THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN HINDUISM

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Childhood -Males are generally more welcomed than females because they carry on the name- Males and females are both

seen as gifts from the Gods.- Since every one is believed to

be reincarnated, childbirth is a gift. Childless people are scorned

- Females are expected to cherish chastity above all.

Religion Lakshmi -good health and a joyful family life. Married to Vishnu whom she balances (Virgin Mary)

Durga- is a fierce warrior goddess. (Lion/tiger)

Kali- is associated with death, sexuality, violence and, sometimes, motherly love (The Scary One)

Sarasvati (also spelled Saraswati) -is perhaps the most ancient goddess that is still widely worshipped today. She is the Hindu muse: the inspiration for all music, poetry, drama and science ( The Hindu Muse)

Marriage and Children-Women have dowries-Most marriages are arranged though some are forced-Once married the bride wont be able to see much of her family- Bindi, a dot worn on women's foreheads (concealed wisdom, third eye)

The couple then take seven steps together, making the following seven vows:Let us take the first step to sharing the responsibility of providing for our householdLet us take the second step to strengthen our mind, body and soul to accomplish life’s needsLet us take the third step to accomplish wealth and prosperity through righteous meansLet us take the fourth step to acquire happiness through mutual love, respect and trustLet us take the fifth step to raise strong, virtuous and courageous childrenLet us take the sixth step towards spiritual values and longevityLet us take the seventh step to stay best friends in this lifelong wedlock

Death -The body remains at the home until it is cremated, which is usually within 24 hours after death.. -Black attire is inappropriate and white is preferred. -Flowers may be offered, but bringing food is not part of the Hindu custom. -There is always an open casket and guests are expected to view the body. -The Hindu priest and senior family members conduct the ceremony. -Ten days later, a ceremony is held at the home of the deceased in order to liberate the soul for its ascent into heaven. -Visitors are expected to bring fruit. -The mourning period ranges from 10 to 30 days -After a cremation, ashes and fragments of bone are collected and eventually immersed in a holy river.

Works Cited http://genderrolesinreligion.blogspot.com/2013/04/hinduism-3rd.html

http://hinduismfacts.org/hindu-women/ http://www.hinduwebsite.com/hinduism/h_children.asp http://

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http://www.hinduwebsite.com/hinduism/h_marriage.asp http://entouraaj.com/the-hindu-wedding-ceremony/ http://www.religionfacts.com/hinduism/deities/goddesses.htm http://hinduism.about.com/od/basics/a/rites_rituals_5.htm http://www.funeralwise.com/customs/hindu/