Hinduism Religion Essay

Practiced in primarily India, Hinduism is an older religion which honors many gods and goddesses. One tries to free themselves from an on-going cycle known as samsara (a cycle of reincarnation) so that they can reunite with Brahman (a theological idea where which one can reach a superior or divine state). Hindus believe that each and every action will result in some form of karma, and bad karma will often prevent liberation from samsara. Because one is believed to reincarnate after death, bad karma can also affect one’s status, or perhaps luck, in the lifetime which follows. The many gods and goddesses in Hinduism are worshipped at temples, which are abundant in India, and rituals take place at rivers, homes, and the temples themselves. Festivals are a common form of entertainment in India, and take place on a very frequent basis. Some major festivals include Holi, Diwali, and Saraswati Puja (Important Festivals). These festivals are a way for Hindus to have some fun, while also allowing them to celebrate their faith with a larger community. The ultimate goal for a Hindu
As defined by Devin Kowalczyk in a lesson about Hinduism, reincarnation is “when the soul...returns to the physical realm in a new body.” Hindus believe this can happen to anyone, even animals (Kowalczyk, Devin). Throughout their lifetime, a Hindu will try to free themselves from a cycle called Samsara. At the “end,” one will reincarnate into another creature. Perhaps it will be a human, or perhaps it will be an animal. No matter what, however; having good karma is key. Karma is often defined as the consequences of an action or multiple actions, or something similar (Merriam-Webster). In Hinduism, karma is not just viewed a one good action or bad action. It accumulates over the course of one’s life, and can be made up of good and bad actions (Kowalczyk, Devin). It is always better to have good karma, however; because it will result in better reincarnated