Intro to Hinduism

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infoWhy this? Hinduism encompasses diverse understandings of Brahman, deities, worship, duty, and liberation, so studying it challenges simplistic labels such as ‘polytheistic’. Exploring dharma, karma, samsara, moksha, pilgrimage, and Holi shows how Hindu beliefs connect moral choices, identity, and spiritual goals.

scheduleWhy now? The earlier study of Diwali provides a meaningful starting point for a fuller exploration of Hindu belief and practice. Comparing Hindu understandings of divinity with previously studied Christian monotheism develops careful comparison, while karma, samsara, and moksha prepare us for the next unit on life after death.

Hinduism comprises diverse traditions and should not simply be classified as polytheistic: some Hindus understand many deities as forms of one ultimate reality, Brahman, while others worship one deity as supreme or interpret divinity differently.
The Trimurti names Brahma as creator, Vishnu as preserver, and Shiva as destroyer and transformer.
A murti is an idol image that serves as a focus for darshan (seeing and being seen by the deity) rather than being worshipped as mere stone or metal.
Hindu ethics are grounded in dharma (duty and right order) and karma, which is action and its moral consequences; actions can affect a person’s present or future lives and progress towards moksha.
Samsara is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, and moksha is liberation from samsara.
In many Hindu traditions, atman is the enduring self, although traditions differ over the relationship between atman and Brahman.
Many Hindus practise vegetarianism and avoid beef, reflecting ahimsa and reverence for the cow as a sacred animal.
Pilgrimage (tirtha-yatra) to places such as Varanasi on the Ganges, or the Kumbh Mela is undertaken for blessing, purification, and merit.
Pilgrimage practices typically include ritual bathing, making offerings, and listening to or reciting sacred narratives.
Holi commemorates the protection of the devotee Prahlada and the defeat of Hiranyakashipu and Holika, symbolising the victory of good and devotion over evil.
Holi traditions include Holika Dahan bonfires and playful throwing of coloured powders and water, promoting joy, reconciliation, and social mixing.
The Constitution of India prohibits discrimination on grounds including caste and sex and abolishes untouchability (Article 17), yet discrimination persists in some contexts.

rocket_launchYou must be able to

Explain how multiple Hindu deities relate to Brahman.
Justify why a moral code is necessary in Hinduism by linking dharma, karma, and moksha to everyday choices, and illustrate the argument with a relevant scenario.
Interpret the Holi narrative by naming Prahlada, Hiranyakashipu, Holika, and Holika Dahan, and explain at least two ways the festival remains relevant for Hindus today.
Write developed extended responses that accurately use key terminology and include at least two specific examples to link belief, practice, and social impact, concluding with a justified judgement.

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