Hinduism Overview

Samsara

Cycle of reincarnation

Karma

The law of cause and effect; every action has consequences that affect future rebirths.

Moksha

Becoming liberated for the cycle of reincarnation in Hinduism.

Reincarnation

The rebirth of a soul in a new body based on karma.

Atman

The individual soul

Brahman

The ultimate, unchanging reality; the supreme cosmic spirit.

Dharma

One's moral duty, based on age, caste, gender, and stage of life.

Ahimsa

Non-violence toward all living beings.

Antyesti

Final rite performed for the dead to aid the soul's journey through samsara

Shraddha

Rituals performed to honour the deceased

Sacredness of life

Life is to be respected due to the presence of Atman in all beings.

Trimurti

Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva

Brahma

The Creator

Vishnu

The Protector

Shiva

The destructor

Bhagavad Gita

Emphasizes the importance of dharma (duty) and karma

Ashrama

Hindu's gender, caste or life stage

Vishesha Dharma

Personal duty

Sadharana Dharma

Universal duty

Ishvara

Creator God; true atman

Upanishads

A group of writings sacred in Hinduism concerning the relations of humans, God, and the universe.

R'ta

Cosmic order

Varna

Caste