The Beliefs of Hinduism Develop Hinduism is a complex religion with many gods and goddesses, which are all part of an all- powerful force called Brahman. The Vedas record Hindu teachings. Hindus strive to free themselves from selfish desires. They believe in karma and in a cycle of death and rebirth. 1 of 7 Ancient India and China Section 2: Hinduism and Buddhism Witness History Audio: River Waters Bring Salvation Color Transparency 15: The Spread of Hinduism Note Taking Transparency 58 Color Transparency 14: Hindu God Ganesh

The Caste System Shapes India The Aryans divided society into four groups, and this evolved into a system of castes into which people are born. Each caste was limited by rules regarding how they lived and what their occupations could be. 2 of 7 Ancient India and China Section 2: Hinduism and Buddhism Key Teachings of the Buddha Siddhartha Gautama was a prince who became a religious founder called the Buddha. He taught that the cause and cure for suffering lie in the Four Noble Truths. Under Buddhism, each person seeks enlightenment through meditation.

Buddhism Spreads Beyond India The Buddha’s teachings were collected in the Tripitaka. These teachings were spread across India and into other parts of Asia by missionaries and traders. Two subgroups emerged that are known as Theravada Buddhism and the Mahayana sect. Buddhism eventually declined in India. 3 of 7 Ancient India and China Section 2: Hinduism and Buddhism Geography Interactive: Spread of Buddhism to A.D. 500 QuickTake Section Quiz Progress Monitoring Transparency

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