Hinduism And Its Features - Essay Example

Hinduism And Its Features Two traditions internal to Hinduism are Shaivism and Vaishnavism. Though they both stem from a general belief, they have respective doctrines and followers. Bryant and Ekstrand state that Shaivism venerates Shiva who is regarded as the Supreme Being who is vested with enveloping powers (55). Vaishnavism focuses on Vishnu who is also the Supreme Being and the substance of everything. Moreover, Shaivites and Vaishnavites have differences regarding the human predicament and religious goals.

Shaivism is known for systematic philosophy in its texts. For Shaivites, human predicament is full of differentiation and bondage. Many experience discrimination and restrictions. This is caused by superficial knowledge. They suppose that the truth is not attained because individuals are blinded by what they can only understand through their basic senses. Hence, the goal is to reach ultimate consciousness. This is characterized by enlightenment and freedom. Armed with this higher truth, people can be liberated from false perceptions.

Vaishnavism asserts that literature should be interpreted more metaphorically than literally. Vaishnavites consider human predicament as depicted by unhappiness or false happiness. In addition, people do not experience the true essence of love. This is so because of greed and temporary pursuits. Therefore, the goal is to be united with the Supreme Being. When this happens, genuine love and happiness may be fulfilled. This can then be realized through renunciation of material fondness by prioritizing on spiritual development.

After disciplined practice, divine maturation ensues and is followed by perfection. Like other beliefs, Hinduism generally aims to improve existence. Both Shaivism and Vaishnavism have religious goals for improvement. Though they may have variations, they believe in man’s abilities. Indeed, man has its numerous limits. Nonetheless, he also has the capacity to achieve greatness. Works CitedBryant, Edwin, and Ekstrand Maria. The Hare Krishna movement. New York: University of Cambridge Press, 2004. Print.