FORM I

FORM II

FORM III

FORM IV

QUIZ

 

INTRODUCTION

The basic aim of Hindu Religious Education (HRE) is to expose students to the principles and philosophies of Hindu Religion, which they can relate to their daily life. Hindu Religion deals with all aspects whether known or unknown of both animate and inanimate forms. It uses science, arts and music as instruments of ‘‘Paramatma’’ (God).

The study of HRE will inculcate in the students five fundamental human qualities:

1. Spiritual qualities love, compassion, peace, non-violence, courage and tolerance.

2.  Moral qualities - truthfulness, justice, forgiveness and dignity of labour, human rights.

3. Mental qualities - scientific attitude, control of mind and senses.

4. Social qualities - proper use of time, punctuality, habit of saving, sharing and giving.

5. ‘Physical qualities practice of yogasanas treating both as temple thereby keeping it fl clean and healthy by practice of yogasanas and       performing other tights and rituals.

 The four sects of the religion Sanatan (vedic) Jam, Buddha, and Sikh have evolved in Bharat, India, stressing on the basic principles of Dharma according to the needs of the time. The four systems have in common the basic beliefs like law of Karma, Punarjanma (rebirth), Manava Dharma (universal Brotherhood), Ahimsa (non-violence), even though Sty seem to differ in ritualistic practices. This shows unity in diversity’ among all sections of Hindus. These similarities provide an excellent vehicle to propagate universal peace and harmony.

 In addition to the basic beliefs and principles of Dharma, the HRE course includes:

1. The life sketches of the various enlightened souls, who have practised and preached the principles of Dharma.

2.  An overview of the revival movements and brief historical accounts of evolution of the Hindu religion and culture.

3. Hindu heritage; a brief discussion on development of art, science and other aspects of material life to inspire the students for further contribution in this direction. (Industrial & Technological progress).

 The whole course is designed in line with the basic teachings of Hindu Scriptures. They treat the entire humanity as a single family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam). They guide individuals to grow spiritually and attain the ultimate goal of Moksha. Hindu Dharma recognizes all religions as various paths to develop spiritually. This makes Hindu Dharma a non- proselytizing religion. Students of HRE will therefore learn to respect other religions in Kenya. This course is designed to make a student a better person.

 The Secondary HRE content is divided into eleven units. Each of these units is taught spirally from Form I to Form IV

 Unit 1        - Attributes of Paramatma

Unit 2       - Manifestations of Paramatma

Unit 3       - Scriptures

Unit 4       - Principles of Dharma

Unit 5       - Rites and Rituals

Unit 6       - Utsav (Festivals)

Unit 7       - Yoga

Unit 8       - Law of Karma

Unit 9       - Places of Pilgrimage

Unit 10      - Historical Development

Unit 11      - Hindu Heritage.

The H.R.E. course is fundamental in preserving Hindu cultural heritage. It aims at fostering creative thinking and problem solving through the learners holistic growth and persona social competence. The course is geared towards adaptability and appropriateness of the needs and interests of learners. Therefore it is highly recommended that the teacher employ life approach as a means of achieving the desired objective(s).

The learning/teaching experiences of H.R.E. in Secondary schools are geared towards enabling the learner to face the challenges of emerging social issues.

Thus special attention has been given to relate the teaching of HRE on issues such as UN/AIDS, gender, child abuse, child about and neglect, drug and substance abuse, corruption and environmental concerns among others.