Hinduism

4.2

Origins

Oldest major religion- difficult to trace origins

No one founder

Practices vary from place to place and person to

person

The Vedas- sacred texts means knowledge

Help us know more about the origins of the
faith
Some written over 3000 years ago
Eternal knowledge given by Brahman

Tenants

Brahman- eternal being that created and preserves

the world

Encompasses all things- many believe it to be

incomprehensible

Atman- soul that can not be destroyed even in death

Devas- manifestations of Brahman- 1000s of them

Brahman- the Creator

Vishnu- the preserver

Siva- the destroyer

Others include Ganesha- lord of wisdom and Lakshmi- lord

of wealth

Tenants Continued...

Samsara- reincarnation or rebirth- cycle of birth,

death, and rebirth a person follow before achieving
liberation.

Karma- the sum effect of a persons actions, both

good and bad, which help shape future experiences

Dharma- spiritual duties and obligations, which

he/she must follow to achieve liberation.

Moksha- Liberation- release from the cycle of

reincarnation and joining with atman and Brahman.

Practices

Vary widely

Worship happens anywhere- large

temples to small home shrines

Prayers/Meditation/Silent reflection

Yoga- integrated physical and mental

practice to focus bodies and minds

Pilgrimage to holy location- Ganges River

The Caste System