Our discussion today was kind of difficult because we only had 2 group members but Dr. Oliver joined in with some input. It turns out that just about the oldest recorded philosophy comes from India. It is known as Hinduism, yet, this is not the religion. The book stated that "Hindu" is referring to a place, "east of the Indus river" (9). It is composed of a wide variety of beliefs and a particular social system (caste system). They saw life as more of an illusion, with a veil between them and reality. They are characterized with believing in fantastic creatures and having a trinity of gods, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. However, these are merely the faces of one God. This view is difficult for us in the West to really grasp because of the mysticism.
An interesting discussion that we had was about Nirvana. There are many differing ideas of Nirvana but we came to it being when you are completely content in your life and will remind that way for an extended amount of time. Indian philosophy sees it as having spiritual self-discipline and reaching a deeper reality with a blissful experience. I found it interesting that many of them reach this through yoga. In our western culture we have adapted yoga for the physical fitness of the practice, but this has caused some discontent with other practicing cultures. They practice for the spiritual side of yoga.
The ultimate aim in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism is to achieve freedom from everyday troubles.
Questions: What influential book did the Hebrew thinkers leave us with? (the Hebrew Bible or "Old Testament")
[Discussion] What is your definition of "Nirvana"?
I agree with how the book states the Jains refer to Nirvana as, "liberation from suffering." It makes sense that our reality probably never was and isn't so. To experience my definition of Nirvana, basically like you said and be truly content with oneself could be liberating. To not be afraid of death or any other irrational fears this society inflicts upon us rational people, must make a person truly free from the suffering we cause ourselves. Maybe yoga is a good place to start.
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ReplyDeleteAs i read, the depiction of Brahman became very confusing to me. the book states that "Brahman is unchanging only in the sense that it is always changing." Does that mean that Brahman, or god, is everywhere and is essentially the same, but can change as well? very trippy.
ReplyDeleteNirvana is a feeling of self confidence, assurance, and contentment. In my opinion, there can never be a true meaning for Nirvana, or way of knowing if a person has truly reached the state of Nirvana, because everyone will experience it differently.
These are my questions for the next time we meet.
ReplyDeleteConfucius, Taoism, and Mo
1. According to Confucius, what is the single most important virtue in a society? [Good leadership pg 23]
2. Would you agree with Mencius about human beings being naturally good or Hsun Tzu, that human beings are naturally bad? (pg 24)
I agree with Tyler and Maryum in that Nirvana is "liberation from suffering" but it is different from person to person. My two questions: 1. Philosophy in China is best summarized by what word? (Harmony)
ReplyDelete2. Is universal love possible?
I like this Nirvana is "liberation from suffering." It is quite interesting but so simple and true.
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