Wisdom of the ancients needs to be revived

An individual is the smallest unit of a society. Therefore, survival of all individuals marks the success of a society.

- LAKSHMI BAYI

Divinity was around pre-Creation. But the takeover of the interpretation of Divinity by human beings happened much, much later. It is therefore prudent that we, as a species, learn from the animal kingdom. Their art of survival is older and better than ours, however superior we may feel to them. Our methods of annihilation of them are more efficient. Therefore, we have a misplaced superiority complex that we are the best species going around on Earth. Our brief history, however, shows a dismal survival rate.

As an example, take the case of elephants. They are extremely sociable beings. They are led by the oldest matriarch. In human society, when the eldest female leads, certain things happen. Generally speaking, the Matriarch is concerned about the well-being of the littlest child in the family. Right from prasava raksha or caring for the newly-made mother rests with them. Bathing in ved vellum or medically infused hot water, applying oil, eating the white jelly-like substance on top of coconut trees mixed with molasses to make up for the depleted Calcium during birth were all "grandmother's tales" which have stood the test of time. It is quite common to see ladies in their eighties who are mothers to three or four kids without the slightest trace of back pain, which seems to be a given with modern births.

After natal care of the mother, comes that of the newborn kid. It is quite common to see a herd of elephants stand guard over a female giving birth. They form a loose circle, keeping the precious and naturally vulnerable mother and child as the centre. Any potential threat to them will be met by an army of tusks and trunks made to be defensive.