Hinduism
Uploaded by litlmutt on Apr 05, 2001
Essay: Explain the practices and beliefs of Hinduism, include historical context.Hinduism is the religion of choice in some parts of the Middle East primarily India. Hinduism is known as the world’s oldest religion. And what makes it so unique is that it has no founders. It dates back more than 3,000 years. Unlike most other religions, Hinduism has no founders. Unlike Christianity, it has not one but several holy books. This religion also houses many beliefs and practices.
Hinduism believes in reincarnation or when the body dies the soul lives on. Every time a person dies they are reincarnated into a new body. This can be mammal, insect, or even plant. This is called Karma, the natural laws of cause and effect. The goal is for individuals to escape this chain of reincarnation (atman) so their soul may rest.
Hinduism has a strict caste system into which you are born. There are very strict rules regarding your life and you cannot communicate with those outside of your caste. A strict belief of the Hindus is ahisma or non-violence. To Hindus people are aspects of Brahman and should therefore be respected.
Hindu temples are some of the most beautiful ones ever made. They can range from small villages with schools, fountains, and a pool to a simple shrine. An unusual is that prayer services are not carried out at specific times but rather have the monks pray when they feel they need to. Visitors often take part in chant.
Hinduism being one of the world’s oldest religions it is certainly one of the most complex. With several holy books and no founder it is a miracle it lasted so long.