Hinduism Examined

What is Hinduism?

Variety of religious traditions

Some worship gods

Some find the divine with themselves and spend their life trying to become one with the divine

Some think that all religions are the same

Major Points of Interest

Most Hindus believe in what they call the samsara cycle, which we can also refer to as reincarnation

Good and Bad Karma

Neutral Karma

The Ultimate goal of Hinduism is moksha or escape from the rebirth cycle

Caste system- salvation (moksha) depending on where you’re born

Neo-hinduism- all religions point to the same God

Christianity’s Response

There is only one way of salvation and it is through Christ

John 14:1-13

Jesus makes it clear that it is only by Him that we may see God.

Not looking in ourselves for we are created beings

God is one and triune, there are not 330 million gods, or even two, there is one. (8-11)

Salvation is achieved not by good works but by believing in Him

Good works come after (12)

Discussion Questions:

Things like karma and yoga come from Hindu religious practices, how do you think we can be careful that we are mixing religious beliefs?

Do you think Christianity is exclusive or inclusive? If exclusive, why do you think the world hates it so much?

If you were to meet someone who is Hindu, what are the main things you would want to share with them about Christianity?