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Hinduism

Hinduism is the world's oldest religion. It is the third


largest religion behind Christianity and Islam. It is an
Indian religion and a way of life.

Hinduism Beliefs
 Most forms of Hinduism are henotheistic, which
means they worship a single deity, known as
“Brahman,” but still recognize other gods and
goddesses.

 Hindus believe in the doctrines of samsara (the


continuous cycle of life, death, and reincarnation)
and karma (the universal law of cause and effect).

 One of the key thoughts of Hinduism is “atman,” or


the belief in soul. This philosophy holds that living
creatures have a soul, and they’re all part of the
supreme soul. The goal is to achieve “moksha,” or
salvation, which ends the cycle of rebirths to
become part of the absolute soul.
 One fundamental principle of the religion is the
idea that people’s actions and thoughts directly
determine their current life and future lives.

 Hindus revere all living creatures and consider the


cow a sacred animal.

 Food is an important part of life for Hindus. Most


don’t eat beef or pork, and many are vegetarians.

Hindu Gods
Hindus worship many gods and goddesses in addition to
Brahman, who is believed to be the supreme God force
present in all things. Some of their gods are:
 Brahma: the god responsible for the creation of the
world and all living things.
 Vishnu: the god that preserves and protects the
universe.
 Shiva: the god that destroys the universe in order to
recreate it
 Devi: the goddess that fights to restore dharma.
 Krishna: the god of compassion, tenderness and love.
 Lakshmi: the goddess of wealth and purity.
 Saraswathi: the goddess of learning.

The giving of offerings is an important part of Hindu


worship. It’s a common practice to present gifts, such
as flowers or oils, to a god or goddess.

Some Hindus elevate the Hindu trinity, which consists


of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Others believe that all
the deities are a manifestation of one.

Hindu Caste System


The caste system is a social hierarchy in India that
divides Hindus based on their karma and dharma. For
centuries, the caste system determined every aspect
of a person’s social, professional and religious status in
India.

The four main castes (in order of prominence) include:

 Brahmin: the intellectual and spiritual leaders


 Kshatriyas: the protectors and public servants of
society
 Vaisyas: the skillful producers
 Shudras: the unskilled laborers

Hindu Holidays

Hindus observe numerous sacred days, holidays and


festivals. Some of the most well-known include:

 Diwali: the festival of lights


 Navaratri: a celebration of fertility and harvest
 Holi: a spring festival
 Krishna Janmashtami: a tribute to Krishna’s
birthday
 Raksha Bandhan: a celebration of the bond between
brother and sister
 Mahi Shivaratri: the great festival of Shiva

Difference between Hinduism and Christianity

The main difference is that Christianity recognizes one


omnipotent God, while Hinduism beliefs in hundreds of
gods.
Webography

 https://www.history.com/topics/re
ligion/hinduism#section_2

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