Hinduism

Holy Books:
Vedas, Upanishads,
Ramayana, Mahabharata,
Bhagavad Gita

Core Beliefs:
1. Salvation is achieved through spiritual
oneness of the soul (atman) with the
ultimate reality of the universe
(Brahman)
2. To achieve salvation, the soul must
obtain moksha (liberation from the
samsara [endless cycle of
reincarnation])

Core Beliefs:
3. Reincarnation is influenced by
karma (material actions resulting
from the consequences of
previous actions) and dharma
(fulfilling ones duty in life)
4. Ahmisa- all life is sacred and
should not be harmed

How it Emerged:
Established around 3000 BC;
elements of Hinduism traced to
Indus River Valley Civilization (in
modern day Pakistan)

How it Emerged:
Theory suggests that the founding of
Hinduism is a result of cultural
diffusion that occurred between
Aryan invaders and the native
people of India around 1500 BC.

How it Emerged:
Emerged on the Indian subcontinent
Today: most Hindus live in India

Other Notes:
1. Rigid social structure emerged from
Hinduism (Caste System). People are
born into their social class
Social Structure:
Bhramin (priests)- top
Kshatryia (warriors)
Viasya (merchants, landowners)
Sudra (commoners, peasants)
Untouchables (street sweepers, latrine cleaners)

Other Notes:
2. There is one Supreme Being in
Hinduism. All other gods are derived
from the one Supreme Being
3. Key Gods: Vishnu (Creator) and Shiva
(Destroyer)
4. Ganges River is sacred to Hindus; it is
used for spiritual cleaning, funeral
rituals, and many other Hindu rituals

Geography: