Hinduism

Kiaya Nickens

Mr. Sanchez

Christian in the World- p.8

February 6, 2013

 

Hinduism Packet: Questions

 

1. Explain the meaning of moksha.

Moksha is a word that means liberation, also release. Moksha is a release or liberation from ordinary life. It is where an individual is released into the divine world, where individuals are infinite beings, infinite awareness, as well as infinite bliss.

 

2. What doctrine says that all reality is ultimately one? Give an analogy that describes it.

Monism is the doctrine that says all reality is one. An analogy is that lakes, streams, rivers, and oceans are seemingly different, some are bigger and some are in different forms, but they are one in terms of monism because it is all water.

 

3. Define Brahman and Atman. How are they related?

- Brahman- Monists believe that all forms of reality are similar, animals universe and humans, they are of common essence, which is the belief called Brahman.

- Atman- The ultimate reality within

*The two are related because Brahman is Atman, all reality is one.

 

4. What is the general function of Hinduism many deities?

Hindu’s are polytheistic, which mean Hindu’s have beliefs in many gods as well as goddesses.

 

5.  Give a brief description of the doctrine samsara.

Is a wheel of rebirth, in which individuals are reincarnated  from one life form to another, which is determined through their actions in their past life.

 

6.  What is the name of Hinduism’s most sacred text?

Hinduism’s most sacred and popular text is the Bhagavad-Gita.

 

7. According to Hinduism, what are the two principles that connect the divine to this world. Briefly explain each.

Karma- Determines the nature of each reincarnation, Karma literally means action or deed. It is in essence the moral laws of cause and effect.

Dharma- Ethical duties based on the divine order of reality, the word Dharma is what Westerners view as religion

 

8. Name the 4 classes  of the caste system and describe the people who belong in each.

Brahmins- priests

Kshatriya’s – warriors and administrators

Vaishyas- producers such as farmers or merchants

Shudras- servants and laborers

 

9. In the Bhagavad Gita, why does Khrishna encourage  Arjuna to engage in war?

Because internal life changes.

 

10. Four stages of Life.

1. Student intensive studies in the Veda

2. House – Holder- pursuing  a career

3. Forest –dweller stage- the birth of the first grandchild marks this, wife can accompany the man in this stage.

4. Sanyasin – forest dweller is ready to return to society , but are detached from normal attractions and distractions.

 

11. Name and describe the four goals of life

1.  Sensual Pleasure- is the goals of liberation

2. Material Success- social power accompanies material success

3. Harmony with Dharma- Leads to a deeper yearning

4.  Moksha- path to Moksha is very divers

 

12. Three paths of liberation, what person is suited for what path?

1. Karma – Marga- living accordance of dharma, individuals that are unselfish

2. Jnana Marga – path of knowledge, for those who have talent of philosophical reflection

3.BhaktiMarga- the path of devotion, for those emotional attachment to nature.

 

13. Three schools of Hindu philosophy, and basic concerns

- Vedanta- diversity within religion

-Sankhya- has two categories which are matter and infinite number of selves

- Yoga -  acknowledges the connection between self and other parts of our human make up\

 

14.  Three important gods/ goddesses in Hinduism.

- Ganesha – elephant god

-Agni – god of fire

- Shiva –god of destruction

 

15. What is avatar? Two important Hindu figures identified.

Avatar is an incarnation, or living embodiment.

Two Hindu Figures:

1.  Krishna

2.Vishnu

 

16. What Hindu test is most closely related to bhakti marga?

The Hindu text that is most closely related to bhakti marga is the Bhagavad – Gita.

 

17. Three aspects of Hindu devotional life.

1.  Household and Village Rituals

2. Cow Veneration

3. Holy Places

 

18. How did Mahatma Gandhi influence Hinduism?

Gandhi stood up for oppression through nonviolence and civil disobedience which changed the culture of India.

 

19.  What significant changes occurred in the caste system during the 20^th century?

Indian government forbade discrimination of outcasts.

 

20. What is Sati? What is its status today?

Sati is the burning of a widow. Since 1829 Sati has been forbidden.

 

21. What significant development occurred in relations between Hindus and Muslims in 1947?

The Muslim community in 1947 forced the partitioning of India to form the divided nation of Pakistan. Which turned into a bloody war which resulted in deaths of many from Hindus and Muslims.