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Hinduism teaches about a spiritual power called brahman which is the omnipresent source of all life and enables cycles of reincarnation.* For Hindus, a person's actions create karma which determines their fate in their next life: those who have good karma will be rewarded with a good subsequent life while those with bad karma will not be as fortunate in their next life. This cycle of rebirth and reincarnation is called samsara and breaking free from this cycle (an action called moksha) through the paths of action, knowledge, and devotion, is one of the four main aims of Hindu believers.**

Some Hindus define Hinduism as a way of life more than a religion and beliefs and practices can vary widely from region to region, though there are many common elements.

Some texts significant to Hinduism include the Vedas, the Bhagavad Gita, the Bhagavad Purana, and the Ramayana, though there is not a singular holy text and no set list of beliefs for all Hindus to follow.

While some Hindus believe in one god that goes by many names, some Hindus might worship many gods including Vishnu, Shiva, and Ganesha and goddesses like Shakti, Sarasvati, and Lakshmi. Important Hindu holidays include Diwali and Holi (included in our Holidays & Seasons section).

*The atman, or human soul, is considered to be a part of the universal brahman which persists after an individual's death to be reborn as another person, animal, or plant.

**The four main aims of the Hindu faithful are as follows:

#1) Dharma: the guiding principle for all aspects of life which encompasses self-restraint, truthfulness, and a dedication to not injure others.

#2) Artha: worldly success

#3) Kama: enjoyment

The three paths to freeing oneself from the cycle of samsara are as follows:

#1) The path of action which includes doing