Hinduism ​
Polytheistic religion or atheistic philosophy originated in South AsiaDrv. Sindhu (now Indus) -> Hindus -> Hinduism
Diverse, flexible and open-minded
Tolerant of other religions, atheism and agnosticism
Absorbs traditions, aspects and beliefs of other religions into its own, e.g. Jesus Christ as avatar of Vishnu
[!quote]+ Bhagavad Gita
"Whosoever follows any faith and worships me under whatsoever denomination in whatsoever form with steadfastness, his faith shall I indeed reinforce." —Lord Krishna
Deities ​
Marriage of indigenous goddesses and patriarchal gods
Many hands = great capabilities
[!abstract] Ardhanarisvara
Half-male half-female deity
Concepts ​
Maya ​
Illusion
Everything is an illusion
Atman ​
Soul
Eternal
See beyond maya to the true reality
Dharma ​
Righteousness
One's duty
Yoga ​
Spiritual discipline for self-realization and samsara
3 levels
Karma ​
Action
Actions in the current life will influence the reincarnation
Good actions -> good karma -> rewarded
Bad actions -> bad karma -> punished
Ajitani Hifumi