Fundamental Concepts of Hinduism
This term means the eternal self in which the ultimate reality can be understood through inward contemplation of the self.
Atman
Which god of the Hindu divine trinity is responsible for the creation of the world and all creatures?
Brahma
An ancient Hindu festival which celebrates the arrival of spring through the throwing of vibrant colored powders/water, the triumph of good over evil, and the love of Radha and Krishna.
Holi
The original term in Hinduism used for the division of class which means “color.”
Varna
This is the first stage of life characterized by intensive study of the Vedas and other sacred literature.
Student
What is the term that refers to one’s ethical duty based on the divine order of reality?
Dharma
Which god of the Hindu divine trinity is the preserver and protector of the universe?
Vishnu
A five-day festival marked by illuminating homes with oil lamps/lights. Its central theme is the triumph of light over darkness/knowledge over ignorance.
Diwali/Festival of Lights
This class used in the Caste System for Hinduism is at the very top and is made up of priests.
Brahmin
One of the goals of life in Hinduism which involves material success (work and prosperity).
Artha
What is the term that literally means “action” or “deed” and is best understood as the moral law of cause and effect?
Karma
Which god of the Hindu divine trinity destroys the universe in order to re-create it?
Shiva
During this holiday, the bond between siblings is celebrated. Sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) around their brothers’ wrists, while brothers promise to protect their sisters/often give them gifts.
Raksha Bandhan
This class in the Caste System for Hinduism is made up of commoners and peasants.
Shudra
The last stage of life in Hinduism where someone becomes a wide old person who only focuses on spiritual things.
Sannyasin
What is a Sanskrit word that means liberation from the cycle or “release”?
Moksha
________ represents a major deity in Hinduism, renowned for his for his role in the sacred text, Bhagavad Gita, and is worshipped as a protector, compassionate love of Radha, and the supreme god. (Hint: celebrated in Holi)
Krishna
A ritual of worship involving offerings of items such as flowers and food to a deity; can be done at home or in a temple and allows the worshipper and the deity to interact.
Puja
This class in the Caste System for Hinduism is made up of warriors and kings.
Kshatriya
A goal of life in Hinduism which involves pleasure and desire (in love, art, music, etc.) as it teaches the ultimate goal of liberation.
Kama
What does the idea of one ultimate reality, many masks refer to? (Answers many vary)
Rather than believing in one God, who created all things/exists independently of them, Hindus believe that all reality is one thing. Braham is considered the highest universal principle/the ultimate reality, and the different gods/goddesses serve as access points to connect with the divine.
This god is a symbol of righteousness, virtue, and duty. His story is told in the epic Ramayana, where his devotion/faithfulness to Sita, leadership and moral conduct is evident.
Rama
Journey most Hindus try to make at least once in their lifetime to sacred sites like holy cities, rivers, or temples. They are seen as an expression of devotion to deities, necessary for spiritual purification, and to foster a deeper connection to the divine.
Pilgrimage
This class in the Caste System for Hinduism is made up of merchants and landowners.
Vaishya
A stage of life that is marked by the birth of the first grandchild. People start to spend more time thinking about spiritual things and preparing for the next part of life, rather than merely focusing on work and family.
Forest Dweller