What is the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism?
Nirvana, according to Buddhism, is a complex conceptual state of being in which a person escapes the suffering of the world and realizes his or her oneness with the universe. The person whose consciousness enters Nirvana can eventually leave behind the cycle of reincarnation to exist spiritually, albeit impersonally. The word Nirvana literally means “blowing…
What is a Brahman?
A Brahman is a member of the highest priestly caste in Hinduism. Brahman is a Sanskrit word that can apply to persons but can also encompass the highlights of Hindu philosophy. In Hindu texts, the use of the word Brahman or Brahmin can also refer to anyone of good and virtuous character. Another understanding of…
What is Islamism?
Islamism is different from Islam. Islam is a religion with several branches, while Islamism is a religious and political movement within Islam, based on certain literal interpretations of the Quran. In particular, Islamism seeks to conform society to Sharia, the moral and religious system of law that comes from the Quran. Sharia defines a strict…
What is a mantra?
The word mantra is used to describe any thoughts, utterances, songs, or other sequences of words or sounds that are supposed to have spiritual efficacy or magical power. A mantra is defined as “a tool of the mind that has a spiritual effect on a person’s will or emotional state of being.” A mantra can…
What are the Vedas?
The Vedas are a set of four Hindu holy texts, written about 2,500 years ago. The first and most important of the Vedas is the Rig-Veda, a set of ten books comprising hymns and mantras to and about various deities. The second Veda is the Sama-Veda, a collection of melodies meant to be sung during…
What is the Noble Eightfold Path?
The Noble Eightfold Path is the foundation of Buddhist practice. The eight concepts contained in the Noble Eightfold Path are the attitudes and behaviors that Buddhists strive to emulate as a means of living out the Four Noble Truths. These eight concepts fall into three major categories: Wisdom, Conduct, and Concentration. According to the Four…
What is the difference between Christianity and Judaism?
Of the major world religions, Christianity and Judaism are likely the most similar. Christianity and Judaism both believe in one God who is almighty, omniscient, omnipresent, eternal, and infinite. Both religions believe in a God who is holy, righteous, and just, while at the same time loving, forgiving, and merciful. Christianity and Judaism share the…
What does the Bible say about karma?
Karma is a theological concept found in the Buddhist and Hindu religions. It is the idea that how you live your life will determine the quality of life you will have after reincarnation. If you are unselfish, kind, and holy during this lifetime, you will be rewarded by being reincarnated (reborn into a new earthly…
How should a Christian view yoga?
For many Christians in the West who don’t understand the history behind it, yoga is simply a means of physical exercise and strengthening and improving flexibility of the muscles. However, the philosophy behind yoga is much more than physically improving oneself. It is an ancient practice derived from India, believed to be the path to…
What is Tibetan Buddhism?
Tibetan Buddhism is another name for Vajrayana Buddhism. Before addressing the specifics of Tibetan Buddhism, it will be necessary to address some of the distinctives of Buddhism in general. Buddhism is a philosophy of life based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, a prince who was born into Hinduism and a life of luxury. According…