Hinduism Flashcards
When was Hinduism founded?
In India in 2,000 BCE
Who is Brahman?
They are a supreme soul or spirit that has no shape or form. Hindus believe that everything in the universe flows from Brahman.
What type of religion is Hinduism?
Polytheistic because they believe in more than one god.
What do the gods and goddesses represent?
They represent different parts of Brahman’s power and character.
Who are their most important gods?
Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva
Who is Brahma?
The god who created the world. Identified with 4 faces and arms. His 4 arms face different directions, showing he is everywhere.
Who is Vishnu?
The god who protects people from evil and wrongdoing. He is an avatar, which means he has taken on both human and animal forms.
Who is Shiva?
The god who destroys and rebuilds. He has 3 eyes, symbolising the moon, sun and fire.
What is Dharma (virtues)?
Hindus believe that they must always do what’s right and correct for themselves. Every form of life has its own dharma.
What is Samsara?
Samsara is belief that when you die your soul is reborn in another body as an animal or as a person. You are reborn over and over until you become perfect.
What is karma?
Karma means that when you do good, good will come your way; if you do bad, bad will follow you.
What are the Vedas?
The Vedas are Hindu sacred texts that teach and guide Hindus on how they should live their lives.
What do Hindus do with shrines?
They go to shrines or have small alters at home where they pray and often burn incense and light candles there too.
Why are most Hindus vegetarians?
They’re vegetarians because they believe in reincarnation. Cows are also very special to them since their milk gives nourishment.
What is the symbol that represents this religion?
Om (Devanagari)
