Hinduism and Linux
One can sometimes find very interesting analogies for Religion in the geek world.
First, Windows came up with its 98 version. The users of this version claimed it to be the best version. Then after some time came the NT version of windows. Again the same claim by its users that this version is the best and the last. Later came XP. Once again the same claim repeated by its users that this is the best and last one. All the users of each windows version have been trying to monopolize all the users of the world to their own version.
On the other hand we have Linux. It is not monopolized by one seller or creator, but different users have added to it. And each user can create a module which suits his requirements. It gives a lot of scope for the user to improve, and does not claim exclusive privileges.
Does it ring any bells...if not try reading the above statements by replacing 98 by Jews, NT by Christians, and XP by Islam. Each claiming that the previous was also a prophet, but theirs the best and last.
In windows, everything is fixed and the user has negligible freedom. All the commands and user systems are readymade by a builder who they assume knows better the needs of the users. In the same manner in Abrahamic religions, there are set of dos/donots given by the god for the sake of humans and it is assumed that humans are not mature enough to decide, and which we humans have to accept without any choice.
Hinduism on the other hand can be compared with Linux. There is no specific OS that can be defined as Linux. There may be many versions and forms of it and each individual can custom make it to suit his temperament.
But then not all may be good at programming and making their own custom made version of Linux. Hence , some good programmers (Saints) may make some simplified versions like redhat (rituals, beliefs) for non technical users (masses) to use. It is open and free for all and does not necessarily negate other OS. Various versions are not a matter of superiority but a matter of one’s temperament.
posted by S @ 1:38 AM
5 comments
5 Comments:
Very interesting thought there.
This is one of the WORST analogies ever read. FYI: There are 100s of different types of Christianity in USA itself; which people follow according to their tempermant. Same is the case with Islam.
And if you want to have new users for LINUX(Hindu Conversion); which sector (caste) would you assign them?? And with no new Users ... I dont think the product would work which is not the case with LINUX too
Dear Smitha,
Let me take this opportunity to teach you Analogies & Examples 101. An analogy or example by its very definition is bound to have some differences with the subject. If there are absolutely no differences, then it will no longer be a analogy, but the subject set itself.
An analogy only means that there are some similarities or parallelism between two phenomenon in certain aspect and we are using one to explain the other.
When we say Lion is the King of Jungle, in that analogy, we are trying to draw the parallelism between the absolute power, majesty of a King and a Lion. If a person asks the comparison is wrong coz the Lion does not have a crown on its head, then it only implies that person needs to take some English lessons.
what a comparision...
good work.
Interesting thoughts.Some parts of your analogy work well though I have issues with Islam/Christianity being compared to closed source software.
I would like to stick my head out and say that ALL religions are customizations made to suit the masses. However in every religion as the programmer (seeker) advances, every line of the universal source code opens up for scrutiny.
As Swami Vivekananda rightly said- 'Direct Experience' is the true goal; and thats why every religion is 'open source'.
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