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I am a mathematics student and it is not economically feasible for me to buy every book that I need for my studies. Even reading a specific topic sometimes requires 2-3 different books. So like most people around me, I too download the books from various websites like libgen, bookfi, etc.

Is reading or downloading books that I have not purchased myself a sin according to Hindu scripture?

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  • Use archive.org to read any books – TheLittleNaruto Nov 10 '18 at 4:45
  • Not sure of what scriptures say but I think it depends on way you are thinking. For example, if you are thinking of intentionally doing bad to anyone making him suffer then of course it is a sin but if you don't want others to suffer and bcoz of financial problems do such things then it should not be a sin..its actually the vibes we are generating that decides whether it is a sin or not. However, I would still suggest that if you are capable enough then you should pay the price and then enjoy the things. – Aby Nov 10 '18 at 7:45
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    Also, try to place yourself in the other person's shoes and then think if the same happens to you when you are a publisher and somebody takes a pirated copy what will you do. Whether you will ignore or curse the other person, what mental tensions, etc you will be going through at that time... if nobody suffers then according to me it's not a sin but if somebody is suffering then you are producing bad karma for yourself and then be ready to repent the same. – Aby Nov 10 '18 at 7:50
  • One more thought, if you are getting a pirated copy bcoz of your financial problems then atleast donot distribute if further in public, such that it would altogether make losses to the publisher. If nobody or only a few people will purchase the books then the publisher will definately be in losses and you will be responsible for the same. You can however decide to distribute to some really needy people as that would really be a help. – Aby Nov 10 '18 at 8:04
  • @Aby nicely said. Just to add, OP can visit his/her library of school/college/university. Libraries are meant for this purpose. But breach of copyright is not advisable. It is a "Chaurya Karma" (theft). – Vineet Nov 10 '18 at 9:10

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