RELSTY239 Exam: Definitions

The Vedas 

A collection of ancient sacred texts that are among the oldest the most important religious texts of Hinduism

The Rig Reva 

Oldest of the 4 Vedas. A collection of hymns praising various deities

Classical Hinduism 

Refers to the developed Hindu religious traditions that emerged after the earlier Vedic period

Yajna 

Communal very old hosts ceremonies usually with whole tribe 

Puja 

The act of worshipping Hindu gods through prayers and offerings, personals connection, icon of god, god is present, can preformed in a temple 

Indra 

Important god in Vedic religion. Associated with storms, rain, warfare, power. 

Agni 

God of fire. Important in Vedic religion because fire was central to sacrifice. 

Brahma 

Creator deity associated with the creation of the universe and living beings. 

Vishnu 

One of the major deities of Hinduism and is associated with preserving and maintaining cosmic order. Famous for appearing in the world through avatars. 

Avatar 

Manifestation or descent of a deity into the world. Associated with Vishnu.  

Krishna 

Avatar of Vishnu. Supreme Devine being himself.  

Shiva 

One of the 1^st gods, lord of yogis, Matted hair, Lord of Beginnings, the religion who worships deities, lord of dance, acts as a dance of destruction  

Ganesh 

Elephant-headed deity associated with removing obstacles, beginnings, and success. People often worship Ganesh when beginning something new

Skanda 

Deity associated with war and warfare. The son of Shiva and Parvati. 

Parvati 

Hindu goddess and the Wife of Shiva. Associated with motherhood, power, devotion. 

Lakshmi 

goddess of prosperity, carrying lotus, distinct with 4 arms, carrying a brass pot of gold, wife of Vishnu, being regarded as radian