Human concerns
Understanding Human Concerns in Hinduism
Life and Death
- Hinduism views life and death as a continuous cycle, known as Samsara.
- According to Hindu beliefs, a person is born, dies, and is reborn in another form — this is the concept of reincarnation.
- The quality of one’s next life is believed to be determined by Karma — the sum total of a person’s actions in this and previous lives.
- The ultimate goal is to break free from this cycle of death and rebirth to attain Moksha (liberation).
Suffering
- Hinduism recognises suffering as an inherent part of human life and associates it closely with the cycle of birth and death.
- Karma is understood to be the cause of suffering — bad actions in past lives lead to suffering in current or future existences.
- Pursuing Dharma (righteousness), Artha (prosperity), and Kama (pleasure) in balanced proportions can help alleviate suffering.
Good and Evil
- Hinduism acknowledges good and evil as aspects of life and the universe.
- Good and evil actions are associated with Karma — good actions may result in favourable circumstances, while evil actions may result in suffering.
- The philosophy encourages individual responsibility for one’s actions and their consequences.
Ethics and Morality
- Ethics and morality in Hinduism are guided by the concept of Dharma.
- Dharma involves conducting oneself righteously, fulfilling personal, social, and religious obligations.
- Ethical living also means pursuing Artha and Kama within moral and ethical limits.
Human Rights and Social Justice
- Hinduism emphasises on the principle of Ahimsa, or non-harming, respect for all living beings, and compassion.
- The religion promotes values such as honesty, tolerance, patience, self-restrain, and respect towards others.
- Social justice and human rights are important principles, with scriptures advocating for kindness, charity, and equality.
The Environment
- The environment is seen in Hinduism as an integral part of existence, reflecting the interconnectedness of all life forms.
- The concept of Dharma extends to living in harmony with nature.
- Respect and reverence for the environment manifest in various ways including worship of nature deities, sacred trees and rivers, animal protection, and environmental conservation.