Hindu eschatology and the Indian caste system: an example of structural reversal
Article Abstract:
The concepts of rebirth (samsara), past actions affecting present birth (karma), and salvation (moksa) are central to Hindu religion and Indian philosophy. Max Weber's study of the relationship between the Hindu notion of 'karma' and the social structure suggests that one's caste in present birth was a result of one's 'karma' in the previous birth, and that breaking caste rules would bring down the status in the next birth. Gananath Obeyesekere suggests that after death the identity of the person is reborn, and that one's karma in the previous birth does not necessarily determine one's fate in the next.
Publication Name: The Journal of Asian Studies
Subject: Regional focus/area studies
ISSN: 0021-9118
Year: 1993
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"We will become Jijabai": Historical tales of Hindu nationalist women in India
Article Abstract:
An attempt is made to show that the notoriously militant Hindu nationalist ideology affords a space for female self-empowerment. Stories of Jijabai, who was the mother to Shivaji are a model for women eager to find a role in the nationalist movement.
Publication Name: The Journal of Asian Studies
Subject: Regional focus/area studies
ISSN: 0021-9118
Year: 2005
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The Sufi shrines of Gwalior city: Communal sensibilities and the accessible exotic under Hindu rule
Article Abstract:
The tensions that took place at a particular Sufi shrine in Gwalior are presented. An attempt is made to show that an intercommunal cooperation exists between the Hindus and the Muslims where religion is concerned.
Publication Name: The Journal of Asian Studies
Subject: Regional focus/area studies
ISSN: 0021-9118
Year: 2005
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