Hindu Manners, Customs and Ceremonies - DUBOIS, Abbé Hindu Manners, Customs and Ceremonies, Dubois | Page 615

FOSTERING SUPERSTITION
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neither the one nor the other can be changed without
exposing the nation to the danger of sinking into a state
This rigorous observance of
of barbarism and anarchy.
their religious rites on the part of the Hindus is rendered
yet more inviolable by reason of the pride, sensuality,
and moral laxity which constitute the national character.
Everything presented to them by their religion contributes
Passion, pre-
to the encouragement of the national vices.
dilection, and self-interest all combine in fostering the
forms of idolatry to which they are enslaved. Even their
games, dances, and entertainments are all conducted with
a licence which derives force from the fact that it is sanc-
tioned by religion. How, it may well be asked, can a
people so credulous, so easily influenced by sensual impres-
sions and all the pleasures resulting from them how can
they help being devoted to a religious cult which accords
so well with their natural inclinations \
Self-interest, again, that powerful motive of human
The
actions, is not the feeblest support of Hindu idolatry.
priests of the Hindu religion, although too enlightened to
be blinded by the follies which they instil into the minds
of their weak fellow-countrymen, are none the less zealous
in maintaining and encouraging the absurd errors which
procure their livelihood, and which keep them in that
high estimation which they have wrongfully usurped.
Their deceitful tactics are specially noticeable in con-
nexion with the feasts that are celebrated at the more
important temples. The Brahmins who have charge of
these enrich themselves by the offerings which the credulous
and stupid worshippers periodically bring therefore they
take infinite pains to foster superstition and curry favour
with the votaries. The triumphal cars, splendidly orna-
mented, on which the idols are exposed to public veneration
in all the brilliant finery peculiar to India
the unceasing
round of songs, dances, games, entertainments, and fire-
works; the limitless crowd of devotees, the more wealthy
among whom vie with each other in luxurious display and
extravagant profusion above all, the extreme licence
which prevails on such occasions, and the facility with
which every one can satisfy his depraved desires
all these
give infinite pleasure to a people who know nothing higher
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