Key Figures and Foundations of Hinduism

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts derived from the foundations and beliefs of Hinduism.

Hinduism

An ancient religion with no single starting point, primarily practiced in India.

Brahman

The one Universal Divine Spirit in Hinduism, representing all reality as a united being.

Vedas

An ancient body of religious writings originating in India, written in Vedic Sanskrit.

Sanskrit

An ancient Indo-European language of India in which Hindu scriptures are written.

Trimurti

The three forms of God in Hinduism: Brahma (the Creator), Vishnu (the Preserver), and Shiva (the Destroyer).

Avatar

An incarnation of a deity in human or animal form to counteract evil.

Moksha

Liberation or release from the cycle of reincarnation in Hinduism.

Karma

The concept of action and its consequences, affecting future reincarnations.

Atman

The individual soul or inner self in Hinduism, which is reborn during reincarnation.

Samsara

The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth in Hinduism.

Ahimsa

A principle in Hinduism that means non-injury and avoidance of harming any living creature.

Puja

Ceremonial worship in Hinduism, ranging from simple home rituals to elaborate temple ceremonies.

Dharma

The moral law and duties that guide an individual's actions and responsibilities in Hinduism.

Caste

A social hierarchy in India that determines aspects of a person's life, including occupation and relationships.

Dalit

A group that was historically considered 'untouchables' in the caste system in India, now referred to as Dalits.