Hinduism for Kids

Hinduism for Kids: A Fun Guide to One of the World’s Oldest Religions

Namaste friends, Hinduism is one of the world's oldest religions, practiced by millions of people mainly in India and Nepal. It has a rich history, filled with fascinating gods, traditions, festivals, and teachings that guide people in how they live their lives. If you're a kid curious about Hinduism, this guide will give you a great introduction to its many colorful aspects!

What is Hinduism?

Hinduism isn’t just one religion, but a collection of various beliefs and practices that have evolved over thousands of years. Unlike some religions, Hinduism doesn’t have just one holy book or one founder. It is a way of life, focusing on spiritual growth and connecting with God in different forms.

Hinduism Made Easy: Hindu Religion, Philosophy and Concepts

The Big Ideas in Hinduism

1. Dharma: This is a key idea in Hinduism. It means living a life of responsibility, duty, and righteousness. Everyone has their own Dharma based on their role in society, like being a student, a friend, or a family member.

2. Karma: Ever heard of "what goes around comes around"? That’s Karma! In Hinduism, it means that the good or bad things you do in life will affect what happens to you in the future. If you do good things, good things will happen to you, and if you do bad things, well, you might face consequences.

3. Reincarnation (Samsara): Hindus believe that after you die, your soul (called Atman) is reborn in a new body. This cycle of birth, death, and rebirth is called reincarnation or Samsara.

4. Moksha: The ultimate goal in Hinduism is to reach Moksha, or liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. It is a state of eternal bliss and peace, where your soul becomes one with the Supreme Being.

Hinduism For Kids: Beliefs And Practices

Who are the Hindu Gods?

Hinduism is known for its many gods and goddesses. Hindus believe that God can take on many forms to help people understand Him. Here are some of the most popular Hindu gods and goddesses

1. Brahma: The creator of the universe. Brahma has four heads, each looking in a different direction, symbolizing that he created everything and sees all.

2. Vishnu: The preserver and protector of the universe. Vishnu often comes down to Earth in different forms, called avatars, to save the world from evil. His most famous avatars are Rama and Krishna.

3. Shiva: The destroyer and transformer. Shiva helps bring an end to the old and makes way for the new. He’s often shown with a snake around his neck, and his third eye represents his wisdom.

4. Lakshmi: The goddess of wealth and prosperity. She’s usually shown with gold coins flowing from her hands, symbolizing that she brings good fortune.

5. Saraswati: The goddess of knowledge, music, and the arts. Saraswati is often seen holding a book and a musical instrument called a veena, symbolizing learning and creativity.

6. Ganesha: The elephant-headed god who removes obstacles. People pray to Ganesha before starting something new, like a school year or a big project.

Holy Books of Hinduism

Unlike other religions that have just one holy book, Hinduism has many sacred texts. Here are a few important ones:

1. Vedas: The oldest and most important Hindu scriptures. They are like huge collections of hymns and prayers that guide people on how to live a good life.

2. Upanishads: These are like a guidebook for understanding deep spiritual truths, helping people realize the nature of God and the universe.

3. Ramayana: A famous epic about Prince Rama and his adventures to rescue his wife, Sita, from the demon king Ravana. It teaches the importance of duty, loyalty, and bravery.

4. Mahabharata: Another epic, this one is about the great battle between two groups of cousins. Within this epic is the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred conversation between the warrior Arjuna and the god Krishna, which teaches about Dharma and Karma.

Ramayana for Kids: A Tale of Adventure and Devotion: Illustrated Story with Colourful Pictures of Ramayana for Children

Places of Worship: The Hindu Temple

Hindus usually worship at home or in a temple, called a mandir. Temples are beautiful buildings where people go to offer prayers, sing hymns, and make offerings to the gods. Inside a temple, there are usually statues or images of different gods and goddesses, and people go there to connect with the divine.

Festivals in Hinduism

Hinduism has many colorful and fun festivals. Each one is a celebration of a particular god, event, or season. Here are some of the most popular Hindu festivals:

1. Diwali: Also called the Festival of Lights, Diwali celebrates the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom after defeating Ravana. People light oil lamps, set off fireworks, and exchange sweets.

2. Holi: Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi is celebrated in spring with a burst of colors. People throw colored powder at each other, dance, and have fun to mark the victory of good over evil.

3. Navratri/Durga Puja: A nine-day festival honoring Goddess Durga’s victory over a demon. In different parts of India, it is celebrated by dancing, fasting, and offering prayers.

4. Raksha Bandhan: A special day for brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters tie a special bracelet, called a rakhi, on their brothers' wrists as a symbol of protection, and brothers promise to protect their sisters in return.

Hindu Symbols

Hinduism has many symbols that represent its beliefs and teachings. Here are a few important ones:

1. Om (ॐ): This is one of the most sacred sounds in Hinduism. It represents the universe and the ultimate reality. Hindus often start prayers with the sound of Om.

2. Swastika (卐): This ancient symbol represents good luck and well-being. It looks like a cross with four arms bent at right angles and is often seen during festivals and ceremonies.

3. Lotus Flower: The lotus flower symbolizes purity and spiritual growth. Just as the lotus rises above muddy water to bloom, it reminds people to rise above the difficulties in life.

The Caste System

Historically, Hindu society was divided into different social groups, called castes. These were based on people's jobs and responsibilities. Although the caste system still exists in some parts of India, it has been officially banned and is not as important in modern times.

Yoga and Meditation

Yoga and meditation are important practices in Hinduism that help people connect their mind, body, and spirit.

Yoga: Yoga is a practice that involves physical exercises, breathing techniques, and meditation. It's believed to help people stay healthy and calm their minds.

Meditation: Hindus also meditate to quiet their minds and focus on spiritual thoughts. By sitting quietly and concentrating, people can feel more peaceful and closer to God.

Why Do Hindus Have a Dot on Their Foreheads?

The dot, or bindi, that some Hindus wear on their foreheads is a symbol of wisdom and spirituality. It’s placed on the forehead where the “third eye” is said to be. The third eye represents inner wisdom and the ability to see beyond what the eyes can see.

Fun Facts About Hinduism

Oldest Religion: Hinduism is one of the oldest known religions in the world, dating back over 4,000 years!

No Single Founder: Unlike some other religions, Hinduism doesn’t have a single founder. It evolved over time with contributions from many different people.

Many Names for God: Hindus believe in one God, but that God can take many forms. That’s why there are so many different gods and goddesses.

No Sunday Worship: Hindus don’t have a special day of worship like Sunday. People can pray and visit temples any day they want.

Sacred River: The Ganges River is considered sacred in Hinduism. Many people take a dip in the river to cleanse themselves spiritually.

Hinduism is a religion filled with fascinating beliefs, colorful festivals, and deep spiritual teachings. It encourages people to live a good life by following their Dharma, doing good Karma, and seeking spiritual growth. It’s a rich and diverse faith that teaches love, respect, and the importance of connecting with the divine.

Hopefully, this guide gave you a fun and helpful introduction to Hinduism!

A list of my books for you to try

Hinduism For Kids: Beliefs And Practices

India for kids

Hello World. I am Deepu. This is My Life in India: Multicultural Education Book for Kids: Teaching Diversity, Cultures and Customs to Children.

Namaste World. I am Diya. My life in India: (Multiculturalism for Children: Introduction to Global Diversity, Cultures and Customs)

Ramayana for Kids: A Tale of Adventure and Devotion: Illustrated Story with Colourful Pictures of Ramayana for Children

HINDUISM: Hinduism for Beginners: Guide to Understanding Hinduism and the Hindu Religion, Beliefs, Customs, Rituals, Gods, Mantras and Converting to Hinduism

Hinduism Made Easy: Hindu Religion, Philosophy and Concepts

The Story of the Ramayana for Kids

Once Upon a Time in Ayodhya

Long ago, in the beautiful city of Ayodhya, there lived a wise and kind king named Dasharatha. He had three queens—Kaushalya, Kaikeyi, and Sumitra—and four brave sons: Rama, Bharata, Lakshmana, and Shatrughna. Rama, the eldest son, was loved by everyone because he was good, brave, and kind-hearted.

Rama Marries Sita

When Rama grew up, he won the hand of a beautiful princess named Sita in a contest by lifting and breaking a giant bow that no one else could even move. Sita was as kind and gentle as Rama, and they loved each other very much. They got married and returned to Ayodhya, where everyone was very happy.

The Evil Plot

King Dasharatha wanted Rama to become the next king, but not everyone was happy about this. Queen Kaikeyi’s maid, Manthara, filled Kaikeyi’s mind with jealousy. She reminded Kaikeyi of a promise the king had made long ago to grant her any two wishes she wanted. Kaikeyi demanded that her son Bharata be made king and that Rama be sent to the forest for 14 years.

Rama Goes to the Forest

Rama, being obedient and respectful to his father, agreed to go to the forest without any complaints. Sita, his loving wife, and Lakshmana, his loyal brother, insisted on going with him. The three of them left the palace, wearing simple clothes and with nothing but love for each other.

Life in the Forest

Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana lived happily in the forest, helping the animals and making new friends. But their peace was soon disturbed by Ravana, the ten-headed demon king of Lanka. Ravana had heard of Sita’s beauty and wanted to make her his queen.

Ravana’s Evil Plan

One day, Ravana tricked Sita by sending a magical golden deer. Sita asked Rama to catch it for her. While Rama and Lakshmana were away, Ravana, disguised as a holy man, tricked Sita into stepping out of her protective circle and kidnapped her, taking her away to his kingdom in Lanka.

The Search for Sita

Rama and Lakshmana were heartbroken when they discovered Sita was missing. They searched everywhere and met Hanuman, the powerful monkey god who could fly. Hanuman and his monkey army promised to help Rama find Sita. Hanuman flew across the ocean to Lanka, found Sita, and assured her that Rama would soon rescue her.

Building the Bridge

Rama, Hanuman, and the monkey army built a giant bridge across the ocean to reach Lanka. It was a tough battle, but Rama and his friends fought bravely against Ravana’s army.

The Great Battle

Rama and Ravana fought a fierce battle. With the help of Hanuman, Lakshmana, and the monkey army, Rama defeated Ravana using a magical arrow given to him by the gods. Sita was finally rescued and reunited with Rama.

The Return to Ayodhya

After 14 long years, Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana returned to Ayodhya. The people of Ayodhya welcomed them with lamps and flowers, celebrating their return with great joy. This day is still celebrated today as Diwali, the festival of lights.

Happily Ever After

Rama was crowned king, and he ruled with wisdom and kindness. Under his rule, everyone lived happily, and the kingdom of Ayodhya flourished. Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman became symbols of goodness, bravery, and love.

And that is the story of the Ramayana, where good always wins over evil, and love and courage can overcome any challenge!

Ramayana for Kids: A Tale of Adventure and Devotion: Illustrated Story with Colourful Pictures of Ramayana for Children

Mindful Lessons From the Bhagavad Gita

 

Self-awareness: 

The Bhagavad Gita places a strong emphasis on self-awareness as the foundation of mindfulness. It encourages individuals to delve into the depths of their inner selves, understanding their true nature, strengths, and weaknesses. Through self-awareness, one can make conscious choices and engage in life with greater clarity and purpose. Arjuna's inner conflict and Krishna's guidance illustrate the importance of understanding one's own mind and emotions before making decisions or taking action. 

Detachment: 

The concept of detached action, as taught in the Gita, is a core lesson in mindfulness. It advises individuals to perform their duties diligently, without being overly attached to the outcomes. By detaching from the results of their actions, individuals can reduce stress and anxiety, as they are no longer solely defined by external circumstances. This promotes a sense of inner peace and equanimity. 

Equanimity: 

The Bhagavad Gita underscores the significance of maintaining equanimity in the face of success and failure. It teaches that true mindfulness involves remaining calm and balanced in all situations, not allowing external events to sway one's emotional state. Equanimity fosters a steady mind and a sense of serenity amid life's inevitable ups and downs. 

Yoga and Meditation: 

The Gita introduces various paths to spiritual realization, including Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion), Karma Yoga (the path of selfless action), and Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge). These paths emphasize the importance of meditation and self-realization as tools for achieving mindfulness. By turning inward through meditation and seeking self-knowledge, individuals can attain a state of heightened awareness and mindfulness. 

Purpose and Dharma: 

Discovering and following one's dharma, or duty, is central to leading a mindful life. The Gita encourages individuals to identify and live in accordance with their true purpose, as this leads to a profound sense of fulfillment and inner peace. Arjuna's dilemma on the battlefield serves as a powerful metaphor for the universal struggle to align personal purpose with one's duties. 

Control of the Mind: 

The Bhagavad Gita acknowledges the restless nature of the human mind. It provides practical techniques and wisdom for controlling and disciplining the mind. This control is fundamental to achieving mindfulness, as a wandering and undisciplined mind can hinder one's ability to be present and focused. 

Surrender to a Higher Power: 

The Gita's guidance, with Lord Krishna advising Arjuna, underscores the value of surrendering to a higher power or a divine plan. Surrender can provide comfort and guidance in challenging times, allowing individuals to trust that there is a larger purpose at play. This trust in a higher wisdom contributes to a sense of mindfulness and acceptance of life's events. 

Hinduism for Beginners

Non-violence and Compassion: 

Mindfulness involves treating all living beings with kindness and empathy. The Bhagavad Gita advocates non-violence (ahimsa) and compassion as fundamental principles. Cultivating a sense of empathy and refraining from harm towards others is a vital component of a mindful and ethical life. 

Seek Knowledge: 

The Gita encourages the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. It promotes a mindset of continuous learning and growth, emphasizing that a mindful person is always eager to seek understanding and truth. This quest for knowledge leads to a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. 

Seva (Selfless Service): 

Engaging in selfless service and helping others without expecting anything in return is a means of cultivating mindfulness. By putting others' needs ahead of one's own and practicing acts of kindness and service, individuals develop a deep sense of purpose and interconnectedness with the world around them. Selfless service is a powerful way to lead a more meaningful and mindful life. 

These lessons from the Bhagavad Gita collectively provide a comprehensive framework for practicing mindfulness in everyday life, helping individuals develop greater self-awareness, emotional balance, and a profound sense of purpose.

Hinduism Made Easy: Hindu Religion, Philosophy and Concepts

Concept of Brahman in Hinduism

 

In Hinduism, the concept of Brahman refers to the ultimate reality, the ultimate truth, and the ultimate substance of the universe. It is considered to be the absolute, eternal, and all-pervading reality that underlies and pervades all of existence.

Ultimate reality, the ultimate truth, and the ultimate substance in Hinduism are central philosophical concepts in Hinduism, an Indian religion and way of life that has been practiced for over three millennia. Ultimate reality refers to Brahman, the single, unified Supreme Being that encompasses all of creation, both visible and invisible. The ultimate truth is the underlying nature of Brahman as well as the cosmic forces that operate throughout the universe. The ultimate substance in Hinduism is known as Atman, or the soul. Atman is an eternal and transcendent entity that exists within every living being and is intrinsically connected to Brahman.

Atman is the core of Hindu philosophical thought and is believed to contain the highest truth of all, a truth beyond material existence. According to Hinduism, Atman is the ultimate source of consciousness and the source of liberation, meaning the realisation of one’s true nature. The practice of meditation is often used to reach a state of samadhi or enlightenment, where the practitioner is able to directly experience the ultimate reality of Atman.

Hinduism teaches that the physical world is an illusion and that all of reality is ultimately a manifestation of Brahman. It is believed that the universe is cyclical and that the same pattern of life, death, and rebirth occurs repeatedly. This cycle of samsara is seen as a manifestation of Brahman’s will and is said to exist as part of the ultimate truth.

Hinduism is a complex and multifaceted system of beliefs and is often considered to be the most ancient of all major religions. It is a religion that is based on the concept of Ultimate Reality, the Ultimate Truth, and the Ultimate Substance, all of which are interconnected and mutually dependent. It is through understanding these core philosophical principles that one can come to a deeper understanding of the ultimate truth and reality of Hinduism.

According to Hindu tradition, Brahman is both immanent and transcendent, meaning that it is present within all things, yet also beyond all things. It is the ultimate source of all being and consciousness, and it is the ultimate goal of spiritual realization.

In Hinduism, Brahman is often equated with the concept of Atman, which refers to the individual self or soul. The ultimate goal of Hindu spiritual practice is to realize the unity of Atman and Brahman, and to achieve a state of spiritual realization known as moksha, or liberation.

Hinduism Made Easy: Hindu Religion, Philosophy and Concepts

The concept of Brahman is central to many of the major schools of Hindu philosophy, including Advaita Vedanta, which teaches that the individual self and the ultimate reality of Brahman are ultimately one and the same. Other schools, such as Dvaita Vedanta and Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, hold that the individual self and Brahman are distinct, but still ultimately united.

The concept of Brahman is also closely related to the concept of Ishvara, which refers to a personal god or deity. Many Hindus believe that Ishvara is a manifestation of Brahman, and that through devotion and worship of Ishvara, one can ultimately attain union with Brahman.

In Hinduism, the concept of Brahman is often symbolized by the Om symbol, which represents the ultimate reality and the ultimate truth. It is believed to be the sound of the universe, and is considered to be a powerful and sacred symbol that can help one to connect with the ultimate reality of Brahman.

The concept of Brahman is a central and fundamental aspect of Hinduism, and it plays a vital role in the spiritual beliefs and practices of Hindus around the world. It is a complex and multifaceted concept, and its meanings and implications have been debated and explored by Hindu philosophers and theologians for centuries.

Brahman in the various philosophies of Hinduism

The concept of Brahman is central to many of the major schools of Hindu philosophy, and each school interprets it in slightly different ways. Here is a brief overview of how some of the major schools of Hindu philosophy understand the concept of Brahman:

Advaita Vedanta: Advaita Vedanta is perhaps the most well-known and influential school of Hindu philosophy, and it is based on the teachings of the ancient Indian philosopher Adi Shankara. According to Advaita Vedanta, the ultimate reality of the universe is non-dual, meaning that it is not divided or separate from anything else. This ultimate reality is known as Brahman, and it is considered to be the absolute, eternal, and all-pervading reality that underlies and pervades all of existence. Advaita Vedanta teaches that the individual self (Atman) and Brahman are ultimately one and the same, and that the goal of spiritual practice is to realize this unity and achieve a state of spiritual realization known as moksha, or liberation.

Dvaita Vedanta: Dvaita Vedanta is another major school of Hindu philosophy, and it is based on the teachings of the Indian philosopher Madhvacharya. Unlike Advaita Vedanta, which teaches that the individual self and Brahman are ultimately one and the same, Dvaita Vedanta teaches that the individual self and Brahman are distinct and separate. However, Dvaita Vedanta still holds that the ultimate goal of spiritual practice is to achieve unity with Brahman, and that this can be achieved through devotion and worship of a personal god or deity (Ishvara).

Vishishtadvaita Vedanta: Vishishtadvaita Vedanta is another major school of Hindu philosophy, and it is based on the teachings of the Indian philosopher Ramanuja. Like Dvaita Vedanta, Vishishtadvaita Vedanta teaches that the individual self and Brahman are distinct and separate. However, unlike Dvaita Vedanta, Vishishtadvaita Vedanta holds that the individual self is not ultimately separate from Brahman, but rather is an eternal part of it. The goal of spiritual practice in Vishishtadvaita Vedanta is to realize the unity of the individual self and Brahman, and to achieve a state of spiritual realization known as moksha.

These are just a few examples of how the concept of Brahman is understood in Hindu philosophy. There are many other schools of Hindu philosophy that have their own unique perspectives on the nature and meaning of Brahman, and the concept continues to be a source of debate and discussion among Hindu scholars and theologians.

Hinduism for Beginners: Guide to Understanding Hinduism and the Hindu Religion, Beliefs, Customs, Rituals, Gods, Mantras

Hinduism facts for kids

Hinduism is a major world religion that originated in India and is based on a collection of ancient texts called the Vedas. It is the oldest living religion in the world and has over one billion followers. 

Here are some facts about Hinduism for kids: 

Hinduism For Kids: Beliefs And Practices

Hindus believe in a supreme being called Brahman, who is the creator and sustainer of the universe. 

Hindus also believe in reincarnation, the idea that after a person dies, their soul is reborn into a new body. The goal of Hinduism is to eventually achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of reincarnation and union with Brahman. 

Hinduism has a caste system, which divides people into social classes based on their profession or birth. However, the caste system has been abolished by the government of India and is no longer practiced in the same way it was in the past. 

Hindus follow a number of different deities, including Shiva, Vishnu, and Devi. Each deity represents different aspects of the supreme being and can be worshipped in various forms. 

Hinduism also has a rich tradition of art and literature, including the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, which are epic poems that tell the stories of Hindu gods and heroes. 

Hinduism has a variety of practices and rituals, including puja (worship), yoga, and meditation. These practices are meant to help Hindus connect with the divine and achieve spiritual growth. 

Hinduism has a strong emphasis on dharma, which refers to living a moral and virtuous life. Hindus believe that living a good and ethical life helps to bring about personal and spiritual growth. 

Hinduism is a diverse religion and there are many different interpretations and practices within it. It is open to individuals of any background and allows for a wide range of beliefs and practices. 

Hinduism is not only a religion, but also a way of life for many people in India and around the world. It influences many aspects of daily life, including diet, family structure, and cultural traditions. 

Hinduism is a rich and complex religion with a long history and a diverse set of beliefs and practices. It has had a significant impact on the world and continues to be a major force in modern society. 

Hinduism has no single founder or central authority, and it has evolved and adapted over time. 

The Vedas, the oldest and most important Hindu scriptures, contain hymns, rituals, and philosophical teachings. 

Hindus follow a number of different paths or "yogas" to achieve spiritual growth, including the paths of devotion (bhakti yoga), knowledge (jnana yoga), and self-discipline (raja yoga). 

Hinduism has a strong tradition of guru-student relationships, in which a guru (teacher) passes on spiritual knowledge and guidance to a student. 

Hinduism places a strong emphasis on the importance of family and community, and many Hindu festivals and ceremonies are centered around these themes. 

Hinduism has a rich tradition of music, dance, and art, and many Hindu festivals and ceremonies feature these forms of expression. 

The cow is considered a sacred animal in Hinduism and is often depicted in Hindu art and mythology.

Hinduism has a complex system of symbolism, including the use of different colors, animals, and objects to represent different deities or concepts. 

Hinduism has a number of sacred texts in addition to the Vedas, including the Upanishads (philosophical treatises), the Bhagavad Gita (a scripture that discusses the nature of God and the path to enlightenment), and the Puranas (mythological stories). 

Hinduism has a long history of social justice and activism, and many Hindus are involved in various charitable and humanitarian efforts both within their communities and around the world.

Hinduism has a rich tradition of yoga, which involves physical, mental, and spiritual practices aimed at achieving union with the divine. 

Hinduism teaches the importance of ahimsa, or non-violence, and many Hindus follow a vegetarian diet as a way to practice this principle. 

Hinduism has a complex system of rituals and ceremonies, including puja (worship), yajna (sacrifice), and homa (fire ritual). These rituals may involve offerings of flowers, incense, and other items to the gods. 

Hinduism has a number of holy days and festivals, including Diwali (the festival of lights), Holi (the festival of colors), and Navaratri (a nine-night festival celebrating the goddess Devi). 

Hinduism has a number of holy places, including temples, shrines, and holy rivers. The Ganges River is particularly sacred to Hindus and is seen as a source of purification and blessings. 

Hinduism has a complex system of caste, which traditionally divided people into four main categories: Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (rulers and warriors), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Sudras (workers). 

Hinduism has a number of holy symbols, including the Om symbol (a sacred syllable representing the divine), the Swastika (a symbol of good fortune and well-being), and the Trishula (a trident symbolizing the three aspects of the divine). 

Hinduism has a number of holy texts that are considered sacred to Hindus, including the Vedas, the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, the Puranas, and the Agamas. 

Hinduism has a number of different schools of thought, including Advaita Vedanta (the idea that the individual self and the divine are one and the same), Dvaita Vedanta (the idea that the individual self and the divine are separate), and Samkhya (a dualistic philosophy that divides the world into matter and consciousness). 

Hinduism has a rich tradition of storytelling and mythology, including the stories of the gods and goddesses, heroes and heroines, and demons and monsters. 

Hinduism has a number of holy animals, including the cow, the elephant, and the snake. 

Hinduism has a number of holy plants, including the tulsi (sacred basil) and the neem tree. 

Hinduism has a number of holy foods, including prasad (sacred food offerings made to the gods), and many Hindus follow a lacto-vegetarian diet as a way to practice ahimsa (non-violence). 

Hinduism has a number of holy colors, including red, which is associated with the goddess Devi, and saffron, which is associated with spiritual purity. 

Hinduism has a number of holy numbers, including three (representing the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) and nine (representing the nine planets and the nine forms of the goddess Devi). 

Hinduism has a number of holy sounds, including Om (a sacred syllable representing the divine), and many Hindus practice chanting as a way to connect with the divine.

Hinduism has a number of sacred places and pilgrimage sites, including the city of Varanasi (also known as Benares or Kashi), which is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism. 

Hinduism has a strong tradition of asceticism, in which people renounce worldly possessions and desires in order to focus on spiritual growth. 

The practice of yoga, which involves physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, originated in Hinduism and is now popular around the world. 

Hinduism has a number of different sects and philosophical schools, including the monistic (advaita) tradition, which teaches that the individual self is ultimately identical to the divine, and the dualistic (dvaita) tradition, which teaches that the individual self is separate from the divine. 

Hinduism has a number of sacred rituals and ceremonies, including the puja, in which offerings are made to a deity, and the yajna, a ritual in which offerings are made to the gods through fire. 

Hinduism has a number of sacred festivals and celebrations, including Diwali (the festival of lights), which celebrates the victory of good over evil, and Navaratri (the nine nights festival), which honors the goddess Durga. 

Hinduism has a number of sacred symbols, including the Om symbol (a sacred syllable representing the divine), the lotus flower (a symbol of purity and enlightenment), and the Swastika (a symbol of good fortune and auspiciousness). 

Hinduism has a number of sacred objects, including the mala (a string of beads used for prayer and meditation), the tilaka (a mark worn on the forehead as a sign of devotion), and the kalasha (a pot filled with water and topped with a coconut, which is used in puja and other rituals). 

Hinduism has a number of sacred animals, including the elephant (which is associated with the deity Ganesha), the snake (which is associated with the deity Shiva), and the cow (which is considered a symbol of wealth, strength, and nourishment). 

Hinduism has a number of sacred plants, including the tulsi (a sacred basil plant that is believed to have medicinal and spiritual properties), the banyan tree (which is considered a symbol of eternal life), and the neem tree (which is used in Ayurvedic medicine and is believed to have purifying and protective properties). 

Hinduism has a number of sacred mountains, including the Himalayas, which are considered the abode of the gods and are home to many important Hindu pilgrimage sites. 

Hinduism has a number of sacred rivers, including the Ganges, which is considered a holy river and is believed to have purifying properties. 

Hinduism has a strong tradition of social justice and concern for the welfare of all beings, and many Hindus are involved in charitable and humanitarian efforts both within their communities and around the world. 

Hinduism has a number of sacred texts in addition to the Vedas, including the Manu Smriti (a legal text that discusses the duties and responsibilities of different social classes), the Arthashastra (a political treatise), and the Mahabharata (an epic poem that tells the story of the Kuru dynasty). 

What are the major Hindu gods

Hinduism has a pantheon of deities, but there are a few major gods that are particularly important and widely worshipped. Here are four major Hindu gods for kids: 

Brahma: Brahma is the creator god and is responsible for the creation of the universe. He is often depicted with four faces, representing the four Vedas (sacred texts). 

Vishnu: Vishnu is the preserver god and is responsible for maintaining balance in the universe. He is often depicted with four arms, holding a conch shell, a discus, a club, and a lotus flower. 

Shiva: Shiva is the destroyer god and is responsible for the destruction of the universe at the end of each cosmic cycle. He is often depicted with a third eye and a crescent moon on his head. 

Devi: Devi (also known as Shakti or Durga) is the mother goddess and is the consort of Shiva. She is the embodiment of the creative and sustaining power of the universe and is often depicted as a warrior goddess, riding a lion and brandishing weapons. 

These four gods are often considered the major deities in Hinduism, but there are many other gods and goddesses that are also worshipped and revered.

Namaste World. I am Diya. My life in India: (Multiculturalism for Children: Introduction to Global Diversity, Cultures and Customs)

Buddha quotes on changing yourself

 

The wise words of the Buddha have inspired many over the years, and his words on the topic of changing yourself are particularly relevant for those of us seeking to make meaningful changes in our lives. From his thoughts on self-improvement to his views on perseverance, the following quotes by Buddha can be used as inspiration and guidance in our quest for personal growth.

The first quote by Buddha on changing yourself is “You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection”. This quote emphasizes the importance of self-love and self-care. Taking the time to show yourself compassion, kindness and appreciation can have a profound impact on how you view yourself and the changes you are making. Rather than expecting too much too soon, taking the time to appreciate your efforts and accomplishments, no matter how small, can be a powerful motivator.

The second quote by Buddha on changing yourself is “It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles”. This quote emphasizes the need to overcome our own personal obstacles, rather than relying on external successes to define our self-worth. When we are able to face our own inner battles and conquer our insecurities and fears, we are able to take meaningful action towards creating the life we want.

The third quote by Buddha on changing yourself is “Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment”. This quote serves as a reminder to stay focused on the present and take one step at a time in order to achieve our goals. Rather than getting stuck in regret or anxious anticipation of the future, we can take a moment to recognize the present moment and use it as an opportunity to take action towards our goals.

The fourth quote by Buddha on changing yourself is “The mind is everything. What you think you become”. This quote speaks to the power of the mind and how it can shape our lives. By changing our thoughts and beliefs, we are able to create new possibilities for ourselves and open the door to positive change.

The fifth quote by Buddha on changing yourself is “You will not be punished for your anger; you will be punished by your anger”. This quote serves as a reminder to manage our emotions in order to avoid creating a cycle of anger and suffering. When we are able to take a step back and manage our emotional responses, we can create positive change in our lives and relationships.

The words of the Buddha can be an invaluable source of guidance and inspiration when it comes to changing ourselves. From self-love and self-care to conquering our own personal obstacles, these quotes can serve as reminders to focus on the present and take action towards our goals. By harnessing the power of our thoughts and managing our emotions, we can create a more meaningful and fulfilling life for ourselves.

In addition to the quotes mentioned above, the Buddha is credited with many other wise and profound sayings. Here are a few more quotes on the subject of changing oneself:

"You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection."

"The mind is everything. What you think, you become."

"An insincere and evil friend is more to be feared than a wild beast; a wild beast may wound your body, but an evil friend will wound your mind."

"All that we are is the result of what we have thought. The mind is everything. What we think we become."

"Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned."

"The tongue like a sharp knife... Kills without drawing blood."

"Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without."

These quotes suggest that the key to changing oneself is to focus on one's thoughts and inner state of being, rather than external circumstances. By practicing mindfulness and self-compassion, we can let go of negative thoughts and behaviours and cultivate a peaceful and loving state of mind.

Buddhism Made Easy: Buddhism for Beginners and Busy People