The Five Pillars of Sanātani
These pillars turn timeless wisdom into daily rhythm. Each section below explains the essence, practical steps, and recommended study to go deeper.
Śraddhā (Faith)
An open, trusting attitude toward truth and a willingness to learn, question, and transform.
Cultivate humility and curiosity; avoid sectarian superiority.
Daily sankalpa (intention) before practice.
Keep a learning journal; note doubts and insights.
Practical routine
- Morning sankalpa: 2–3 lines of intention.
- Read one śāstra passage and write one reflection.
- Gratitude list at night (3 items).
Recommended study
- Gītā 4.39 on faith leading to knowledge.
- Taittirīya Upaniṣad: śraddhā as inner conviction.
Jñāna (Knowledge)
Right understanding through systematic study guided by authentic sources and teachers.
Follow a graded curriculum: primer → core texts → commentaries.
Use transliteration + translation; cite sources.
Weekly Q&A to clear doubts and avoid misinformation.
Practical routine
- 3‑minute micro‑lesson daily (app).
- One chapter/section per week with discussion prompts.
- Monthly recap quiz to consolidate learning.
Recommended study
- Gītā Chapter 2 overview (Sāṅkhya‑yoga).
- Kaṭha Upaniṣad selections on ātman.
Sādhanā (Practice)
Disciplined rhythm of pūjā, japa, meditation, and dhārmic lifestyle (āhāra‑vihāra).
Small and consistent > intense and rare.
Design a 10‑minute base routine; extend to 30/60 on weekends.
Track streaks; pair with breath and posture guidance.
Practical routine
- 108‑count japa or 3‑minute mantra audio.
- 5‑minute breath‑anchored meditation.
- Simple home pūjā guide with checklist.
Recommended study
- Yoga‑sūtra 1.12–1.16 on abhyāsa and vairāgya.
- Bhakti traditions on nāma‑smaraṇa (remembrance).
Sevā (Service)
Compassion in action—serving people and planet without expectation.
Local micro‑seva: teach, clean, plant, donate, listen.
Log hours to build habit and reflect impact.
Ethical frame: ahimsā, satya, asteya, aparigraha.
Practical routine
- One weekly micro‑seva (30–60m).
- Monthly community drive (clothes/food/cleanup).
- Share story (what, why, learning) to inspire others.
Recommended study
- Gītā 3.19–3.20 on selfless action.
- Iśa Upaniṣad on stewardship.
Saṅgha (Community)
Walk the path together—learn, celebrate, and grow with supportive circles.
City hubs and online satsangs with facilitation.
Healthy dialogue norms; source‑based sharing.
Festivals as anchors for culture and learning.
Practical routine
- Bi‑weekly satsang or study circle.
- Festival meetups with context and activities.
- Mentor newcomers; host Q&A threads.
Recommended study
- Gītā 10 (Vibhūti‑yoga) for shared wonder.
- Selections from Bhāgavata Purāṇa on satsang.