The Three Divine Powers in Human Life: Praise, Knowledge, and Ethics

Life is a sacred journey, and throughout this journey, three divine powers serve as guiding lights—Praise (Positive Communication), Knowledge (Wisdom and Science), and Ethics (Righteousness and Dharma). These are not mere philosophical ideals but essential principles that shape the way we think, speak, and act. When we embrace these three divine forces, we elevate not only our own lives but also contribute to the well-being of society, fostering love, harmony, and prosperity.

1. Praise (Positive Communication): The Power of Words

Words are incredibly powerful. They can uplift or destroy, heal or hurt, unite or divide. Positive communication, or Stuti, is the art of using words to spread harmony, encouragement, and truth. In Vedic traditions, chanting mantras, singing hymns, and offering prayers have been considered a way to align oneself with divine energy. The Bhagavad Gita (17.15) states:

“Anudvegakaraṁ vākyaṁ satyaṁ priya-hitaṁ ca yat |
svādhyāyābhyasanaṁ caiva vāṅ-mayaṁ tapa ucyate ||”

“Speech that does not disturb others, that is truthful, pleasant, and beneficial, and that is used in the practice of scriptural study—this is said to be the austerity of speech.”

When we practice Stuti—praising the divine, appreciating others, and communicating with love and kindness—we create a positive atmosphere around us. A person who masters the power of words can resolve conflicts, inspire greatness, and bring joy to those around them.

How to Cultivate Positive Communication:

  • Speak words that encourage and uplift others.
  • Avoid gossip, negativity, and harsh criticism.
  • Practice gratitude by expressing appreciation for life’s blessings.
  • Engage in chanting sacred mantras to purify speech and thoughts.
  • Communicate truthfully, but with kindness and compassion.

When we use the power of words wisely, we create an environment filled with love, trust, and positivity.

2. Knowledge (Wisdom and Science): The Power of Light

Knowledge (Vidya) is the force that dispels the darkness of ignorance. In the Upanishads, knowledge is considered the supreme purifier of the soul. The Bhagavad Gita (4.38) states:

“Na hi jñānena sadṛiśaṁ pavitram iha vidyate |
tat svayaṁ yoga-saṁsiddhaḥ kālena ātmani vindati ||”

“In this world, there is nothing as purifying as knowledge. One who has attained perfection in yoga finds this knowledge naturally within himself in due course of time.”

True knowledge is of two types—material knowledge (external sciences) and spiritual wisdom (inner realization). While material sciences help in understanding the world around us, spiritual wisdom reveals the deeper purpose of life. A balanced life integrates both, leading to holistic progress.

Ways to Attain and Apply Knowledge:

  • Study the scriptures, such as the Bhagavad Gita, Vedas, and Upanishads.
  • Engage in self-inquiry and meditation to develop inner wisdom.
  • Learn and apply modern sciences for material progress.
  • Cultivate discernment to differentiate between eternal truth and temporary illusions.
  • Share knowledge selflessly to enlighten others.

When knowledge is pursued with sincerity and humility, it leads not only to personal success but also to the upliftment of society.

3. Ethics (Righteousness and Dharma): The Power of Morality

A life without ethics is like a tree without roots—unstable and weak. Neeti (righteousness and dharma) is the foundation of a meaningful and fulfilling life. Ethics teaches us to distinguish between right and wrong, leading to harmony in personal and social spheres.

The Mahabharata states:

“Dharma eva hato hanti, dharmo rakshati rakshitah |
tasmad dharmo na hantavyo, ma no dharmo hato’vadhīt ||”

“Dharma destroys those who destroy it; Dharma protects those who protect it. Therefore, one must never abandon Dharma, lest Dharma abandon them.”

Ethics is not limited to religious principles but extends to personal integrity, social responsibility, and universal justice. It is about living in alignment with higher values, ensuring that our actions benefit not only ourselves but the world around us.

How to Live an Ethical Life:

  • Follow the principles of non-violence, truth, and compassion.
  • Perform duties with sincerity, without attachment to results.
  • Serve others selflessly, practicing charity and kindness.
  • Avoid greed, dishonesty, and actions that harm others.
  • Develop inner discipline through spiritual practices like meditation and self-control.

When ethics and morality guide our actions, our lives become a source of inspiration for others.

The Union of Praise, Knowledge, and Ethics

A truly enlightened person integrates these three divine powers—Praise (Positive Communication), Knowledge (Wisdom and Science), and Ethics (Righteousness and Dharma).

  1. When words (Stuti) are filled with kindness and truth, they spread harmony.
  2. When knowledge (Vidya) is pursued with sincerity, it leads to wisdom and enlightenment.
  3. When ethics (Neeti) govern our actions, we create a just and compassionate society.

These three divine forces are not merely theories but a way of life. When we align our speech, thoughts, and actions with these principles, we move closer to a balanced, fulfilling, and meaningful existence.

Conclusion: Walking the Path of Divinity

Human life is a sacred opportunity to grow spiritually, intellectually, and morally. By embracing the divine powers of Praise, Knowledge, and Ethics, we elevate our existence from mere survival to profound fulfillment.

Let us cultivate the habit of speaking with love, seeking knowledge with humility, and living with unwavering integrity. In doing so, we not only transform our own lives but contribute to the betterment of the world. A life rooted in divinity radiates joy, peace, and prosperity—bringing true success in this world and beyond.