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Hinduism: The Existence of Ultimate Reality and Deity

The purpose of the world in Hindu thought: cycles, samsara and karma

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Overview

Cyclical and linear time, destruction in the Trimurti, Gita IX 7–8 and XII 6–7, a world formed for humanity, karma and moral consequence, the purpose of one life, the Purusha Sukta, and Humanist views.

What you need to know

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Key term

How does the Hindu cyclical view of the universe differ from a linear view?

Key term

What does the Trimurti suggest about the purpose of destruction in the world?

Key term

What does Bhagavad Gita IX 7–8 teach about cycles of creation?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    How does the Hindu cyclical view of the universe differ from a linear view?

    Model answer

    A cyclical view sees the universe created, sustained and dissolved again and again for ever. A linear view sees one creation moving towards a final end.

  2. 2

    What does the Trimurti suggest about the purpose of destruction in the world?

    Model answer

    The Trimurti places Shiva's destruction alongside creation and preservation as divine work. Destruction is seen as clearing the way for renewal, not as a purposeless end.

  3. 3

    What does Bhagavad Gita IX 7–8 teach about cycles of creation?

    Model answer

    All beings return into Krishna's own nature at the end of each cycle. Krishna sends them forth again at the start of the next cycle.

  4. 4

    In what sense do some Hindus believe the world was formed for humanity?

    Model answer

    The world is seen as a field of karma where souls can act, learn and seek liberation. The earth is called karma-bhumi, the land of action, for this reason.

  5. 5

    What does Bhagavad Gita XII 6–7 promise to devotees caught in samsara?

    Model answer

    Krishna promises to lift those who worship him with undivided devotion out of the ocean of death and rebirth. Krishna delivers such devotees swiftly.

  6. 6

    How does karma make the world a place of moral consequence?

    Model answer

    Karma means no action is morally empty, since every deed returns to its doer. The world therefore works as a moral order, not a random one.

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