Religions and Philosophies

What does polytheism mean?

Belief in many gods.

What does monotheism mean?

Belief in one supreme God.

What does animism mean?

Belief that spirits are connected to nature.

Where did Hinduism develop?

South Asia.

What does Hinduism teach about the soul?

The soul is reborn many times.

What is reincarnation?

Being born again into another life.

What is the caste system?

A rigid social system that divides people into different groups.

Did the caste system allow much social mobility?

No, it strongly limited social mobility.

What was the goal of Hinduism's cycle of rebirth?

To eventually escape the cycle of death and rebirth.

Where did Zoroastrianism develop?

Persia.

What did Zoroastrianism focus on?

The struggle between good and evil and human free will.

Where did Judaism develop?

Among the Hebrews/Israelites in and around modern Israel.

Who is an important figure in Judaism?

Abraham.

What is a covenant?

A special promise or agreement between God and the Jewish people.

What is Confucianism?

A Chinese philosophy focused on education, good behavior, family, and respect for authority.

What is filial piety?

Respecting and honoring parents and ancestors.

What did Confucianism emphasize?

Education, virtue, family, and respect for authority.

What is Daoism?

A philosophy focused on harmony with nature and inner reflection.

What is the easiest way to remember Confucianism vs. Daoism?

Confucianism focuses on harmony with people; Daoism focuses on harmony with nature.