Hinduism Flashcards
Explain the meaning of the term Moksha.
Moksha is an artistic interpretation of what occurs when one dies. It is considered the “end of existance” to the Hindus, and to achieve Moksha, the transmigration of souls (reincarnation) must occur.
What is the name of the doctrine that says all reality is ultimately one? Give an analogy that describes this doctrine.
Monism is the idea that everything is one. One analogy that would represent this doctrine is the idea that rivers, lakes, streams are ONE because they all consist of water.
Define Brahman and Atman. How are the two terms related?
Atman: The ultimate reality within your eternal self
Brahman: Ultimate end of reality
What is the general function of Hinduism’s many deities?
The important thing for Hindus is to deal with the universe as it is, to seek salvation through liberation from the world’s bonds.
Give a brief explanation of the doctrine of samsara.
The wheel of rebirth, the individual soul is reincarnated until Moksha is received.
What is the name of Hinduism’s most popular sacred text?
Bhagavad-Gita
What are the two principles that connect the divine to this world?
Karma a moral law of cause of affect which says that every action has a justified affect and Dharma is ethical duty based on the divine order of reality; one of the four goals of life
Name the four castes and identify who belongs to each one.
Brahin: Priests Kshatriya: Warriors Vaishya: Producers (farmers, merchants) Sudra: Servants, laborers Untouchables: Dirt poor
In the Bhagavad-Gita, how does Krishna justify that Arjuna should engage in war?
It is his moral duty. Krishna reminds Arjuna that is his sacred duty to engage in battle.
Identify and explain the four stages of life.
Student: Always learning
Householder: Parents
Forest Dweller: Retirement
Wandering Ascetic: Monkish life
Name and briefly describe the four goals of life.
Kama: Sensual pleasure
Artha: Material success
Harmony with Dharma: Joy in living in harmony
Bliss of Moksha: Infinite being, awareness and eternal bliss
Identify the three paths to salvation
Karma Marga: Path of Works
Jnana Marga: Path of Knowledge
Bhakti Marga: Path of Devotion
What are the three most important schools of Hindui philosophy?
Vedanta
Sankhya
Yoga
Identify three important gods/goddesses of Hinduism.
Shiva, Vishnu, Kali
What is an avatar? Name two important Hindu figures identified as avatars.
Incarnation or living embodiment of a deity.
Krishna-an avatar of Vishnu
Rama-an avatar of Vishnu
