World Religions Study Guide: Hinduism

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2. Yes or no: Is the Ganges a sacred river in Hinduism?

The Ganges River is a place for spiritual healing in Hinduism. Hindus believe bathing in the Ganges river cleanses them of their sins.

Explanation

The Ganges River is a place for spiritual healing in Hinduism. Hindus believe bathing in the Ganges river cleanses them of their sins.

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3. True or false: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva make up the holy trinity.

Although each of these deities possess special attributes, many Hindus believe they represent three properties of one god.

Explanation

Although each of these deities possess special attributes, many Hindus believe they represent three properties of one god.

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4. True or false: "moksha" is the release or liberation of samsara.

Moksha is the release of the cycle of samsara. It is a total union with Brahman.

Explanation

Moksha is the release of the cycle of samsara. It is a total union with Brahman.

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5. True or false: "samsara" means transmigration or reincarnation.

In the cycle of samsara, good deeds can cause you to be reborn (reincarnated) to a higher form.

Explanation

In the cycle of samsara, good deeds can cause you to be reborn (reincarnated) to a higher form.

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6. What are two correct traits of the god Brahma?

1. He has four faces which stand for the four corners of the universe.2. He is considered the creator god.

1. He has eight legs symbolizing a spider.2. He is the god of destruction.

1. He isn't an important god.2. His favourite animal is a moose.

Brahma is believed to have four faces, each representing a different direction of the universe. This symbolizes his ability to see and be present in all corners of the world. Additionally, Brahma is considered the creator god in Hinduism. He is responsible for the creation of the universe and all living beings within it. These traits highlight Brahma's significance and role in Hindu mythology.

Explanation

Brahma is believed to have four faces, each representing a different direction of the universe. This symbolizes his ability to see and be present in all corners of the world. Additionally, Brahma is considered the creator god in Hinduism. He is responsible for the creation of the universe and all living beings within it. These traits highlight Brahma's significance and role in Hindu mythology.

7. What is "monism"?

An illusion.

One everything.

Deed.

A god.

Monism is the belief that everything is a part of one reality.

Explanation

Monism is the belief that everything is a part of one reality.

8. What does the holiday Divali celebrate and what does it consist of?

Halloween; candy.

Birth; animals.

New Year; lights.

Winter; snow.

Divali celebrates the Hindu New Year. Coloured lights and fireworks add to the festive atmosphere.

Explanation

Divali celebrates the Hindu New Year. Coloured lights and fireworks add to the festive atmosphere.

9. What is "ahimsa"?

Non-violence.

Food.

The transcendental force.

A point of view.

Ahimsa is a term derived from the Sanskrit language and it means non-violence. It is a principle and practice of not causing harm or injury to any living being, both in thought and action. Ahimsa is an important concept in various religions, including Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. It promotes peace, compassion, and respect for all forms of life. This principle encourages individuals to resolve conflicts and differences through peaceful means, promoting harmony and understanding in society.

Explanation

Ahimsa is a term derived from the Sanskrit language and it means non-violence. It is a principle and practice of not causing harm or injury to any living being, both in thought and action. Ahimsa is an important concept in various religions, including Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. It promotes peace, compassion, and respect for all forms of life. This principle encourages individuals to resolve conflicts and differences through peaceful means, promoting harmony and understanding in society.

10. What does "maya" mean in Hinduism?

Illusion.

Pyramids.

Suffering.

Innocence.

Only Brahman is real; everythihng else is an illusion in the Hindu religion.

Explanation

Only Brahman is real; everythihng else is an illusion in the Hindu religion.

11. Which are symbols of Hinduism?

Lotus.

Om.

Swastika.

All of these.

None of these.

All of these symbols, namely the lotus, Om, and swastika, are indeed associated with Hinduism. The lotus is a symbol of purity and enlightenment, often representing the divine beauty and transcendence in Hindu mythology. Om is a sacred sound and a spiritual icon, considered to be the essence of the universe and a representation of the ultimate reality. The swastika, although misappropriated by the Nazis, has been a sacred symbol in Hinduism for thousands of years, symbolizing good luck, prosperity, and well-being. Therefore, all three symbols are recognized and revered in Hinduism.

Explanation

All of these symbols, namely the lotus, Om, and swastika, are indeed associated with Hinduism. The lotus is a symbol of purity and enlightenment, often representing the divine beauty and transcendence in Hindu mythology. Om is a sacred sound and a spiritual icon, considered to be the essence of the universe and a representation of the ultimate reality. The swastika, although misappropriated by the Nazis, has been a sacred symbol in Hinduism for thousands of years, symbolizing good luck, prosperity, and well-being. Therefore, all three symbols are recognized and revered in Hinduism.