Page 131 - Hinduism
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appear too unrealistic to be true for the rational mind.
These epochs of time are classified on the basis of the degree of loss of righteousness in the world. It says, during Satya Yuga only truth prevailed (Sanskrit Satya = truth), Treta lost 1⁄4 truth, Dwapara lost 1⁄2 truth and Kali is left with only 1⁄4 truth. Evil and dishonesty has replaced truth in the last three ages or yugas.
II.3 Scriptures
Two types of sacred writings constitute the Hindu scriptures: heard (Sruti) and memorized (Smriti).
II.4 Gods & Deities
Hinduism believes that there is only one supreme Absolute called Brahman. It also believes that there are several deities each one identified for a particular function, but it does not advocate the worship of any one particular deity.
III. The Ceremonies of Hinduism
The ritual world of Hinduism, manifestations of which differ greatly among regions, villages, and individuals, offers a number of common features that link all Hindus into a greater Indian religious system and influence other religions as well.
The most notable feature in religious ritual is the division between purity and pollution. Religious acts presuppose some degree of impurity or defilement
for the practitioner, which must be overcome or 131
   
























































































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