In Hinduism, the sun is revered as a god, and is known as Surya Deva. Surya Deva is believed to be the giver of life, and is worshipped across India. Understanding the significance of Surya Deva is an important aspect of Hinduism, and it can be enriching for students to learn about this Hindu Sun God.
Here are some tips to help you teach students about Surya Deva:
1. Begin with the mythology– In Hindu mythology, Surya Deva is the son of Sage Kashyap and Aditi, and is often depicted as riding a chariot that is drawn by seven horses across the sky. The seven horses are said to represent the seven colors of the rainbow. In class, you can tell the story of Surya Deva’s birth, and how he became the sun god.
2. Teach about the significance of Surya Deva– According to Hindu beliefs, Surya Deva is the caretaker of life on earth. The Sun gives life through its warmth and energy. Surya Deva is also considered to be the source of Tamasic, Rajasic, and Satvic energies in the human body. Teaching students about this significance of the Sun can help them appreciate nature and understand the role it plays in sustaining life.
3. Use art and music as teaching tools– Using visuals to teach about Surya Deva can help students engage more with the lesson. You can play traditional music and show images of Surya Deva in art and sculptures that students might not have seen before.
4. Explore modern-day beliefs– You can ask students about how they relate to the Sun in their daily lives. Does the sun help them to grow plants in the garden? Does it help them feel better when it’s shining during a gloomy day? Understanding how the Sun serves a practical purpose in our daily lives can help students connect more deeply to the subject.
In conclusion, teaching students about Surya Deva can be an enriching experience, and can also improve their understanding of Hinduism, mythology, and even science. It is also a reminder of the importance of respecting the natural world around us, and appreciating its significance. With the above tips, teachers can make the lesson memorable, fun, and impactful for their students.
