Hinduism

Basic Teachings Mostly practiced by people in India One of the oldest religions No specific founder Practices vary

Brahman Created and preserves world In everything Atman- soul, aspect of Brahman – Exists forever Devas- manifestations of Brahman – Brahma= Creator – Vishnu= Preserver – Siva= Destroyer

Reincarnation Birth Death Rebirth

Rebirth and Salvation Karma – Sum of deeds and actions – Determines a person’s new life Moksha – Ultimate goal – Atman reunites fully with Brahman Dharma – Spiritual duties and obligations

Hindu Texts Vedas Eternal knowledge Revealed by Brahman Upanishads Built upon Vedas Deals with nature of the world and meaning of life Epic Poems Ramayana- devotion and dharma Mahabharata- good behavior and dharma Bhagavad Gita Most sacred Hindu texts

Religious Practices Worship takes place at home, in temples, or small village shrines Worshippers offer food, drink or gifts to a deva Special prayers or meditation Yoga – Focus of bodies and minds

Ganges River Pilgrimage Believed to flow from the feet of Vishnu and over the head of Siva Bathing in Ganges will purify individuals and remove bad karma