GCSE RS: Hinduism Beliefs and Teachings Guide

Brahman and deities

Hindus believe in Brahman, the ultimate reality or supreme soul underlying everything. Brahman can be understood and worshipped through many forms and deities, such as Vishnu, Shiva and Devi.

Atman and samsara

Hindus believe in atman, an eternal soul, which goes through samsara, a cycle of birth, death and rebirth, until it achieves moksha (liberation from this cycle).

Karma and dharma

Karma is the belief that actions have consequences, affecting future rebirths. Dharma refers to a person's duty or right conduct, which varies according to their stage of life and role in society.

Paths to moksha

Hindu traditions describe different paths towards moksha, including the paths of knowledge, devotion (bhakti) and selfless action, reflecting a wide diversity of Hindu practice and belief.

Common mistakes

• Describing Hinduism as worshipping "many separate gods" without explaining the underlying concept of Brahman.
• Confusing karma (the law of cause and effect) with dharma (duty).
• Assuming all Hindus follow identical practices — Hindu belief and practice vary considerably.