- Shiva, one of the trinity of principle Hindu gods; Brahma, the creator, Vishnu, the protector, and Shiva, the destroyer. Hindus worship many gods and believe all represents different aspects of Brahman. Shiva represents samsara, the basic Hindu belief in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. The flaming torch, the serpents, and the skulls are symbols of destruction. Shiva’s third eye is a symbol of higher consciousness.
- The goddess Shiva is said to ride on the back of Nandi the bull. Cows are sacred in Hinduism. Cows provide milk, butter, and dun for fuel, but are not killed for beef.
- A Hindu holy man is practicing yoga. Hindu holy men give up family and possessions in order to be free to wander and to seek union with Brahman.
- Followers of Hare Krishna, a Hindu group formed in the Western world, worship of a God called Krishna by chanting, meditating, singing, and dancing.
- Yoga is an important part of the practice of Hinduism. Yoga promotes self-discipline of the mind and body.