Hi, I have got question about hinduism.
How is life seen from a Hindu's point of view? LIfe contains a number of different phases that Hinduists can experience before salvation. What are these phases and how they reflect the view of salvation?
http://www.google.com/#hl=en&source=hp&q=hinduism&aq=f&aqi=g10&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=&fp=d059ab474882bfe2
There are lots of good articles and websites in there that will help you.
In regard to the different phases Hindus believe they must experience before salvation, be aware that these happen in different lives. Be sure you are clear on the meaning of "reincarnation."
Thank you!
You're very welcome!
=)
From a Hindu perspective, life is seen as a continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth known as samsara. Hindus believe in the concept of karma, which states that one's actions in this life directly affect their future lives.
Hinduism describes four main stages of life, known as Ashramas, which are believed to lead individuals towards salvation or Moksha. These stages depict different phases of life based on one's social and spiritual obligations.
1. The first stage is Brahmacharya, which focuses on the period of student life and self-discipline. During this stage, individuals receive education, learn moral values, and acquire skills necessary for later stages of life. It emphasizes self-control and celibacy.
2. Grihastha is the second stage, representing the householder phase. This stage involves marriage, raising a family, and fulfilling social responsibilities. It encourages individuals to lead a virtuous and ethical life while effectively managing their worldly duties and obligations.
3. The third stage is Vanaprastha, which is the retirement phase. During this stage, individuals gradually detach themselves from material possessions and worldly responsibilities. They may choose to live in seclusion, focus on spiritual practices, and seek self-realization through introspection and meditation.
4. Sannyasa is the final stage, which represents renunciation. Sannyasis or monks embrace a life of complete detachment from worldly attachments. They renounce material possessions, family ties, and dedicate themselves entirely to spiritual pursuits. This stage aims for ultimate liberation (Moksha) and union with the divine.
These phases reflect the Hindu view of salvation as they provide a structured path to spiritual growth and self-realization. By progressing through these stages, individuals gradually detach themselves from worldly desires and attachments, ultimately seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Hinduism teaches that only through self-transformation and attaining Moksha can one break free from the cycle of samsara and reunite with the cosmic consciousness or the divine.