Hinduism
Main Beliefs: Sacred Texts: 1. Vedas Grew from collection of 4 hymns which suit a religious ritual (becomes Hindu scripture)
2. Rig-Vedas Most ancient/important of the Vedas
3. Upanishads Interpretations of Hindu meanings of Vedas
Brahman
Hindu Gods
Dharma
Karma
Samsara
Moksha
Caste System
Atman Respect for all life
Lifestyle or….. -live according to sacred Dharma -try to escape the pain and suffering of the world -seek to live right to be able to escape Samsara and unite soul with Brahman (Moksha)
Buddhism
Founder: Siddartha Gautama
Main Beliefs: 4 Noble Truths
Eightfold Path
Nirvana “Enlightenment”
Meditation Treat all living things with kindness Lifestyle or….. Do not seek selfish things Do not seek pleasure End all desires Meditate to seek wisdom
Confucianism Founder: K’ung Futzu “Confucius”
Main Beliefs: Defines proper conduct for people and government Organizes society around 5 basic relationships Code of proper behavior - “li” Stable societies built on”li” “filial piety” Based on the natural goodness of people, that they will do what they know is right
Correct behavior brings about stability Emphasis on loyalty Lifestyle or …. Rulers hould practice kindness and treat other with respect Set good examples Respect for those higher in Five Basic Relationships Encouraged respect for age and tradition
Taoism Founder: Lao Tzu
Main Beliefs: Follow the “Tao” = the way, which is the universal force that guides all things “natural order”
“Yin” and ‘Yang” = balance of opposing forces
Lifestyle or…. Withdraw from society and live close to nature Accept “the way” Have balance in life, they have to accept the good with the bad Reject conflict Rulers believe in action through non-action
Legalism Founder: Other groups? Han Fei
Main Beliefs: Highly efficient & powerful government to lead the way Rich rewards to people who follow laws (harsh) punishment for those who disobey Stressed punishment more than rewards Controlled ideas as well as actions Believed most people were naturally evil and selfish
Lifestyle or…. Society is controlled, rigid, harsh, fearful Government tells you what to believe in, detailed laws, chooses religion, etc.