Religions Field Trip Interactive Website

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Christianity

Service

Hinduism

Vanaras

Hinduism

Nature

Christianity

Relationships

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Religions Field Trip

This next stained glass artwork also features Jesus helping the needy. This also comments on Jesus’ relationships, but goes one step further by depicting his morality and compassionate nature. Another big theme in the Bible is serving others, seen in many famous stories such as the parable of the Good Samaritan. Displaying this specific artwork in a church encourages members of the congregation to go out of their way to serve others, just like Jesus did. Additionally, many churches host volunteer opportunities, which also connects with the values of meaningful service and supportive relationships, all of which are important parts of human behavior.

Commentary

This last idol depicts Shiva, the god of destruction. He is one of the main three gods in Hinduism, making him an important deity. One notable feature of this idol is his animal, a bull named Nandi. Nandi serves as Shiva’s right hand in various matters, and is a very critical part of him. Many temples include an idol of Nandi looking straight at Shiva, and a tradition is to place one hand on the horns and look and pray through the hole created. Having an animal steed, or a vanara, is a very integral part of Hinduism, and showcases how animals are important creations of god. Nature is a critical part of Hinduism, as many traditions, art, and music are based around them.

Commentary

This stained glass artwork shows the Last Supper, which is the last meal Jesus shares with his disciples. Many Christian artworks portray stories in the Bible, which shares Jesus’ teachings. The Last Supper is an important part of Christianity because it commemorates Jesus' relationships, which are an important part of human nature and Christianity. Many Christian traditions are communal, such as weekly services, due to the high emphasis on human relations. This piece of art reflects Jesus’ teachings, as well as Christian values, which both relate to the nature of human beings and their relationships.

Commentary

Stain Glass Art at Preston Meadow Lutheran Church

Shiva Idol at the Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple

Although both Hindu and Christian iconography feature anthropomorphic deities, Hindu sculptures tend to focus on the relationship of god with nature, while Christian artwork showcases the human aspect of their creator.

How do Hindu and Christian Iconography differ?

This is the main idol in the Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple. It features Lord Rama, his brother Lakshmana, his wife Sita, and his companion Hanuman. Hanuman is the god of bravery, and is depicted as a powerful monkey warrior. The Hindu scripture, the Ramayana tells the stories of the valiant Hanuman, and thus emphasizes the importance of nature. Hanuman’s dual role as a part of nature and warrior plays an important role in showing Hindus how nature should be respected. Many idols, such as the ones seen here, are decorated with fruits and flowers, showing how natural items please the gods the most.

Commentary

Idols at the Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple

Stain Glass Art in Preston Meadow Lutheran Church