1. Hinduism

2. What is Hinduism? One of the oldest religions in the world.
The religion of the Indian people
Gave birth to Buddhism
Tolerance and diversity: "Truth is one, paths are many"
Many deities but a single, impersonal Ultimate Reality
A philosophy and a way of life – focused both on this world and beyond

3. How did Hinduism begin? No particular founder
Began in the Indus River Valley Civilization
Originated between 4000 – 2000 BCE
Vedic Tradition developed into Hinduism
Vedas means “to know”
There are four Vedas

4. What do Hindus believe? One impersonal Ultimate Reality – Brahman
Manifest as many personal deities
True essence of life – Atman, the soul, is Brahman trapped in matter (“That art thou”)
Reincarnation – the soul is continually born into this world lifetime after lifetime (Samsara)
Karma – spiritual impurity due to actions keeps us bound to this world (good and bad)
Ultimate goal of life – to release Atman and reunite with the divine, becoming as one with Brahman (Moksha)

5. The Hindu Trinity Brahma – the Creator Vishnu – the Preserver
Shiva – the Destroyer
Three aspects/powers of the same divine being

6. How does Hinduism direct life in this world?
Respect for all life
Believe in solving ALL issues through nonviolence
The cow is highly prized and revered.
All Hindus are vegetarian
Human life as supreme:
Caste System – determines ones placement in life

7. What are the basic beliefs in Hinduism?
Karma – the law of cause and effect; “you reap what you sow”
Reincarnation – eternal soul traverses through different bodies until it finds liberation

8. What are the four goals of human life in Hinduism?
Karma - fulfillment of desires
Artha – accumulation of wealth
Dharma – performance of social and religious duties
Moksha – freedom from want

9. Symbolism in Hinduism

10. How do Hindus worship?
Many Hindus worship at a temple, but it is not required for worship
Temples provide an atmosphere conducive for spiritual progress
Temples are centers of social and cultural activities
Temples provide a place for collective worship and prayers

11. Explore Hinduism on the Web:
The Hindu Universe: Lots of information on Hinduism and the Hindu community on-line and around the world. Includes chat rooms and message board forums -
The Virtual Hindu Temple: Contains some interesting and useful pages including: Discover Hindu Gods & Goddesses and FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT HINDUISM. Also contains a gallery of deity images and a collection of links to Hindu sacred texts online and other sites related to Hinduism -
Hinduism for Schools provides basic, introductory info to teach primary and secondary level students about Hinduism -
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