Belief Systems and State Building in Asia

What is the dominant belief system in South Asia (India)?

Hinduism.

Describe Hinduism

A polytheistic faith with the goal to reunite individual souls (atman) with the all-encompassing world soul, Brahman

What is the process in Hinduism involved in achieving the ultimate goal?

Cycling through death and rebirth (reincarnation)

How did Hinduism contribute to the culture in India?

It provided unified culture and structures Indian society through a rigid caste system.

What type of religion is Hinduism classified as?

An ethnic religion, bound to a particular people and place, which does not spread well

What was the impact of Turkic Muslim invaders in South Asia?

Established a Muslim empire, Delhi Sultanate.

How did Islam become the religion of the elite in India?

Muslim leaders were in charge of large parts of India, leading to its spread

What is a key characteristic of Buddhism compared to Hinduism?

Buddhism is more likely to spread and was founded in India, but its influence was declining there by 1200.

What was the Bhakti Movement in Hinduism?

It encouraged worship of one particular god, rejected the hierarchy of Hinduism, and promoted spiritual experiences for all.

What is Sufism in Islam?

A mystical and spiritual experience based version of Islam.

What trend did Buddhism experience in South Asia despite being a universalizing religion?

It became more exclusive and was on the decline.

What challenges did Muslim leaders face in imposing Islam on India?

Islam was a minority religion + The Rajput kingdoms and the Vijayanagara empire

What were the Rajput Kingdoms?

Rival and warring Hindu kingdoms, some conquered by Muslim rulers and others remaining independent.

What was the Vijayanagara Empire?

A southern empire established by Delhi Sultanate emissaries who converted to back to Hinduism.

What defines sea-based states in Southeast Asia?

Their power derives from control over maritime routes.

What was the Srivijaya Empire?

A Buddhist empire but influenced by Hindu culture, controlling the Strait of Malacca and imposing taxes on passing ships.

What was the Majapahit Kingdom?

Originally a Hindu kingdom, it had strong Buddhist influences and maintained power through a tributary system.

What characterizes land-based states in Southeast Asia?

Their power is derived from land-based resources and control.

What was the Khmer Empire?

Founded as a Hindu empire, it created Angkor Wat, meant to represent the entire Hindu universe.

How did the Khmer rulers adapt their religion?

They converted to Buddhism and incorporated Buddhist imagery into their temples.

What is syncretism in the context of religion?

The blending of different religious beliefs and practices.