TITLE: Hinduism in the World

WORLD HISTORY: Comparing Religions

TEKS:

6.3 A, B 6.4 A, C 6.18 A, D

OBJECTIVE:

Students will analyze Hinduism in India and compare and contrast it to other religions throughout the world.

MATERIALS:

• See image below

OVERVIEW:

This religious sculpture depicts Ganesha, a significant Hindu god. Ganesha is shown dancing in emulation of his father Shiva-the Lord of the Dance. As in most representations of Hindu gods, Ganesha has four arms, indicative of his supernatural status and bearing his special attributes.

Vishnu is shown here as the preserver. He floats upon the cosmic waters, which are represented by two animals, the mythical crocodile-like Makara, and the great snake, Naga, whose coils drape over the Makara's body, and whose multiple heads rise behind the Makara and Vishnu. Vishnu is in a yogic trance-like sleep and supports his head on one of his arms. His consort, Lakshmi, massages his leg. Seated in a lotus, which grows from Vishnu's navel, is Brahma, who will actually recreate the world.

DISCUSSION:

Students should view the photographs above after they have read and discussed Hinduism. After they have viewed the photographs, they should read articles from the resource section, and then study the photographs again. After viewing the photographs for the first time, discuss the following questions:

1. Describe what you see in the pictures. What details can you find?
2. Imagine if you had four arms, what would be the advantages and disadvantages?
3. Imagine you were Vishnu, from the image on the sandstone, would you live a life of luxury or poverty?
4. Imagine you could be reincarnated; what would you come back as in your next life and why did you choose that?
5. Compare and contrast Hinduism and other religions of the world.

ASSIGNMENT:

After reading articles, viewing photographs, and conducing research on Hinduism, the students should prepare maps, reports, posters boards, define vocabulary, and make sculptures on various aspects of Hindu religions. What are other animals included in Hindu religious stories? Draw pictures of the deities and describe what their functions are.

RESOURCES:

Publications:
Jordan, Michael. Encyclopedia of Gods. New York: Facts on File, Inc., 1993.
Knappert, Jan. Indian Mythology. Great Britain: Diamond Books, 1995.
Rao, Dr. Nalini. Boundaries and Transformations. Amarillo Museum of Art. 1997-1998.

Internet Links:
http://www.ask.com (type in Hinduism) numerous web sites to explore.