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