Laizapot Hinduism

HINDUISM
Laiza Ogario
Hinduism is a diverse and ancient religious
tradition originating in the Indian
subcontinent. It encompasses a wide range
of beliefs, practices, and denominations,
with core concepts including Dharma,
Karma, Saṃsāra, and Moksha. Hinduism
recognizes a single supreme deity
(Brahman) while also acknowledging various
gods and goddesses. The religion has a rich
collection of sacred texts like the Vedas,
Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, and
Mahabharata. Common practices include
Puja, Yajña, Yoga, and Pilgrimage. Hinduism
continues to evolve and adapt in the modern
world, facing new challenges and engaging
in contemporary discussions.
The term “Hinduism” itself is a relatively recent
creation, coined by Western scholars in the 18th
century. It originates from the Sanskrit word
“Sindhu,” referring to the Indus River in
northwestern India. Over time, the term “Hindu”
evolved to encompass the people and their
religious practices in the region.
• Many Hindus, however, prefer alternative terms
like “Sanātana Dharma” (meaning “eternal
dharma”) or “Vedic Dharma” to emphasize the
timeless and universal aspects of their tradition.
These terms highlight the belief that Hinduism’s
origins lie beyond human history, as revealed in
its sacred texts.
Hinduism encompasses a vast array of beliefs and practices, but some core concepts are
shared across different traditions. These include:
• Dharma: This refers to a code of conduct, ethics, and righteousness that guides
individuals in their lives. It encompasses moral duties, social responsibilities, and the
pursuit of a virtuous life.
• Karma and Saṃsāra: Hindus believe in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (Saṃsāra),
driven by the law of cause and effect (Karma). Actions in this life determine one’s future
rebirths, shaping their destiny.
• Moksha: This is the ultimate goal of Hinduism, signifying liberation from the cycle of
Saṃsāra and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment. It involves transcending the
limitations of the physical world and achieving union with the ultimate reality.
• The Concept of God: Hinduism is often described as henotheistic, meaning it
recognizes a single supreme deity (Brahman) while also acknowledging the existence of
various gods and goddesses. Brahman is considered the ultimate reality, the source of all
creation, and the ultimate goal of spiritual realization.
The Historical Journey of Hinduism:
A Tapestry of beliefs and practices
◦Hinduism often referred to as the world’s
oldest religion, boasts a rich and complex
history spanning millennia. Its origins are
deeply intertwined with the cultural and social
fabric of the Indian subcontinent, evolving
over time through a confluence of beliefs,
practices, and influences.
Shruti: The Heard Word in
Hinduism
◦Shruti (Sanskrit: श्रुति, IAST: śruti), meaning “that
which is heard,” refers to the most authoritative and
ancient body of sacred literature in Hinduism. It
encompasses the foundational texts that have shaped
the core beliefs, practices, and philosophical
underpinnings of the tradition for millennia.
The Core Texts of Shruti:
The Shruti canon includes the four Vedas:
- Rig Veda: The oldest Veda, containing hymns praising

various deities and celebrating cosmic forces. [1]
- Yajur Veda: Focuses on rituals and sacrifices, providing
detailed instructions for priests. [1]
- Sama Veda: Emphasizes melodies and chants derived from
the Rig Veda, exploring the power of sound and rhythm. [1]
- Atharva Veda: Encompasses a diverse range of hymns,
spells, and incantations, addressing practical aspects of life,
healing, and protection. [1]
The Ramayana: A Cornerstone
of Hindu Faith and Culture
◦The Ramayana (Sanskrit: रामायणम्, romanized:
Rāmāyaṇam), meaning “Rama’s Journey,” is one
of the two great epics of Hinduism, alongside the
Mahabharata. It is a foundational text in Hinduism,
narrating the life and adventures of Rama, the
seventh avatar (incarnation) of the god Vishnu.
The epic serves as a key source of ethical
teachings, illustrating concepts of dharma
(righteousness, duty) through its characters’
actions and decisions.
The Story of Rama: A Journey of Dharma
The Ramayana tells the story of Rama, the

prince of Ayodhya, who is forced into exile
by his stepmother, Kaikeyi. Accompanied by
his wife, Sita, and brother, Lakshmana,
Rama spends fourteen years in the forest.
During this time, Sita is abducted by the
demon king Ravana, who rules the island
kingdom of Lanka. Rama, with the help of
the monkey god Hanuman and his vanara
(monkey) army, wages war against Ravana,
ultimately defeating him and rescuing Sita.
Rama then returns to Ayodhya, where he is
The Mahabharata: A Tapestry of
Hindu Beliefs and Values
◦The Mahabharata (Sanskrit: महाभारतम्,
romanized: Mahābhāratam, pronounced [mɐɦaː
ˈbʱaːrɐt̪ɐm]), meaning “Great Story of the Bharata
Dynasty,” is one of the two great epics of
Hinduism, alongside the Ramayana.It is a vast and
complex text, considered a Smriti (meaning “that
which is remembered”) in Hinduism, which means
it is a work attributed to human authors, unlike
the Shruti (divine revelation).] Despite its human
origin, the Mahabharata is revered as a sacred
text, offering profound insights into Hindu
philosophy, ethics, and mythology.
The Bhagavad Gita: A Cornerstone
of Hindu Philosophy and Practice
◦The Bhagavad Gita (Sanskrit: भगवद्गीता, romanized:
Bhagavadgītā, pronounced [bʰəɡəvɐdˈɡiːt̪aː]),
meaning “Song of the Lord,” is a revered Hindu
scripture that forms a part of the Mahabharata, the
great epic of ancient India. It is considered one of the
most important and influential religious texts in
Hinduism, offering profound insights into the nature
of the divine, the meaning of life, and the path to
liberation (moksha).
THANKYOU
AND
G O D B L E S S!
Laiza Ogario

Laizapot Hinduism

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HINDUISM

The Shruti canon includes the four Vedas:

- Rig Veda: The oldest Veda, containing hymns praising

The Ramayana tells the story of Rama, the

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