1. Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism
The Vedic Faiths
Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism

2. Vedic Faiths NoTeS From textbook
Take Notes, Terms, Synthesis Paragraph notes on page 85

3. Basic History and Beliefs
Hinduism
Basic History and Beliefs

4. Overview Video Clip

5. Basics One of the oldest living religions of the world
Majority religion in India and Nepal today
Not a solid “religion” in that there are no set texts, practices, leaders, or philosophies
A “way of life” or a “family of religions” to many
Some claim to be monotheistic, some claim to be polytheistic
***Many different beliefs about God(s), the universe, and the path to a righteous life can all be considered Hindu

7. “Hindu” and History
“Hindu” – comes from the Sanskrit name for the Indus River
The term was used to describe a geographical people, not a religion
Hindu-”ism” coined by Christian missionaries in the 1800s
Aspects of the religion are over 5000 years old and originated in modern day Pakistan

9. Commonalities among believers
Most Hindus:
Revere the Vedas (sacred scriptures)
Believe in a system of values called Dharma
Believe in a Supreme God who’s characteristics are represented by many deities
Believe in rebirth which is tied to Karma
Believe in multiple reincarnation life cycles
There is only 1 truth, but we can’t understand it

10. Concept of God 1 God: Brahman Many Gods
Very removed from human capabilities
No specific form
Controls all/connected to all
Some see as very personal, some see as far removed
Many Gods
Help explain Brahman through manifestations of him

11. The “Trinity” of Hinduism
Brahma
Creator
Vishnu
Preserver/sustainer
Shiva
Destroyer

12. Media Interview on NPR http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkAwQ3HqBac
Around the World in 80 Faiths
Start at 10 mins
Longer documentary

13. Notes for tomorrow
In Hinduism, there is not just one purpose of human life, but four: Dharma - fulfilling one's purpose; Artha - prosperity; Kama - desire, sexuality, enjoyment; and Moksha - enlightenment.