Central Beliefs Hinduism

Dharma and Karma Dharma Station or duty in life Karma Actions produce effects of nature

Spiritual Goal Moksha-“spiritual goal” in Sanskrit Released from the bonds of transmigration Will not occur with bad karma Attachment to worldly goods Highest purpose in life

Caste System What is the caste system? Hereditary division of Indian society based on occupation

The Caste System

Brahmins Priests Philosophers Specialize in spirit

Kshatriya Ruler Warrior Landowner

Kshatriyas Rajput Landowner This Rajput landowner is harvesting his crops.  He is a member of the caste Kshatriyas, which is right below the Brahmins. He is important to the community because he is the main source of food.  He also is a protector.

Vaishyas Economic specialists Merchants

Vaishya The Fruit Merchant is part of the Vaishya caste. The Vaishya caste are shopkeepers and sell products, unlike the Shudra who sell services.

Shudra Artisans Agriculturalists

Shudra Goala - Herdsmen Goala are a very important part of the Shudra caste.  Within the caste of Shudra there are many different groups.  Each one of these groups performs a service.  Their specific service is a birthright and is somewhat similar to unions in the U.S.  The role that they play is respected because they deal with the cows which are considered sacred.

Shudra Dhobi - Washermen They wash the clothing for all the different caste levels.  Without the Dhobi, everyone would walk around with dirty stinky cloths.

“Outside" the caste system Once known as the untouchables Harijan (Children of God) “Outside" the caste system Once known as the untouchables

Harijan Musicians In India musicians are part of the lowest caste. They are Harijans (god's children) which used to be known as untouchables.  Though their music is enjoyed by many, the act of playing some of these instruments is considered to be unclean.  The saliva that is being blown into the horns is thought to be very unhygienic, therefore not fit for people in higher castes to play these instruments.

Hindu Music

Reincarnation Transmigration/rebirth “Attman”-self (Sanskrit) Eternal core of personality that survives after death Headed for a new life Released from existence Animal or some life form Birth as human is precious and rare Ultimate goal is liberation; merging with Brahman (spirit) “Being” itself is a concept thought of being a high god Become one with the being Born into suffering because you do not get this connection

The Sacred Cow