পাতা:দর্শন দীপিকা.djvu/১৪৯

[ ৯২ ] have no basis upon reason, and no corresponding influence upon the moral feelings and character. one of the purest systems of theology, that of the Vedas, which for its high and refined morality may compete with any religion extant, has thus been disfigured and distorted into a tissue of foolish rites and absurd customs, alike revolting to reason and humanity and that masterpiece of cunning which ordained the mysteries of religion to be kept a sealed book from the eyes of the public; has completed its triumph by concealing its horrible inconsistencies from scrutiny and inves'igation. Thus has a demoralising spirit gained ground in this country and availing itself of the constitutional imbecility' which is invariably the failing of weak minds, it has retarded the course of mental improvement, from Cape Comorin to the farthest ranges of the Himmalya, the power of superstition has prevailed, its’ inconsistencies have gained credibility, its absurdities, have commanded respect, guided entirely by the decisions of those whom they know as their spiritual preceptors, our country men, are too idle to judge for themselves, and esteem it a sufficient vindication of their conduct that they follow in the footsteps of a revered