Investigating Hinduism Essay

Hinduism is often illustrated as a religion that has been fused of various traditions and has no founder. Being the third most practiced religion globally, it has earned a lot of followers and just like any other religion, it has beliefs that guide the society or followers on the right path (Herman, 2018). In this context, the paper will address the history of the three most significant deities in the religion and their roles in the kalpic cycle of life. It will illustrate the various castes or classes in the religion and how a follower would interact with other castes. In addition, it will elucidate comprehensively a comparison of the practices of a Christian community and beliefs of the Hinduism religion and thus explain the engagement between a Christian and a Hindu and important aspect to consider in the same.

Brahma, also referred to as the Vedic god of Prajapati, does not enjoy much worship in the modern-day religion of Hinduism, History illustrates that he lied and hence people have no trust in him. As shown in the Vedic texts, Brahman is of unknown origin and his earliest mentions were in a 5th Prapathaka or lesson where he is discussed in chapter five. Brahma can be referred to as a second creator as indicated in the Puranas and Mahabharata. The deity was the most studied. It is believed that his origin is from Vishnu’s navel in a lotus emerging from It. d. As elucidated in mythology, Lord Shiva is one of the three most supreme deities and apparently the most powerful.

This deity is also considered to provide wisdom, to stop evil and ignorance and provide mercy. It is believed that Lord Shiva was married to Parvati. Various theories exist trying to explain where Lord Shiva came from. These groups, according to Manusmriti book, were meant to maintain regulation and order in the society. The highest class, Brahmins, consisted of priests and intellects who were believed to come from the head of deities. The second class was called Kshatriyas, and comprised of the rulers and warriors. The third class was referred to Vaishyas, and included business and or traders, and were believed to have originated from the thighs of Brahman. To the bottom were Shudras, were peasants and low-class people, left to do the dirty work.

The same case applies in that the Hindu also believe in a supreme almighty being called Brahman. He is they’re ever seeing, ever hearing and their one true God. Additionally, St Thomas has the word of God written in a Bible, or what can be referred to as scripture which contains teachings, laws, and expectations of their God, whereas in Hinduism there are Vedas. These are scriptures which are very ancient and were written by sages and saints. Hinduism believes in presence of a soul that is not created nor destroyed. Secondly, the engagement can be on the basis of the belief on salvation. Dharma defines enlightenment, righteousness, morality and good conduct for followers of Hinduism. Encompassing dharma into one’s life enables the follower to live in the right manner and conduct.

This is experienced in Christianity also, where salvation is based on avoiding sin and living a righteous life by determination of what is wrong and right. This can be another basis for engagement for both followers. d. In conclusion, the paper has successfully managed to analyze significant beliefs of Hinduism religion based on certain aspects. Hinduism is a religion that has been practiced for years and comprises a vast number of followers. The followers believe in a Trimurti, which is essentially the three Gods of Hinduism namely, Brahman, Vishnu, and Shiva. These Gods play specific roles in the society and the kalpic life cycle. Routledge 2. Hinduism. (n. d. Retrieved from http://www. com/digital-resources/intervarsity-press/2012/neighboring-faiths_a-christian-introduction-to-world-religions_ebook_2e. php 4. Purusharthas in Hinduism.