Buddhism and Hinduism unit 1

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.