The questions were given as a study guide for my Hinduism test. The answers cover the basics of the religion.

STUDY GUIDE FOR FIRST TEST - HINDUISM. What is the name of the scriptures of Hinduism? When were they written? Which part of them describes the philosophical beliefs of Hinduism? Vedas was written in 1500 BC. Philosophical sections (upanishads) are included. The hymn sections are the oldest. The others were added at a later date and each explains some aspect of the hymns or follows one line of interpreting them. What are the four goals in …

…in learning: mind, intellect, alertness and ego Parvati- What is caste? What are the main castes in India? What is the religious / political significance of the caste system? How would you evaluate it? page 96 Caste- one of the four main hereditary classes into which Hindu society is divided, dictating the social position and status of people according to their professions. Though discrimination based on caste has been illegal since 1947, it still occurs in some areas.