Common to virtually all Hindus are certain beliefs, including, but not limited to, the following:
- a belief in many gods, which are seen as manifestations of a single unity. These deities are linked to universal and natural processes.
- a preference for one deity while not excluding or disbelieving others
- a belief in the universal law of cause and effect (karma) and reincarnation
- a belief in the possibility of liberation and release (moksha) by which the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara) can be resolved
Hinduism is bound to the hierarchical structure of the caste system, a categorization of members of society into defined social classes. An individual’s position in the caste system is thought to be a reflection of accumulated merit in past lives (karma).
Observance of the dharma, or behavior consistent with one’s caste and status, is discussed in many early philosophical texts. Not every religious practice can be undertaken by all members of society. Similarly, different activities are considered appropriate for different stages of life, with study and raising families necessary for early stages, and reflection and renunciation goals of later years. A religious life need not be spiritual to the exclusion of worldly pleasures or rewards, such as the pursuit of material success and (legitimate) pleasure, depending on one’s position in life. Hindus believe in the importance of the observation of appropriate behavior, including numerous rituals, and the ultimate goal of moksha, the release or liberation from the endless cycle of birth.
Moksha is the ultimate spiritual goal of Hinduism. How does one pursue moksha? The goal is to reach a point where you detach yourself from the feelings and perceptions that tie you to the world, leading to the realization of the ultimate unity of things—the soul (atman) connected with the universal (Brahman). To get to this point, one can pursue various paths: the way of knowledge, the way of appropriate actions or works, or the way of devotion to God.
The purpose of life
The purpose of life for Hindus is to achieve four aims, called Purusharthas. These are dharma, kama, artha and moksha. These provide Hindus with opportunities to act morally and ethically and lead a good life. Throughout their lives, Hindus attempt to end the cycle of samsara and behave in a way that provides good karma in this life and the next.
Key fact
Kama and karma are not the same thing – kama refers to sensual pleasure or desire and karma refers to the law that every action has an equal reaction either immediately or at some point in the future.
Dharma
This is related to a person’s true purpose and is concerned with a person’s duty and the actions the person takes. Each Hindu believes that they have their own personal dharma. Ultimately, this is about leading a righteous life. Hindus want to end the cycle of samsara, and therefore they aim to make morally right decisions in order to achieve good karma.
Kama
This Sanskrit word means love, desire and pleasure. It is a very practical part of Hindus’ aims in life. Hindus aim to achieve pleasure in many ways, including sporting activities and cultural interests, but it is important to note that kama is also derived from sexual pleasure. Therefore, Hindus consider kama to be important in their personal lives. As Hinduism is a very practical religion, it is widely accepted that many Hindus attempt to achieve kama in their lives with their partners. This sexual aspect of kama is considered to be a natural part of human instinct and also produces children.
Artha
Artha means prosperity. To Hindus this means the pursuit of wealth. Many Hindus believe that there are only a few people who do not require material wealth. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that Hindus attain material wealth as part of attempting to achieve moksha. However, they must not become attached to this wealth.
Moksha
Moksha is the ultimate aim in life for Hindus. It means to be saved (salvation). When a Hindu achieves moksha, they break free from the cycle of samsara. Hindus aim to end the cycle of samsara through gaining good karma, which means doing good actions and deeds. Therefore, the actions of their previous lives and the actions of their mortal life today are all part of their effort to break the cycle of samsara, which each individual Hindu works towards.