Hinduism - World Religions

Brahman

The eternal essence of reality and the source of the universe, beyond the reach of human perception and thought.

Atman

The eternal self.

Hindu Trinity

Brahma - Creator

Vishnu - Preserving

Shiva - Destroyer

Rig Veda

Oldest sacred text

Bhagavad-Gita

Most popular sacred text

Moksha

A release from this ordinary, finite, limited realm of existence into the infinite ocean of the divine.

Monism

All reality is ultimately one

Karma

Moral law of cause and effect

Dharma

Religion is the complete rule of life

Samsara

Individuals are reincarnated from one life-form to another

Avatar

The incarnation of a god or goddess

Path of Works

Physical activities

Path of Knowledge

Philosophical reflection

Path of Devotion

Emotional attatchment

Sati

The burning of a widow

Caste System

Brahmin - priests

Kshatriya - warriors, administrators

Vaishya- producers, farmers, merchants, artisans

Shudra - servants, laborers

Untouchables - street/ bathroom cleaners

4 Goals of Life

Karma - pleasure, sensual love

Dharma - ethical duty based on the divine reality

Artha - material success

Moksha - release of self from samsara

Who is the founder?

No founder

Founded 4000-3000 BC

India

What two important events happened in 1948?

Mahatma Gandhi is assassinated by a Hindu extremist

The Indian government officially forbade caste discrimination