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2. No religion which is narrow and which cannot satisfy the test of reason, will survive the coming reconstruction of society in which the values will have changed and character, not possession of wealth, title or birth will be the test of merit. - Mahatma Ghandi

3. Originated near present-day Indus River, Pakistan No single founder Not a single scripture or agreed set of teachings Over 1 billion people follow Hinduism. Has no definitive starting point Hinduism is primarily practiced in India (pictured right). 1

4. Hinduism combines many beliefs and ideas, but has some well- known features: Dharma (the morals and duties of people) Samsara (new beginningreincarnation) Karma (doing well by others) Moksha (freedom from the cycle of Samsara) Some other beliefs of Hinduism are honesty, non-violence, celibacy, prayers, etc... Most Hindus believe there is one Supreme God (Brahman) through which other deities receive their power. Brahman is not worshipped by Hindus, but seen more as a force, or power.

5. For those practicing Hinduism Allows a sense of self Gives an answer to what happens after death (reincarnation) Communities formed due to similar interests Hard to fully comprehend or understand Little respected Seen to participate in odd rituals and ceremonies For those exposed to Hinduism

6. Baby Rites Each individual is expected to carry on the human race A prayer, Garbhadana (meaning conception), is said so newly married couples understand their obligations 2

7. Baby Rites (contd) Several more rituals are performed throughout pregnancy for the health of the child and mother. Jatakarma is performed by putting honey in the mouth of the newborn followed by whispering the name of God in the child's ear. 3

8. Weddings Vary from region to region and can last up to several hours Many rituals are performed during the ceremony, including jayamaala, madhu-parka, sapta-padi, and more 4

9. Wedding Rituals Explained Jayamaala Introduction of families to each other Madhu-Parka Bridegroom brought to altar and given a special drink Gau Daan and Kanya Pratigrahan Exchanging of gifts Brides father approves daughter for marriage Vivaha-homa (pictured right) Sacred fire is lit while scripture is read Represents selflessness needed to run a family 5

10. Wedding Rituals Explained (contd) Paanigrahan Ceremony of vows Shilarohan and Laaja Homa Bride climbs over a stone to symbolize her strength to overcome difficulties Bride and groom walk around sacred fire Sapta-Padi Vows are said for food, strength, prosperity, wisdom, progeny (children), health, and friendship Surya Darshan and Dhruva Darshan Couple looks at the Sun for creativity and the Polar star to stay unshaken Ashirvada (Blessings) Elders and the priest bless the newly married couple 6

11. Das, Subhamoy. "Hinduism." About.com. The New York Times Company, 2012. Web. 08 May 2012.. "Hinduism." BBC News. BBC, 29 Sept. 2009. Web. 08 May 2012..

12. 1. http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/histo ry/images/india.jpg http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/histo ry/images/india.jpg 2. http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/ritesr ituals/images/baby.jpg http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/ritesr ituals/images/baby.jpg 3. http://img2.photographersdirect.com/img/95/wm/pd93 8906.jpg http://img2.photographersdirect.com/img/95/wm/pd93 8906.jpg 4. http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/ritesr ituals/images/wedding3.jpg http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/ritesr ituals/images/wedding3.jpg 5. http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/ritesr ituals/images/wedding2.jpg http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/ritesr ituals/images/wedding2.jpg 6. http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/ritesr ituals/images/wedding1.jpg http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/ritesr ituals/images/wedding1.jpg