1. What are the origins and beliefs of Hinduism?
Chapter 15 – Hinduism
What are the origins and beliefs of Hinduism?

2. Hinduism A religion that developed in India over many centuries
Traces its roots to older traditions, such as Vedic beliefs and Brahmanism

3. Vedas
A collection of ancient writings viewed as sacred by many Hindus

4. Sanskrit
An ancient Indian language

5. Brahmanism
Ancient ritual traditions in which Brahmins played a key role
Grew out of older Vedic religious beliefs and helped lead to Hinduism

6. caste A social class or group in Hindu society 4 classes: Priests
Rulers/warriors
Merchants/herders
Servants, farmers, laborers

7. dharma
A belief found in Hinduism and other Indian traditions that a person has a duty or obligation to live an honorable life

8. karma
A Hindu belief and Indian tradition that the good and evil done in a past life determines the nature of that person’s next life

9. reincarnation
The belief that a person’s soul is reborn into a new body after death

10. pilgrimage
A journey to a holy place