Jerra Ayers

4/5/23
World Religion 230
Hinduism

1. What continuities are there between early Vedic religion and modern Hinduism?

Some of Hinduism's basic concepts, like reincarnation and moksha and karma, are based on
Vedic writings. The Vedic religion, like Hinduism, was hierarchical.

2. Explain the different views of the role of Brahman in Hinduism.

 Brahman is described as the power of prayer. Brahman is the spiritual essence of the world. In
"Upanishads", Brahman is described as the ultimate reality, the one true reality that transcends all
material.
 
3. Explain the different views of the nature of human existence held by the three main Vedantic
schools (Advaita, Vishishtadvaita, and Dvaita).

Advaita teaches that the individual Self and the Cosmic Self are one and the same. The
individual Self is a reflection of the Supreme Self.
Dvaita teaches that the two are completely different and are never united and maintain their
individuality. The world is real and is a heavenly personal experience of eternal bliss in the
company of other liberated beings.
Visiṣṭhādvaita is based on the concept of the relationship of the Self to the body. The physical
body is occupied by the conscious Self and the individual Self is indwelt by the Paramātma.

4. What role do the Ramayana and Mahabarata play in helping to attain liberation?

Ramayana and the Mahabharata stories are about their main duty, also known as dharma which
pertains to maintaining rightful order and morality. Both stories idealize fulfilling one's dharma
despite one's desires, or doing the right thing.

5. Explain why some believe the term 'Hinduisms' to be more appropriate than 'Hinduism.

The term ‘Hinduisms’ might be more appropriate then ‘Hinduism’ because of the diversity within
the Hindu religion even though the essential teachings remain the same.

6. Why are Shiva and Vishnu considered to be so important?

They are two of the most important Hindu gods, Shiva is entrusted with destroying the world
when it has turned bad, but only so that it can be resurrected. Vishnu, is tasked with preserving
the universe, assisting humans, and protecting them from demons.. Vishnu is the universe's
preserver and defender. His purpose is to return to Earth at difficult times to restore the balance
of good and evil.

7. Why do Hindus understand moksha (liberation) in a variety of different ways?

While some view moksha as liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth altogether,
others view moksha more generally as liberation from suffering during life on earth, leading to a
life of perfect bliss.

8. Explain some of the different roles of the guru in Hinduism.

 
A guru is one who teaches you spiritual knowledge, starts you on a spiritual path or guides you
on a spiritual quest. Gurus are spiritual teachers and are figures of great importance in Hinduism,
some assert their status through charisma, while others may be initiated. Their main goal is to
spread the word of Hinduism.

9. Why are some geographical sites seen as sacred in Hinduism?

In Hinduism, the land and their temples are considered sacred spaces because they embody
sacred events and places on earth.

10. What is the importance of caste system in Hinduism?

The importance of having a caste system is to have clear and distinct roles for each member of
society to have. Each level in the caste system is also said to represent a different part of the
Hindu god Brahma, the god of creation.