Polytheism

Belief in many gods

Vishnu

A Hindu god considered the preserver of the world

Brahma

A Hindu god considered the creator of the world

Shiva

A Hindu god considered the destroyer of the world

Untouchable

LOWEST LEVEL OF INDIAN SOCITEY, not considered a real part of the caste system, often given degrading jobs; their life was extremely difficult

Karma

(Hinduism and Buddhism) the effects of a persons actions that determine his destiny in the next incranation

Meditation

The focusing of attention to clear one's mind and produce relaxation

Caste System

A Hindu social class system that controlled every aspect of daily life

Enlightment

A movement in the 18th century that advocated the use of reason in the reappraisal of accepted ideas and social institutions

Reincarnation

The rebirth of a soul in a new body