline to hold on to these values. But, now a days there is an overall shortage of these qualities. 

 

Inculcating reading habit of holy books into children  

It is said that all good habits should begin from an early age and thus, reading is no different. The early years are crucial for a child’s development and hence an ideal time to inculcate reading habit into children. In modern days, our children need to be told that religious books of various religions are like bouquet of specialized knowledge sources which could have wider utility. Through these holy books we can teach our kids to believe in karma. Reading holy books can enhance spiritual and cultural values in children. These books can guide them about what the aim of life should be. Parents can play an important role in this regard. From my personal experience, I can claim that these books can change our outlook on life.

I take this as an opportunity to suggest to every parent that they must expose their kids to religious books as well. This can be done from early childhood, at home.  Introducing them to the religious texts, after all, is to give them a kind of road map to the art of being good. The best way to develop a child’s interest in books is reading along with them. 

Holy books through cell phones

Mobiles and smartphones are transforming human lives at fast pace. One of the new refined inclinations of the 21st century has been the gradual change in reading habits. Mobile applications have become a part of our lives. Some of the apps are very useful and they can be used to introduce children to the goodness of books. Parents can also come forward and upload different apps in the cell phones of their children to inspire them to read holy books every day. Many parents have started following this trend. The trend has picked up and it is heartening to know that children are downloading various applications to read verses of holy books like Ramayan, Geeta, Bible, Quran and Guru Granth Sahib. 

Benefits of reading the holy books 

Religious books are an ideal source of wisdom. Holy books such as the Gita, Ramayana and Mahabharata are ideal 'granths' that teach moral values. They are also abodes of knowledge which we never discover until we read. In fact, values reflect our sense of right and wrong. They help us grow and develop. They help us create the future we want. The decisions we make every day are a reflection of our values. They make us learn how to survive. If you don't believe, then just try reading any religious book.

Teachings of holy books

When you complete reading a holy book, you start seeing changes in your own behavior. You will come across inner peace automatically. Bhagvad Gita teaches us that each individual born on this planet is a soul which is on a journey.  It also teaches us that we must only focus on selfless action and not worry about the result. Ramayana is a way of life and talks about stories about ideal human relationship.

Bible reminds us, God has been through all the ups and downs and thus humans must not be scared to face it. Guru Granth Sahib insists on living a life of Truth, believe in one God (creator of universe), respect for others, and high moral standards. Quran says, life is sacred, and a gift from God; and it is only God, and not the human beings, who have the right to take it back.

 

All holy books have something good to teach us and moreover, they always guide humans to be compassionate to all living beings. We all are part of one universe, irrespective of gender, form, age, caste etc. Life is full of ups and down. What we sow, we shall reap the same.

 

Since an early age, I have been fond of reading holy books and my attraction to them has grown with time. There is something magically empowering about the stories inside these books. The stories and follow-up explanations are heartwarming and enlightening. With time, I have realised the importance of the sacred texts. I not only apply them in my day to day life but also try to relate with them. I have learned my best behaviour of humbleness and humility with these books. 

 

 

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