Hinduism SAQ Flashcards
(13 cards)
What are the two main approaches to studying religion according to Theodore Ludwig? Which does he advocate and why?
The two main approaches to studying religion are the insider and outsider approaches. Theodore Ludwig argued for a balance of both because he believes that there are downsides and upsides to each one, so a balance of both would be the best. For example, if you only focus on the outsider approach, many practitioners might disagree with what you have to say since you don’t know how they live. But at the same time, if you only look from the insider approach, you miss out on the opportunity to see it from different perspectives.
How is “sympathetic imagination” relevant to the study of religion?
Sympathetic imagination is relevant to the study of religion because it helps to see the religion from the insider’s point of view. This also helps with not seeing religion with bias.
What is the origin of the term “Hindu”? Why is it so difficult to generalize about Hinduism?
It comes from the area in which the Indians lived, which is the Indus River. It is difficult to generalize Hinduism because it is used as an umbrella term. This means that even though each region has different traditions
Would you describe Hinduism as polytheistic? Why or why not?
No, because Hindus believe in Brahman, which is one supreme being, so the idea of polytheism is wrong. henotheism (worship of one god without denying others)
What is the true nature of the self, according to the Upanishads?
The true nature of the self is Ātman, which is the eternal, unchanging, and divine essence within every individual. The Upanishads teach that this inner self, Ātman, is identical to Brahman, the ultimate reality or world soul that underlies all existence. This means that the deepest self is not separate or individual, but is part of the universal, infinite reality.
What are the three main sects of Hinduism, and what is the main thing that differentiates them?
Shivaism – worships Shiva as the supreme God;
Vishnuism – worships Vishnu as the supreme God;
Shaktism – worships the Divine Mother as the all-powerful
Who are the two best-known avatars of Vishnu, and what are they known for?
Rama- the hero of Ramayana, known for his righteousness and devoted to Dharma.
Krishna- the divine strategist and teacher in the Mahabharata and in Gita
Why is Kali represented in such a frightening form?
Kali is the all-powerful goddess who fights against ignorance and evil. So, it displays a frightening form so that people know she is powerful
According to Hinduism, what happens when you die?
You go through the cycle of reincarnation with the Karma you have accumulated through your life. However, if you achieved liberation, you can end this cycle of death
How might a Hindu answer the question “What are my goals in life?” (Hint: the four aims of life)
- Dharma- ethics, righteousness, and justice;
- Artha – success and accomplishments;
- Kama- Pleasure of the world;
- Moksha- liberation
What does “yoga” mean in the Bhagavad Gita? What are the main forms of yoga?
a disciplined path or practice that leads to spiritual realization and union with the divine.
Karma- selfless action;
Bhatkti- Devotion to God;
Jnana- knowledge and wisdom; Raja- Meditation
What do Hindus typically do when they visit a temple?
Offer prayers, perform rituals, and offer food to the gods
Name and describe one major Hindu festival, as discussed in the textbook.
Navaratri: the nine-day festival where people celebrate the Goddess Durga and her various forms. The celebration is for when the good beats the evil, and it is celebrated differently throughout Indian, and it is also mostly celebrated by women. The first few nights are to honor Durga (power and destruction of evil), but the last day is to honor Lakshmi (wealth and prosperity)
