In the “A Closer Look” section on page 75 of the textbook, there is a conversation about popular misunderstandings of Hindu terms in the West (North America and Europe). Terms such as Karma, Mantra, Guru, and Avatar have religious meanings in Hinduism, but have acquired secular meanings in the West. One term missing from this conversation is Yoga. Explore if there is a difference between the Hindu understanding of Yoga and the Western practice of Yoga. Should the term be included in that “Closer Look” section about misunderstandings of Hindu terms? Why or why not?

Before writing on this topic, you should research the Hindu understanding of Yoga. This is because you are required to do research in association with each of the discussion topics so that you can provide well-informed opinions. Ensure that you provide original writing (do not copy the words of your sources) and that the citations are in proper MLA.

Author: Robert E. Van Voorst,
Book: World RELG4 Introduction to World Religions (2020 edition, 4e)

Once you have posted your response, the other students’ responses will appear. Please read over the other students’ response and then reply to at least one classmate. In your reply identify something you had not previously been aware of or something which challenges you to think differently.