The Meanings

Important definitions in Hinduism:

Banyan Trees

The most important and worshipped tree in Hinduism. It symbolizes the tender caregiver and leader who can nourish all that live under its leaves. The banyan tree is mentioned in many scriptures in the Hindu culture, because of the representation of the creator, Brahma. It is planted outside many temples and its branches house the gods and spirits.

Angkor Wat

The largest Hindu temple in the world. Its name translates into the 'city of temples'. The entire temple is dedicated to the second triumvirate god, Vishnu, who is responsible for the protection and upkeep of the world. The building have remained as a significant religious center to this day.

The Caste System

The caste system splits apart the classes of Hindu society and is widely criticized all over India, because the classes are in no way equal and are not treated so in daily life. The tradition is called Varna and was originally interpreted from the Vedas by Brahmin in ancient times. (See Main Concepts page)

Sruti & Smriti

The concepts of Sruti and Smriti date back to the very beginnings of Hinduism. Sruti translates from Sanskrit into 'what is heard' and Smriti translates into 'what is remembered'. Upinshads have been create from the very eaarliest centuries all the way up into modern day on the philisophical meanings of the two because they are the most important concept in Hinduism. The idea of Sruti and Smriti form the base of all ideas that are Hinduism.

Varanasi

The city of Varanasi is one of the oldest in the world and a modern day cultural epicenter. It is considered to be the religious capital for Hinduism in India. The holy city is one of the seven sacred places for Hindu people. The pilgrimage to Varanasi is something devout Hindus wish to do at least once in their lifetime. The city lies right next to the river Ganges, where people wash themselves on the Ghats of the Ganges in the hope of washing away sins. Shiva is the god that is closely associated with the area.