Hinduism One of the oldest religions in the world. Hinduism is the third largest religion in the world and still growing at a rapid pace. By: Elizabeth Hinshaw, Crystal Aleman, Tori Christian, Anna Russell, Lexus Phavixay

Founder, Date, Origin Founder Hinduism has no founder. Hinduism was founded as a culture not a religion, and it soon became a popular religion. Date 2300 BC – 1500 BC Origin The religion of Hinduism believes that there was no origin or founder, but they believe the religion has been forever. Hinduism is considered to be originated in India around 2000 BC, and the Aryan people are considered to be the source of the historical origins. The Aryan people were originally thought to have originated in Eurasia, northeastern Europe, or northwestern Asia. Today, the belief that the Aryan people originated in India is becoming more common.

Origin

Holy Books Holy books The Vedas- There are four Vedic books, and Hindus believe that the gods directly gave them to the Vedic sages. Upanishads- The texts are believed to be inspired by the gods. The Ramayana- The book is an epic Hindu poem. The Mahabharata- The book of poetry describes epic battles and is considered the longest poetic work in human history. The Puranas- The books contained mythological accounts of ancient times.

Places of Worship Hindu Temples or Mandir At home in shrines Hindu worship is called puja.

Major Beliefs Reincarnation- The belief that we are born with a certain karma, and the only way to escape from the cycle is to do good deeds and think good thoughts. The belief that we will be reborn until we fulfill our earthly duty. Essential self or atam Moral duties(Dharma) Countless gods and goddesses. Obeying the law of karma

Deities Brahma, Vishu, and Shiva are the most important, and they all represent the Supreme Being. Brahma represents creation, Vishnu represents maintaining the universe, and Shiva represents dissolution and recreation. The three figures form the Hindu Trinity. Hindu people believe God lives in the hearts of everything alive. The people have a monotheistic polytheism religion.

Goals of Hinduism Dharma Dharma is about living to one’s destiny or purpose. Dharma is also about paying back debts owed to the gods which they are born with through karma. Finally, it means living ethically, morally, and fulfilling one’s purpose. Artha Artha is what Hindus believe to be as prosperity or success in worldly things. Kama Kama is the desire of pleasure. Typically, kama is referring to romantic pleasure. Moksha Moksha is reaching liberation in the cycle of reincarnation.

Ultimate Goal= Reaching Moksha Method of Reaching Goal The way of action involves carrying out certain religious ceremonies, duties and rites. The objective is to perform works without regard for personal gain. The way of knowledge requires using your mind and philosophy to come to a complete comprehension of the universe. The way of devotion is salvation which is reached through acts of worship based upon the love for a God. There are thousands of gods in Hinduism. The Royal Road is the use of meditation and yoga techniques. This method of reaching salvation is typically only used by wandering monks.

Original Practices of Hinduism Hindu religious practices center on the importance of fulfilling the duties associated both with one’s social position and one’s stage of life. Brachmacharg, which takes place during school years is focused on acquiring knowledge and developing character. Grasstha, the middle years is focused on worldly pursuits and pleasures such as marriage, family, and career. Vanaprasha is when one’s children reach adulthood and is a time to increase focus on spiritual things. Sanngasu is in the last years of life and one may abandon the world entirely for a life of contemplation.

Key Beliefs Traced Back to Original Scriptures and Texts Hinduism became one of the world’s most complex religions with countless gods and goddesses and many forms of worship existing side by side. Despite this diversity all Hindus share certain basic beliefs. Hindu’s believe that everything is part of the unchanging, all powerful force called Braham the creator, Vishu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. Hindu teachings were recorded in sacred texts of the Vedas and used vivid images to examine complex ideas about the human soul and the connectedness of all life.

Major Turning Points and Key Events Gandhi lead peaceful civil disobedience in order to make changes for his fellow countrymen. He wanted them to be able to have salt for their physical needs without being over charged by the British government. Gandhi made Hinduism a recognized religion across the world. “Salt March” Buddhism which branched off of Hinduism made Hindus rethink the importance of enlightenment over veneration of the gods. The religion of Jainism made Hindus believe that they should stop animal sacrifices.

Gandhi ( )

Spread of Hinduism Historically, the spread of Hinduism came via the travels of merchants to other nearby countries for business. The Chettiars, a Tamil banking community, extended their business to Barma, Malaysia, Mauritius, and other parts of South East Asia. Additionally, strong trading links have existed for centuries between Western India and East Africa.

Map of Spread of Hinduism

Hinduism Today The religion of Hinduism is continually growing, making it the third largest religion in the world with around a billion followers. Today, Hindus are commonly found in India. The religion is also dominant in Nepal and Tamils in Sri Lanka. As of 2010, the United States had about 2.2 million active Hindus. People of the Hindu faith account for about 15% of the world’s population.

Hinduism Spread As Of 2010

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