Hindu Culture
Dominant cultural framework in India characterized by a complex social structure and religious beliefs.
Varnas
The four main castes in Hindu society, determined by birth and occupation.
Samsara
The cycle of reincarnation in Hindu belief.
Dharma
The moral duty or responsibilities that individuals must follow in life.
Karma
The principle that good deeds lead to positive outcomes, especially when one follows their Dharma.
Moksha
The liberation from the cycle of Samsara, achieving unity with the world soul (Brahman).
Brahman
The ultimate reality or world soul in Hindu philosophy.
Avatars
Different incarnations or manifestations of a single God in Hinduism.
Jati
Sub-castes within the Varna system that define social roles, including work, friendships, and marriage.
Siddhartha
The historical figure who became the Buddha, known for seeking enlightenment and rejecting traditional Hindu practices.
Buddhist Doctrine
The teachings of Buddhism, emphasizing enlightenment and the rejection of caste and priestly authority.
Four Noble Truths
Core principles of Buddhism outlining the nature of suffering and the path to its cessation.
Noble Eightfold Path
The guide for ethical and mental development in Buddhism to manage desire and end suffering.
Theravada
The original form of Buddhism that spread to Sri Lanka and Thailand.
Mahayana
A later, revised form of Buddhism that spread to various parts of Asia, including China and Japan.
Bodhisattvas
Enlightened beings in Mahayana Buddhism who assist others in achieving enlightenment.
Bhakti
A devotional practice in Hinduism that emphasizes love and devotion to a single god, allowing for salvation in one life.
Inclusivity in Hinduism
The evolution of Hinduism to become more accessible to all castes and women through Bhakti practices.