One of the most beloved gods in Hinduism; has the head of an elephant

Group of nomadic people who emerged ~1500 BCE

Aryan leaders who created small kingdoms

Written language developed by the Aryans.

People of India put into categories, based on their family status and money

Rigid social categories that determined each person's position in Indian society

The four major social classes in Aryan society.

Powerful group in charge of religious ceremonies

Powerful warrior class group

The commoner class. Consisted mostly of merchants or farmers.

Largest population of Indians--most were peasants

Lowest group in Ancient Indian society. Given degrading jobs that others would not do.

Belief that a person's soul is reborn in a different form after death.

The seasonal winds in Ancient India's climate.

Belief that a person's actions determine what their next life will be when they are reborn

Divine law stating that more is expected of the higher caste groups

Religion that rivaled Hinduism; based on the teachings of the Buddha

Achieving ultimate wisdom; the final goal of Buddhism