Respect Sanatan Culture: 10 Things Every Sanatani Must Know

ॐ गं गणपतये नमः

In today’s fast-paced and globalized world, it's easy to unknowingly adopt words, habits, and concepts that may contradict the values of our timeless Sanatan Dharma. It’s important for every follower of this ancient tradition to understand and preserve the depth and dignity of our culture. Here are some essential points that every Sanatani should know and remember:

1. Say “Bhagwan Ram” or “Bhagwan Krishna” – Not “Lord”

Ask yourself: Were Bhagwan Ram or Bhagwan Krishna ever members of England’s “House of Lords”? Then why use the title “Lord”? The English term does not carry the same spiritual reverence as the word “Bhagwan,” which signifies divinity and supreme consciousness in Sanatan Dharma. Let’s use our own respectful expressions: Bhagwan Shri Ram, Bhagwan Shri Krishna.

2. Avoid Saying “RIP”

The phrase Rest In Peace (RIP) originates from burial customs and assumes the soul rests at one place. In Sanatan Dharma, we believe in rebirth or liberation (moksha). Instead, say:
“Om Shanti”, “Sadgati Mile”, or “May the soul attain Moksha.” The soul is eternal and on a journey, not in need of rest.

3. Don’t Call Ramayan and Mahabharat Mythology

These are not myths or fictional tales — they are our sacred history, our Itihas. Calling them mythology undermines the profound truth, legacy, and values embedded in these scriptures. Shri Ram and Shri Krishna are divine historical personalities, not mythical figures.

4. Respect the Names of Your Deities

Always mention the names of your Ishta Devatas (beloved deities जय श्री राम, जय श्री कृष्णा / जय माँ दुर्गा ) with reverence. Never allow jokes, memes, or disrespectful depictions of Hindu gods and goddesses to be circulated. Protect the dignity of divine symbols on social media and in conversations.

5. Temples Are Not Just Places of Prayer

Do not refer to temples as prayer halls. Temples are Devalayas – the abodes of the Divine. They are places for darshan, rituals, bhakti, knowledge, and spiritual elevation, not just for weekly prayers. Sanatan Dharma prescribes daily practices – not weekly routines.

6. Stop Blowing Out Candles on Birthdays

Blowing out a lamp is considered inauspicious. Fire (Agni Dev) is sacred in Sanatan Dharma. Instead of extinguishing light, light a lamp and teach your child to pray:
“Tamso Ma Jyotirgamaya” – Lead me from darkness to light. Such rituals shape a child’s mind with powerful cultural impressions.

7. Avoid the Words "Spiritual" and "Materialistic"

These terms come from a Western duality that separates science and spirituality. But in Sanatan Dharma, everything is sacred. Our Rishis were scientists and sages, discovering universal laws through deep spiritual inquiry. Yantra, Mantra, and Tantra are not superstitions—they are part of our spiritual science.

8. Say “Paap,” Not “Sin”

The word sin is rooted in Abrahamic religious concepts. In Sanatan Dharma, we understand the difference between Dharma (righteous duty) and Adharma (unrighteousness). Paap (sin) is a result of Adharma. Let’s use words aligned with our worldview.

9. Say “Dhyan” and “Pranayam,” Not “Meditation” and “Breathing Exercise”

These English terms lack the depth of their Sanskrit originals. Dhyan is not mere focus; it is a journey inward toward self-realization. Pranayam is not just breath control, it is life-force mastery. Let us preserve the essence of these practices by using their true names.

10. Do Not Say "God-Fearing"

Why should we fear Bhagwan? He is compassionate, just, omnipresent, and within us. Sanatan Dharma teaches us to see divinity in everything. We are not separate from God. Instead of calling yourself “God-fearing,” say “God-loving” or “God-conscious.”

Final Thought:

Only those who respect their roots, culture, and heritage are respected by the world.
Let us honor the greatness of Sanatan Dharma by understanding it deeply, living it proudly, and sharing it wisely.

Respect Sanatan Culture – Respect Yourself.

ॐ नमः शिवाय !

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