Hinduism

1
Hinduism

• The world's third largest religion
• By Sheena Kelly Catriona Hamel, Hannah Hughes,
  Nicola Lavery and Lauren Kelly

2
History of the Hindu faith

• The earliest evidence for elements of the Hindu
  faith date back as far as 3000 BCE.
• Archaeological excavations in the Punjab and
  Indus valleys (right) have revealed the existence
  of urban cultures at Harappa,
• Archaeological work continues on other
  sites The excavations have revealed signs of
  early rituals and worship.
• In Mohenjodaro, for example, a large bath
  has been found, with side rooms and statues which
  could be evidence of early purification rites.
• This early Indian culture is sometimes called the
  Indus Valley civilisation.

3
Initiation rites

• To begin with, the novitiate usually lasts at
  least six months.
• After a period of verification, the novice
  completes a questionnaire
• A fire sacrifice is performed.
• The new name links the believer to a particular
  aspect or form of god

4
Womens roles in the Hindu faith

• Choice of partner of a Hindu Woman is limited.
• The widow of her dead partner is considered to be
  a curse and not to be seen in public.
• Child and infant marriage is encouraged.

5
Pilgrimage

• There are many different reasons why devoted
  Hindus pilgrim
• Many pilgrim sites are near water
• A very famous Hindu place of worship is the river
  Ganges
• There is a story that is told about
• how the river came to be there

6
Festivals

• Festivals are a recognised way to celebrate the
  Hindus faith
• One festival can attract a massive amount of
  Hindus all attending to pay respect to the
  religion
• There are many different festivals such as
• Modern day festivals can be a lot of fun

7
Worship

• Hindus have shrines in their houses to pray
• They prefer to pray alone or with family
• They use mantras to pray