1. The Origins of World Religions: Hinduism

2. Origins of Hinduism: Indus Valley

3. Hinduism:
*complex religion that evolved from Aryan & Indus Valley beliefs
No central figure whom founded it.

4. Hinduism: The Vedas
*The Vedas were a collection of hymns passed down from the Aryans
Oldest known writings on a religion.

5. Hindu Beliefs Dharma - Ultimate moral balance of all things.
* Karma – What happens to a person in this life depends on their actions in a previous life.
Moksha - Heaven; changeless bliss

6. The Hindu Caste System
*Class System which divides society into four areas and one group outside of society.
System represented by the human body.

7. Caste System: Brahmins
*Brahmins in society were the priests

8. Caste System: Kshatriyas
*Kshatriyas were the ruling or warrior class

9. Caste System: Vaisyas
*Vaisyas were the skilled workers and farmers of society.

10. Caste System: Sudras
*Sudras were the servants of this society

11. The Outsiders of Society: Untouchables
*Untouchables were members of society that performed duties that were too filthy for the rest of society.

12. Day in the Life of an Untouchable

13. Hindu Symbols WHEEL – Represents Reincarnation
The act of birth, life, death and re-birth

14. Hindu Symbols
Om or Aum
Represents of Brahmin or god.

15. Hindu Symbols
Lotus Bud symbolizing the birth of universe.

16. Hindu Symbols
Cow - represents life and sustenance.