Theory in Religious Studies and Hinduism

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to Theory in Religious Studies and Hinduism for exam preparation.

Discourse

Myths, stories, beliefs, and teachings within a religion.

Practice

Rituals, worship, and ethical actions in religious life.

Community

Social groups and institutions related to religious practices.

Institution

Authority, leadership, rules, and power structures in religion.

Animism

The belief that spirits exist in natural objects like animals and plants.

Indigenous Religions

Religions developing naturally within a specific culture, often orally passed down.

Syncretism

The blending of beliefs or practices from different religions into new traditions.

Asceticism

A religious practice involving self-discipline or denial for spiritual insight.

Samsara

The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth in Hindu belief.

Karma

The law of cause and effect where actions influence future lives.

Atman

The individual soul or true self in Hindu philosophy.

Brahman

The ultimate universal reality or cosmic force in Hinduism.

Dharma

Moral duty and righteousness according to one’s role in life.

Vishnu

The preserver god in Hinduism, associated with avatars like Rama and Krishna.

Shiva

The destroyer and transformer god in Hinduism, symbolized by the lingam.

Trimurti

The three major gods in Hinduism: Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver), Shiva (destroyer).

Shakti / Mahadevi

The divine feminine power in Hinduism, represented by goddesses like Lakshmi.

Ganesha

The elephant-headed god of wisdom and the remover of obstacles.

Aarti

A worship ritual involving light offered to a deity.

The Bhagavad Gita

A sacred text where Krishna teaches Arjuna about duty and righteousness.

Bhakti

Devotion and love towards a personal god in Hinduism.

The Ramayana

An epic story focusing on Prince Rama, his wife Sita, and themes of loyalty.

River Ganges

A sacred river in Hinduism believed to purify sins.

Varanasi

A holy city in Hinduism associated with death and liberation.

Hindu class / castes

A social hierarchy including Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.

Hindu Four Stages of Life

The four phases: Student, Householder, Forest dweller, Renunciant.

Hindu Temples

Places of worship featuring a sanctum, deity image, and areas for offerings.

Guru

A spiritual teacher guiding students toward knowledge.

The Partition of India (1947)

The division of British India into India and Pakistan resulting in migration.

Hindutva

A modern political ideology promoting Hindu identity in Indian culture.