Hinduism Sacred symbol “OM”

Origins Indus Valley Indus – Hindu Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa Spread of beliefs

Facts More than1 billion followers India, Nepal and Bangladesh 3rd largest religion Oldest living religion

Facts No single founder “Way of life” “Family of religions” Similarities with Buddhism & Sikhism

Beliefs What you do versus what you believe Supreme God – Brahman Brahman – many forms Atman – soul

Beliefs Reincarnation – Samsara Actions – Karma Liberation from reincarnation – Moksha

Hindu Goals Artha – material gain Dharma – moral code Karma – action Moksha – liberation

Path to Moksha Spiritual knowledge Meditation Devotion Good works

Hindu Gods One God – Brahman Different forms of Brahman Personal gods/goddesses

Gods and Goddesses: The Hindu Trimurti Brahma - Creator Vishnu - Preserver Shiva - Destroyer

Worship and Practice Shrine – Murti Mandir – Offerings Cremation Caste system Vegetarianism Pilgrimages – River Ganges

Holy Texts Vedas – knowledge Oldest religious text Basis of Hinduism