The Visual Dimension of Hindu Rituals - Essay Example

The world is comprised of millions of cultures and traditions that have been preserved by people for centuries. One of the oldest traditions and cultures that have been preserved in this world is Hinduism. According to Diana (1981), Hinduism is practiced by many people in Nepal and India, where is the commonly known form of religion. Additionally, this form of religion is also practiced in populations that exist outside India’s sub-continent where it is practiced by more than 900 people. Hinduism has a great history by fact that it has existed for a quite a very long time.

In understanding about Hinduism, it is important to note that sacrifice is the most basic of all the rituals. In fact, sacrifice in Hinduism is said to have been the fundamental religious activity that was evident during the Vedic time. However, sacrifice has had to undergone serious transformations in the recent decades in Hinduism. Despite the many changes that sacrifice has undergone, it still remains the backbone of Hinduism. Vedic sacrifices have continued to be witnessed in many parts of the world where Hinduism is practiced (Diana 6).

In Hinduism, Vedic sacrifices are a highly esteemed and structured affair. During the performance of the sacrifices, a lot of preparation has to be taken into consideration because of the strict rules that are needed in purifying Brahmin priests. At the same time, constructing the altar has to be carefully done, preparation of the respective sacrifice and the particular sacrifice. Since sacrifices are held in high esteem in Hinduism, the people practicing Hinduism often perform them in special places.

It is important to remember to remember that ceremonies and other Hindu rites often happen in temple settings. In doing so, they are often directed towards gods and goddesses, who are given a lot of respect and religious concern among those that practice Hinduism. However, it inasmuch as Hinduism has a lot of sacrifices and rituals, a good number of them are often performed in people’s homes. Perhaps the reason given for it is that not all the rituals and ceremonies done are directed towards the gods and goddesses.

Just like in other religions and cultures, death marks a highly critical moment in Hinduism. The reason that makes death a very important element for Hindus is that it brings an end to life. Secondly, death ushers one into a new form of life (Diana 21).in this regard, death is simply a transition time that all people have to follow for reaching the other form of life. In celebrating the life of the deceased, Hinduism has special funeral rites that have to be performed, better known as shraddha.

These rituals also referred to as samskaras, because they are important rites of passage for the Hindus. Inasmuch as this form of religion may seem to give much emphasis to sacrifices, it is what makes them unique and separate from other forms of religion and cultures across the world. Works CitedDiana L. E (1981). Darsan: Seeing the divine image in India (3rd Ed). Boston: McGraw-Hill.