We've already read about Hinduism when we did the main ideas and supporting details assignment. Today, we will put the main beliefs on our study guide.
Hinduism is the main religion in India. It began from old poems and songs over 4000 years ago. These holy songs were taught to everyone. Later, they were written down and called the Vedas. The Vedas told Hindus how to live. Hinduism is a religion from ancient times but still practiced today. The belief in many gods is polytheism. Hindus believe in many gods. They usually chose one god above all others to worship. They might have a special place in their house to honor these gods: like a picture and a candle. Three special gods are:
~Brahma - the creator ~ Vishnu - the preserver ~ Shiva - the destroyer
At HWMS students need to do the right thing. Hindus are expected to do the right thing too. This is called dharma and is similar to integrity from our PRIDE. It is their code for leading life. Respect for others, especially elders is important. They also believe in reincarnation which means a person comes back to live another life after they die. This can even be as an animal. Most people in the US believe we live just one life. However, we both believe in the idea of heaven. For Hindu people, nirvana is like heaven and is reached when a person has lived their very best life.
Karma is a big part of Hinduism. There can be good karma or bad karma depending on the circumstance. Hindus believe every action has a consequence and the consequence is "karma'. Hindu believe that karma will influence your fate or next life. In the US, some also believe in karma. They think if you do something bad it can cause something bad to happen to you. The same with something good.
Hindus worship or pray every day and usually have a shrine in their house. A shrine can be a special room, small altar, or simply pictures and statues. They worship by making offerings or saying prayers. They do not usually go to a church or temple. Prayer and worship at home are more popular. Many Hindus are vegetarian. A vegetarian does not eat meat. They believe that all living things have souls. Some Hindus are vegan, which means they will not eat any animal products, including eggs and cheese. Cows are particularly sacred to Hindus. It is not unusual to see a cow wandering through the streets of an Indian city today.
Most Hindus consider the Ganges River holy. Lately, the Ganges has become dirty. Still, Hindus believe the water will purify those who drink or bathe in its waters. Many Hindus make a holy journey to the Ganges River near a special city named Varanasi. Some may live near the Ganges and visit it each and every day while others live near smaller rivers they also consider holy. After death, Hindu followers have their body cremated or burned into ashes and dumped into this river.
Diwali (the festival of lights) is to celebrate good over evil and light over darkness. Hindu followers light lanterns or oil lamps, clean their homes, decorate with bright colors, exchange gifts, and enjoy family celebrations.
A festival every 12 years for believers is called Kumbh Mela and popular . This festival lasts three months and millions take part in it. In fact, it is considered the largest religious gathering in the world. It rotates and is held in four different cities in India.