5 Major World Religions Eastern Religions Hinduism Buddhism

5 Major World Religions

Eastern Religions

HinduismBuddhism


HinduismProbably the oldest religion in the world.Took ideas from the Aryan’s Vedas religious teachings.

Aryan Vedas Religious Teachings


Hinduism

In Hinduism, the soul is represented by a river. The Ganges River is especially sacred to the Hindus as a source of life and purity (cleansing).

Hinduism

Hindu’s believe in the idea of reincarnation or rebirth of the soul when a person dies.

The idea of Karma or how well you live your life determines how you will be reincarnated.

Hinduism

Hindu’s believe in the caste system which is a way of ranking people’s class or place in society.

Hinduism is polytheistic meaning they worship many gods.

Vishnu Shiva Durga Ganesha

Brahma / Brahman


Hinduism

Hindu Temple Hindu Shrine in the home


Hinduism

Hindu Temple Hindu Shrine in the home


HinduismSymbols of Hinduism

Hindu Om

The Om (or Aum) sign is one of the main symbols of Hinduism. Most religions believe that creation began with sound-- In the beginning was the word… For the Hindus, Om is the primordial sound, the first breath of creation. Hindus often use this sound when praying or chanting.



Lotus BlossomIn Hinduism, the lotus represents beauty and non-

attachment. The lotus is rooted in the mud but floats on the water without becoming wet or muddy. This symbolizes how how one should live in the world in order to gain release from rebirth: without attachment to one's surroundings.



Why do some Hindus put a dot on their forehead?Not only women, but Hindu men also wear a dot on the forehead, indicating their third eye. The dot, called a pottu, is a very important symbol, reminding Hindus of their spiritual heritage and ideals, wherever they may be. It also serves to identify a Hindu among the members of all other religions.



The CowHindus do not worship the cow like a god, but instead treat the cow as a sacred or special animal put on the earth to help the people. Cows provide milk which has many nutrients in it and can be used for leather when the animal dies of natural causes. Hindus do not look at cows as a source of meat (beef) like we do in America since most Hindus are vegetarians.


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Buddhism

Prince Siddhartha Gautama

Buddhism

Buddhism

The Buddha became enlightened by meditating or thinking deeply about

life.


Buddhism

Buddhists sometimes still pray under a bodhi (fig) tree.


Buddhism

Buddhists must follow “The Middle Way” so that they can reach “Nirvana” and be set

free from the cycles of reincarnation.


BuddhismSymbols of Buddhism

Statue of Buddha

The Buddha is not treated as a god, but respected and honored as a great teacher.


BuddhismSymbols of Buddhism

Buddhist Wheel

The wheel is one of the most important Buddhist symbols. It represents the teachings of the Buddha. The wheel symbolically turns as a Buddhist is learning more about his or her inner spirit. It is sometimes called “the wheel of transformation” since a Buddhist transforms and becomes enlightened.


BuddhismVideo Break

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5 Major World Religions Eastern Religions Hinduism Buddhism