What Are the Fundamental Assumptions in Hinduism?
Hindu dharma is a diverse and rich system of beliefs, practices, and philosophies. Across various Hindu sects and traditions, some fundamental concepts are widely accepted. This article explores the key assumptions of Hinduism, including the role of scripture, the nature of ultimate reality, the relationship between the individual and the divine, and the path to spiritual liberation.
Scripture Sruti and Smriti
Hindu scriptures play a crucial role in guiding spiritual and philosophical thought. The primary texts of Sanathana Dharma include the four Vedas, six Brahmanas, four Aranyakas, one hundred and eight Upanishads, six Vedangas, five Upavedas, eighteen Mahapuranas, eighteen Upapuranas, six Darshanas, eighteen Smritis, and two major scriptures such as the Vedas (particularly the Upanishads) and the Bhagavad Gita. Other popular scriptures include the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
The attitude towards scripture in Hinduism differs from Abrahamic faiths. Hindu authorities emphasize the importance of reason over scripture. For example, Sri Sankara, a famous Advaita philosopher, explains that
The appeal to the infallibility of the Vedic injunction is misconceived. The infallibility in question refers only to the unseen force or apurva and is admissible only in regard to matters not confined to the sphere of direct perception, etc. Even a hundred statements of sruti to the effect that fire is cold and non-luminous cannot be valid. If it does make such a statement, its import will have to be interpreted differently. Otherwise, validity will not attach to it. Nothing in conflict with the means of valid cognition or with its own statement may be imputed to sruti.
Similarly, the Yoga Vasishta Ramayan II-18 states:
Though human in origin, an exposition of truth is to be accepted otherwise, even what is regarded as divine revelation is to be rejected. Even a young boy's words are to be accepted if they are words of wisdom.
Vacaspati Misra, the author of Bhamati, supports this notion by saying:
Even one thousand scriptural statements cannot transform a jar into a piece of cloth.
Ultimate Reality: Brahman
Central to Hinduism is the belief in an ultimate reality called Brahman, who is described as Satchidananda (existence-knowledge-bliss). However, there are subtle differences among Hindu theologians about whether Brahman is impersonal or personal. Most Hindus, except atheists, have the belief in Brahman, referred to as shraddha.
Sri Sankara, the founder of Advaita Vedanta, emphasizes the impersonal aspect of Brahman as Pure Consciousness. Vaishnava Acharyas like Sri Ramanuja and Sri Madhva also accept Brahman but in different forms. Sri Ramakrishna considers both personal and impersonal aspects of Brahman to be correct for different stages of spiritual evolution. This duality serves different needs of devotees and seekers of knowledge.
Atman and Its Relationship with Brahman
Hindus also believe in the individual aspect of ultimate reality called Atman. It is the presence of Atman in us, the immanent divinity, that makes us conscious beings. However, the relationship between Atman and Brahman is subject to different interpretations:
Sri Sankara argues that Atman and Brahman are the same reality.
Sri Ramanuja proposes a different but indissolubly unity between Atman and Brahman.
Sri Madhva, on the other hand, sees Atman and Brahman as eternally different.
Sri Ramakrishna considers all three views to be valid for different levels of spiritual evolution.
The diverse viewpoints reflect the flexibility and accommodate the varied spiritual journeys of Hindu believers.
Divinity of Jiva, Heaven, Hell, Reincarnation, and the Law of Karma
Man is considered a divine entity due to the presence of Atman. However, Jivas commit sin due to unawareness of the divine nature of Atman. The concept of eternal heaven or hell is absent, although Sri Madhva promotes the idea of eternal hell. After death, the Jiva enters the astral world and reincarnates based on the law of Karma, a divine law of cause and effect.
The law of Karma dictates that every thought, word, and deed contributes to one’s destiny. It is a system of divine justice that ensures an individual experiences the consequences of their actions, thus fostering personal responsibility.
Ultimate Goal: Freedom from Samsara
The ultimate goal of a Hindu is to purify the heart, experience the ultimate reality, and achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara). This transcendent state is often referred to as moksha, the highest form of freedom.
Shraddha: Faith without Blindness
Hindu philosophy does not demand blind belief but a willingness to approach spiritual truths with an open mind, called shraddha. Shraddha emphasizes reason and practical understanding over rote belief. Belief alone is insufficient for achieving the ultimate goal of God realization. It is necessary to actively engage in spiritual practices and seek God realization through one’s own efforts.
Seeking guidance from a spiritually awakened master (Guru) is crucial for spiritual growth. Additionally, adhering to good conduct (Yama and Niyama), engaging in purification practices (Yoga and meditation), and maintaining purity of mind are integral to the path to spiritual liberation.