Hinduism

HINDUISM
INTRODUCTION TO WORLD RELIGIONS AND BELIEF SYSTEM
GROUP 2
Hinduism is the world’s oldest religion,
according to many scholars, with roots
and customs dating back more than 4,000
years. Today, with about 900 million
followers, hinduism is the third-largest
religion behind Christianity and Islam.
Hinduism is unique in that it’s
not a single religion but a
compilation of many traditions
and philosophies.
Most forms of hinduism are henotheistic,
which means they worship a single deity,
known as “Brahman,” but still recognize
other gods and goddesses. Followers
believe there are multiple paths to
reaching their gods.
Hindus believe in the doctrines of
Samsara (the continuous cycle life,
death, and reincarnation) and
karma(the universal law of cause and
effect).
One of the key thoughts of Hinduism is
“atman,” or belief in soul. This philosophy
holds that living living creatures have a
soul. This goal to achieve “moksha,” or
salvation, which ends the cycle of rebirths
to become part of the absolute soul.
One fundamental principles of the
religion is the idea that peoples
actions and the people’s actions and
thoughts directly determine their
current life and future lives.
Food is an important part of life for
Hindus. Most don’t eat beef or pork,
and many more vegetarians.
Hinduism is closely related to other Indian
religions, including Buddhism, Sikhism,
and Jainism. The upanishads, the
Bhagavad Gita, 18 puranas, Ramayana
and Mahabharata are also considered
important text in hinduism.
Origins of Hinduism
Most scholars believe Hinduism started
somewhere between 2300 B.C and 1500
B.C in the Indus Valley, near modern-
day Pakistan. But many Hindus argue
that their faith is timeless and has always
existed.
Unlike other religions,
Hinduism has no one founder
but is instead a fusion of various
beliefs.
Hindu Gods
An early 18th century depiction of Devi
revered by brahma, vishnu and shiva.
Some of the Most prominent deities
include:
Brahma: the god responsible for the
creation of the world and all living
things
Vishnu: the god that preserves
and protects the universe
Shiva: the god that destroys the
universe in order to recreate it
Devi: the goddess that fights to
restore dharma.
Krishna: the god of compassion,
tenderness and love
Lakshmi: the goddess of wealth and purity
Saraswati: the goddess of learning Hindu
worship, which is known as “puja,”
typically takes place in the Mandir
(temple). Followers of Hinduism can visit
the Mandir anytime they please.
Hindus can also worship at
home, and many have a
special shrinededicated to
certain gods and goddesses.
The of offerings is an important part of
Hindu worship. It’s a common practice
to present gifts, such as flowers or oils,
to god or goddess.
Sects of Hinduism
Hinduism has many sects, and is
sometimes divided into the following:
Shaivism (followers of Shiva)
Vaishnava (followers of Vishnu)
Shaktism (followers of Devi)
Smarta (followers of Brahman and all major
deities)
Some Hindus elevate the Hindu
trinity, which consist of Brahma,
Vishnu and Shiva. Others believe that
all deities are a manifestation of one.
Hindu Caste System
The caste system is a social hierarchy in
India that divides Hindus based on their
karma and dharma. Many scholars believe
the system dates back more than 3,000
years.
The four main castes (in order of
prominence) include: Brahmin: the
intellectual and spiritual leaders
Kshatriyas: the protectors and public
servants of society.
Vaisyas: the skillful producers
Shudras: the unskilled laborers
Many subcategories also exist within each caste.
The “Untouchables” are a class of citizens that
are outside the caste system and considered to be
in the lowest level of the social hierarchy.
Hindu Holidays
A pakistani Hindu family offers prayers
and light candles as they mark Diwali,
the Festival of Lights, in Lahore, 2016.
Hindus observe numerous sacred days,
holidays and festivals.
Some of the most well-known include:
Diwali the festival of lights.
Navarati: a celebration of fertility and harvest
Holi: a spring festival
Krishna Janmashtami: a tribute to Krishna’s
birthday Rakish Bandahan: a celebration of the
bond between brother and sister.
Mah Shivaratri: the great festival of
Shiva Source.

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HINDUISM

INTRODUCTION TO WORLD RELIGIONS AND BELIEF SYSTEM

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