What are the principal beliefs of Hinduism, and how are they recorded in its sacred texts and writings?
Outline the principal beliefs of Hinduism and demonstrate how sacred texts and writings provide a record of the beliefs of Hinduism
A focused answer to the principal beliefs and sacred texts component of the Hinduism depth study. Covers Brahman and atman, samsara, karma, dharma, moksha and the paths to liberation, and how the Vedas, Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita record these beliefs.
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What this dot point is asking
NESA wants you to outline the principal beliefs of Hinduism and show how its sacred texts and writings record and communicate those beliefs. Treat Hinduism accurately and respectfully, recognise its internal diversity, name the central teachings, and connect each to where it is recorded. This is the principal beliefs and sacred texts component of the Hinduism depth study, examined in both Studies of Religion I and II.
The answer
Brahman and atman
At the centre of much Hindu belief is Brahman, the ultimate, infinite reality that underlies and pervades all that exists. The atman is the true self or soul within each being. A central teaching of the Upanishads is the deep relationship, in many schools the identity, between atman and Brahman: the self is ultimately one with ultimate reality.
One reality, many forms
Hinduism affirms one ultimate reality expressed through many deities (such as Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva). These are understood by many Hindus as forms or aspects of the one Brahman, which is why the tradition can be described as embracing both unity and great diversity of expression.
Samsara, karma and dharma
- Samsara. The cycle of birth, death and rebirth in which beings are caught.
- Karma. The moral law of cause and effect: actions shape future experience and rebirth.
- Dharma. Righteous duty and the moral order; living according to one's dharma sustains cosmic and social harmony.
Moksha and the paths
The ultimate goal is moksha, liberation from samsara and the union or realisation of the self with Brahman. Hinduism teaches several paths (margas or yogas) to liberation: the path of knowledge (jnana), of devotion (bhakti) and of selfless action (karma).
How sacred texts record these beliefs
Hindu scripture is vast and is traditionally divided into two categories.
- Shruti (that which is heard). The most authoritative scripture, including the four Vedas and the Upanishads. The Vedas contain hymns and ritual; the Upanishads develop the philosophy of Brahman, atman and moksha.
- Smriti (that which is remembered). Texts including the great epics, the Mahabharata (which contains the Bhagavad Gita) and the Ramayana. The Bhagavad Gita records teaching on duty (dharma), selfless action and devotion.
These writings preserve and transmit Hindu belief and provide the basis for practice and ethics.