Birth of the New Man
The concept of the birth of the New Man is very pleasant and comforting, but its process is extremely difficult. A mother is thrilled to imagine the birth of her first child, even if she has to suffer the pangs of childbirth. In fact, when is the creation of the new man not from an original birth? Every man that takes birth is a new man, after all.
A philosopher once visited a village. He found a group of villagers gathered at a particular place. The philosopher asked, “Brothers, has any great man taken birth in your village?”
The villagers were stunned to hear that question. One of them replied, “Oh, my good man, in our village, only children are born. No man is born.”
That unschooled villager revealed a great truth about life. It is a fact that no man is borne into full manhood the time of his birth. Rama, Krishan, Mahavira, Buddha, Gandhi, and all other great men were obviously born only into infancy. They acquired unique abilities that led to significant contributions to the world. This led to their being widely acclaimed as great men.
Debate about Birth and Destiny
Darwin’s theory of evolution postulates that man is a descendant of the ape. The story of the New Man can be written according to that theory. But Darwin’s view does not stand the test of the Jain doctrine. Therefore, the New Man would have to be related not to his birth, but to his making. In the Mahabharata, Karna says, “My birth in a particular family is determined by fate, but the endeavor is mine. “ He says that he has not spared any effort and his personality is entirely shaped by his endeavor.
Man always desires to be different from what he is. Novelty attracts everyone. However today, man has become antiquated. He has reached the limits species evolution in every sense. It is not possible to put him into good shape by trimming and pruning. From that point of view, the idea of the birth of the New Man pleases the mind. But the context in which the New Man has been discussed has nothing to do with his physical form. By new I mean new thinking through creativity, superiority and a constructive outlook. It is definitely doable to shape such a personality.
It is asserted that on the basis of new scientific discoveries, it is possible to bring about the desired progeny through gene manipulation. By introducing the genes of a scientist, an engineer, a doctor, a political leader or an actor, it is possible to develop the future progeny in that image. There is no question of looking upon science with mistrust or skepticism, but it is not appropriate to dismiss these claims this till we are faced with it in it's practical form.
The Government of India is going to release coins to commemorate the birth centenary of “Sri Acharya Tulsi”, very soon. The denominations of the coins are Rupees 20 and Rs 5. Proof & UNC sets will also be issued for the collectors from the mint. These will be available at a premium price determined by the mint for pre booking. The five Rupee coin will be for general circulation.
Acharya Tulsi Birth Centenary
(We have started this monthly newsletter on the occasion of Achrya Tulsi’s Centennial Birthday Celebration. Acharya Tulsi was the man of Mission and Motives. Dr. Radhakrishnan former President of India (1888-1975) his book "Living with Purpose" included him in 15 great persons. Read more about Acharya Tulsi in upcoming issues.)