Holy Conversations:  Understanding World Religions-Hinduism"

Sermon notes and questions from the sermon on Hinduism given on April 19

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Oldest Known Religion whose origins can be traced to 10,000 BC; formal beginnings approx. 1500 BC; 3rd largest religion with over 1 billion followers; Also the source of Buddhism and Sikhism; Often misunderstood in many ways;

Core values of diversity and tolerance because of stance of many paths to God

Brahman is God-source and other deities are manifestations of Brahman Atman is the God source in every human Jiva is soul Karma is moral law of cause and effect Moksha is liberation from cycle of reincarnation and union with Brahman

Pleasure and Success comprise the “path of desire.” Along with “duty” these are finite pursuits in life, but not bad ones.  Ultimately Atman in every being pursues the infinite attributes of knowledge, being and biiss.

There are four paths to Brahman that human souls pursue – knowledge of God through contemplation, love and devotion for God, work that unites us with the Creator, and getting close to God through spiritual exercises that probe into the Atman in each person.

Every soul (jiva) is created by God and proceeds in the continual cycle of birth and death through reincarnation according to the law pf Karma.  The ultimate end of every soul is moksha,liberation that unites it with Brahman.

When having a conversation with a Hindu, don’t assume that you know much about his or her religion.  Listen carefully to their faith journey and only share your faith if asked.  Use inclusive language when asking questions and giving responses to honor the Hindu culture.