Hinduism

Hinduism

“Eternal way,"oldest religion; originated in India; has no particular founder

Brahman

Transcendent power beyond the universe that upholds and supports everything

Brahmin

Highest of the Hindu caste system, specializing in priests, teachers, and protectors of sacred learning

Dharma

Duty, virtue, and morality; power that upholds society and universe

Karma

Every action has its equal reaction

Samsara

Process of reincarnation; continuous cycle where soul is reborn over and over

Moksha

Liberation from karma and Samara; ultimate goal in life (Heaven for Hindus)

Vedas

Most sacred text for Hindus

Caste system

Level system consisting of priests; warriors/rulers; skilled traders, merchants and minor officials; unskilled workers; and outcasts/untouchables

Puja

Hindu worship involving images, prayers and diagrams of the universe; personal offerings to deities

Where is majority of this religion located in?

India and Nepal

How old?

Hinduism is the oldest living religion in the world

Closely associated with…

Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism

Who were the founders?

Aryans

Hinduism emerged circa…

500-200 BCE

Mono or Poly theistic?

Monotheistic

Vishnu

Maintains order and harmony in universe

Shiva the Destroyer

Destroys the universe in order to prepare for its renewal at the end of each cycle of time

Ganesh/Ganesha

First son of Shiva; most Hindu households have a picture or statue of this godhead

Krishna

Teacher of sacred scripture; promises to descend to Earth when Dharma declines

Atman

True essence of life; soul trapped in matter

Guru

Spiritual teacher; helpful for yoga