Three Functions of Hell in the Hindu Traditions

مرکز و کتابخانه مطالعات اسلامی به زبان های اروپایی

منو

" Three Functions of Hell in the Hindu Traditions "
Knut Jacobsen

Document Type	:	AL
Record Number	:	1079017
Doc. No	:	LA122646
Call No	:	‭10.1163/156852709X405071‬
Language of Document	:	English
Main Entry	:	Knut Jacobsen
Title & Author	:	Three Functions of Hell in the Hindu Traditions [Article]\ Knut Jacobsen
Publication Statement	:	Leiden: Brill
Title of Periodical	:	Numen
Date	:	2009
Volume/ Issue Number	:	56/2-3
Page No	:	385–400
Abstract	:	In this article are analysed three functions of hell in the Hindu traditions, a narrative, a social and an economic. Because of the strong images the narratives of hell contain, they are excellent means to catch the attention of the audience. The social function of hell is to protect the social order, the security of the people and especially to protect the privileges of those on top of the hierarchy. Since gifts to the priests are matched with specific punishments in hell that they release from, one economic function of hell seems to be as a source of income for the priests. However, it is argued that even though hell is both a textual and ritual reality in the Hindu traditions, its significance should not be exaggerated. Death is not the end of life, but the end of one rebirth, and release, moksa , is not about escaping a destiny in hell, but to gain freedom from the rebirth realms.
Descriptor	:	Comparative Religion Religious Studies
Descriptor	:	General
Descriptor	:	HELL
Descriptor	:	HINDUISM
Descriptor	:	History of Religion
Descriptor	:	MAHĀBHĀRATA
Descriptor	:	MANUSMRTI
Descriptor	:	PURĀNAS
Descriptor	:	Religion Society
Descriptor	:	Religion in Antiquity
Descriptor	:	Religious Studies
Descriptor	:	Social Sciences
Location & Call number	:	‭10.1163/156852709X405071‬