Hinduism's Foundations and Cultural Impact Through History

Hinduism, the world's oldest religion, has no single founder and is considered eternal by its followers. It emphasizes honesty, non-violence, and compassion. Originating in the Indus Valley, it evolved through the Vedic Period with the creation of the Vedas, which introduced the concept of Brahman. The caste system, derived from the Rig Veda, outlines social classes. Hinduism prescribes life goals like dharma and karma, influencing reincarnation beliefs. Epic texts like the Ramayana and Mahabharata further shaped Hindu doctrines. Over time, Hinduism faced challenges from Buddhism and later Islamic and British influences, which affected its practices and social structures. Despite these, Hinduism remains a major world religion, impacting global culture through practices like yoga.

What is the primary language in which the Vedas were composed?

• Sanskrit

• Tamil

• Hindi

• Bengali

Which concept in Hinduism is considered the ultimate source of everything?

• Brahman

• Moksha

• Karma

• Dharma

From which body part of Brahma are the priests believed to have originated?

• Feet

• Thighs

• Arms

• Mouth

What is the goal of 'moksha' in Hinduism?

• Seeking pleasure

• Achieving liberation

• Following social duties

• Accumulating wealth

Which two epic poems are significant texts in Hinduism?

• Beowulf and Gilgamesh

• Divine Comedy and Paradise Lost

• Ramayana and Mahabharata

• Iliad and Odyssey

Who led the development of Buddhism as a response to Hinduism?

• Ashoka

• Vishnu Sharma

• Chandragupta

• Siddharta Gautama

What was a significant impact of British colonialism on Hindu society?

• Abolition of the caste system

• Introduction of new deities

• Promotion of Hindu temples

• Rigidification of the caste system

Which Hindu tradition did Gandhi draw upon for his independence movement?

• Ritual sacrifices

• Non-violence (ahimsa)

• Caste hierarchy

• Temple worship

What major event occurred after the end of British colonial rule in India?

• Unification with Sri Lanka

• Formation of a single Indian nation

• Adoption of a new religion

• Partition into India and Pakistan

Which Western cultural practice has been influenced by Hinduism?

• Martial arts

• Yoga

• Opera

• Ballet