{"id":473,"date":"2020-12-18T07:07:30","date_gmt":"2020-12-18T07:07:30","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/takhte.in\/VoiceofViews\/?p=473"},"modified":"2020-12-19T05:47:23","modified_gmt":"2020-12-19T05:47:23","slug":"tracing-our-roots","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/takhte.in\/VoiceofViews\/tracing-our-roots\/","title":{"rendered":"Tracing Our Roots"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Devika Bajaj<\/em>
The Shri Ram School Aravali, Gurugram, Haryana<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

It would be judicious to say, nature is unequivocally our most potent source of inspiration to learn, innovate and discover solutions. As history bears testimony, many revolutionary ideas and inventions were successfully emulated from our environment. We were able to benefit and overcome complex challenges through its applications significantly. Some of the best examples to understand the concept of biomimicry <\/em>are that of aeroplanes modelled after birds and flight, supersonic trains imitating kingfisher birds and bionic cars designed like the boxfishes amongst others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While the systematic approach of ever-evolving science and technology is crucial to saving our planet, the role of our culture and other multidisciplinary subjects are significant too. To build a resilient eco-system, it is essential to understand the reciprocal relation of humans with other organisms and nature in general.             <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Approximately 4.5 billion years ago, mother Earth was created. It is incredible to think that the only known planet to foster life in the vast galaxy was created out of swirling masses of dust, rocks and gases. Over the period, Homo<\/em> Habilis<\/em> evolved into a species, as they possessed unique attributes like none others. Gradual evolution resulted in us, acquiring complex reasoning abilities and superior skills. We surpassed all creatures with the ability to adapt due to our unique emotional and intellectual quotient. However, as we fast forward to the present, we realize that we have been rather self-centred towards our interests. In turn, it has rapidly resulted in the deterioration of the environment and imbalances in the ecosystem. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although the transition from wilderness to prosperous farmland and meticulously planned cities have been advantageous, it is undoubtedly a boon as well as a bane! Rapid urbanization due to ever-evolving technology has wholly disrupted our focus of living in harmony with nature. Sadly, we continue to plunder our natural resources at a breakneck speed. Also, the rise in harmful anthropogenic activities continues to raise carbon emissions at an alarming rate. The detrimental effects of these pollutants are not only making our planet hotter but are the leading cause for the long- term climate changes. Over our existence in the last few centuries, we have forgotten that mutual symbiotic relationship with our environment cannot be one-sided. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

One can wonder in amazement over the lack of panic about the dire ecological threat, as we have witnessed in the case of the ongoing pandemic. No doubt the novel Coronavirus<\/em> continues to cause massive human devastation in the absence of a suitable cure. The wealthiest nations with trillions of dollars at their disposal are seen scrambling in the race to develop efficacious drugs and vaccines to arrest the spread. However, Global Warming and its deadly consequences cannot be treated lightly either. It is shocking yet true that air pollution alone claims 7 million lives annually. It is projected that over one-third of animal and plant species will be extinct if the current trajectory of greenhouse gas emissions remains unabated. While the authorities may have adopted stringent measures to ban the exploitation of land, forests and other non-renewable resources, it continues to justify economic development over sustainable practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If we retrace our roots, it is evident that the indigenous communities in the past were more resilient and integrated with the natural world. More than three million years ago, our ancestors or Hominids<\/em> evolved on earth. Although they were exceptional survivors, many species became non-existent and only Homo Sapiens<\/em> overcame extinction due to their high endurance. Over time, farming and domesticating livestock replaced high dependence of hunting animals and gathering plants. Despite harsh and dynamic habitats, their adaptability to embrace their environment without burdening it was ingenuous. One of the best practices they adopted was frugality and zero waste, which was, in most part, biodegradable. Also, small settlements displayed a deep connection with nature in the absence of any predominant religion. They worshipped and celebrated different natural phenomena, fearing their wrath to observe many myths and rituals. Perhaps we should be thankful to our ancestors for protecting our environment by advocating practices of veneration to rivers, animals, trees and other sacred plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From time immemorial, culture along with traditions has played an intrinsic role in nurturing our belief that, nothing is lost, nothing is created, everything is transformed in<\/em> natur<\/em>e. There is documented proof that different spiritual beliefs have unanimously preached that mother Earth should be revered and respected. Across the diversity of major religions in the world, each converges to propagate the universal notion of protecting the environment as endorsed by their faith. While our lineage indeed defines our allegiance to a particular religion, our association is mostly dependent on our perception of belonging and righteousness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While there are countless systems of belief, there are four oldest adherences, popularly referred as world religions<\/em>. They propound environmental guidance within their unique framework. With the most massive followers in the world, Christianity is further divided into Catholics and Protestants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jointly they urge their devotees to care and protect every creation of God morally. Jesus<\/em> encourages its followers to embrace environmental solidarity and lead their life most sustainably. Their holy book Bible<\/em> edifies that we cannot possess or stake our claim on nature. It further asserts that a good steward is who is accountable and responsible for the preservation of Earth and all its natural resources. To endorse this thought, the example of Tamil Christians would be quite apt. With agriculture as their primary means of livelihood, the locals believe and perform many ecological traditions and cultural practices to appease their God and ensure satisfactory yields. It is common for people of this sect to observe varying rituals for rain and associate mother Mary with mother Earth. Similar to many other religions, the Catholics strongly believe in worshipping certain trees for their therapeutic benefits and their ability to ward off evil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A popular movement Tarumitra <\/em>meaning friends of trees is another instance to educate and create awareness on the alarming rise in tree felling. In other parts of the world, the church has actively condemned harmful human activities and acted decisively in many ongoing campaigns. Few noteworthy examples range from, A Rocha<\/em>, established in 1983 in Portugal to the most recent encyclical Laudato Si<\/em> written by Pope Francis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Growing at a tremendous rate globally, Islam is currently the second-largest religion in the world. It is monotheistic, just like Christianity and Judaism. The Muslims believe in Allah<\/em> or the lord of the world and Muhammad <\/em>as the final Prophet. Most of them religiously offer Salat <\/em>or prayers five times a day. Their holy scripture Quran <\/em>regards all humans or khalifas <\/em>as protectors of Mother Earth and hold each one accountable for their actions. It is said, the holy book contains more than 200 verses on an environment which emphasizes that there is nothing more Islamic than taking care of our planet, which is God\u2019s most precious creation. One of the principal ideologies mandated by this faith is in planting and nurturing trees. In the vast dessert of North Jordan, one can still witness the lone tree, which had sheltered the Prophet when he was a child! Furthermore, it reinforces the scientific concept of the chain of<\/em> life<\/em> where each organism is dependent on another. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the most famous instances of Islamic Fatwa <\/em>was passed by the clerics of an Indonesian mosqueto protect endangered animals. Consequently, another organization was able to successfully convince the local fishermen in Tanzania against unethical fishing practices. Some of the famous Islamic environmentalists who have been internationally recognized for their efforts are, Late Ayman Ahlawal, Fazlun Khalid, Nana Firman amongst others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than four thousand years back, the third-largest religion-Hinduism,originated with the pure intent to guide people towards a disciplined existence. It is polytheistic, hence does not restrict worship to any one particular god, philosophy or natural power in fact, what truly sets the faith apart is that it attaches greater significance to the moral belief over any depiction of the divine. It lays great emphasis on environmental ethics of Ahimsa<\/em> and forbids one from exploiting or destroying nature. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to the ancient scriptures, there are five facets of life- air, water, fire, space and earth, all derived from nature. It is every Hindu\u2019s dharma <\/em>to worship different elements representing earth like sun, rainfall, rivers, mountains etc. Moreover, many animals and plants were saved from becoming endangered as they were feared or protected on religious grounds. The tradition to worship trees like- Banyan, Neem, Peepal, Bel,<\/em> Tulsi<\/em> amongst others has been an integral part of Hindu traditions since centuries. Similarly, many sacred animals, namely Gau Mata, Kamdhenu, Garuda<\/em>, are symbols or personification of various gods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

 <\/em>In addition, the vibrant Hindu art and architecture take great pride in their cultural heritage. The beautifully rendered scenes on pottery, paintings and sculptures depict their deep confluence with nature and its elements. The fundamental expression to preserve the environment gave way too many strong superstitions, myths, and rituals observed in Hindu culture. One such historical practice which salvaged senseless deforestation was Sacred<\/em> Groves, <\/em>where random patches of land were devoted to a deity or local village gods. More recently, Chipko Andolan <\/em>an ecological movement gained traction in the rural Himalayan region to protest against unprecedented deforestation. Inspired by Gandhian ideals of non-violence, the women of the village clung to the trees to prevent them from felling. The successful ban on green felling made this campaign immensely popular, and many consequent dissents in other regions followed soon after. There are many remarkable initiatives like Save Silent Valley, Appiko Chaluvali and Narmada Bachao Andolan<\/em>, which set precedence and motivating others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Buddhism is the fourth largest religion in the world, which was founded more than 2000 years back by Lord Buddha or the Enlightened One<\/em>. He preached that that environmental crisis can be averted through interdependent yet mutually supportive criterion- behaviour, mind and understanding. The religion has a deep connection with nature, and Bodhi Tree<\/em> is especially very significant as it embodies knowledge and teaching. Buddha\u2019s doctrines were simple and urged mortals to co-exist peacefully with nature. He considered endangering water bodies and forests a deep sin. Under his guidance, monks of Thailand played a predominant role in practising safe agricultural practices. One of the programs introduced by him to arrest water pollution- Dhamma Yatra for Songha Lake <\/em>demonstrates his insight and acute concern for the people afflicted then. Lastly, education and religion were considered as crucial components to address the severe consequences of environmental degradation. As the current Dalai Lama said, Earth is our only home, and we have to bridge the gap between the haves and the have not\u2019s.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the centuries, humankind has been known to worship nature and its elements as they were considered divine manifestations. While religion, traditions, rituals or belief may set us apart within an organized framework of spirituality. The truth is that despite perceived differences, our fundamental goal remains the same! We need to rekindle our dysfunctional relationship with nature lest we become more vulnerable. We must learn from our past mistakes and make prudent decisions to collaborate as individuals with our community and policymakers. In a nutshell, the environmental crisis is borderless, and only those countries will survive who synergize and follow strict protocols to minimize their carbon footprints. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As David Brower said, \u201cWe do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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