1. Bell Work Why do Muslims fast? A.To be closer to God B.Experience what the less fortunate feel C.Allah commands it All of the above

2. Objectives Describe the origins, beliefs, and development of Hinduism Explain the origins, beliefs, and practices of Hinduism

3. Hinduism… One of the oldest religions of humanity 1100 – 500 BC The religion of the Indian people called Hindus A philosophy and a way of life – focused both on this world and beyond

4. Basic Philosophy… Goal – to unite with the Universal soul Reincarnation – the rebirth of the soul Moksha – “release” from the cycle of death & rebirth Ultimate goal of life Dharma – fulfillment of one’s duty in life one's righteous duty affected by a person's age, class, occupation, and sex Karma –humans have free will to choose good or evil and suffer the consequences actions keep us bound to this world

5. The Caste System Five Social Classes Brahmans – Priests, scholars and wise men Kshatriyas – rulers and warriors Vaisyas – merchants, small farmers, traders Sudras – peasants bound to the land Untouchables – people thought that even touching them would make you impure

6. History… No particular founder Indus River Valley Civilization >5000 years ago Vedic Tradition – Ancient spiritual traditions develop into Hinduism 3500 – 2500 years ago

7. As a faith, Hindus believe… Vedas – Primary sacred texts Respect for all life – vegetarian No meat, fish, or eggs and avoid alcohol They are monotheistic they believe in one god Some say they are polytheistic

8. Hindu God Hindu Trinity (3 aspects of God) Brahma: the creator of the universe Vishnu: the Preserver Shiva: the Destroyer

9. Hindus are… 900 million in worldwide population India Led by a Guru or spiritual teacher one who guides his or her disciple to achieve Moksha In home or Temple

10. Significant Events… Everyday is a Holiday Exactly how many Hindu festivals are celebrated is not known Hinduism has listed more than a thousand different Hindu festivals change of seasons, celebrate the harvest, and encourage fertility of the land. Others are dedicated to a particular deity. Samskars (rite of passage) rites or practices in Hindu scriptures to guide an individual child birth naming a child shaving the head marriage YouTube - Hinduism- 1