Belief systemThe main religion in the Khmer Empire was Hinduism and followed by Buddhism in popularity. Initially the kingdom revered Hinduism as their main state religion. Temples such as Angkor Wat are actually known as Preah Pisnulok (Vara Vishnuloka in Sanskrit) or the realm of Vishnu, to honor the posthumous king Suryavarman II as Vishnu.
Hinduism had a significant influence on the Khmer society. All the famous Khmer temples were built for the Hindu gods. The Brahmins who surrounded the king wand gave him advice were part of the Hindu priesthood. The entire concept of the devaraja came from Hinduism, and gave the Khmer rulers power and authority. People looked up to them and thought they were heroes. HinduismOrigin- Indian Subcontinent
Place of worship- Temple (Mandir) Practices- Meditation, yoga, contemplation, yanga (communal worship), offerings at the temple Belief of God- Many gods but they realised that they all came from Atman Religious law- Dharma shastras About- Devotion to the various gods and goddesses of Hinduism Day of worship- Three prayer times per day, dawn, noon and dusk Clergy- No official clergy. Gurus, Yogis, Rishis, Brahmins, Pundits, priests, priestesses, monks & nuns Goal of Religion- To break the cycle of birth, death and reincarnation, and attain salvation ChristianityOrigin- Roman Province of Judea
Place of worship- Church, chapel, cathedral, basilica, home bible study, personal worship room Practices- Prayer, sacraments (some branches), worship in church, reading the Bible, charity, communion Belief of God- One God: Father, son and Holy Spirit Religious law- Has existed among catholics in the form of canon law About- Christianity consists of individuals that believe and follow Christ (son/father) Day of worship- Sunday, the Lord's day Clergy- Priests, bishops, ministers, monks and nuns Goal of Religion- To love and obey God and his commandments and spread the gospel and save others DifferenceAs you can see there are quite a few differences with Christianity and Hinduism.
Both beliefs have different understandings, such as Hinduism believes there are multiple gods instead on one like Christianity believes. |
-Tori
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