Religious Views: Eastern Traditions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, and Jainism) Flashcards
Hinduism
One of the world’s oldest religions, originating in India, emphasizing interconnectedness, karma, and reverence for nature. Hinduism teaches that the divine (Brahman) exists in everything, encouraging respect for all life forms and the environment
Monistic
A belief that everything in existence is interconnected as one ultimate reality. In Hinduism, this means that all beings, nature, and the universe are part of Brahman, reinforcing the importance of harmony with the environment
Namaste
A traditional Hindu greeting meaning “The divine in me bows to the divine in you.” It reflects the belief that all living beings contain a divine essence (Atman), fostering respect for others and nature
Brahman
The ultimate, formless reality in Hinduism. Brahman is present in all things, meaning that the natural world is not separate from the divine but a manifestation of it
Bhagavad Gita
A sacred Hindu text that teaches duty (dharma), selflessness, and devotion. It promotes moderation and balance, which align with environmental ethics by discouraging excessive consumption
Holy Cow
Cows are venerated (not worshipped) in Hinduism for their life-giving properties (milk, ghee) and their role in sustaining human life. Protecting cows reflects the Hindu principle of nonviolence (ahimsa) toward all living beings
Ganges River
A sacred river in Hinduism, considered a living goddess (Ganga). Hindus perform rituals in its waters, yet the river faces severe pollution, highlighting the tension between spiritual reverence and environmental degradation
Buddhism
A spiritual tradition founded by Siddhartha Gautama that teaches the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, emphasizing mindfulness, compassion, and non-attachment–all principles that support environmental awareness and sustainability
Siddhartha Gautama
The historical prince who became the Buddha after seeking enlightenment. His journey from luxury to spiritual awakening reflects the Buddhist idea of moderation and rejecting material excess
Buddha
Meaning “The Awakened One,” a title given to Siddhartha Gautama after he attained enlightenment. His teaching promote compassion, self-awareness, and harmony, which are key to environmental ethics
Four Sights
The four things Siddhartha saw that led him to question his privileged life: (1) Old man (aging), (2) Sick man (suffering), (3) Dead man (impermanence), and (4) Holy man (a path to peace). These experiences made him realize suffering is universal, leading to his spiritual journey
Great Renunciation
Siddhartha’s decision to leave his life of wealth behind to seek truth. This symbolizes detachment from materialism, a core principle of environmental sustainability
Moderation
A key Buddhist principle, also called the Middle Way, teaching that neither indulgence nor extreme asceticism leads to enlightenment. This approach supports sustainable living by promoting balance
Bodhi Tree
The tree under which Siddhartha attained enlightenment. It symbolizes wisdom, peace, and interconnectedness with nature, reinforcing the importance of preserving sacred environments
Compassion
A fundamental Buddhist value, teaching kindness and care for all beings. Compassion extends to animals, plants, and ecosystems, encouraging environmental stewardship
Loving Kindness
Also known as Metta, the practice of radiating goodwill and love toward all beings. This includes caring for the environment and all living creatures
Self-Realization
Understanding that the self is not separate but connected to all life. This realization fosters mindfulness, non-violence, and environmental awareness
Fangsheng
A Buddhist ritual where captive animals (such as fish or birds) are released as an act of mercy and respect for life. It highlights ethical treatment of animals and reverence for nature
Taoism
A Chinese spiritual philosophy that teaches living in harmony with the Tao (the Way). It promotes balance, simplicity, and flowing with nature rather than controlling it–all crucial to environmental ethics
Tao
The ultimate principle of the universe, often translated as “The Way” or “Path.” It represents the natural order of things, which humans should align with rather than disrupt
Old Man Lao Tzu
The legendary sage credited with founding Taoism and writing the Tao Te Ching, which teaches natural harmony and effortless action (wu-wei)
Chuang Tzu
A Taoist philosopher known for his parables about perspective, change, and natural balance. His famous “Butterfly Dream” challenges the boundaries between humans and nature
Tao Te Ching
The foundational text of Taoism, written by Lao Tzu. It teaches balance, humility, and non-interference with nature, emphasizing that over-controlling the world leads to disorder
Yin Yang
A Taoist symbol representing balance and interconnected opposites (light/dark, active/passive). It reflects how nature maintains harmony through complementary forces
Wu Wei
The principle of effortless action, meaning we should flow with nature rather than fight against it. This aligns with sustainable living and ecological balance
Jainism
An ancient Indian religion that emphasizes nonviolence (ahimsa), self-discipline, and spiritual liberation. Jains take environmental ethics to an extreme, minimizing harm to all life forms
Karma
The belief that actions create consequences that shape future lives. In Jainism, even harming insects generates negative karma, leading to strict environmental responsibility
Ahimsa
The principle of absolute nonviolence toward all living beings. Jains avoid killing insects, harming plants unnecessarily, and consuming animal products, making them some of the most environmentally conscious people in the world
