Hinduism

Hinduism

A major world religion that emphasizes tolerance, diverse paths to truth, and beliefs in reincarnation and cosmic cycles.

Eastern Mindset

A perspective that views the universe as non-logical and cyclical, valuing truths that are unknowable and relationships that reflect harmony.

Western Mindset

A perspective that sees the universe as logical and rational, believing that truths can be understood, discovered, and manipulated.

Vedas

The oldest Hindu scriptures, consisting of four collections of hymns, ritual texts, and philosophies written in Sanskrit.

Polytheism

The belief in many gods, allowing Hindus to worship different deities as manifestations of Brahman.

Monotheism

The belief in one god, represented in Hinduism as the many forms of the supreme being, Brahman.

Monistic

The belief that God, humanity, and the universe share a common essence, with Brahman being the underlying reality.

Atman

The Hindu term for the human soul or essence that is eternal and identical to Brahman.

Reincarnation

The cycle of rebirth that the atman undergoes until it achieves moksha, based on karma from past lives.

Trimurti

The three principal deities in Hinduism: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, representing creation, preservation, and destruction.

Brahma

The creator god in Hinduism, responsible for the creation of the universe and represented with four heads.

Vishnu

The preserver god in Hinduism, known for his mercy and goodness, often depicted in blue.

Shiva

The destroyer god in Hinduism, symbolizing both destruction and regeneration through his cosmic dance.

Puja

A ritualistic worship practice in Hinduism, often performed at home, involving offerings to deities.

Karma

The law of cause and effect in Hinduism, where actions in this life affect future lives.

Dharma

The moral and ethical duties that vary by caste, age, and gender in Hinduism.

Moksha

The ultimate goal in Hinduism, representing liberation from the cycle of rebirth and union with Brahman.

Caste System

A rigid social hierarchy in Hindu society defining roles and responsibilities based on birth.

Harijan

A term used for the 'Untouchables,' who fall outside the traditional caste system.

The Four Purusharthas

The four goals of life in Hinduism: Dharma (duty), Artha (wealth), Kama (pleasure), Moksha (liberation).

Yoga

Various paths to spiritual liberation in Hinduism, including Karma Yoga (action), Jnana Yoga (wisdom), Bhakti Yoga (devotion), and Raja Yoga (meditation).

Om (AUM)

A sacred sound and symbol in Hinduism representing Brahman, often chanted during prayers.

Swastika

An ancient symbol representing auspiciousness and good fortune in Hinduism.

Tillak

A marking worn on the forehead indicating which deity is worshipped in Hindu practices.

Gandhi

A key figure in India's independence movement known for promoting non-violent civil disobedience.