Chapter 15 History Alive: Hinduism

Who were the Aryans?

• the highest caste in Indian society

• the original tribes of southern India

• a nomadic people who moved into India

• a group of scribes who recorded Indian teachings

Which of these is the best reason for someone in India to study Sanskrit?

• to read the ancient texts

• to understand road signs

• to run for political office

• to talk to ordinary people

The roots of Hinduism are found in the Vedas, which are

• a collection of sacred texts.

• a group of people from Europe.

• the three most important deities.

• the temples where rituals were performed.

According to the Vedas, what are the Varnas?

• the proper ways to read ancient Sanskrit texts

• the true lessons Hindus should gain from reading the Vedas

• four main social classes that lead to a functioning society

• the evil spirits that prevent Hindus from escaping reincarnation

Why did Mahatma Gandhi criticize the caste system's ideas of discrimination?

• The caste system did not evolve from the jatis.

• The caste system did not align with Hindu teachings.

• The caste system prevented Gandhi from increasing his power.

• The caste system allowed Hindus to marry Catholics.

Why were Untouchables excluded from other Indians?

• They wanted to stay pure.

• They shared all their goods.

• They had to eat a special diet.

• They did work others considered lowly.

To certain Hindus, the soul, or atman, is a part of

• Shiva.

• the sun.

• Brahman.

• the ocean.

Which of these sentences is true of most Hindu temples?

• They contain elaborate sculptures.

• They face west toward the setting sun.

• They are placed as far from cities as possible.

• They are small so as not to distract worshipers.

In some Hindu traditions, Brahma creates and Vishnu preserves. What does Shiva do?

• teaches

• perfects

• enlarges

• transforms

The festival of Diwali, which begins the Hindu New Year, celebrates

• the changing of the seasons.

• the victory of good over evil.

• the food from a good harvest.

• the long life of the wise elders.