What are the cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to the region in which it originated?
I understand that you may not be able to answer this question....i just do not understand what the question is looking for.
Hinduism is a unique religion. It does not have as much of a strict belief system as what we are used to in the West. Hinduism developed by incorporating a lot of different beliefs and customs of the region it grew up in.
A great resource is the response Writeacher wrote on this page:
http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1168209131
Matt
Thank you for your question, Matt. I understand that you are looking for an explanation of the cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to the region in which it originated.
To understand this, we need to explore the historical and cultural context in which Hinduism originated. Hinduism developed over thousands of years in the Indian subcontinent, which is known for its rich diversity and complexity. Here are some factors that have contributed to the significance of Hinduism in the region:
1. Indus Valley Civilization: The roots of Hinduism can be traced back to the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, which existed around 3300–1300 BCE. Although the religious practices of this civilization are not fully understood, some symbols and artifacts found suggest a connection to early Hindu beliefs.
2. Vedic Period: The Vedic period, which began around 1500 BCE, saw the emergence of the Vedas, a collection of ancient scriptures that form the foundation of Hindu philosophy and rituals. The Vedic religion emphasized rituals, sacrifices, and the worship of numerous gods.
3. Cultural Assimilation: As various groups and communities migrated to the Indian subcontinent, their diverse religious and cultural practices merged with the existing beliefs. This assimilation contributed to the richness and flexibility of Hinduism, allowing it to incorporate different deities, rituals, and philosophies over time.
4. Dharmic Concepts: Hinduism introduced the concept of dharma, which refers to moral and ethical duties and responsibilities. Dharma is an integral part of Hindu society and guides personal behavior, social norms, and even legal systems in the region.
5. Caste System: The caste system, though controversial, has played a significant role in shaping Hindu society. The hierarchical division of society into different castes influenced social structures, occupations, and interactions. It became deeply rooted in cultural practices and traditions.
6. Influence on Art and Architecture: Hinduism has influenced the art, architecture, and cultural expressions of the region. Magnificent temples, sculptures, and artistic traditions have flourished as a result of the patronage and devotion towards Hindu deities.
It is important to note that the influence of Hinduism extends beyond religion. It has contributed to the fabric of daily life, cultural celebrations, festivals, and social interactions in the region. Hinduism's adaptability and inclusiveness have allowed it to remain a vital part of the cultural and societal landscape in which it originated.
I hope this explanation helps you understand the cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to the region of its origin.