1. Considering that Hinduism lacks a uniting belief system, what makes up the Hindu religion?
2. What are the cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to the region in which it originates?
3. Explain the desire for liberation from earthly existence.
These sites should help you answer these questions.
http://www.religioustolerance.org/hinduism.htm
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http://www.beliefnet.com/story/80/story_8047_1.html
http://www.religionfacts.com/hinduism/index.htm
1. Hinduism is a complex and diverse religion that does not have a centralized belief system or dogma. Instead, it encompasses a wide range of beliefs, practices, and rituals that have evolved over thousands of years. To understand what makes up the Hindu religion, one must consider its core concepts and philosophical perspectives.
One crucial aspect of Hinduism is the belief in Dharma, which can be loosely translated as duty, righteousness, or moral order. Dharma guides individuals in leading an ethical life and fulfilling their responsibilities to themselves, their families, their communities, and the world at large. It emphasizes virtues such as honesty, compassion, self-discipline, and respect for all living beings.
Another significant aspect is the belief in Karma, the law of cause and effect. According to this concept, every action has consequences that can affect one's present and future life. Hindus believe that their actions in previous lives, known as past Karma, can influence their current situation and future rebirths. Therefore, living a righteous life and accumulating good Karma is considered essential.
Furthermore, Hinduism recognizes numerous deities and gods, each representing different aspects of the divine. While some Hindus may have a deep devotion to a particular deity, others may worship the divine in a more abstract, formless manner. This allows for a diverse range of practices, rituals, and religious expressions within Hinduism.
It's important to note that Hinduism is not limited to a specific geographical region and has followers worldwide. However, it originated and developed in the Indian subcontinent, where it continues to have a significant influence on culture, art, philosophy, and social structures.
2. Hinduism has played a vital role in shaping the culture and society of the region where it originated. Here are some cultural and societal influences associated with Hinduism:
- Social Hierarchy: Hindu society traditionally followed a hierarchical structure known as the caste system. This system categorizes individuals into different social groups based on their occupation and birth. Although the caste system has been challenged and modified over time, its influence is still evident in certain aspects of Indian society.
- Rituals and Festivals: Hinduism is rich in rituals and festivals, which are deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the region. These celebrations, such as Diwali (Festival of Lights) and Holi (Festival of Colors), bring communities together, promote religious harmony, and provide a platform for cultural expressions.
- Art and Architecture: Hinduism has inspired magnificent temples, sculptures, and paintings throughout history. The intricate carvings, temple architecture, and artistic depictions of deities showcase the fusion of religion, art, and architecture in the region.
- Literature and Philosophy: Hinduism has produced a vast body of sacred texts, philosophical treatises, and literary works. These include ancient scriptures like the Vedas, Upanishads, epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, as well as philosophical systems like Yoga, Vedanta, and Tantra. These texts have had a profound impact on literature, philosophy, and intellectual discourse in the region.
3. In Hinduism, the desire for liberation from earthly existence is known as Moksha or Mukti. It is often seen as the ultimate goal of human life. Moksha refers to the liberation of the soul from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (Samsara) and the union of the individual soul (Atman) with the universal divine consciousness (Brahman).
One key aspect of seeking Moksha is recognizing the impermanence and suffering inherent in the material world. Hindus believe that the cycle of birth and death continues until an individual achieves spiritual enlightenment and realizes their true nature as divine beings. This realization involves understanding the illusory nature of the individual self and recognizing the eternal and unchanging nature of the divine.
Different paths or practices can be undertaken to attain Moksha, including:
- Jnana Yoga: The path of knowledge and wisdom, which involves self-inquiry, introspection, and intellectual understanding of the nature of reality.
- Karma Yoga: The path of selfless action and service, where individuals perform their duties without attachment to the outcomes, in a spirit of devotion and dedication.
- Bhakti Yoga: The path of devotion and love towards a chosen deity or the divine, seeking union through deep devotion, prayer, and worship.
- Raja Yoga: The path of meditation and control of the mind, aiming to achieve a state of inner stillness, concentration, and union with the divine.
- Hatha Yoga: The path of physical postures (asanas) and breath control (pranayama), which aims to purify the body and prepare it for spiritual practices.
Ultimately, the desire for liberation from earthly existence is rooted in the understanding that true happiness and fulfillment cannot be found in the transient world, but rather in the eternal and unchanging realm of divine consciousness.