Wider Reading Flashcards
(55 cards)
What is Dharma?
Dharma is the moral and ethical duties that individuals must follow to live a good life. It’s often described as the right path or law of life, guiding people to make choices that are in line with what is right and just.
Is Dharma the same for everyone?
No, Dharma is not the same for everyone; it depends on factors like age, gender, role in society, and stage in life.
For example, a student’s dharma could be to study hard, while a parent’s dharma might be to care for and guide their children.
How does Dharma relate to Karma?
Dharma connects to the idea of karma, where good actions lead to good outcomes.
What is the significance of following Dharma in Hinduism?
Following your dharma helps maintain order and balance in the world, is important for spiritual growth, and contributes to the well-being of others.
What is Moksha?
Moksha is liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth, achieved by fulfilling one’s duties.
What is the Bhagavad Gita?
The Bhagavad Gita is a part of the Mahabharata and is one of the most important texts in Hinduism. It is a conversation between the prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who teaches Arjuna about life, duty, and spirituality.
What are the main topics covered in the Bhagavad Gita?
The Gita covers topics like dharma (duty), karma (action), and moksha (liberation), offering guidance on how to live a righteous life.
What is the Mahabharata?
The Mahabharata is an epic story about a great war between two families, the Pandavas and the Kauravas, discussing heroism, duty, family, and the consequences of actions.
What is the Ramayana?
The Ramayana is an important epic that tells the story of the prince Rama, his wife Sita, and their journey to rescue her from the demon king Ravana, focusing on good versus evil and the importance of following one’s duty (dharma).
What does Varna refer to in Hinduism?
Varna refers to the system of social divisions categorizing people into four main groups based on their duties and roles in society, linked to the idea of dharma.
What are the four Varnas?
- Brahmins - priests, scholars, and teachers.
- Kshatriyas - warriors and rulers.
- Vaishyas - traders, farmers, and business people.
- Sudras- workers and service providers.
What are the Vedas?
The Vedas are the oldest sacred texts in Hinduism, consisting of four main texts: Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda, containing hymns, prayers, rituals, and teachings.
What was the original intention of the Varna system?
The Varna system was originally intended to organize society so that everyone plays their part and follows their duties.
Is the Varna system rigid today?
The idea of Varna is not as rigid today, allowing people to pursue different roles based on their interests and abilities.
What does the Varna system highlight?
The Varna system highlights the importance of living according to your dharma, emphasizing that no group is superior or inferior to another.
What are the Upanishads?
The Upanishads are philosophical texts that explore the nature of the self, the universe, and the ultimate reality (called Brahman). They focus on meditation, self-reflection, and the idea that everything in the universe is connected.
They are important for understanding Hindu spiritual concepts like Atman (the soul) and moksha (spiritual liberation).
What are the Four Purusharthas in Hinduism?
The Four Purusharthas are the four main goals or aims of life that help people live a balanced and meaningful life: Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha.
What is Artha?
Artha refers to the pursuit of wealth and success, working hard to provide for oneself and family, and contributing to society in a responsible and ethical way.
What is Kama?
Kama is about enjoying life’s pleasures, such as love, relationships, and enjoyment of the senses, seeking happiness in a balanced way.
What is Moksha?
Moksha is the ultimate goal of liberation or freedom from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara), achieving spiritual enlightenment and union with the divine.
What is Varnadharma?
Varnadharma refers to the idea that a person should follow the duties (or dharma) related to their social class or varna, connecting the four main social groups with their responsibilities.
What are the roles of Brahmins in Varnadharma?
Brahmins should focus on teaching, studying the scriptures, and performing religious rituals.
What are the roles of Kshatriyas in Varnadharma?
Kshatriyas should protect the people, govern, and fight for justice.
What are the roles of Vaishyas in Varnadharma?
Vaishyas are responsible for farming, trading, and supporting the economy.
