Hinduism Full Flashcards
What is an Avatar?
An incarnation, or manifestation, of a deity in earthly form.
What is a Guru?
A spiritual teacher or guide who can help one achieve moksha, or salvation.
What does Ahimsa mean?
The doctrine of non-violence toward all living creatures.
What does Aryan mean?
“Noble and educated”.
What is Samsara?
The endless cycle of rebirths.
What is Yoga?
A practice or discipline combining philosophy with physical exercises and meditation; union with God.
What does Harijan mean?
untouchable.
What is an Ascetic?
Someone whose lifestyle is a set of practices in which restrictions and limits are placed on the sensually pleasurable and comfortable experiences that most people consider integral to a happy life.
What is Karma?
The totality of one’s actions; the accumulation of good or bad karma determines one’s birth in his or her next life.
What is Dharma?
The duties a Hindu should follow in their life.
What does Maya refer to?
The temporary and imperfect nature of the physical world.
What is Moksha?
Liberation of the soul from the endless cycle of rebirths; attained by uniting the atman with the Brahman. It is the ultimate goal of Hindus.
What is a Mandir?
A Hindu place of worship.
What is Puja?
A common thanksgiving ritual that involves offerings of flowers, food, and other articles to the deities.
What is a Mantra?
A sacred word or phrase that is chanted during worship or meditation.
What does Om represent?
A sacred syllable that invokes the essence of Brahman when chanted. It is believed to be the sound of all reality.
What is a Pilgrimage?
A journey to a sacred place.
What is the significance of the Sacred Cow?
It represents Mother Earth, as it is a source of goodness and its milk nourishes all creatures.
Who is Agni?
The god of fire; the link between gods and humans.
What is Shruti?
Knowledge that is revealed to, or ‘discovered’ by, the wise men of Hinduism, e.g., the content of the Vedas.
What is Smriti?
Human-made literature, or knowledge that is ‘remembered,’ e.g., the content of the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.
What is a Swami?
The holy men of Hinduism.
What is a Yogi?
A spiritually evolved individual who practises meditation.
Who is Brahma?
Creator of the universe
Brahma is depicted with four heads, bearded faces, and four arms, symbolizing omnipotence.