compare Hindu and Buddhist beliefs about reincarnation and how one should live.
http://hinduwebsite.com/hinduwaycorrect.asp
http://www.beyondthenet.net/dhamma/buddhismHinduism.htm
To compare the Hindu and Buddhist beliefs about reincarnation and how one should live, we need to explore the core teachings of both religions. Here's an explanation on each belief system:
Hinduism:
1. Reincarnation: Hinduism holds the belief in reincarnation, known as "Samsara." According to Hinduism, the soul (atman) is eternal and transmigrates from one body to another after death.
2. Karma: Hindus believe in the concept of karma, which is the law of cause and effect. It states that one's actions, both good and bad, have consequences that will affect future lives.
3. Moksha: The ultimate goal in Hinduism is to attain Moksha, liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This is achieved by breaking the cycle of reincarnation and merging the individual soul with the universal soul (Brahman).
Regarding how one should live:
1. Dharma: Hindus should live in accordance with their individual Dharma - social and moral duties or responsibilities that vary depending on one's caste, age, and gender.
2. Pursuit of Knowledge: Seeking knowledge and understanding is also valued in Hinduism as a means to spiritual growth.
3. Devotion to Deities: Hinduism allows for various paths to spiritual fulfillment, including devotion (bhakti) to personal deities. Hindus may worship different gods, such as Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, Devi, etc., based on their preferences.
Buddhism:
1. Reincarnation: Buddhism shares the belief in reincarnation, called "Samsara," similar to Hinduism. However, Buddhism differs in its understanding of the self.
2. Anatta: Buddhism teaches the concept of Anatta, or no-self. It emphasizes that there is no permanent, unchanging soul or self that reincarnates, but rather a continuous stream of consciousness.
3. Nirvana: The ultimate goal in Buddhism is achieving Nirvana, the cessation of suffering and liberation from the cycle of rebirth. It is attained by following the Noble Eightfold Path, which consists of ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom.
Regarding how one should live:
1. The Four Noble Truths: Buddhism focuses on the Four Noble Truths, which explain the existence of suffering, its cause (craving and attachment), the possibility of its cessation (na or Nirvana), and the path (the Noble Eightfold Path) leading to its cessation.
2. Compassion and Non-violence: Buddhism promotes compassion and non-violence towards all living beings as a necessary component of leading a skillful, moral life.
3. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation are central to Buddhism, as they help cultivate present-moment awareness, introspection, and inner peace.
To further explore these beliefs, it is recommended to study the scriptures, teachings, and practices of Hinduism and Buddhism. Consulting religious texts and seeking guidance from qualified teachers or scholars can provide deeper insights into these complex subjects.