FratFiles

• Save Paper

Sacraments
Samskaras are an important element in the belief and practice of the Hindu religion. The word samskar is evolved from the root 'samskri' which means to purify or form thoroughly. Samskriti – meaning "civilization" and Sanskrit are derived from the root 'samskri'. Samskrit was considered the most refined and grammatically perfect language compared to other regional languages in ancient times. The best rendering of samskara in English is made by the word "sacrament," meaning "religious ceremony or act regarded as an outward and visible sign of inward and spiritual grace." Sacrament also means "confirmation of some promise or oath; things of mysterious significance, sacred influence and symbol."
For the Hindu, life is a sacred journey; impurity is inherently attached to the pre-natal stage of birth. Samskaras are analogous to stepping-stones guiding the path to purification. In the completion of each samskara an individual becomes closer to susamskrit – meaning......

View the rest of this paper...

Approximate Word Count: 1928
Approximate Pages: 8 (250 words per double-spaced page)

Similar Essays

1. Samskaras
   

   Samskaras. Sacraments Samskaras are an important element in the belief and
   practice of the Hindu religion. The word samskar is evolved ...

2. A New Religious America
   

   ... Growing up in the United States as a Hindu-American entails a combination
   of samskaras, and Hindu summer camps on the fourth of July. ...

3. Philosophy Of Dreams
   

   ... The dream creatures spring up from the bed of Samskaras or impressions in the
   subconscious mind. Indigestion also causes dream. The Taijasa is the dreamer. ...

4. Hindiusm
   

   ... 4. That there are four stages of life, called ashramas. The rites or practices
   that guide Hindus through these stages are called samskaras. ...

5. Arranged Marriages In India
   

   ... attributed to Apastamba. The most important rites are the shodasa samskaras
   or the 17 essential Saṃskāra. Although many rites ...