Hindi Cosmology Flashcards
(14 cards)
What do the Vedas say about the universe?
The universe has no beginning or ending; it is considered infinite and cyclic.
How do multiple universes function in Hindu cosmology?
Each universe takes birth from chaos, grows, decays, and dies into chaos, to be reborn again.
What are the two realities in Hindu cosmology?
Spirit, which cannot be seen or touched, and matter (prakriti), which can be seen and touched.
What is the relationship between spirit and matter in Hindu belief?
Some Hindus believe these two realities exist separately and that spirit must conquer matter.
What are the three Gunas that make up prakriti?
Passion (rajas), goodness (Satva), and ignorance (tamas).
What is the concept of time in Hindu cosmology?
Time is cyclical, consisting of four ages: Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dvapara Yuga, and Kali Yuga.
What characterizes the Satya Yuga?
It is the first and best Yuga, characterized by truth and perfection.
What happens during the Treta Yuga?
Virtue diminishes slightly, and wars become frequent.
What occurs in the Dvapara Yuga?
Diseases increase, and humans fight each other.
What is the Kali Yuga known for?
It is the final age, characterized by darkness, ignorance, and a lack of virtue.
What will happen at the end of the Kali Yuga?
Vishnu will appear as Kalki, kill the remaining evil, and start a new golden age.
What do Hindus believe about spiritual realms?
Many spiritual realms exist beyond our universe, where divine beings reside.
What is Vaikuntha?
Vaikuntha is the highest spiritual realm, the home of Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi.
What blessing do devoted Hindus receive at death?
They earn a blessing to visit Vaikuntha for some time at the moment of their death.
