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Religion in South Asia

Explore the religious geography of South Asia, specifically focusing on the dominant religions of Hinduism and Islam. Learn about their beliefs, origins, practices, and impact on the region's culture and society.

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Religion in South Asia

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  1. Religion in South Asia Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, Zoroastrians, Christians, Judaism…

  2. HINDUISM Polytheistic Many sacred texts Closely tied to caste Cattle are sacred No formal organization/hierarchy No founder ISLAM Monotheistic Koran is ultimate authority Egalitarian (all = in eyes of Allah) Cattle are food! Strictly organized regarding worship & leadership Muhammed = founder & key prophet COMPARISON: Hinduism & Islam

  3. Religious geography of S. Asia • Hinduism: dominates India • Islam: dominates Pakistan & Bangladesh (15% of India’s pop.- nw Kashmir & Ganges Valley) • Buddhism: Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal • Sikhs: Indian state of Punjab

  4. SIKHISM…beliefs • Combines elements of Hinduism & Islam; • It is monotheistic • Believes in reincarnation • Self-denial is NOT required – but you should avoid worldly temptations & sins • Preaches racial, religious & gender equality

  5. SIKHISM…politically • Originated in Punjab, India (60% Sikh) near India/Pakistan border in a time of religious conflict; • Orthodox Muslims rejected Sikhism • Periodic bouts of persecution led Sikh’s to develop a militant characteristic; • Many Sikh men work as soldiers or bodyguards.

  6. JAINISM… origins & beliefs • Emerged in N. India in protest of orthodox Hinduism • Stresses nonviolence; • Jains are forbidden to kill any living creatures (extreme practices) • Agriculture is forbidden • Many make their livelihood through trade (one of India’s wealthiest communities)

  7. OTHER RELIGIONS IN S. ASIA… • PARSIS or ZOROASTRIANS… ancient religion that originated in Iran; focuses on struggle between good & evil; • CHRISTIANITY…greatest in number of all the minority religions in the region; • JUDAISM…today only several hundred make up the region’s Jewish population

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