Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism & Animal Ethics

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What central theme is emphasized in Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism?

Wealth accumulation

Spiritual enlightenment through asceticism

Ritualistic practices

Compassion and non-violence (correct)

What gap does the paper aim to address in Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism studies?

The role of ritual in worship

Ethical treatment of non-human animals (correct)

The influence of modern literature

The history of the saints

Which of the following aspects of Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism has received minimal exploration?

Historical narratives

Animal ethics (correct)

Ritualistic purity

Cultural practices

How can Neo-Vaishnavism benefit from modern animal rights philosophy?

By providing a theoretical foundation for animal ethics Signup and view all the answers

What does the paper propose for studying Śaṅkaradeva?

Through the lenses of animal ethics and theology Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary focus of the discussion regarding Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism?

The ethical dimension of the faith. Signup and view all the answers

What type of studies has been predominantly conducted about Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism?

Comparative theology with little analysis of animals Signup and view all the answers

Which work is identified as a foundational text in the studies of Śaṅkaradeva?

Śaṅkardeva and his times: Early history of the Vaiṣṇav faith and movement in Assam Signup and view all the answers

Who are the notable saints mentioned in Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism studies?

Śaṅkaradeva and Mādhavdeva Signup and view all the answers

What unique aspect does the paper hope to highlight through comparative analyses?

The unique nature of Neo-Vaishnava animal ethics Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Neo-Vaishnavism is largely absent in existing studies according to the discussion?

Exploration of animal ethics and theology. Signup and view all the answers

What type of studies have been predominantly conducted on Neo-Vaishnavism up to the first decade of the twenty-first century?

Anthropocentric ethical and literary. Signup and view all the answers

What is specifically noted about discussions regarding nature in Neo-Vaishnava texts?

They are mostly descriptive and lack conceptual engagement. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Neo-Vaishnavism is notably discussed by Neog?

Cruelty towards non-human animals Signup and view all the answers

Which disciple of Śaṅkaradeva is mentioned for admonishing others against cruelty towards animals?

Mādhavdeva Signup and view all the answers

How many PhD theses related to Śaṅkaradeva studies were written by the end of the first decade of the twenty-first century?

44 Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes the ethical approach predominantly seen in previous studies of Neo-Vaishnavism?

Anthropocentric Signup and view all the answers

How did Sarma approach the topic of animal ethics in his writing?

He briefly noted it but focused on other aspects. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the discussion about Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism?

To highlight potential research areas in animal ethics. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between Neo-Vaishnavism and violence towards animals?

It commends non-violence and discourages killing animals for meat. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the discussion of animal ethics in Neog's work considered limited?

There was no scholarly interest in animal rights at the time of his writing. Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable example of compassion towards animals mentioned in the content?

Preventing the catching of fish in drying ponds. Signup and view all the answers

What does Sarma's work primarily focus on regarding Neo-Vaishnavism?

The social, political, and religious aspects. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main teachings emphasized by Śaṅkaradeva regarding animals?

Compassion and non-violence towards animals are essential. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'mahābhāgawat' refer to in Śaṅkaradeva's philosophy?

A great devotee who sees God in all beings Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best captures Śaṅkaradeva's view on violence against animals?

It is a sin against God residing in all beings Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of Neo-Vaishnava metaphysics as stated in the content?

Compassion towards all living beings Signup and view all the answers

In his reflections, what does Śaṅkaradeva express remorse for?

His lack of mercy towards living creatures Signup and view all the answers

How does Śaṅkaradeva seek to atone for his past actions?

Through devotion and requesting forgiveness Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'bhutadāya' signify in Śaṅkaradeva's perspective?

Compassion for all beings Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of his actions does Śaṅkaradeva associate with God?

Killing living creatures for food Signup and view all the answers

What does the saying about harming the Divine within a living creature imply?

Violence against living creatures leads to severe consequences Signup and view all the answers

What fundamental principle does the discussed bargīt emphasize regarding animals?

All animals are ontologically equal and should not be harmed. Signup and view all the answers

According to Śaṅkaradeva, what is the relationship between animal cruelty and devotion to God?

Animal cruelty is incompatible with devotion to the Lord. Signup and view all the answers

Which practice is recommended by Śaṅkaradeva in relation to living beings?

Adopting a celibate life and avoiding cruelty. Signup and view all the answers

What dual aspects are interwoven within the Neo-Vaishnavism tradition regarding animals?

Theoretical equality and non-violent practice. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated as a necessary part of Neo-Vaishnavism in understanding its ethics?

Engaging closely with its animal ethics. Signup and view all the answers

How does Neo-Vaishnavism view the dwellings of God within living beings?

God dwells within all beings, including animals. Signup and view all the answers

What lifestyle does Neo-Vaishnavism's teachings promote in relation to daily life?

A non-violent lifestyle characterized by kindness and compassion. Signup and view all the answers

What must be avoided according to the teachings discussed regarding animal ethics?

Violence towards animals, even for worship. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of Bruce's work in 'Buddhism: Paradox and practice'?

Morally relevant distinctions in Buddhism regarding animals Signup and view all the answers

In which publication does Doniger discuss the concept of zoomorphism in ancient India?

Thinking with animals: New perspectives on anthropomorphism Signup and view all the answers

Which edition of the Śrīmad Bhāgavad was edited by H.N. Dutta Barua?

Sampurna Signup and view all the answers

What topic does Nelson explore regarding nonhuman animals in his work?

Hindu attitudes toward various animals Signup and view all the answers

Which author discusses the relationship between religion and ecology in Hindu India?

L.E. Nelson Signup and view all the answers

What is the main subject of Linzey's book 'Animal theology'?

The theological implications of animal existence Signup and view all the answers

Which publication includes a chapter by Doniger on the mythology of horses in India?

A communion of subjects: Animals in religion, science, and ethics Signup and view all the answers

Which author edited 'Katha-gurucarit'?

U.C. Lekharu Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism and Animal Ethics

A systematic study of the ethical dimension of Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism is lacking, despite its documented compassionate stance towards all living beings.
Bhakti (devotion) and compassion/non-violence towards all sentient creatures are central to this faith.
The status of non-human animals within the religion has not been examined theologically or conceptually.
The paper proposes a new approach to studying Sankaradeva, through the lenses of animal ethics and theology.
Exploring the integration of animal ethics with Neo-Vaishnava philosophy and modern animal rights philosophy provides a deeper understanding of ethical treatment of non-human animals.
Neo-Vaishnavism can benefit from animal rights philosophy, providing a theoretical foundation for its animal ethics.

Comparative Analysis

Comparative analyses with animal ethics in other world religions highlight the unique nature of Neo-Vaishnava animal ethics.
There are studies about the portrayal of animals in Neo-Vaishnava scriptures that have been paraphrased.
Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism is largely consistent in its non-violent philosophy and prohibits cruelty towards animals.
Bhakti (devotion) in this faith is always accompanied by compassion.

Religion and Animal Ethics

Ethical concerns for non-human animals are prevalent in many religions – particularly those of Indian origin.
Fundamental to these traditions (Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism) is the concept of Ahimsa or non-violence towards all living beings.
The concept of rebirth in these religions implies an egalitarian worldview
Ontological positioning of animals and humanity is a continuum.
Systematic investigations into the animal status in different religions are rather limited.

The Animal Turn & Sankaradeva Studies

Neo-Vaishnavism's treatment of non-human animals has been largely examined from an anthropocentric perspective.
Contemporary scholarship on this topic is limited despite the growing emphasis on animal rights and protection.
The lack of scholarship from an animal ethics and theological perspective is a gap.
There are numerous existing studies on Śańkaradeva and Neo-Vaishnavism focusing on various aspects from literary, historical, biographical, socio-cultural, and philosophical viewpoints.
Most of the earlier existing studies are from perspectives outside of India.
Existing studies overlook the ethical aspects of the faith.

Historical Analysis & Gaps in Existing Research

No study has fully and systematically investigated animal ethics within Neo-Vaishnavism.
Existing studies overwhelmingly lack analysis of the non-human aspects of the faith.
The scholarly works reviewed often overlook the ethical treatment of animals in Neo-Vaishnavism.
The periods of publication, 1999-2020 are limited and do not capture the full extent of the relevant discourse and research.
Most studies are written from an anthropocentric perspective.

Animal Theology & Animal Ethics of Neo-Vaishnavism

Neo-Vaishnavism is a non-dualistic philosophy, where God is singular and the entire universe is an integral part of God.
All animate and inanimate beings are part of God's body ("kāyā").
Neo-Vaishnavism emphasizes the ontological equality of all living beings, suggesting no inherent distinction between humans and animals.
The faith promotes compassion, non-violence towards animals, and prohibits cruelty.
Neo-Vaishnava animal ethics and theology are inseparable.

Neo-Vaishnavism and Animal Ethics: The Way Forward

A further investigation into the animal ethics of Neo-Vaishnavism can be helpful as animal rights, animal ethics, and animal theology are relatively recent developments.
A comparative analysis of Neo-Vaishnavism with other world religions' animal ethics can help reveal the uniqueness of the system of philosophical perspectives on non-human life.
Further research is needed to bridge the gap between the faith's insights and insights of animal rights theory from an animal rights perspective, incorporating religious perspectives.

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Description

This quiz explores the ethical implications of Assamese Neo-Vaishnavism, particularly its compassionate views towards animals. Delve into the connections between Neo-Vaishnava philosophy and contemporary animal rights, as well as comparative analyses with other religions. Gain insights into the theological status of non-human animals within this faith.