Chapter 6 Study Guide: Ancient India

Vocabulary flashcards for Chapter 6 Study Guide: Ancient India.

Moksha

A state of liberation and freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth in Hinduism.

Hinduism

A major world religion originating in India, characterized by a variety of beliefs and practices including dharma, karma, and the pursuit of moksha.

Meditation

A practice using techniques such as mindfulness, or focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state.

Nirvana

A state of perfect peace and happiness in Buddhism, symbolizing the end of suffering and the cycle of rebirth.

Monastery

A building or complex of buildings where monks live, work, worship and study.

Theravada Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism that emphasizes individual enlightenment and follows the oldest teachings of Buddha.

Mahayana Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism that emphasizes compassion and the collective salvation of all beings.

Karma

The belief that a person's actions determine their fate in this life and in future lives.

Reincarnation

The belief in being reborn into a new body after death.

Brahman

In Hinduism, the ultimate reality or cosmic spirit.

Ahimsa

A principle of non-violence towards all living things in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Veda

Ancient sacred texts of Hinduism, composed in early Sanskrit.

Caste

A social class system in Hindu society, dividing people into groups based on their job and social status.

Guru

A spiritual teacher or guide in Hinduism.

Dharma

The moral law combined with spiritual discipline that guides one's life in Hinduism.

Aryans

Indo-European nomadic tribes who migrated to India, bringing with them their culture and the Vedas.

Citadel

A fortress, typically on high ground, protecting a city or settlement.

Granary

A storehouse for threshed grain.

River System

A network of rivers that flow into one another, providing water resources for irrigation and agriculture.

Subcontinent

A large, distinguishable part of a continent, such as the Indian subcontinent.

Monsoon

Seasonal winds in South Asia that bring significant rainfall, crucial for agriculture.