The Sabarimala gold theft has sparked outrage across Kerala. Several kilograms of gold, intended for temple renovation, are reportedly missing, raising serious questions about the Travancore Devaswom Board. The Kerala High Court called it a “well-orchestrated conspiracy” and ordered a Special Investigation Team to probe the scandal. Political parties, including the BJP, have demanded transparency and accountability. This shocking Kerala temple scandal has shaken devotees’ faith and highlighted the urgent need for honesty in temple administration. The Sabarimala temple controversy stands as a reminder that devotion must always be guided by integrity and transparency.
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Since ancient times, Hindu scriptures have spoken in depth about human behaviour, morality, and the results of one’s actions. Among these teachings, the Puranas describe the signs of thieves, their psychological traits, and the spiritual punishments they face. Let’s explore what the ancient texts say about thieves and their signs in Puranas.
The Garuda Purana on Thieves and Their Sins
The Garuda Purana, which details the journey of the soul after death, speaks strongly about the fate of thieves. According to this Purana:
This means a person who steals is destined to suffer after death. In the Garuda Purana, thieves are punished in several hells such as Tamrapuri, Andhakoopa, and Raurava, where they endure severe torment for their deceitful actions.
The text explains that the act of stealing destroys not only material wealth but also spiritual merit. This shows how seriously the sin of theft is viewed in Hindu philosophy.
The Manusmriti’s View on Thieves and Their Nature
The Manusmriti, one of the oldest codes of law in Hinduism, also speaks about thieves and their signs. Manu states:
This verse highlights that even if a thief escapes punishment in the physical world, karma ensures he cannot escape the consequences of his actions.
The Manusmriti also identifies certain psychological signs of thieves:
- They are constantly anxious and suspicious.
- Their eyes move rapidly, and their voice lacks steadiness.
- They live in fear and can never find peace.
These descriptions are not only symbolic but also remarkably accurate observations of human behaviour.
The Bhagavata Purana on the Destiny of Thieves
The Bhagavata Purana, one of the most sacred texts in Hinduism, directly connects theft with spiritual downfall. It says:
The Bhagavata Purana teaches that wealth obtained through dishonesty never brings happiness. Thieves may appear to prosper for a while, but internally they are filled with fear, restlessness, and guilt. Their families too suffer the karmic effects of their actions.
According to the Purana, a person who values truth and righteousness will always be under divine protection, whereas a thief lives in constant mental darkness.
The Mahabharata’s Teaching on Thieves and Dharma
In the Mahabharata (Shanti Parva), Bhishma explains to Yudhishthira:
Bhishma’s words remind us that theft is not merely a social offence but a spiritual degradation. Even if a thief becomes wealthy, he remains poor in character.
The Mahabharata clearly states that such a person loses the ability to experience peace and contentment.
Common Traits of Thieves in the Puranas
Ancient texts mention a few common signs of thieves that still seem relevant today. These include:
- Restless eyes that constantly shift from side to side
- A heart filled with fear and greed
- Sudden bursts of laughter or anger
- Discontent despite having money
These signs symbolise an unstable and impure mind — the true punishment that begins even before death.
The Spiritual Message Behind It All
The deeper message of the Puranas is clear:
Theft destroys peace, purity, and spiritual progress.
When one earns through honest means, life becomes blessed with harmony and divine grace.
But when one lives through deceit, that same mind becomes a prison of guilt and fear.
Therefore, Hindu philosophy teaches us that truthfulness (Satya) and non-stealing (Asteya) are essential virtues for a righteous and fulfilling life.
Final Thoughts
The Puranas, Manusmriti, and Mahabharata do not just condemn theft; they help us understand the spiritual psychology behind it.
A thief is not merely one who steals wealth — he is one who robs himself of inner peace and divine grace.
True wealth lies not in possessions, but in the purity of one’s heart and the honesty of one’s actions.
That is the timeless wisdom the Puranas wish to convey about thieves and their signs.
