Abstract A look at the importance of the Vedic Texts to Hinduism. It provides a historical background of the texts and how these were given to 'Brahma', the first living creature by Lord Krishna. It examines the four divisions in the texts Rg (prayers), Yajur (hymns for oblations), Sama (same prayers and hymns in meters for singing), Atharva (body/world maintenance and destruction).
From the Paper "Hinduism is a way of life that is based on various scriptures that depict the manner in which the values of life should be built. The Veda's are considered to be the first of the scriptures. Veda means knowledge gained from the teachings of the Vedas. Vedic knowledge comes from the spiritual world, originating from Lord Krishna, the Supreme God. In Hinduism the first living creature was the 'Brahma' who recived the Vedic knowledge from Krishna. The Veda were known as the Yajur and made reference to sacrifices which would 'purify' the soul."
Abstract This paper takes an academic but practical look at this diverse belief system of the Hindu religion. The origins and development of Hinduism are discussed as well at its role in the world of today and in the lives of its adherents. Contrasts are made with Christian belief systems and Hindu and non-Hindu scholars are quoted.
Outline
Hinduism's Ancient Roots
Hinduism's Holy Writings
Teachings and Conduct - Ahimsa and Varna
The Frustrating Cycle of Existence
The Pantheon of Hindu Gods
Hinduism and the River Ganges
Hinduism and the Soul
Hindu Teaching of Hell
Hinduism's Rival
From the Paper "Brahma, although central to Hindu mythology, does not occupy a place of importance in the worship of the average Hindu. In fact very few temples are dedicated to him, even though he is called Brahma the Creator. However, Hindu mythology attributes the assignment of creating the material universe to a supreme being, source, or essence-Brahman, or Brahm, identified with the sacred syllable OM or AUM. All three members of the triad are considered part of that "Being," and all other gods are viewed as different manifestations. Whichever god is then worshiped as supreme, that deity is thought to be all-embracing. So while Hindus openly venerate millions of gods, most acknowledge only one true God, who can take many forms: male, female, or even animal. Therefore, Hindu scholars are quick to point out that Hinduism is actually monotheistic, not polytheistic. Later Vedic thinking, however, discards the concept of a supreme being, replacing it with an impersonal divine principle or reality."
Abstract This paper discusses the age-old Hindu mythology. The paper contends that even today Hinduism mythology continues to be an integral part of the ever-changing global culture and remains as important as the Bible or the Koran. The paper examines the universal and cosmic concepts of Hindu mythology, which encompass so many world beliefs, that continue to make this Eastern tradition so vital thousands of years after it first came about.
From the Paper "Hindu mythology contains many different stories about these major as well as the minor gods. Nearly all stories are based on fundamentally similar concepts and ideas. These include the triads, as noted previously, in addition to 1) Performing a Penance: Humans and demi-gods or asuras are usually in a state of deep penance and meditation to reach the aura of a particular god. In this condition, they are separated from the world and deprived of any pleasures; 2) Granting of a Boon or generosity: In many situations of penance, Lord Brahma, Vishnu or Siva frequently appear and grant a wish of power to the person. The desire may be protection against a specific type of creature or a limited form of immortality. There are many different wishes found in the world of Indian mythology. 3) The curse or Schaap, where either a god or a seer/rishi is angered and puts a curse on a person affected; 4) Relief from Curse: In such situations, there are also some antidotes to the curse that may consist of some specific instance occurring in the future life; 7) Deva-Asura war: Hindu mythological tales are filled with instances of war between the asuras and devataas/angels because asuras are usually forceful and strong-headed and want to conquer the territories occupied by the devadaas (Knapp 53)."
Abstract This paper discusses the Alsdorf collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, which includes sculpture, jewelry, paintings and architectural elements from India, Nepal, Tibet, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Burma, Thailand, Cambodia and Java influenced by Hinduism. The author points out the difficulty of generalizing about Hindu influenced art because of the diversity of Hinduism. The paper relates that the region's art has been influenced by gods and goddesses, such as Shiva, Ganesa and Brahma, for thousands of years. Illustrations.
From the Paper "In other words, the views of Hinduism hold many opposing theories that describe aspects of an eternal truth. For example, one underlying focus is that a desire for liberation from earthly evils is and should be a life ambition. These notions and concepts can be clearly witnessed in the region's art as Hinduism plays a major role in what is and was accepted as precious. The Hindu influence had a strong influence on the regions' architecture and the continuous to be a great part of the regions art. For example, Indian art is often depicted with the subjects of art, whether it is in jewelry, statues or paintings, all having various alterations made to the eyes. "
Abstract This paper examines the statement: "Considering that Hinduism lacks a uniting belief system, what makes up the Hindu religion?" It argues that because Hinduism has a looser belief system than other religions, it is sometimes perceived to have no uniting belief system. The paper also looks at cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to the region in which it originated and Hinduism's desire for liberation from earthly desires.
From the Paper "Hindu scholars say that Hindu is a guide for life. Each person follows his or her own path. That path will be different for each person, because each person's soul needs to learn different lessons before being reincarnated again (Subramuniyaswami, 2000). While most religions have rules to follow, such as the Ten Commandments or the rules laid down itne Qu'ran, Hindu does not have such rigid rules. In Hindu, each person is supposed to study and pray and develop the wisdom to choose his or her actions wisely (Subramuniyaswami, 2000)."
