Hindu Foundations

Complete RE aims to provide RE teachers with all they need to enable their students to gain knowledge and understanding about and from the world’s religions, as well as to develop skills to further aid their study of religious matters. It would be impossible to provide a resource that covered all that would need to be said about the way of life known as Hinduism. These units of work, resources and stimuli have therefore been drawn together to make it as easy as possible to facilitate student learning in what is a diverse area of work. The intention is to make it possible for students to learn some generic facts about Hinduism and to explore the culture and customs of the Indian subcontinent. The hope is that the students will grow in understanding of how Hinduism is lived today, rather than have imposed on them a Westernised view of a very complex religious phenomenon.

You are advised to work your way through the preparatory materials below so that you are well-equipped to handle the many and varied questions that you will be asked. Have a good look through these materials and also familiarise yourself with the virtual visit, which has lots of useful information supported by helpful images.

Background information

The origins of Hinduism

Hindu beliefs

Hindu scriptures

Refer to the Hindu beliefs tour of the virtual visit, particularly screens 1, 2 and 18-22.

Refer to the Hindu gods and saints tour of the virtual visit, particularly screen 1.