Hinduism

Question 1

In Hindi this term means “descent”, and refers to the appearance or incarnation of a deity on earth. It is most often associated with Vishnu, although it can be associated with any deity.

Answer 1

Avatar

Question 2

In Hinduism, this term can mean either a spiritual hermitage or a monastery.

Answer 2

Ashram

Question 3

According to the 13th-century Goraksasataka, the god Shiva enumerated 84 different asanas in what discipline?

Answer 3

Yoga

Question 4

Give the fourth item missing in the list of the Varna system: Shudras, Vaishyas, Kshatriyas, _________.

Answer 4

Brahmins

Varna was used to refer to social classes in Hindu texts like the Manusmriti.

• Brahmins: priests, scholars and teachers.
• Kshatriyas: rulers, warriors and administrators.
• Vaishyas: agriculturalists and merchants.
• Shudras: laborers and service providers.

Question 5

Although he is commonly depicted as having the head of a much larger animal, the elephant, the Hindu deity Ganesha is often shown riding on or attended by what kind of animal? Coincidentally, this animal represents the year 2020 on the Chinese Zodiac calendar.

Answer 5

Mouse / Rat

Question 6

Written beginning around 900 BCE, the texts that make up the final portion of the Vedas (and thus are also known also as the Vedanta—”End of the Vedas”) and form the basis of Hindu religion and philosophy are best known by what name?

Answer 6

Upanishads

Question 7

The Mahabharata recounts the adventures of this Hindu deity, an avatar of Vishnu who is often depicted with blue skin.

Answer 7

Krishna