Rel 152 Fall 1998 Quiz #2 makeup 10/12/98Name:______________________

Respond to the following essay questions. Be succinct -- information is much more important than volume. This is due at the beginning of class on Wed, Oct. 21. Remember to attach a copy of your valid excuse for missing the quiz, or an approved explanation.

1. What is atman? How does the evaluation of the relationship between atman and Brahman differ slightly in the various forms of Indian religious thought? How would Shankara, Ramanuja and Madhva variously interpret the Chandogya Upanishad's statement, "Tat Tvam Asi"?

2. What was soma? What can we know or hope to know about its role in Vedic worship. Who was the god Soma? How important was he in the Vedic pantheon and why? Are there any other Vedic deities that have similar roles?