Yr7 Key Terms Revision Sheet for Autumn Term

Term Definition
Theist Someone who believes in God
Atheist Someone who does not believe in God
Polytheism A belief in many Gods
Monotheism A belief in one God
Reincarnation Literally "to be made flesh again", is a belief that some essential part of a living being
survives death to be reborn in a new body.
Trimurti The Hindu idea that the divine spirit has three main forms: Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva
Karma The law by which your good and bad deeds are weighed up and your rebirth is
determined.
Dharma The concept of duty which dictates what are good or bad deeds.
Bhakti To dedicate or devote yourself to something.
Samsara The cycle of life, death and rebirth.
Moksha When the soul becomes enlightened and is released from Samsara.
Brahma The creator God in Hinduism.
Shiva The destroyer God in Hinduism.
Vishnu The sustainer God in Hinduism.
Atman The Hindu concept of soul.
Brahman The Hindu idea of a divine spirit, a reality which underpins everything in the universe.
Heaven The place in the afterlife which is said to be where those who have been good go to.
Hell The place in the afterlife where those who have been bad go to.
Brahmins The highest caste within Hinduism. They include the priests and spiritual teachers.
Kshtriyas The second highest caste within Hinduism. They include the warriors and rulers.
Vaisyas The third highest caste within Hinduism. They include the merchants and business
people.
Sudras The lowest caste within Hinduism. They include labourers.
Untouchables Anybody whose job is so lowly that they are outside the caste system.
Guru Nanak Founder of Sikhism
Guru Granth Sikh Holy Book
Sahib
Kirpan A sword symbolises the safety of all and the carrier's personal duty and responsibility as
a Sikh to protect the innocent in the message of peace
Kesh Uncut hair. Sikhs believe that hair, like everything else is a gift from God, therefore it
remains uncut
Kara An iron bracelet. Serves as a reminder for Sikhs to follow the morals of their faith
Kachera A specific style of cotton underwear. Reminds Sikhs of the Guru's message regarding
self control of selfish sexual activity
Kanga A wooden comb. Used for combing the hair and keeping it tidy and in place under the
turban
Gurdwara Sikh place of worship, which always has a copy of the Guru Granth Sahib
Langar The free kitchen in a Gurdwara. Everyone is welcome to come and eat in the Langar. It
is a symbol of equality and the view that Sikhs believe everyone and every religion is
equal.