1. Hinduism

2. 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

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

4. 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.

5. 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

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

7. Caste System: Who’s Who

8. 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

9. 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

10. Hindu Temple in New Delhi

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