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.