A large landmass that is part of a continent is called?
Subcontinent
One of the world's oldest religions practiced by most people in India today?
Hinduism
Buddhism
What did the Indus valley believe about rivers?
It was a "life giver" and the foundation of their entire worldview
Which modern country did Hinduism begin?
India
Heavy rains that added silt, soil fertility and caused seasonal winds?
Monsoons
The process after death when the soul is released and reborn?
Four Noble Truths
What type gods did the Indus valley worship?
Animals and Nature spirits
Who is considered to be the founder of Hinduism? (trick question)
There is no single founder
Early Aryan text/book that includes details of Indian history and society?
Vedas
The effect of a person's actions both good and bad, which helps shape future experiences?
Karma
Desires of the material world can be overcome by following what?
Eightfold Path
Why was fire important to the Aryan community? (Multiple answers)
It was the central axis of their spiritual, social, and domestic life. Their entire world revolved around the ritual of the fire sacrifice, known as Yajna
How old is Hinduism?
When early villages banded together and elected regional leaders they were called?
Rajas
The ultimate goal of human existence is to escape from the rebirth cycle and reach what?
Moksha
A state of perfect peace in which the soul would be freed (reached by following the Eightfold Path)?
Nirvana
Do castes still exist in India today?
Legally No, the Indian constitution protects its citizens even though it is still seen socially.
Describe the Hindu god Brahma?
The creator of the universe, originator of all knowledge, architect of the cosmos and life.
Varnas of the Vedic period were divided into smaller divisions called?
Castes
A group of Hindus broke away and founded a religion that emphasized non-violence to reach moksha, what was this new religion called?
Jainism
The path that advises people to live in moderation, avoiding the extremes of either comfort or discomfort is called?
The Middle Way
What are the three parts of the Vedas? (Name 1)
Bonus (200pts) Name all three parts
1. Upanishads - Part of the Vedas that explains Hindu philosophical teachings
2. Ramayana - The story of a prince which describes how good defeats evil
3. Brahmanas - Part of the Vedas which explains the rituals of priests
What order was the caste system in?
Bonus point question (200): who was in each rank?
Brahmins - Highest ranking, priests & teachers
Kshatriyas - Warriors and rulers
Vaisyas - Common people, farmers, traders, herders
Sudras - Lowest ranking, servants