How does theistic Hindu philosophy differ from the philosophy of the Upanishads? I thought that I got the basic idea of Upanishads, but I am not sure how they are different and how they are similar...
Can anybody help me understand this?
Hinduism?
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Answers (2)
You ought to be aware that Hindu philosophy is very complex and does not conform to normal logic. You may find it helpful to have the following points in mind: (1) Hinduism teaches that the god Brahman includes three forms—Brahma the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver, and Siva the Destroyer. But Hindus do not think of a personal god with an individual existence. (2) Hindus believe that all natural objects possess a soul that never dies, that the soul experiences a virtually endless cycle of reincarnation, that the forms in which it is reborn are determined by deeds (Karma), that release from this “endless wheel” is possible only by extinguishing all physical desire, and that if this is achieved, the soul will merge with the universal spirit. (3) In general, Hindus respect other religions. Hindus believe that, in spite of the fact that they teach conflicting doctrines, all religions lead to the same truth.
Instead of trying to deal with the complexities of Hindu philosophy, present the satisfying truths found in the Holy Bible.
For more information on this subject and others please go to the source jw.org official website for free downloads, publications or read online.
Modern day Hinduism is not the same as that of the Upanishads. Hindu faith was earlier called Sanatana Dharma. It was a philosophy more than a religion, it was a way of life. In Sanatana Dharma, it was believed that God has no name, no form; God was a power beyond human comprehension. God was the same power that is in each one of us. We are not the body and the mind, we are the Divine Soul. These are also the teachings of the Upanishads. But somehow, Hindu faith got diluted and today it is no where close to the Upanishads. Although, some aspects like Karma, the Law of Action and Reaction; Moksha, as the ultimate goal of life are followed by both.