World Religions from Ancient India: Hinduism & Buddhism

Origins of Hinduism: No clear starting date or founder. Developed over the centuries from a merging of many of India’s traditions and religions. Included ideas from the Indus River Valley Civilization and the nomadic Aryans.

What do Hindus believe? Hinduism is very complex. There is no set of practices (like the 10 Commandments or the Five Pillars of Islam). However, there are some basic elements common to Hinduism.

What are the basic elements of Hinduism? Hindus are POLYTHESISTIC They believe in multiple gods and goddesses. Some Hindus pick a god or goddess to devote themselves to. The goal of many Hindus is to unite their soul with a god or goddess.

What else do Hindus believe? Time moves in a giant circle, like a wheel, so events repeat themselves. Like seasons, birth, life, and death are part of this cycle. The cycle of rebirth is called REINCARNATION. Dharma – law, duty, and obligation Karma – the idea that there are consequences for your actions (good and bad)

Buddists do not believe in POLYTHEISM! Origins of Buddhism: Buddhists also believe in karma and reincarnation. Buddists do not believe in POLYTHEISM!

Buddists follow the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha). Who started Buddhism? Buddists follow the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha). Buddha = Enlightened One

Siddharatha Gautama (Buddha) Siddhartha lived from about 563-483BC. He was a prince and very wealthy. As a young man, he left the palace and saw the pain and suffering in the world. He was shocked by the poverty, disease, and death he saw, so he left his comfortable life and traveled across India looking for a greater truth.

He meditated and fasted to the point of starvation while searching for truth. Through meditation and sacrifice, he finally gained NIRVANA (a state of happiness and peace). After he gained Nirvana, he travelled and taught his ways to others. This became Buddhism.

Beliefs of Buddhism: The Four Noble Truths: The teachings of Buddhism are known as The Four Noble Truths: 1.) Suffering is Everywhere 2.) Suffering is caused by Desire 3.) Removing Desire Ends Suffering 4.) Follow 8 Guiding Principles to Remove Desire & Suffering

8 Guiding Principles of Buddhism include rights to: understanding, purpose, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration

Introduction to Hinduism: Learn More: Introduction to Hinduism: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFgwRCsRWq4 The story of Buddha: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3gK4VO9roE