A History Into Hinduism
Origins
Hinduism is the oldest known religion in the world. Through the ages it has expanded from the diverse groups who settled in India to all over the continent of Asia. Pieces of Hinduism can be traced to: Russia, Japan, Afghanistan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.
Founder
Because Hinduism is the oldest known religion, we cannot pinpoint the founder who came up with this way of life.
Supreme Being
The supreme being of Hinduism is the god Brahman. In a way Hinduism is monotheistic, but when mentioning the other deities Hindu's worship, it makes them polytheistic. It is taught that other deities are the manifestations of Brahman.
Key Beliefs of Hinduism
The major beliefs of Hinduism are reincarnation, karma, and salvation. Reincarnation in Hinduism is believing that all souls are immortal and pass through one physical body to the next. Karma is apart of Hindu belief, it is classified as either good or bad. Karma is something that happens as a result from your current life. Finally, salvation is the cycle of reincarnation continued until our soul is apart of the "supreme soul", and is the ultimate goal of a humans life according to Hinduism.
Major Holidays and Ceremonies
One of the biggest ceremonies in Hinduism is a Samskara. A Samskara is celebrated at different points in a person's life.
Religious Texts
The religious books in Hinduism is the Vedas, Upanishadas, Bhagvadgita, Smritis, Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Puranas.
Current Locations of Worship
Locations of worship for this religion can be completed at home or at a temple setting. At home there is to be a shrine where offerings are offered to one's favored god. It is said that worshiping at home can be done with the whole family. At a temple prayers and mantras can be done.
Important Symbols and Their Meanings |
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Important People
Important people of the Hindu religion include: the Bhakti Saints, Buddha, and Ramakrishna. Buddha had a big impact on Hinduism because he encouraged others to achieve enlightenment. Hindus also believe that Buddha is a reincarnation of one other gods. The Bhakti Saints also made a change in the Hindu religion, as they spoke out against the caste system and they preached their opinions on various topics. The Bhakti Saints are known for their poetry and writings. Ramakrishna was also important because he preached and encouraged his followers to find a higher power.