Untitled Flashcards Set

Dharma

The moral or ethical duty, law, or righteousness that individuals must follow in life to live in harmony with the universe and society. It often includes responsibilities, actions, and virtues. 

Karma

The belief that every action (good or bad) has consequences. Good actions lead to positive outcomes, while bad actions lead to negative results, either in this life or future ones. 

Moksha

Liberation or freedom from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). It is the ultimate goal in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, where one achieves spiritual enlightenment and unity with the divine. 

Brahman 

The ultimate, unchanging reality or divine source in Hinduism, beyond all attributes and forms. It is the essence of everything in the universe. 

Atman

The individual soul or self in Hinduism. It is considered eternal and ultimately one with Brahman.

Rama

A hero in Hindu mythology and the main character in the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. He is seen as an ideal person, embodying virtues like honor, courage, and righteousness.

Jainism

An ancient Indian religion that teaches the way to liberation and enlightenment is through non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), and asceticism. Jainism believes in the importance of self-discipline to achieve spiritual growth.

1. Describe the caste system. How did it develop? What are the castes?

is a social hierarchy that has its roots in ancient Indian society, and it is deeply intertwined with Hinduism. The system is traditionally divided into four broad categories, known as Varnas, which were initially based on the division of labor in society. Over time, the Varna system became more rigid, and jatis, or sub-castes, were formed, further stratifying society.

• The division of Indian society was based on Brahma's divine manifestation of four groups.

Four cast 

2. Brahmins – The priestly and scholarly class. They were responsible for performing religious rituals, teaching the sacred texts, and preserving spiritual knowledge.

3. Kshatriyas – The warrior and ruling class. They were responsible for protection, governance, and defense of the land.

4. Vaishyas – The merchant and agricultural class. They were responsible for trade, commerce, and sustaining the economy.

5. Shudras – The working class, responsible for serving the above three groups. They engaged in manual labor and other service-oriented tasks.

6. How did Hinduism develop? 

• Hinduism evolved around 3500 years ago. 

• Hinduism has no single founder 

• Grew out of the overlapping beliefs of the diverse groups who settled in india

• Later people who miragted into south asia brought more goods, beliefs and practices

• Hindusim became one if the most complex religions 

7. Describe the Hindu belief in reincarnation. How does it work? What is the goal? 

• In Hinduism, people believe that after we die, our soul (the real "us" inside the body) is reborn into a new body. This cycle of birth, death, and rebirth is called samsara.

• The Soul is Eternal: The soul doesn’t die; it just moves from one body to another, like changing clothes.

• Karma: What you do in this life—your good and bad actions—affects what happens in your next life. Good actions lead to a better life, and bad actions can lead to more suffering.

• The Cycle: The soul keeps being reborn in different forms—human, animal, or other—until it learns what it needs to and becomes free from the cycle.

The goal is to reach moksha, which is freedom from the cycle of reincarnation. To do this, you must:

• Realize your true nature: Understand that your soul is part of the universal spirit (Brahman).

• Stop making bad karma: Live a life of kindness, wisdom, and spiritual practice.

• Unite with the divine: Once the soul realizes its oneness with the divine, it’s freed from rebirth and experiences eternal peace.

• In short, reincarnation is the soul's journey through many lives, learning and growing until it reaches ultimate freedom (moksha).mm

8. What are the religious texts called? What do they teach (or in other words, describe what’s in them)?

• The religious text are called vedas 

• The upanishads are a section of the vedas that address mystical questions related to hinduism 

• Sacred text uses vivid imaiger to examine  complex ideas about the human sould and contectdus to life. 

• Bhagavada-gita were aslo representation of hindus beliefs 

9. What role do gods play in Hinduism? What are the primary gods?

Divine Manifestations: Hindu gods are different forms of the same ultimate reality, Brahman. Each god represents a specific aspect of the divine.

Maintain Cosmic Order: Gods keep the universe running, making sure everything stays balanced.

Guide and Bless: People worship gods to seek blessings, protection, and help in life.

Path to Liberation: Some gods are worshiped to help people achieve moksha (freedom from the cycle of rebirth).

Brahma (The Creator)

• Role: Creates the universe.

Vishnu (The Preserver)

• Role: Keeps the universe in balance and harmony.

• Famous Avatars:

  • Rama: Hero of the Ramayana.

  • Krishna: God of love and teachings (in the Bhagavad Gita).

Shiva (The Destroyer)

• Role: Destroys to make way for new creation.

Devi (The Goddess)

• Role: Represents the divine feminine, with many forms.

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Siddhartha Gautama 

The founder of Buddhism, also known as the Buddha. He was a prince who became enlightened and taught others how to end suffering.

Nirvana

The ultimate goal in Buddhism, a state of perfect peace and freedom from suffering and desire. It's the end of the cycle of rebirth.

Tripitaka

The sacred scriptures of Buddhism, also called the "Three Baskets." They include teachings, rules for monks, and philosophical texts.

Middle Way

The path of moderation, avoiding extremes of self-indulgence and self-mortification. It leads to wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline.

Dharma

,lThe teachings of the Buddha and the cosmic law that governs the universe. It includes the moral path to enlightenment.

1. What are the two sects of Buddhism? How are they different?

The two sections of buddhism are Thervada and Mahayana 

Thervada 

• Closely follows the buddhas origins in teaching 

• Life devoted and harsh spiritual work 

• Only the most dedicated seekers follow like nuns and monks 

Mahayana 

• Made buddhism easier for ordinary people to follow 

• Buddah had forbidden people to followers to worship him, Mahayans buddhism  pictured him and and onther holy beings as compassionate gods 

• People turned to these gods to help solve daily problems 

2. What are the four noble truths?

The Buddha spent the rest of his life teaching others what he had learned. After he reach enlightenment he explained the 4 noble truths . 

1. All life is full of suffering, pain and sorrow 

2. The cause of suffering is rooted in evils such as greed, desire and hatred 

3. The only crue to suffering is to overcome desire and other evils 

4. The only way to overcome desire is to follow the eightfold path 

3. What is the eightfold path? 

The eightfold path is the “right way” and it is avodiding evil through meditation. The eightfold path helps achieve nirvana and a happy life basically 

4. What “four signs” did Gautama see?

1. He saw a old man 

2. Saw a sick man 

3. Saw a dead man 

4. Holy man 

5. What role do gods play in Buddhism? 

In Buddhism, gods are not the main focus. Here's how they fit in:

1. Not Needed for Enlightenment: Gods can't help you reach nirvana. It's up to you to follow the Buddha's teachings.

2. They Are Also Impermanent: Gods in Buddhism are still part of the cycle of birth and death (samsara) and are not all-powerful.

3. Some Help, But Don't Save: In some forms of Buddhism, gods or deities may offer protection or blessings, but they can't grant enlightenment.

In short, gods exist in Buddhist beliefs but aren't central to the path of becoming enlightened.

Cosmic Harmony

The idea that everything in the universe is interconnected and must work together in balance. In Confucianism, humans must live in harmony with nature and society to create peace and order.

Filial Piety 

A core value in Confucianism, it emphasizes respect, loyalty, and care for one's parents and ancestors. It is seen as the foundation of good relationships and a stable society.

Five Relationships

The five key relationships in Confucianism that define how people should interact with each other. These are:

• Ruler to subject

• Father to son

• Older brother to younger brother

• Husband to wife

• Friend to friend In each, one person is the "superior" and the other the "inferior," but both have mutual duties and respect.

1. What are the focuses of Confucian teachings? 

Social harmony and good government: Confucianism teaches that society works best when everyone knows their role and acts with respect and responsibility.

Virtue and morality: Individuals should cultivate personal virtues like honesty, kindness, wisdom, and respect for others.

Filial piety and family values: Respecting parents and elders is considered crucial to creating a stable and harmonious society.

2. When did Confucianism develop? 

Confucianism developed in China during the 5th to 6th century BCE, founded by Confucius (Kong Fuzi), who lived from 551 BCE to 479 BCE. It became a major philosophical and ethical system that influenced Chinese culture and beyond.

Lao Tzu 

The founder of Taoism and the author of the Tao Te Ching, a book that teaches how to live in harmony with the universe.

The Tao

The "Way" or natural path of the universe. It's the force that flows through all life and things, guiding them to harmony and balance.

​​Tao-Te-Ching

A famous book by Lao Tzu that explains how to live peacefully by following the Tao. It emphasizes simplicity, humility, and going with the flow of life.

1. How do Taoists view human nature? 

Taoists believe that human nature is good and naturally in harmony with the universe. However, people often get off track due to societal pressures and desires. Taoism teaches us to return to our true, simple nature and live in harmony with the world.

In short, Taoism teaches that humans should live naturally, simply, and in harmony with the world around them.

2. Summarize the teachings of Taoism. 

1. The Tao (The Way): The natural flow of the universe. Taoists believe we should live in harmony with it.

2. Wu Wei (Non-action): Acting naturally without forcing things. It’s about doing things effortlessly, in tune with the Tao.

3. Simplicity and Humility: Taoism values living simply, without unnecessary desires or complications.

4. Balance and Harmony: Everything has opposites (like light/dark, good/bad). Taoists believe balance between these forces creates harmony in life.

5. Living with Nature: Taoists encourage being connected with nature and living as it does, simply and peacefully.

Han Feizi 

He was a scholar and statesman in ancient China who is known for his writings on the nature of law, governance, and the role of the ruler. Han Feizi argued that strict laws, harsh punishments, and strong leadership were necessary to maintain order and control in society.

1. How do Legalists view human nature? 

Legalists believe that human nature is inherently selfish and driven by desires. They argue that people will act in their own interest unless strictly controlled. To prevent chaos, the government must impose strict laws and harsh punishments to keep people in line and maintain order.

2. What role did Legalism have in the Qin Dynasty? 

Legalism played a central role in the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE). The first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, adopted Legalist principles to unify China. Under Legalism, he implemented strict laws, centralized power, and used harsh punishments to control the population. The dynasty's efficient bureaucracy and strong government were based on Legalist ideas, though it also led to widespread fear, repression, and resentment, contributing to the eventual fall of the Qin.

3. Describe the main beliefs of Legalism. 

Humans are Naturally Self-Interested: Legalists believe people are selfish by nature and will not behave properly without strict control and punishment.

Strict Laws and Harsh Punishments: To maintain order, Legalism supports clear, detailed laws and severe punishments for those who break them. This is seen as the best way to control society.

Strong, Centralized Government: Legalists argue for a powerful, centralized government led by a ruler with absolute authority. The ruler’s role is to enforce laws and maintain control.

No Need for Morality or Virtue: Unlike Confucianism, which emphasizes moral behavior, Legalism focuses on practical laws and rewards/punishments. Morality is not seen as important; maintaining order is the priority.

Control Over All Aspects of Life: Legalists believe the state should control all areas of life, including the economy, education, and even people's personal behaviors, to ensure stability.