Hinduism

Question 1

What are the key Hindu concepts about human life present in sacred texts?

Answer 1

• Dharma
• Samsara
• Moksha
• Reincarnation
• Karmic Consequences

Question 2

What does the concept of Ahimsa mean in Hinduism?

Answer 2

Ahimsa means “Do No Harm,” and it is a fundamental principle in Hinduism emphasizing non-violence and respect for life.

Question 3

How does the concept of karma relate to dharma in Hinduism?

Answer 3

Performing one’s dharma leads to positive karma, while neglecting it results in negative karma. Positive or negative karma impacts reincarnation and the attainment of moksha.

Question 4

What are the primary and secondary goals of Hindu life?

Answer 4

Primary Goal: Moksha - Liberation
Secondary Goals:
- Dharma
- Kama - Pleasure
- Artha - Security

Question 5

What is the difference between Vishesha Dharma and Sadharana Dharma?

Answer 5

Vishesha Dharma: Dharma based on factors like gender, life stage, and caste.
Sadharana Dharma: Universal dharma that involves acting ethically and properly in a broader sense.

Question 6

What does the Bhagavad-gita say about dharma and one’s role in life?

Answer 6

The Bhagavad-gita explains that dharma assists in understanding the eternal soul and its relationship with the Supreme Soul. Neglecting one’s dharma is considered a significant error.

Question 7

How does karma impact reincarnation according to Hindu beliefs?

Answer 7

Karma affects reincarnation directly; good karma results in favorable rebirths, while bad karma leads to less favorable ones.

Question 8

What is Moksha in Hinduism?

Answer 8

Moksha is the ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of birth and death, suffering, karma, and attachments.

Question 9

How does Hinduism view human rights in relation to the Caste System?

Answer 9

Historically, Hinduism’s Caste System was meant to be based on dharma but has led to discrimination. The system emphasizes duties rather than individual rights, and Sanskrit lacks a term for ‘rights.’

Question 10

What are the main Hindu rituals related to death and cremation?

Answer 10

Sannyasa: A pre-death ceremony for understanding spiritual truths and preparing for liberation.
Antyeshthi: Post-death rituals, including cremation, to aid in the soul’s journey.