Hinduism

Origins Collection of religious beliefs that developed over time No founder Hindus see religion as a away of liberating the soul from the illusions, disappointments and mistakes of everyday existence

Key Beliefs All life is connected Difference between Atman: individual soul Brahman: world soul

Key Beliefs Goal to achieve perfect understanding Reincarnation- rebirth of soul Karma: good or bad deeds Your karma determines the life you are reborn into When a person understands relationship between atman and Brahman they can achieve perfect understanding called moksha This does not come in one lifetime and people rebirth until it is achieved Karma follows from one reincarnation to another. Karma influences specific life circumstances, such as the caste one is born into, one’s state of health, wealth or poverty or so on.

Gods Brahma: The Creator Vishnu: The Protector Shiva: The Destroyer Many Gods The world soul, Brahman has been seen as having personalities of three gods Over the years Brahma faded into the background while the many forms of great Mother Goddess grew in importance

Sacred Literature Upanishads: how to achieve liberation from suffering and desire Vedas: collection of prayers, spells and rituals

Caste System: Who’s Who

Effect on Society Belief of karma Hinduism dominates life Strengthens caste system Hinduism dominates life If person has upper caste such as a male, warrior or merchant his good fortune earned in a former life; if a female, laborer or untouchable might be bad deeds in former life It determines what they can eat, how to eat it, cleanliness, who to associate with, how to dress

Modern Day Traditions Jainism Everything has a soul NOTHING should be harmed Wear masks to avoid breathing insects  Sweep ants off path Founded by Mahavira and think nothing should be harm Monks sweep ants off a path and wear gauze masks over their mouths to avoid breathing in an insect accidentally

Hindu Temple in New Delhi

Resources: Chris Balga – Hickory Ridge HS, NC Susan Pojer – Horace Greely HS, NY Russell Olson – Robinson HS, NC