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Outline ONE significant practice within Hinduism from the following: - Marriage ceremony - Pilgrimage - Temple worship - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 3 - 2010 - Paper 1
Question 3
Outline ONE significant practice within Hinduism from the following: - Marriage ceremony - Pilgrimage - Temple worship. Describe the contribution to the development... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline ONE significant practice within Hinduism from the following: - Marriage ceremony - Pilgrimage - Temple worship - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 3 - 2010 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline ONE significant practice within Hinduism
Answer
One significant practice within Hinduism is the Marriage Ceremony. This ceremony, known as 'Vivah Sanskar', symbolizes the sacred union of two individuals, committing to a lifelong partnership. Rituals such as 'Saptapadi' (seven steps) emphasize mutual respect and love, and the recitation of mantras invokes blessings from deities, thereby reinforcing communal ties and the importance of family in Hindu society.
Step 2
Describe the contribution to the development and expression of Hinduism of ONE significant person or school of thought other than the Vedas.
Answer
The Bhakti Movement, particularly represented by poets like Kabir and Mirabai, significantly contributed to the development of Hinduism. This movement emphasized personal devotion to deities over ritualistic worship, fostering a sense of egalitarianism and accessibility in spirituality. It encouraged individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in spirituality, promoting the idea that devotion transcends caste and societal norms.
Step 3
Assess the impact on Hinduism of the significant person or school of thought identified in part (b)(i).
Answer
The impact of the Bhakti Movement on Hinduism was profound. Firstly, it democratized religious practices, making spirituality more accessible to the lower castes and marginalized groups, thus challenging the rigid caste hierarchy. Secondly, it fostered emotional and personal connections to divinity, allowing individuals to engage deeply with their faith, which complemented the more orthodox practices of Hinduism. The movement's emphasis on love and devotion over ritualism revitalized Hinduism, encouraging a more inclusive approach that resonated with the core values of compassion and spiritual equality. Ultimately, the Bhakti poets' teachings continue to inspire contemporary expressions of Hinduism, promoting unity and devotion in a diverse religious landscape.