Ancient Indian Concepts and Terms

Hindu-Arabic numerals

• the numbers we use today.

• a type of ancient script.

• a system of measurement.

• a form of currency.

Monsoons

• strong seasonal winds

• gentle summer breezes

• harsh winter storms

• constant ocean currents

Subcontinent

• large distinct land mass that is part of a continent

• a small island nation

• a type of mountain range

• a region with no distinct geographical features

Golden Age

• time of peace and prosperity

• period of war and conflict

• era of economic decline

• time of cultural stagnation

Sanskrit

• the Aryan language

• a dialect of Chinese

• an ancient Egyptian script

• a modern European language

Vedas

• sacred text of Brahmanism

• ancient Greek philosophy

• medieval European literature

• modern scientific theories

Inoculation

• gives a mild form of a disease so you do not get a severe form

• is a method to completely eliminate a disease

• is a type of vaccination that has no effect

• is a process of diagnosing diseases

Caste System

• A flexible system of social roles

• A rigid system of hereditary roles/jobs

• An egalitarian social structure

• A system based on wealth and education

Nirvana

• a state of bliss, or end of suffering caused by the cycle of rebirth

• a form of meditation practiced in Buddhism

• a type of ancient Indian scripture

• a philosophical concept of eternal life

Varna

• a type of traditional Indian dance

• any of the four levels of the caste system

• a sacred text of Hinduism

• a festival celebrated in India