Benchmark - Non-Christian Symbols
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Grand Canyon University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
263
Subject
Communications
Date
Feb 20, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
6
Uploaded by JusticeOwlMaster674
Benchmark - Non-Christian Symbols
Luci Moreno
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Element of Intercultural communication COM-263
Dr. Larkin
June 25, 2023
Hinduism and Christianity, two prominent world religions, showcase fascinating contrasts and similarities in their symbolic belief systems and the sacred texts they employ in their religious practices. Both faiths recognize the profound significance of symbolism as a means of communicating and understanding divine truths. While Hinduism draws upon an array of sacred texts, including the Vedas and Upanishads, Christianity centers around the Holy Bible, encompassing the Old and New Testaments. These revered scriptures serve as sources of spiritual guidance and wisdom for adherents, imparting profound meaning and shaping religious rituals. Examining the role of symbolism and the distinct books used in these religions offers intriguing insights into the diverse and profound ways in which individuals connect with their respective faiths.
Symbolism holds a significant place in the religious practices of both Hinduism and Christianity, albeit with distinct approaches and nuances. In Hinduism, symbols are abundant, representing various deities, cosmic forces, and philosophical concepts. Hindu worship often involves intricate rituals, vibrant ceremonies, and the use of symbolic objects such as statues, yantras (sacred geometric diagrams), and mandalas (symbolic representations of the universe). According to Education and Hinduism, "Symbols play a central role in Hindu worship, offering both access to the divine and a means of understanding the transcendent"(2021). Similarly, Christianity employs symbolism to convey spiritual truths and facilitate a connection with the divine. The cross, for instance, serves as a profound symbol representing the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Other symbols such as the dove (symbolizing the Holy Spirit) and the fish (representing Jesus' disciples) hold deep significance within Christian iconography. As stated in an article by The Journal of Religion and Popular Culture, "Symbols in Christianity function as vehicles for meaning, enabling the faithful to engage in a dialogue with God and
interpret the mysteries of their faith"(2012). While both religions employ symbolism, Hinduism's
extensive use of tangible symbols contrasts with Christianity's emphasis on abstract concepts and
visual representations. However, the underlying purpose remains the same—to provide a bridge between the human and the divine, inviting believers to explore profound truths and connect with
the spiritual realm through the power of symbolism.
Hinduism and Christianity, two distinct religions, possess rich and diverse literary traditions that serve as the foundation of their respective faiths. Hinduism draws upon a vast array of sacred texts, including the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Ramayana, which offer philosophical insights, moral teachings, and stories of gods and goddesses. These texts are considered authoritative and guide Hindus in their spiritual quest. According to an article published in The Journal of Hindu Studies, "Hindus read, recite, and contemplate the scriptures as a means of gaining knowledge, understanding, and spiritual growth" (2010). In Christianity, the Holy Bible holds a central position as the sacred text, comprising the Old and New Testaments. It contains religious teachings, historical accounts, moral principles, and the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. The Bible is revered as the inspired word of God and serves as the cornerstone of Christian faith. As stated in an article from Christian Philosophy and the Christian
Life, "The Bible is primarily a religious book...in its pages, we learn of God and His ways, of His
revelation and His dealings with men" Ebels-Duggan, K. (2018). While both religions have their distinctive scriptures, Hinduism encompasses a broader range of texts with diverse genres and styles, reflecting the vastness and diversity of the faith. Christianity, on the other hand, centers its
religious teachings primarily around the Bible, which serves as a comprehensive guide for believers. Regardless of the differences, both Hinduism and Christianity acknowledge the
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
importance of their sacred texts in imparting spiritual knowledge and providing moral guidance to their adherents.
Hinduism and Christianity, as prominent world religions, differ significantly in their beliefs about God, teachings, and concepts of the afterlife. In Hinduism, the belief system is diverse, encompassing various paths and interpretations. It recognizes a multitude of deities, representing different aspects of the divine. The ultimate reality, known as Brahman, is formless and transcendent, manifesting through these deities. According to an article in the Journal of Hindu-Christian Studies, "The diversity of deities and rituals in Hinduism allows worshippers to approach the divine in a way that is meaningful to them"(2010). In contrast, Christianity adheres to a monotheistic belief in one God—the Holy Trinity of Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit. Christianity teaches that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ and his sacrifice on the cross for humanity's redemption. The afterlife in Christianity is associated with heaven and hell, where believers are rewarded or punished based on their faith and deeds, "At the evening of life, we shall be judged on our love." Ebels-Duggan, K. (2018). While Hinduism embraces reincarnation, with the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara), Christianity focuses on the idea of an individual's eternal soul residing in either heaven or hell after death. Despite these disparities, both religions strive to provide a framework for understanding the divine, moral guidance, and a sense of purpose in life.
Salvation, the concept of liberation from suffering and attaining a state of eternal bliss, holds distinct meanings and pathways in Hinduism and Christianity. In Hinduism, salvation is sought through the process of moksha, which involves breaking the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). Moksha is achieved through self-realization, spiritual knowledge, and the dissolution of individual identity, merging with the ultimate reality, according to The Society for
Hindu Christian Studies "Moksha, or liberation, is the central goal of Hinduism...[it] offers a state of transcendence and freedom from the cycle of life and death” (2010). In Christianity, salvation is attained through faith in Jesus Christ and his redemptive sacrifice on the cross. Believers are reconciled with God and granted eternal life in heaven. The Apostle Paul writes in the Bible, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith" (Ephesians 2:8). Salvation in Christianity emphasizes the forgiveness of sins and the restoration of a personal relationship with
God. While Hinduism emphasizes individual enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of rebirth, Christianity focuses on salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and the grace of God. The contrasting paths to salvation in these religions reflect their unique theological frameworks and spiritual aspirations.
References
Ebels-Duggan, K. (2018). Christian philosophy and the Christian life. Christian Philosophy
, 55–
72. https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780198834106.003.0004 Education and Hinduism. (2021). Hinduism
. https://doi.org/10.1093/obo/9780195399318-0240 The holy bible
. (2002). American Bible Society. The Society for Hindu Christian Studies. (2010). Journal of Hindu-Christian Studies
, 23
(1). https://doi.org/10.7825/2164-6279.1455 Religion and ecology in popular culture. (2012). Understanding Religion and Popular Culture
, 38–50. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203119570-7
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help