... On the other hand, Hinduism speaks of an eternal cycle of transmigration (the passing of one soul into another body or new form upon death) that is a crucial part of attaining that ultimate reality. Since transmigration is the key facet of Hinduism, we must briefly explore the Hindu belief system. ... Every human being has an undying soul called atman. ... By understanding one’s true Self and coming to know ones own undying soul, one then arrives at the knowledge of Brahman itself. ... With proper action, karma will manifest itself.
Karma is the natural law of action and reaction that governs consciousness. ... Karma dictates that our past and present deeds, good and bad, will determine our position in the next life. ... Heaven and hell serve as realms in which atman will reap whatever karma has been sown. ... To ensure that the deceased has a peaceful transmigration, a series of events are carefully planned and carried out, not only by the family, but the person whose death is imminent.
A Hindu approaching death works diligently to finish all his business of this lifetime, the allotted portion of his total karma carried into this birth to face and resolve. ... The ailing or aging Hindu will make every effort to fulfill obligations and offer apologies necessary in lieu of risking flawed karma for the next life.
When his time has come, the Hindu will return home; this is ideal even for those men and women in the hospital, for it is the family’s commitment to perform last rites. ...
Friends and family gather to bid farewell to the aging or ailing Hindu, as alms and gifts are distributed for his benefit. ...
It is clear that the Hindu creed does not consider death the end of existence. ... Only by transmigration can one supplement positive karma through proper dharma via. Only with proper karma will one attain the ultimate reality and absolute truth, Self-Knowledge, moksha.
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