Hinduism and Buddhism

Hinduism

The oldest living religion, originating from the Indus River Valley Civilization around 3000 years ago.

Smriti

Refers to texts that are remembered, including traditional law codes and epics.

Bhagavad Gita

A sacred Hindu text that contains dialogues of gods and goddesses about how to live with responsibilities.

Karma

The belief that actions have effects on one's soul, influencing future reincarnation.

Dharma

The duties and moral responsibilities associated with one's social position.

Bhakti

Devotional rituals performed to show love for the divine.

Brahman

The ultimate reality in Hinduism, believed to be present in all living things.

Moksha

The ultimate goal of Hindus, representing liberation from the cycle of reincarnation.

Samsara

The endless cycle of rebirth in Hindu belief.

Ahimsa

The principle of nonviolence, promoting a desire to do no harm to any living being.

Rig Veda

The oldest of the four Vedas, consisting of over a thousand hymns to various gods.

Diwali

The festival of lights celebrated by Hindus, symbolizing the return of Rama to his kingdom.

Holi

A spring festival of colors commemorating the love between Krishna and Radha.

Four Councils of Buddhism

Gatherings of the Buddha's followers to preserve and agree on his teachings.

Theravada

The more traditional branch of Buddhism, primarily found in southern Asia.

Mahayana

The larger branch of Buddhism that accommodates various traditions, found throughout central and eastern Asia.

Three Jewels of Buddhism

The three core tenets of Buddhism: refuge in the Buddha, the dharma, and the sangha.

Nirvana

The ultimate goal of Buddhism; a state of enlightenment and release from suffering.

Prajna

Translates to wisdom or insight in Buddhism, essential for achieving enlightenment.

Pali Canon/Tripitaka

The sacred scriptures of Theravada Buddhism, consisting of the Buddha's teachings.

Mandalas

Artistic patterns used in Vajrayana Buddhism as aids for meditation.

Sangha

The community of Buddhist monks and nuns who preserve and practice the teachings of the Buddha.

Buddha

Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, known for his enlightenment.

Ch'an

A monastic school of Buddhism in China focusing on meditation and mindfulness.

Vajrayana

Also known as Tibetan Buddhism, it emphasizes rituals and spiritual practices, led by the Dalai Lama.

Puja

A ritual of reverence and devotion performed in front of shrines, common in both Hinduism and Buddhism.