Lesson 15: Learning About World Religions: Hinduism
What are the origins and beliefs of Hinduism?
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The ancient traditions that gave rise to Hinduism have shaped Indian life in countless ways. This cultural heritage has affected how people worship, what jobs they do, and even what they eat. It has inspired great art and literature. And it has helped determine the status of people in Indian society.
One of the basic beliefs of Hinduism and some other Indian religions is dharma. Dharma refers to law, duty, and obligation. To follow one's dharma means to dedicate oneself to performing one's duties and to living by specific sets of rules.
Summary:
Hinduism and the Caste System Brahmanism followed a social organization that was described in the Vedas. There were four main classes, or varnas. Each class had certain duties. This caste system became more complex over time.
Hindu Beliefs About Brahman and Other Deities Some Hindus believe that Brahman is a divine force and the greatest deity. They believe he exists forever, creating, destroying, and re-creating the universe in an endless cycle. Their many deities are different faces of Brahman. Some traditions worship three key deities who control aspects of the universe: Brahma creates, Vishnu preserves, and Shiva destroys. One text held sacred by some Hindus is the Ramayana, which contains stories about deities battling evil.
Dharma According to these beliefs, held by Hindus and other Indian traditions, people must live honorably, by performing duties. Each class has its own dharma, as well as a common set of values.
Karma According to these beliefs, shared by Hindus and other traditions, the good and evil done in a past life determine what happens to one's soul in the next life. Karma was used to explain why people were in particular castes.
Samsara Hindus and other Indians believe in this cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The cycle ends after many lifetimes, when the soul is reunited with Brahman and is no longer reborn. Hindu beliefs continue to affect daily life in India. Hindus still worship in temples, make pilgrimages, and celebrate religious festivals.
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