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‘For Hindus, it is more important to believe that God is ‘within the heart’ than to believe that God is everywhere.’ Evaluate this statement - AQA - GCSE Religious Studies: A (8062) - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 5
‘For Hindus, it is more important to believe that God is ‘within the heart’ than to believe that God is everywhere.’ Evaluate this statement. In your answer you sh... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:‘For Hindus, it is more important to believe that God is ‘within the heart’ than to believe that God is everywhere.’ Evaluate this statement - AQA - GCSE Religious Studies: A (8062) - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Refer to Hindu teaching
Answer
In Hinduism, the concept of God being ‘within the heart’ emphasizes the intimate relationship between the individual and the divine. This teaching aligns with the belief that God is present in every being, advocating for personal spiritual practices and inner reflection. The Upanishads, for instance, describe Brahman as the universal consciousness within each individual, implying that true understanding of God comes from within rather than an external form.
Step 2
Give reasoned arguments to support this statement
Answer
Believing that God is within the heart may inspire deeper devotion and an inner moral compass. This belief encourages individuals to cultivate a personal relationship with God, leading to greater self-awareness and ethical living. For many, recognizing the divine presence within creates a motivation to respect all forms of life, influencing attitudes towards compassion and non-violence, intrinsic values in Hindu philosophy.
Step 3
Give reasoned arguments to support a different point of view
Answer
On the other hand, the belief that God is everywhere ('Sarvam') can foster a sense of universal connection and responsibility towards all aspects of life. Seeing God as an omnipresent force can encourage individuals to see the divine in every act and being, promoting a broader sense of community and shared existence. This view manifests in communal worship and the acknowledgment that all actions are interconnected through the presence of God.
Step 4
Reach a justified conclusion
Answer
In conclusion, while the belief that God is ‘within the heart’ emphasizes personal spirituality and ethical living, the notion of God’s omnipresence nurtures a sense of universal connectedness. Both viewpoints hold significant spiritual value in Hinduism. However, depending on individual practice and community interaction, one may find that either belief serves as a critical guiding principle in their spiritual journey.