Early Belief Systems Hinduism

Aryans transform India Move from Caspian Sea to India – (1500 BCE) Only major artifact remaining is the Vedas (Sacred text of prayers, songs) They were taller and paler then native Indians

The Caste Impacted all areas of life Level determined your career Must marry within your caste

A way to think of Caste Brahmins (priests) = Mouth Rulers & Warriors = Arms Peasants & traders = Legs Laborers = Feet Untouchables

A Caste System Warriors Brahmins or priests Peasants & Shudras (non-Aryan workers) Untouchables – those with unclean jobs (garbage collection, gravediggers . . .) Brahmins or priests A Caste System - Do we have a caste system? - Discuss with a partner/share

The Origins of Hinduism Resulted from the blending of Aryan and non-Aryan beliefs No single founder Mahabharata – epic of Aryans, non-Aryans and their gods Dishonor is worse than Death

Hinduism Grows Goal is to liberate the soul from illusions, disappointment & mistakes Moksha – a state of perfect understanding Atman – individual soul (Self) Brahman – world soul that unites all atman (all force in universe)

Achieving Moksha The soul is reincarnated until moksha is achieved Karma – (the good or bad of the soul) impacts reincarnation Brahman is often viewed as three gods: Brahma-creator, Vishnu-protector & Shiva-destroyer

Gods and Paths Three Paths Hinduism lead to Buddhism Path of right thinking Path of right action Path of religious devotion Hinduism lead to Buddhism

Hindu Symbols and Art

Om or Aum Represents all existence Holiest of all symbols "The goal which all the Vedas declare, which all austerities aim at, and which men desire when they lead the life of continence … is OM. This syllable OM is indeed Brahman. Whosoever knows this syllable obtains all that he desires. This is the best support; this is the highest support. Whosoever knows this support is adored in the world of Brahma." ~ Katha Upanishad I

Swastika Auspiciousness Sun’s four part circle Cardinal points of the earth Placed on homes and animals for protection (Good Luck)

Holy Books Vedas Upanishads – part of Vedas, stories and philosophies Bhagavad Gita – establishing a relationship with the eternal

Temples Hindus worship at temples and at private shrines Shrines are might to reflect personal devotion Shrines are often transported with families

Holy Places Ganges River – Sacred river that is viewed as a goddess Hindus bath in it to wash away sin Ashes are washed away to heaven Some take its water home in brass containers Holy Places

Additional Terms Dharma – living a righteous life Yoga – meditation dedicated to transcending this world of illusion