Final answer:
Hindu beliefs about Brahman include it being the ultimate cosmic spirit, the concept that gods like Shiva and Vishnu are its manifestations, and achieving moksha through the realization of the atman's identity with Brahman.
Step-by-step explanation:
Key Points on Hindu Beliefs about Brahman
Hindu beliefs about Brahman, which can vary, encompass several key ideas:
- Brahman is the ultimate reality or cosmic spirit that supports all things and is present in everything in the universe. This belief highlights that Brahman is not limited to a single form or entity, but is the infinite, omnipresent, and eternal essence that exists beyond the physical world.
- In many traditions, deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma are viewed as manifestations of Brahman, implying that these gods represent different aspects or functions of the one Supreme Being, thus offering a comprehensive understanding of the divine.
- Moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara), is achieved by realizing that the individual soul (atman) is identical to Brahman. This belief emphasizes the importance of personal spiritual growth, ethical living (dharma), and the consequences of one's actions (karma), as well as the role of spiritual practices like yoga and meditation.