Hinduism Study Guide

A comprehensive set of flashcards to help review key concepts, facts, and details from Hinduism as covered in the lecture.

What are the main beliefs of Hindus?

Avatarvad (Incarnations), Karmavad (Karma), Punarjanmavad (Reincarnation), Murti-Puja (Idol Worship).

What are the four Vedas?

Rig-veda, Sam-veda, Atharva-veda, Yajur-veda.

Who recited the Mahabharata to Ganeshji?

Ved Vyas.

What is the glory of performing pradakshinas?

To gain spiritual merits as God and His sadhu are the center-point of our life.

What is ‘sashtang dandvat pranam’? Why should we do them?

When eight parts touch the floor, it symbolizes humility and strengthens our understanding that we are God's servants.

What should one do after puja?

Bow to the murtis in the ghar mandir, bow down to parents, and wish everyone ‘Jai Swaminarayan!’

What are the nine forms of devotion?

Shravanam (Listening), Kirtanam (Chanting/Praising), Smaranam (Remembering), Archanam (Worship), Vandanam (Praying), Dasyam (Servitude), Sakhyam (Friendship), Atmanivedanam (Self-surrender), Padasevanam (Serving God's feet).

What are the five eternal entities?

Jiva (Soul), Ishwar (God), Maya (Illusion), Brahman (Cosmic Reality), Parabrahman (Supreme God).

Who gives the fruits (results) of our karmas?

Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

Which step of Ashtang yoga is Samadhi?

The 8th step, or last step.

Why should we avoid attachment to material objects?

Attachment hinders spiritual progress and diverts attention away from God.

What is Fuldol? What does it represent?

A festival celebrated the day after Holi, focusing on devotion and divine blessings.

What is the significance of chanting God's name?

It purifies the heart, connects the devotee to God, and removes negative energies.

What is the primary purpose of visiting a mandir?

To offer prayers and seek blessings from God.

What is the meaning of 'Bhakti'?

Pure devotion and love for God, leading to spiritual liberation.

How should one practice detachment in daily life?

By understanding the temporary nature of everything and focusing on God.

What is the importance of Guru in the Swaminarayan tradition?

The Guru provides spiritual guidance and leads the devotee to God.

What is Janmashtami? What dose it repersent?

Janmashtami is Krishna Bhagwan’s birthday, celebrated with great devotion, focusing on Lord Krishna’s life and teachings as seen through the lens of Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s philosophy. It represents the manifestation of divine love and joy in the world.

What should a devotee’s attitude be towards worldly possessions?

Remain detached, seeing them as temporary and not the source of happiness.

Why is it important to maintain good company (satsang)?

Helps stay focused on devotion, gain spiritual knowledge, and cultivate virtues.

What is the role of prayer in a devotee’s life?

Strengthens the relationship with God and purifies the heart.

How can one overcome doubts in faith?

By seeking guidance from Santos, reading scriptures, and meditating on God’s greatness.

What is Dev Podi?

Dev Podi Ekadashi (also called Dev Shayani Ekadashi or Ashadhi Ekadashi) marks the beginning of Chaturmas, the four-month period when Lord Vishnu is to enter a divine slumber. It is observed on the 11th day of the waxing moon in the month of Ashadha.

What is the Bhagavad Gita?

A dialogue between Arjun and Krishna Bhagwan before the Mahabharata.

Who were the 5 Pandavs?

Yudhishthir, Bhim, Arjun, Nakul, and Sahadev.

What is the meaning of 'Gnan'?

Gnan refers to spiritual knowledge and wisdom, which helps in understanding the nature of the Jiva, God, and the universe. It is considered a pathway to liberation and enlightenment, guiding individuals towards self-realization and the truth of existence.

Why is it important to remain humble?

It helps maintain devotion and be open to spiritual growth.

What is Raksha Bandhan?

A festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters.

What is the role of scriptures in the life of a devotee?

Providing knowledge and moral guidance for a righteous life.

What is the importance of seva?

It purifies the heart and strengthens the bond with God and the community.

What is Makar Sankrati? What is its significance?

Known as Uttarayan, it symbolizes the importance of keeping a strong connection with the Guru no matter how far he may be. It also marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, celebrating harvest festivals and renewal.

What are the four stages of life according to Hindu philosophy?

Brahmacharya (student life), Gruhastha (householder), Vanaprastha (retired), Sannyasa (renunciant).

Why is it important to respect elders?

Cultivates humility, gratitude, and wisdom.

What is the role of meditation in spiritual development?

Calms the mind and strengthens the connection with the divine.

What are the different forms of devotion?

Includes bhajan, dhyan, kirtan, and puja.

How can one overcome anger?

By practicing patience and focusing on divine qualities.

How does devotion help in overcoming material desires?

Purifies the heart and fosters focus on spiritual goals.

What is the importance of moral conduct in spiritual life?

Maintains a pure mind and facilitates devotion.

How does faith in God help during difficulties?

Provides strength and confidence that God's will is for good.

What is ahimsa?

Non-violence towards all living things.

What is the significance of the festival of Diwali?

Celebrates the victory of light over darkness.

What is the relationship between Guru and God?

The Guru represents God, guiding devotees to connect with Him.

What is the concept of 'Maya'?

Maya refers to the illusory material world that distracts the jiva from spiritual pursuits and devotion to God. It represents the veil of illusion that obscures the ultimate reality.

What is the principle of reincarnation?

The soul is reborn in various life forms until liberation from desires.

What is the significance of Pradakshina?

Represents reverence and signifies that God is central in our lives.

What is avatarvad?

God takes birth on earth for the liberation of souls.

What is the meaning of 'Vairagya'?

Renunciation or detachment from worldly pleasures.

What is the importance of community in spiritual life?

Supports each other’s growth and provides inspiration.

What is the role of Prarthana?

Invokes divine help and guidance in overcoming challenges.

What is Holi?

Festival of colors representing the love of Radhaji and Krishnaji.

What is Guru Purnima?

A day to honor the guru and seek blessings.

What is the name of our Sanstha?

Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS).

Who established our Sanstha?

Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj.

Which five mandirs did Shastriji Maharaj build?

Bochasan, Sarangpur, Gondal, Atladara, Gadhada.

Who started the Bal and Satsang Mandals?

Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj.

What is the purpose of human life?

To become Aksharrup and worship Purushottam.

Who is supreme God?

Sahajanand Swami – Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

At what age did Ghanshyam Maharaj leave home?

11 years old.

By what name was Ghanshyam Maharaj known during His pilgrimage?

Nilkanth Varni.

How long did Nilkanth Varni’s pilgrimage last?

7 years 1 month 11 days.

When Ramanand Swami initiated Nilkanth Varni, what names were given?

Narayanmuni and Sahajanand Swami.

What two boons did Sahajanand Swami ask for from Ramanand Swami when appointed as the Head of the Fellowship?

1. “If your satsangi is destined to suffer the distress inflicted by the sting of one scorpion, may the distress of the stings of millions and millions of scorpions befall each and every pore of my body; but no pain should afflict your satsangi.”

2. “Moreover, if the begging bowl is written in the destiny of your satsangi, may that begging bowl come to Me; but on no account should your satsangi suffer from the lack of food or clothing.”

At which place and how many paramhansas did Shriji Maharaj initiate in one night?

500 paramhansas in Kalvani.

Which mahamantra did Bhagwan Swaminarayan give?

Swaminarayan.

Name some senior paramhansas of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

Gunatitanand Swami, Gopalanand Swami, Muktanand Swami, etc.

Who is the choicest devotee of Bhagwan Swaminarayan?

Gunatitanand Swami.

What is Murti-puja's significance in the Swaminarayan tradition?

It helps maintain a connection with God and seek blessings.

What is the ultimate goal of a devotee in the Swaminarayan tradition?

To become aksharrup and attain the company of God in Akshardham.

What is the solution to all family problems?

Gharsabha.

What are the 5 nirjala fasts?

Ram Navmi, Dev Podi, Jal Jhini, Janmashtmi, Dev Uthi.

How does one develop humility?

By seeing oneself as a servant of God and treating everyone with respect.

How many years of Shriji Maharaj’s life are included in the Vachanamrut?

10 years.

What does it mean to live a disciplined life according to Bhagwan Swaminarayan?

Following moral and spiritual codes, and living according to scriptures.

What is the name of Yogi Bapa’s scripture?

Yogi Gita.

Which Paramhansa compiled the Vachanamrut?

Gopalanand Swami, Muktanand Swami, Nityanand Swami, Shukanand Swami.

What are the qualities of a true devotee?

Humility, devotion, compassion, truthfulness, faith.

What are the panch vartmans of a sant?

Nirman (No ego), Nissneh (No attachment), Nirlobh (No greed), Nishkam (No lust), Nisswad (No taste).

What was Bhagatji Maharaj’s profession?

He was a tailor.

What is the meaning of 'Akshardham'?

Eternal abode of God, where liberated souls reside.

Who wrote the Bhaktachintamani?

Nishkulanand Swami.

What is the meaning of 'Purushottam'?

The supreme God, Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

What is the significance of the Bhagavad Gita in the Swaminarayan tradition?

Teaches principles of devotion, duty, and renunciation.

What six mandirs were built by Bhagwan Swaminaryan?

Junagadh, Amdavad, Gadhada, Vadtal, Bhuj, Dholera.

What are the 16 holy chinha (marks) on Maharaj's charanarvind?

Ashtakon, urdhvarekha, swastika, jambu, jav, vajra, ankush, ketu, Padma, trikon, kalash, gopad, dhanushya, meen, ardhachandra, and vyom.

What are the names of the five aartis?

Mangla, Shangar, Rajbhog, Sandhya, and Shayan.

Sadhu Keshavjivandas was appointed as the Mahant of which mandir?

Dadar Mandir - Mumbai.

Why should we wear a kanthi?

Symbol of surrendering to God and faith.

What is the significance of fasting in the Swaminarayan tradition?

Purifies the body and mind, focusing on God.

What is the meaning of 'Akshar' in the Swaminarayan tradition?

It refers to the eternal entity, specifically Gunatitanand Swami.

What is Chesta?

23 verses describing Bhagwan Swaminarayan's divine form and actions.

What are the 6 shikarbadh mandirs in North America?

Robbinsville, Atlanta, Houston, Los Angeles, Toronto, Chicago.

How many sadhus did Shriji Maharaj initiate?

Over 3000 sadhus.

Where is Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Smurti Mandir?

Sarangpur.

How many letters did Pramukh Swami Maharaj write?

Over 700,000 letters.

What are the 4 key principles in our upasana?

Pragat, Sarvopari, Sakar, Sarva Karta.

Where did Mahant Swami Maharaj create the Satsang Diksha?

Nenpur, India in 2020.

What mandir was Pramukh Swami Maharaj the kothari of?

Sarangpur Mandir.

What mandir was Gunatitanand Swami the mahant of?

Junagadh Mandir.

How long did Shriji Maharaj stay on Earth?

49 years.

Where did Shriji Maharaj stay the longest?

Gadhada.