Western vs. Eastern Religions (cont'd):
Western-
Must achieve salvation from Hell and God's judgement
Ultimate goal arrival into Heaven, bodily resurrection, fellowship or union with god. Afterlife has physical component.
Sacred texts are authoritative, and central to religion

Eastern-
Release from Samsara (wheel of rebirth).
Goal is to merge with God, and attain Nirvana, state of bliss.
Sacred texts less important than experience.

Origins of Hinduism-
Has no known founder, started with Harappan culture in Indus River Valley, in 2500 B.C.E.
Written language undeciphered. High material culture, stone construction, cities in grids, and indoor plumbing. Agricultural society

Had purification and fertility rites, along with ritual sex.
Worshipped gods of both genders, female predominant.