The Key Components Of Hinduism

Dharma

Throughout time and history Hinduism has become one of the prominent “religions” of India. Though the Indian language does not have a clear term for religion, the western part of the world recognizes the religious stance of Hinduism and can refer to Hinduism as, in fact, the religion of India. This polytheism religion, the belief and worship of more than one god, creates a new perspective on various outlooks upon how the western society may understand this religion. Within this polytheism religion, individuals that have converted to this kind of lifestyle have also converted to understanding the many actions and responsibilities that come with being a practicing Hindu. Anybody can practice Hinduism, you can be born into this lifestyle

Within Hinduism, a key component to this religion encompasses the understanding that every individual that has converted and is practicing Hinduism, all experience dharma. Author Gavin Flood explains dharma as, “untranslatable in that is has no direct semantic equalists in any western languages which convey the resonance of associations expressed by the term”. Rather than understanding the true translation of dharma, key components of dharma aid towards understanding the real idea behind such a systematic principle of life. The idea of Dharma can be expressed through several western words: duty, law, ethics, principle, religion, and right. Dharma simply means the way of living your life, a code of conduct or morals that every Hindu must abide by. Understanding dharma and how it plays a vital role within the Hindu society aids to understanding how and why it’s intertwined within their cast system, society, daily practices, stages of life cycle, and their overall life style. In this paper I will define dharma and draw upon a close reading of one primary source presented by author Gavin Flood, An Introduction of Hinduism. (Flood

This kind of framework exists to provide order within their society, this classification provides individuals with a framework in which it determines their responsibilities as well as provides an effective way for everyone to contribute to society. This lifestyle is determined by an individual’s temperament rather than by their birth. These four main groups are: Brahmins (priests – highest rank which result in living the most privileged lifestyle), Kshatriyas (warriors and kings), Vaishyas (merchants and landowners), and Sudras (commoners, peasants, servants). Outside of this Hindu caste system are the individuals that are referred to as the “untouchables” meaning that these are the street sweepers, latrine cleaners, and menial tasks. Pertaining to one’s dharma, individuals that are categorized into this caste system are expected to not delegate from their duties for if one does not contribute fully to their responsivities then this will ultimately bring forth shame, suffering, and negative consequences onto them. In result, not abiding by the functionalities set forth toward your specific responsibilities results into bad actions (karma) which will ultimately determine your rebirth and what life of reincarnation is to come. Samsara, the endless cycle of suffering and endless cycle of rebirth, depends on how an individual goes about