Hinduism Reflection Paper

Hinduism Reflection Paper
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Hinduism Reflection Paper
According to Hinduism, the Atman refers to one’s eternal and forever life. It does not focus on the superficialities or façades as it is more inclined towards one’s actual [and real] self. Human beings have a way of ‘hiding’ their true nature and as a result; it becomes difficult to familiarize oneself with the real persona (Govender, 2007). It is evident that in Chapter XI of the Upanishad excerpt which says, “Now, that which is the subtle essence−this whole world has that as its soul. That is the Real. That is the Self (Atman). That thou art (Tat vam asi), Svetaketu.” The Atman is inclined towards religious innuendos as it delves into the relationship between man and God from the perspective of the self. There is the need to look into man’s service to God and, according to the Atman; the self is responsible for being God’s servant. The idea(s) of reincarnation is, therefore, realized as the individuals understand that one’s service to God means they only thrive in temporary bodies but, permanent souls. Like in Buddhism, the Atman supports that human beings can die and resurrect in different bodies.
Individuals affiliated with Hinduism understand that the Atman is more spiritual than materialistic. All material things will be left in the world hence; it is one’s spiritual being and soul that have more magnitude. In addition, the Atman also does not endorse a focus on worldly pleasures and advocates for asceticism (Govender, 2007).

It is expected that individuals strive to achieve the spiritual goals before dwelling on other parts of their lives. Additionally, there is an understanding that the Atman is present in other species as well. It is existent in plants, fish, animals, insects, and birds. To understand the place of the Atman in these other species; Hinduism looks at it from the point of view of consciousness which does not only exist in human beings.
In fact, through the hierarchical process, it is quite evident that the Atman passed through minerals, plants, and animals before reaching human beings. Chapter IX of the Upanishad excerpt support this as it says, “Whatever these creatures are, here in this world−a tiger, a lion, a wolf, a boar, a worm, a fly, a gnat, or a mosquito−that they become.” It is a salient indication from the Atman that human beings are indeed the highest creatures of physical form(s) in the world. Furthermore, the human body is more ‘reliable’ and ‘convenient’ for the Atman’s evolution. It is through this human body that the Atman or the self will be free before coming back in another body through reincarnation.
The Atman supports the idea(s) of ‘equality’ since each person; irrespective of their gender, race or religion. There is a realization that the outer being does not necessarily influence the Atman, which is the inner being and one’s consciousness (Govender, 2007). The physical body is simply a covering, and its impurities do not augur any impurities on the inner. Nonetheless, the Atman is an important aspect(s) of Hinduism showing clearly that the inner being is responsible for evolution, reincarnation and the birth of a new individual. Hinduism urges individuals to avoid living in oblivion about the Atman and inanimate objects as well. It is a complete circle of life that also involves other creatures apart from human beings.
Reference
Govender, R. (2007). Song of the Atman. Johannesburg: Jacana.