what makes up the Hinduism religion?
what is the cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to the region in which it originated?
What is the desire for liberation from earthly existence?
Check these sites.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism
(Broken Link Removed)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_India
To understand the answers to your questions, let's break them down one by one.
1. What makes up the Hinduism religion?
Hinduism is a complex and diverse religion that has evolved over centuries. It encompasses a wide range of beliefs, practices, rituals, and values. Here are some key components of Hinduism:
a) Vedas: These are ancient scriptures considered sacred by Hindus. They contain hymns, rituals, and philosophical teachings.
b) Deities: Hinduism recognizes a vast pantheon of gods and goddesses, with major deities including Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi.
c) Dharma: Dharma is the ethical and moral duty prescribed by Hinduism. It encompasses various obligations, such as truthfulness, non-violence, and social justice.
d) Karma and reincarnation: Hindus believe in the concept of karma, which states that actions have consequences in this life or future lives. They also believe in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (reincarnation).
e) Moksha: Moksha is the ultimate goal in Hinduism, representing liberation from the cycle of rebirth and union with the divine.
2. What are the cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to the region in which it originated?
Hinduism originated in the Indian subcontinent and has played a significant role in shaping its culture and society. Several factors have contributed to the vitality of Hinduism in the region:
a) Historical development: Hinduism has evolved over thousands of years, absorbing and integrating various cultural elements from different periods and regions within India.
b) Influence of ancient traditions: Hinduism has roots in the ancient Indus Valley Civilization and the Vedic period, and these foundations have left lasting cultural imprints.
c) Art, literature, and architecture: Hinduism's rich mythology and scriptures have inspired magnificent temples, artwork, sculptures, and literary works, which have become integral to the cultural identity of the region.
d) Social structure and festivals: Hindu society is divided into various castes and communities, each with its own customs and traditions. Hindu festivals and rituals bind communities together and celebrate cultural diversity.
e) Philosophy and spirituality: Hindu philosophy has deeply influenced Indian thought, emphasizing concepts like karma, dharma, and moksha. These philosophical ideas have permeated various aspects of Indian society.
3. What is the desire for liberation from earthly existence?
The desire for liberation from earthly existence, known as moksha or nirvana, is a fundamental concept in Hinduism and other Indian religious traditions.
Hindus believe that human life is a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (reincarnation). The ultimate goal of an individual is to break free from this cycle and achieve moksha, which is liberation from the cycle of rebirth. It represents union with the divine and the attainment of spiritual perfection.
The desire for moksha arises from the belief that earthly existence is characterized by suffering, attachment, and illusion. Hindus seek liberation by practicing spiritual disciplines, self-realization, and detachment from worldly desires.
Different paths (yogas) are prescribed in Hinduism to attain moksha, such as the path of knowledge (Jnana Yoga), the path of devotion (Bhakti Yoga), the path of selfless action (Karma Yoga), and the path of meditation (Raja Yoga). These paths provide seekers with different approaches to transcendence and liberation from earthly existence.