Hinduism 1

Hinduism
May 13, 2012
Axia College
HUM 130
Hinduism 2


Hinduism is an ancient and complex religion that is composed of a variety of myths,
gods, and philosophic ideas. Much like Buddhism, Hinduism is a belief structure founded on
fundamental concepts such as karma and reincarnation. Hinduism believes that humans are
trapped in a cycle of rebirth which places one in a particular place within the caste system in
accordance with their actions in the prior life.
Ultimately, the object of Hinduism is to break the cycle of rebirth by realizing the
ultimate reality (Brahman) with all their being; enlightenment. For the Hindu, the liberation from
the earthly existence is to become one with the Brahman (Flesher, 1998). These beliefs have a
variety of interpretations and this allows for people of many different beliefs to be considered
Hindu. The uniting concepts of Hinduism include:
Dharma- virtue, specifically this concept refers to ones duties within a particular caste. It
is virtuous to perform ones duties in a willing and correct manner.
Samsara- the cycle of rebirth or reincarnation.
Karma- the belief that ones actions accumulate over one's life and at death this
accumulation of actions determines one placement in the next rebirth, either higher or
lower in status.
Moksha- the end of the cycle of rebirth or liberation from it. This is the ultimate goal and
result for understanding Brahman (Flesher, 1998).
Hinduism is very similar to Islam in that it is incorporated into the life and culture of the
believers. For instance, the idea of purity of spirit and mind is an important concept as this leads
to good karmic actions. Thus, this concept of purity manifests itself in numerous way, including:
never using harsh, angered or indecent language
keeping a clean and healthy physical body
Hinduism 3


never drinking after someone or offering a drink to someone after already drinking from
the same vessel
never touching people with the left hand or handing things to others with the left hand
(Mailer India, 2012)
The concept of dharma is also vital in the everyday life of Hindus. Believers recognize
this virtue by carrying out their duties to the best of their abilities. A salesman must sell as much
as possible, a farmer must grow the best crops possible, etc by accomplishing ones duties in
this way, he or she is fulfilling the demands of their particular caste. In this way, they are
creating good karma which will ultimately lead them to a better place in their rebirth.
It is important to understand that the traditions and culture of the Hindu life are wrapped
in the idea of rebirth and karma. The rebirth of a person into a better or worse class is contingent
on karma and this must be adhered to daily. This is due to the belief that cause and effect of
ones actions accumulates throughout life creating a point of judgment to the next existence
which determines the persons caste.
Hinduism exists throughout the world but it is focused mainly in India with the largest
population of Hindus residing there. As a way of life, the religion is prevalent throughout the
region and is vital to many believers. As one of the oldest religions practiced today, Hinduism
not only has affected India but also surrounding countries and their beliefs. China, which is
predominantly Buddhist, shares many beliefs with Hinduism. In fact it is believed that Buddhist
monks from China developed many beliefs such as the yin and yang and Tai Chi from sharing
ideas with Indias Hindu gurus. The development of martial arts in China may have been
originally founded in yoga practices.
Hinduism 4


Today Hinduism is the worlds third largest religion and has remained remarkably
unchanged for thousands of years (Flesher, 1998). The ability of Hinduism to adapt in the
modern world shows the religion to be extremely resilient. The lack of oppressive doctrine also
gives the believer a great deal of flexibility in his or her lifestyle. This sharply contrasts religions
such as Christianity and Islam that are often extremely structured and mandate specific behaviors
and ethics. The loose belief structure of Hinduism may ultimately be its strength and reason for
longevity.


Hinduism 5


References
Flesher, P. (1998). The hindu cosmos. Retrieved from
http://uwacadweb.uwyo.edu/religionet/er/hinduism/HCOSMOS.HTM
Mailer India. (2012). Hindu way of life. Retrieved from
http://www.mailerindia.com/hindu/veda/index.php?hculture