What is Hinduism? One of the oldest religions of humanity The religion of the Indian people Gave birth to Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism Many deities but a single, impersonal Ultimate Reality A way of life focused both on this world (karma) and beyond (reincarnation, moksha)

How did Hinduism begin? rituals and many gods (polytheism) No single founder Aryans appear 4000 - 3500 years ago Vedic tradition 3500 – 2500 years ago: rituals and many gods (polytheism) sacred texts (Vedas) social stratification (caste system) Upanishads (reflections on Vedas) 2800 – 2400 years ago Vedic Tradition develops into Hinduism

What are the Sacred Texts? Vedas (“truth”) – myths, rituals, chants Upanishads - reflections on the Vedas Plus other Vedic texts

What do Hindus believe? One impersonal Ultimate Reality – Brahman Manifest as many personal deities Atman, the soul, is Brahman trapped in the human form Reincarnation – atman is continually born into this world lifetime after lifetime Karma – spiritual impurity due to actions keeps us bound to this world (good and bad) Goal of life – to unite with the divine, becoming one with Brahman – Moksha

How does Hinduism direct life in this world? Respect for all life – many Hindus are vegetarian Karma – intentional living in this life (good and bad) Four stations of life (Caste) Brahmins – priests & teachers Kshatriyas – nobles & warriors Vaisyas – merchant s, farmers, craftspeople Sudras – workers and servants

How do Hindus worship? In the home (household shrines) Hindus worship in several ways and places In the home (household shrines) In the temples (priests officiate) Puja – making offerings to and decorating the deity images

Who do Hindus worship? – the major gods of the Hindu Pantheon Brahma, the creator god Shiva, god of constructive destruction Vishnu, the preserver god