Hinduism

Ms. Catsos

World History

What is Hinduism?

One of the oldest religions of humanityBegan in IndiaGave birth to Buddhism, Jainism, SikhismA philosophy and a way of life – focused both on this world and beyond

How did Hinduism begin?

No particular founder or holy book, instead early Vedic tradition evolved into Hinduism. Vedic tradition is based on a group of sacred texts known as the Vedas.

Historians are currently debating the origins of Vedic tradition. The two main theories are:

The Vedas were brought by the Aryans, who some historians believe entered India 4000 - 3500 years agoThe Vedas were developed by Ancient Indian people of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa

Controversy over the Vedas

What are the Sacred Texts?

Shruti (“heard”) – philosophical texts that state the basic principles of Hinduism

Vedas Upanishads

Smriti (“remembered”) –apply the principles of the Shruti to daily life

RamayanaMahabharata (includes Bhagavad-Gita)

Both shruti and smriti were originally told orally before being written down

What do Hindus believe?

There is one impersonal life spirit Brahman that is manifested as many different gods and goddessesEvery person, plant, and animal has a true essence or soul, called Atman, which is part of Brahman

Who do Hindus worship? – the major Hindu gods

Brahma, the creator god

Who do Hindus worship? – the major gods of the Hindu Pantheon

Vishnu, the preserver god

(appears in ten different forms)

Who do Hindus worship? – the major gods of the Hindu Pantheon

Shiva, the Destroyer

Often shown with his wife, Shakti, and son Ganesha

All these gods and goddesses are

different forms of Brahman

All these gods and goddesses are

different forms of Brahman

The Cycle of Life and Death

Reincarnation – Atman is continually born into this world lifetime after lifetime.Ultimate goal of life is Moksha, releasing Atman and become one with Brahman. Reaching moksha means escaping the cycle of reincarnation.Karma – actions that affect one’s fate in the future.

How do Hindus reach Moksha?

People earn good karma by doing their dharma (religious and moral duties)If you earn good karma, you can be reborn as a higher life form or in a higher caste, and eventually reach moksha.If you earn bad karma, you will be reborn as a lower life form or in a lower caste.

The Caste System

Each group has specific duties, or dharma.

Hindu Nonviolence

Ahisma is the Hindu word for nonviolence.All things and people have aspects of Brahman and should be respected.Most Hindus are vegetarians.

Adapted from…

“What is Hinduism?” by Laura Ellen Shulman