Hinduism

Brahman

The supreme spirit in Hinduism, pervading the universe.

Atman

The eternal soul present in every individual.

Vishnu

The preserver God in Hindu triad, representing mercy.

Avatar

Bodily form of a deity, e.g., Krishna.

Shiva

Personification of destruction, enabling new creation.

Trimurti

The three main Hindu Gods: Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva.

Dharma

One's duty based on caste and life stage.

Karma

Action with consequences; good actions yield good karma.

Samsara

Cycle of death and rebirth; process of reincarnation.

Moksha

Release from samsara; end of reincarnation.

Nirvana

Ultimate goal; state free from suffering.

Varna

Four classes in Hindu society: Brahmins, Warriors, Commoners, Dalits.

Ashrama

Four stages of life for the twice-born: student, householder, hermit, renunciation.

Yoga

Practice to attain moksha and union with Brahman.

Karma Yoga

Path of duties; following one's dharma.

Jnana Yoga

Path of knowledge; meditation leads to oneness with Brahman.

Bhakti Yoga

Path of devotion; actions performed with devotion to a deity.

Puja

Worship rituals involving offerings and prayers to deities.

Sindoor

Red powder worn by married women, signifies marriage.

Tilak

Forehead mark symbolizing devotion and spiritual identity.

Bindi

Dot worn on the forehead by women, signifies religion.

Dhoti

Traditional male clothing, symbolizes humility and purity.

Vegetarianism

Dietary preference; many Hindus avoid beef due to cow's holiness.

Sati

Historical practice of widow self-immolation, now abolished.

Upanayana

Sacred thread ceremony marking spiritual initiation for boys.

Rites of Passage

Significant life ceremonies such as birth, initiation, marriage, funeral.

Laws of Manu

Ancient text outlining social norms, especially for women.

Dalits

Untouchables; traditionally serve higher classes in society.