Chapter 15Learning About World Religions:

Hinduism

What are the origins and beliefs of Hinduism?

The Origins of Hinduism

Hinduism and the Caste System

Hinduism and the Caste System

Hindu Beliefs About Brahman

Hindu Beliefs About Deities

Hindu Beliefs About Dharma

Hindu Beliefs About Karma

Hindu Beliefs About Samsara

What are the origins and beliefs of Hinduism?

• Brahmanism followed a social organization that was described in the Vedas. There were four main classes, or varnas. Each class had certain duties. This caste system became more complex over time.• The main deities of Hinduism are Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver), and Shiva

(destroyer.• According to Hinduism, people must live honorably, by performing duties. Each

class has its own dharma, as well as a common set of values.• According to Hinduism, the good and evil done in a past life determine what

happens to one’s soul in the next life. • Hindus believe in samsara which is a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The cycle

ends after many lifetimes, when the soul is reunited with Brahman and is no longer reborn. Hindu beliefs continue to affect daily life in India. Hindus still worship in temples, make pilgrimages, and celebrate religious festivals.