Hinduism

Hinduism

One of the oldest religions in the world, developed in India around 1500 BCE, and practiced by over 80% of Indians today.

Reincarnation

The belief that the soul is reborn into a new body after death.

Karma

The sum of a person's good and bad actions that influence their fate in the cycle of reincarnation.

Brahman

The single, universal god in Hinduism, the source of all deities.

Moksha

The liberation from the cycle of reincarnation and the ultimate goal of Hindu life.

Deva

A term referring to gods and goddesses in Hinduism.

Puja

A form of ceremonial worship in Hinduism that includes various rituals and offerings.

Mandir

A Hindu temple where worshippers go to pray and perform puja.

The Vedas

The sacred texts of Hinduism composed of hymns, rituals, and teachings on proper behavior.

Diwali

The Hindu festival of lights, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

Holi

A Hindu festival celebrated in spring, marking the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring.

Caste System

A social hierarchy in Hinduism where social class is hereditary and determines one's social status.

Brahmans

The highest caste in the Hindu caste system, consisting of priests and wise men.

Krishna

A major Hindu deity, known as the god of love and compassion, also an avatar of Vishnu.

Ganesha

The Hindu god of success, knowledge, and wealth, known as the destroyer of obstacles.

Mahabharata

An epic poem that tells the story of Hindu gods, goddesses, and heroes.

Ramayana

An epic poem that tells the story of the prince Rama and his wife Sita.

Avatar

An incarnate form of a deity or god in Hinduism, representing different aspects of Brahman.

Samsara

The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth in Hindu belief.

Untouchables

The lowest caste in the caste system, often performing jobs that other castes refuse to do.