Chapter One: Hinduism Summary and Analysis

Four thousand years ago, Hinduism sprung from pastoral ancestors who originated from northeastern Europe and who traveled to the Indus Valley of ancient India. The men referred to themselves as Aryans which meant "noble of birth." The a major focus of their religion was sacrifice by fire. These religious figures were uniquely qualified to sing the hymns that accompanied the sacrifice. The hymns were called "Vedas" or "sacred knowledge," and formed the foundation of the Hindu religion. The rituals were held to bring well-being and prosperity to religious adherents. In the early Vedas, there was no mention of reincarnation which has come to be associated with modern Hinduism. That element of the religion would not be part of the Veda until a thousand years later.

The Early Vedas

The Rig-Veda is the most important of the four...