1. Hinduism

2. Origin/Founder Hinduism is a collection of religious beliefs that developed over time. Unlike other religions, Hinduism can not be traced to one founder with a single set of ideas.

3. Basic Beliefs Reincarnation – the process of an individual soul or spirit being born again

4. Basic Beliefs Moksha - Goal of a Hindu’s life - Released from reincarnation and united with Brahman

5. Basic Beliefs Henotheistic – all gods are part of Brahman (the supreme god)

6. Holy Books
Vedas - collection of hymns and prayers
Upanishads are written as discussion between student and teacher. They explore how a person can get rid of desires and suffering and reach moksha.

7. Major god(s) Brahman - Supreme God. - Creates, maintains,
Major god(s) Brahman - Supreme God - Creates, maintains, destroys, and re-creates the universe (cycle) - Everything is a part of Brahman including atman, or the human soul

8. Other Gods - Believe all gods are all an aspect of Brahman - Vishnu - Shiva - Brahma

9. Important Traditions/Customs Karma: - the total of good and bad actions - ones good/bad actions will affect their placement into their next life

10. Important Traditions/Customs Caste System- reinforced through Karma and reincarnation - your caste would determine all aspects of life

11. Important Traditions/Customs
Brahmins/
Priests
Kshatriyas/
Rulers & Warriors
Vaishyas/
Peasants & Traders
Shudras/
Laborers
Untouchables

12. Important Traditions/Customs Dharma - Holy duty or moral responsibility - “The right thing to do”

13. Important Traditions/Customs -Pilgrimage to the Ganges river to cleanse or purify them.

14. Where is Hinduism today? - Mostly stayed in India -Some in SE Asia