... which all-living beings, from plants below to gods above, are caught in a cosmic cycle of becoming and perishing. Life is determined by the laws of karma, according to which rebirth is dependent on moral behavior in a previous phase of existence. In this view, life on earth is regarded as transient and a burden. The goal of existence is liberation from the ... cycle of rebirth and death and entrance into the indescribable state of what in Hindu texts is called moksha (liberation). The pattern of social classes in Hinduism is called the "caste system." Orthodox ... the pan-Indian presup...

• Word Count: 2765
• Approx Pages: 11
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

... perhaps archetypal heroine is more appropriate. In Sayuri's case, the unusual circumstances of birth do not relate to the birth that brought her into the world, but rather to the rebirth she experienced when an established geisha, Mameha, took her on as her apprentice, or younger sister. With Mameha's guidance, Sayuri transformed from a dirty girl from a poor fishing village to a wealthy ... ...

• Word Count: 900
• Approx Pages: 4
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate