IB world religons paper 2

What are the four stages of life in Ashramas?

Brahmacharya (study), Grihastha (householder), Vanaprastha (retirement), Sannyasa (renunciation).

What are the key texts in Hinduism?

Divine origin of the Vedas and the Upanishads, Rig Veda, Atharva Veda, Bhagavad Gita, and Laws of Manu.

What differentiates Shruti from Smriti texts?

Shruti texts are 'heard' (like the Vedas), while Smriti texts are 'remembered' (like the epics and puranas).

How does the caste system influence morality in Hinduism?

Fulfilling one's role based on caste (varnashramadharma) determines morality.

What is the significance of Hindu festivals?

They often have regional and cultural significance, reflecting specific rituals and local traditions.

Why is Ahimsa important in Hindu ethics?

Ahimsa promotes non-violence and is a moral principle that guides behavior towards all living beings.

How do philosophical systems (darshanas) contribute to Hindu beliefs?

They offer different interpretations of teachings, beliefs, and practices in Hinduism.

What role do women have in Hindu rituals?

Women play significant roles in puja and samskaras, influencing family and community practices.

What is the significance of pilgrimage (Yatra) in Hindu practice?

It is a journey to sacred sites that strengthens community bonds and personal spirituality.

What modern challenges does the caste system face?

Criticism and reform movements

Brahman

Ultimate reality in Hinduism; an expression of monism.

Avatar

An incarnation of a god or God.

Brahmin

The highest caste in the Hindu caste system.

Trimurti

The three principal deities in Hinduism: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

Murti

The manifestation of a deity in a particular form.

Darshan

The state of seeing and being seen by the deity.

Dharma

Religious or moral duty.

Ahimsa

Non-violence.

Samsara

The cycle of life, death, and rebirth.

Maya

The illusory forms of the created world.

Gunas

The qualities of the created world.

Moksha

Liberation from the cycle of samsara.

Yoga

Paths to moksha, including Bhakti yoga, Jnana yoga, and Karma yoga.

Karma

The law of actions.

Atman

The self or soul, often seen as identical with Brahman.

Pap

Sin.

Punya

Holiness or spiritual excellence.

Shakti

Divine feminine creative power.

Puja

Worship in home and mandir (temple).

Yatra

Pilgrimage to sacred sites.

Hindu Festivals

Cultural celebrations with specific rituals, such as Holi, Vaisakhi, and Divali.

Murti

The manifestation of a deity in a particular form.

Gunas

The qualities of the created world.

Achamana

Ritual purification before worship.

Puja

Worship performed in home and temple.

Ishwara/Ishta-Devata

Worship of a personal god.

Prasad

Food offered to a deity and then eaten by devotees.

Bhajans

Devotional songs sung in praise of a deity.

Arti ceremony

A worship ritual involving light and offerings.

Samskaras

Traditional rites of passage throughout life.

Varnashramadharma

The moral duties based on one's caste and stage of life.

Laws of Manu

Ancient texts outlining moral and social conduct.

ISKCON

International Society for Krishna Consciousness, a modern Hindu movement