Reconsidering Faith and Worldview in Dialogue: Hindu and Orthodox Christian Perspectives

Abstract

This article explores the epistemological and philosophical differences between the two belief systems, focusing on Orthodox Christian worldviews versus the Vedantic tradition of Hinduism. The purpose of this paper is thus to offer a fleeting comparative analysis of Eastern Orthodoxy and Hinduism in terms of an array of theological and religious characteristics. The epistemological foundation for each weltanschauung is considered and their philosophical arguments are compared. Orthodoxy is based on the Holy Bible, the teaching of the Church Fathers and holy traditions, and the Vedantic tradition of Hinduism based on three primary Hindu texts, the Upanishads, the Brahma Sutras, and the Bhagavad Gita are compared in part and some key points of connection and divergence are discussed. The paper examines the basic concepts, tenets and principles, in particular, of the Orthodox Christian religious worldview and that of Hinduism’s four major sects or denominations including Saivism, Shaktism, Vaishnavism and the Smarta tradition. The concept of the divine in Orthodoxy is deeply entrenched in a triune, personal God ex-nihilo whereas Hinduism (particularly through the Vedantic tradition) is often associated with pantheism, holding that Brahman (an impersonal ultimate reality) pervades all things. The human soul is a critical consideration and Orthodox doctrine rejects reincarnation, accentuating that individuals retain their unique identities to achieve union with God (theosis). On the other hand, Hinduism integrates reincarnation (samsara) and the belief that the individual soul (Atman) is identical to Brahman. In terms of creation and suffering, Orthodoxy understands the world as created out of nothing, with Christ victorious over death, while Hindu cosmology habitually views the universe as cyclical and subject to the cosmic law of karma. Hinduism and Christianity are two of the world's foremost religions, each possesses a rich history, and have they have diverse traditions, and profound beliefs. Explicit weight is placed on the idea that while there are fundamental differences between the two religions, there are also similarities that accentuate the universality of certain human spiritual apprehensions. Both faiths highlight the dire need for a moral life and the importance of prayer and adoration. Hindus are deeply spiritual individuals that habitually prioritize spiritual values. They have a distinct understanding of God, the cosmos, humankind, immorality and the path that leads them to salvation. Hinduism is polytheistic, while Christianity is monotheistic. Hinduism trusts in the cycle of reincarnation, while Christianity stresses the resurrection of the dead. These are just some of the many complex similarities and differences between the two faiths. Christianity revolves around the persona of Jesus Christ as expounded in the Holy Bible. Hinduism is however not grounded on any one particular person or book but revolves around the idea that there is a God, or no God and just self. Hinduism and Christianity also diverge in their fundamental views when it comes to inter-alia heaven, hell and reincarnation. The paper is original in that it reconnoitres both the key differences and similarities between Hinduism and Christianity and proposes ways in which adherents of Hinduism can be taught about the saving grace that Jesus offers Christians. The limitations of the study, as well as areas of possible future research, are also considered. Artificial intelligence - based tools were used to assist with language editing in part, grammar correction, and improving some clarity of expression. The author retains full responsibility for the final content.