Buddhism & Hinduism Flashcards
(40 cards)
`Why is India a subcontinent?
It’s a large landmass, separated from the rest of Asia by the Himalayas, with unique culture, climate, and geography.
What is the importance of the Indus & Ganges Rivers?
They provide fertile soil for farming, drinking water, transport, and spiritual/religious significance.
Why are river valleys important in South Asia?
Rich soil supports agriculture, human settlement, and the growth of civilizations.
How do the Himalayan Mountains affect South Asia?
Block cold air, trap monsoons, form rivers, limit trade, support tourism.
How were the Himalayas formed?
Collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates.
What are monsoons and their effects?
Seasonal winds; summer monsoons bring rain vital for crops, but can cause flooding and damage.
Causes and effects of India’s large population?
Causes: Rivers, fertile land, agriculture, spiritual hubs. Effects: pollution, overcrowding, traffic, unemployment.
What are the 4 ways to unite with Brahman?
Devotion, Wisdom, Right Action, Meditation.
What 3 beliefs do all Hindus share?
Brahman (universal soul), Atman (individual soul), Maya (illusion of the physical world).
What is reincarnation?
The rebirth of the soul in a new body based on karma.
What is karma?
Actions (good/bad) that affect future lives.
What is dharma?
A person’s spiritual and moral duty based on caste and life stage.
What is moksha?
Release from the cycle of rebirth; the soul reunites with Brahman.
What happens when the soul reaches Brahman?
It escapes reincarnation and becomes one with the universe.
What are the 4 stages of Hindu life?
Student, Householder, Retired, Renunciate (seeker).
What are some key Hinduism facts?
Oldest major religion, ~1.2 billion followers, began ~600 BCE in India, many gods but flexible worship.
Where and when did Buddhism start?
Northern India/Nepal, ~500s BCE.
Who founded Buddhism?
Siddhartha Gautama, a prince who became the Buddha.
What did Siddhartha see that made him question life?
An old man, a sick man, a dead man, and a peaceful monk.
What did he do to seek answers?
Left his palace, meditated under a tree in Varanasi, and reached enlightenment at age 35.
What does ‘Buddha’ mean?
Awakened one or Enlightened one.
What truth did Buddha discover?
Life is suffering; desire causes suffering.
What are the 4 Noble Truths?
- Life has suffering 2. Suffering is caused by desire 3. Ending desire ends suffering 4. Follow the Eightfold Path.
What is the Eightfold Path?
Right View, Resolve, Speech, Conduct, Livelihood, Effort, Mindfulness, Concentration.
