Relevant_Monstrosity t1_j0qupx9 wrote on December 18, 2022 at 7:03 PM

The interaction between Greek and Hindu beliefs is an interesting topic, but it's also a potentially controversial one. While it's clear that the Greeks brought back Eastern ideas and introduced innovative artistic styles to India, it's important to consider the possibility of cultural appropriation and the potential harm caused by the spread of these ideas.

There are certainly some examples of Greek iconography appearing in Hindu art and architecture, but it's worth questioning whether or not the Greeks had a right to influence Hindu beliefs in this way. Did they respect the cultural differences between the two traditions, or did they impose their own beliefs on the Hindus?

It's also worth considering whether or not any similarities between Greek and Hindu beliefs are truly coincidental, or if they were influenced by the spread of Greek ideas. It's possible that the Greeks had a significant impact on Hinduism, but it's also possible that they took advantage of the Hindus and appropriated their beliefs without proper respect.

What do you think about the relationship between Greek and Hindu beliefs? Do you think the Greeks had a right to influence Hinduism in this way, or do you think their actions were harmful and culturally appropriative?

ChocoboRaider t1_j0rjpvw wrote on December 18, 2022 at 9:47 PM

I’m not sure I understand the concept of a ‘right’ to influence. I don’t think it’s really avoidable. If you live in a world where conquest/raiding is the norm even in far flung places, influence is inevitable. Some of it might be from peacefully trading goods, or sharing stories, but more will come from plunder being taken back to one homeland or another. And all of these are unavoidable.

By virtue of being part of culture A, any time one spends in a medium of culture B will necessitate enculturation in both directions.

The language of ‘right to’ implies a different decision could have been made at all.

Considering that much of this came about in spaces formed by conquest tells us that harm was undeniably a factor.

Isn’t this just how culture/thought develops? Apart from an isolationist model, isn’t it a given that being in contact with other cultures and religions will give rise to cross-contamination?

As for whether respect was present or not, I have no idea. I’d think it would be hard to say, but if anyone has sources that shed light onto this I’m interested.