Selflessness

After reading the interdisciplinary essay exam materials, I have gotten a sense of what the tasks are. I have also realized how valuable good note-taking will be once we begin planning and writing the essays. By building up a lot of information, it will provide more material to be utilized and will make the task less daunting. At this point, we have just started the semester but it seems like there are many components that must be kept up with in order to succeed. The words “suffering,” “obligation,” and “judgment” can be applied to any culture because they are all universal in our world. Although they may exist at varying levels, they impact us in one way or another. Some cultures may value a certain aspect more than another culture would. One may have obligations that they must accomplish and they can vary from family-related, educational, to moral obligations. He or she must use their judgment to determine whether or not to tend to these obligations, or the course of actions they must take. The concept of suffering could be linked into the ideas of obligations and judgment because if one is not wise in judging their obligations, it can lead to suffering. These three factors are part of what defines and shapes what it is to be human in multiple ways. Humans possess the ability to make their own decisions but part of it is knowing the consequences that could emerge as a result of a poor decision or lack of action. It appears as though one’s judgment is possibly the strongest factor that will determine the consequences that will follow. One must know the importance of values, what he or she must accomplish, and possess good rationale. People who are in control of themselves have a greater chance of being in control of their surroundings. Of course, some things are beyond our control and are inevitable, but to a certain extent, one does possess the power of making decisions to yield success.

The Bhagavad Gita is centered around the ideas of maintaining one’s duties, understanding oneself, selflessness, devotion, and honor. The Raga Piloo serves as a way to connect people with spirituality, alternate states of mind, joy, calmness, and unity. Even the structural patterns of the raga symbolize the cycle of life itself. Similarly, the Shiva Nataraja depicts a dance that is meant to allow Brahma to begin creation. Its multiple components represent overcoming ignorance, destruction for creation, eliminating obstacles, and strength. There is a strong emphasis on being able to understand and build a strong connection to oneself in Hinduism, and these three examples demonstrate the core values. The ultimate goal is to reach moksha, which is where one has been able to escape the cycle of rebirth and has become one with Brahma. In order to reach moksha, the highest level of peace and devotion must be obtained. All throughout Hindu literature, music, and art, the central themes of Hinduism are evident and it goes to show its significance in the culture.

Word Count: 506

Namaste

Upon hearing about an opportunity to hear a presentation at the Hindu Temple Society of Augusta, I was eager to learn about a culture to which I have had limited experience. When I arrived at the temple, I had to remove my shoes before entering the main room because it is required in Hindu temples. In their culture, they believe that the feet are impure and because the feet and shoes come in contact with dirt, they are unclean. Shoes are the lowest part of the body and the dirt that collects on them symbolizes spiritual negativity. It is simply respectful to remove shoes to avoid bringing in impurities. Continuing on with that aspect, while seated in the temple, we had to sit cross-legged because pointing the feet towards the altar is considered disrespectful. While waiting for the presentation to begin, I made some observations of my surroundings such as the statues of the gods on the altar. I noticed that they utilized vibrant colors, shiny gold and silver, jewels, weapons, and a wide variety of facial expressions. While some of the figures had serene facial expressions, Ganesh’s face expressed anger, which is meant to ward off bad spirits.

I noticed myriad commonalities between Hinduism and Buddhism. For example, in both religions, there is a belief in reincarnation, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. There is an emphasis on the concepts of dharma and karma as well. Dharma is one’s duty and righteous path in life, which is essential in reaching moksha in Hinduism and nirvana in Buddhism. I hold a strong belief in karma and personally believe that all actions bear consequences. The outcomes reflect our past actions and decisions, which can also go on to affect our future reincarnated lives. Both Hinduism and Buddhism focus on one’s well-being, connection of the mind and spirit, and the path to moksha, enlightenment, or nirvana.

Overall, I am very grateful to have had a chance to learn more about Hinduism because I have always found different cultures to be very fascinating. All cultures have different beliefs, rituals, ways of life, and values. Although there are many differences between religions, there are often many similarities as well. It goes to show that the world is very diverse, yet there are common values that unite each of the cultures.

Word Count: 387