Ultimate beliefs
In Hinduism, there is no defined set of beliefs. Hinduism beliefs are extremely diverse. Ultimately all Hinduism followers believe in
- The God, Brahman which is composed of: Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the Preserver), and Shiva (the Destroyer).
- The Caste System
- Dharma
- Karma
- Reincarnation
- Nirvana
- Vedas
Brahman
Hindus may be believed to worship more than one god. In fact, there are many deities in the Hinduism religion. However, these deities represent different expressions of the one ultimate god, Brahman. The three principal gods that make up Brahman are: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
Brahma
Brahma is the creator. However, he is the least worshipped of the three principal gods because it is believed that his work has been done.
Vishnu
Vishnu is the preserver. Vishnu preserves and protects the universe. It is believed that he has come down as incarnations (which are also deities) to protect the universe.
Shiva
Shiva is the destroyer. Shiva is important because, without destruction, there can be no recreation. Shiva is the source of both good and evil.
The "OM" symbol represents all three principal gods.
Brahma
Brahma is the creator. However, he is the least worshipped of the three principal gods because it is believed that his work has been done.
Vishnu
Vishnu is the preserver. Vishnu preserves and protects the universe. It is believed that he has come down as incarnations (which are also deities) to protect the universe.
Shiva
Shiva is the destroyer. Shiva is important because, without destruction, there can be no recreation. Shiva is the source of both good and evil.
The "OM" symbol represents all three principal gods.
The caste system
At the top of the Caste System is the Brahman, or priests. Next, Kshatriyas, or warriors and rulers. Third are the Vaisyas, or merchants and farmers. Lastly, there are the Shudras, or laborers. Outside of the caste system are the untouchables. The Caste System is hereditary and there is no switching or associating with other castes. The only way to move in the caste system is to be reincarnated.
Dharma
Dharma is the moral and spiritual law that guides one's life. Dharma includes the practice of religious duties which is not the same for every person following Hinduism. Dharma means righteousness, morality, religion, responsibility, and duty. The purpose of dharma is to lead a righteous life in harmony with natural law.
Karma
"What goes around comes around" is a saying that mirrors the concept of karma. Karma is the belief that every act or thought has consequences. Ethical, moral acts lead to happiness, and ultimately when you are reincarnated it will be in a higher class than you are at the time of doing the moral acts. Doing wrongful acts will lead to negative consequences, and will ultimately lead to a "demotion" of classes when reincarnated.
Reincarnation
Reincarnation is also known as samsara. Reincarnation is a life cycle of death and rebirth decided by an individual's own karma. The purpose is to work toward balance, or enlightenment. When one is born, they are given life by Brahma. During life they are being preserved by Vishnu. When one dies, the life is given to Shiva. Then one is reincarnated and the cycle repeats over and over.
Nirvana
Nirvana, also known as moksha, is the purification of one's soul. This is the point in which one's karma has led them to purification and "changeless bliss." After lifetimes of reincarnation, nirvana can finally be reached. Nirvana leads to a release from reincarnation and a unification with Brahman.
Vedas
The Vedas are the world's most ancient scripture and the hymns of God. They are considered the most sacred books of India. They are the original scriptures of Hindu teachings, and contain spiritual knowledge of all aspects of our life.