General Studies PAPER – II – HINDU RELIGION

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PAPER – II – HINDU RELIGION – (DEGREE STANDARD) TOPICS FOR DESCRIPTIVE TYPE

Unit – I Hindu Religion Meaning and Definition of Religion – Origin and Development of Hinduism – General Characteristics of Hinduism.

Unit – II Hindu Scriptures Vedas – Four Vedas and their outlines – Upanishads – Identity of Atmam and Brahman – Bhagavad Gita – Gnana, Karma,Bakthi yogas – Ramayana, Mahabharata – 18 Puranas – Saiva Vaishnava Puranas (general studies)Agamas – Saiva and Vaishnava Agamas – 4000 Prabhandams, Panniruthirumurais (General studies).

Unit – III Systems of Hindu Religion Saivism – Different types of Saivism – Kashmir Saivam, Siddhantha Saivam, Veera Saivam – Vaishanavism – Bhagavatha system – Avataras – Sri Vaishanavism – Vadakalai – Thenkalai – Saktham – Development of Saktha workship,Tantras – Kaumaram – Origin and development – Ganapathyam – Six Sects – Sauram – Significance of sun worship.

Unit – IV Hindu Saints and Sages Alwars, Nayanmars, Sankara,Ramanujar, Madhva, Thayumanavar and Ramalingar – Their contribution to Hinduism.

Unit – V Saivism Meaning and Definition – Traces of Saivism in Vedas and Upanishads – Rudra Siva – Samayachariyars, Santhanachariyars, Meikanda Sastras – Thiruvarutpayan (Text) – Basic concepts of Saivism – Pati, Pasu, Pasam,Means to Mukthi – Cariya, Kriya, Yoga and Gnana. 9/ 12

Unit- VI Vaishnavism Meaning and Definition – Out line of Brahmasutra – Vedantha Sangraha (Text) – Basic concepts – Tattvam – Hitham – Purushartha – Means to Moksha – Bakthi and Prapatti.

Unit-VII Basic concepts of Indian Philosophical Systems Hetrodox : Carvaka – Perception, the only source of knowledge – Ethics of Carvaka – Jainism – Anuvrata, Mahavrata – Ethics of Jainism – Sects of Jainism – Buddhism – Four Noble truths – Eight fold paths – Nirvana – Sects of Buddhism. Orthodox : Nyaya – Theory of causation – Conception of God – Vaisesika – Padarthas – Sankya – Prakriti and Purusha – Theory of evolution – Bondage and liberation – Yoga – Eight limbs of Yoga – Mimamsa – Purva Mimamsa and Uttara Mimamsa and the concept of Dharma – Vedanta – Schools of Vedanta.

Unit – VIII Hindu Ethics Dharma, Artha, Kama and Mokhsa (Purusharthas) – Ethics of Thirukkural – Professional Ethics for Temple Administrators – Maintenance of Temples and Public Relations.

Unit-IX Hindu Culture Cultural Heritage – Temple Arts – Architecture and Sculpture, Sthala Vriksham, Sthala Puranas,Temple Ponds, Special Sannatis and Murtis – Music, Dance, Drama – Importance of inscriptions, Icons, Idols, Murals, Manuscripts, copper plates and monuments.

Unit – X Hindu Festivals Philosophical Significance of festivals – Brahmotsavam – Vinayaka Chathurthi – Navrathri – Vaikunda Ekathasi, Arudhra Dharshan – Monthly, Seasonal and yearly festivals – Poojas, Athmartha and Parartha Poojas – Nithya, Naimithka, Kamika Poojas – Customs, Traditions, Rituals, Pilgrimage – Need for Religious harmony

FAQs on General Studies PAPER – II – HINDU RELIGION of Tamil Nadu

What are the specific topics covered in the Hindu Religion section of General Studies Paper-II for TNPSC Mains Exam?

The Hindu Religion section of General Studies Paper-II for TNPSC Mains Exam focuses on:

  • The Vedas: Understanding the four Vedas – Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda – their content, significance, and historical context.
  • Upanishads: Exploring the philosophical concepts and teachings of the Upanishads, their relation to the Vedas, and their impact on Indian thought.
  • Bhagavad Gita: Studying the Bhagavad Gita’s central themes of dharma, karma, and bhakti, its relevance in contemporary times, and its philosophical interpretations.
  • Epics: Analyzing the Ramayana and Mahabharata, their characters, storylines, moral lessons, and cultural significance in India.
  • Puranas: Understanding the various Puranas, their mythological stories, and their role in propagating Hindu beliefs and practices.
  • Agamas and Bhakti movement: Examining the Agamas (scriptures related to temple worship) and the Bhakti movement’s impact on Hindu religious practices and social reforms.
  • Temple worship and festivals: Exploring the rituals, traditions, and significance of temple worship in Tamil Nadu, as well as the major Hindu festivals celebrated in the state.

What are some recommended books for preparing for this section?

  • A Concise History of Hinduism by R.C. Zaehner
  • Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide by Klaus K. Klostermaier
  • The Bhagavad Gita translated by Swami Prabhavananda and Christopher Isherwood
  • The Ramayana and The Mahabharata (various translations available)
  • The Cultural Heritage of India (Volume I-V) published by the Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture
  • Tamil Nadu State Board History textbooks for relevant chapters on Hindu religion and culture.

 How should I approach the preparation for this section?

  • Understand the syllabus: Thoroughly go through the syllabus and understand the specific topics and subtopics covered in the Hindu Religion section.
  • Refer to standard books: Refer to the recommended books mentioned above for a comprehensive understanding of the topics.
  • Make notes: Summarize key points, concepts, and historical events for quick revision.
  • Focus on understanding: Aim to understand the philosophical and cultural significance of Hindu religious texts and practices rather than just memorizing facts.
  • Relate to current affairs: Stay updated with current events related to Hindu religion and culture in Tamil Nadu and India.
  • Practice answer writing: Practice writing answers to previous year’s questions and mock tests.

 How can I improve my answer writing skills for this section?

  • Structure your answers: Follow a logical structure – introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Provide relevant examples: Use examples from religious texts, historical events, and contemporary practices to support your arguments.
  • Quote relevant verses or shlokas: Demonstrate your understanding of religious texts by quoting relevant verses or shlokas where appropriate.
  • Write in clear and concise language: Avoid jargon and unnecessary details.
  • Express your views objectively: Present different perspectives on religious issues while maintaining a neutral and objective tone.