Hindu philosophy facts for kids

Hindu philosophy is a way of thinking about life, the universe, and our place in it. It's like different schools of thought that explore big questions. These ideas come from ancient India and have shaped how many people understand the world.

There are six main branches of Hindu philosophy. They are often called "Sad Darsana," which means "six views" or "six systems." Each system offers a unique way to understand truth and reality.

The Six Main Schools of Thought

These six schools are like different paths to understanding deep truths. They all come from the same ancient Indian wisdom, but they focus on different aspects.

Samkhya

The Samkhya school is one of the oldest. It teaches that there are two main realities. One is Prakriti, which is like nature or matter. The other is Purusha, which is pure consciousness or spirit. This school helps us understand the difference between our physical world and our inner self.

Yoga

The Yoga school is very well-known today. It's not just about physical exercises! Yoga is a practical path to connect with your inner self. It teaches how to control your mind and body through meditation, breathing, and ethical living. The goal is to find peace and self-realization.

Vaiseshika

The Vaiseshika school focuses on understanding the world around us. It breaks down everything into basic parts, like atoms. It explores different categories of reality, such as substance, quality, and action. This helps us see how everything in the universe is made up and connected.

Nyaya

The Nyaya school is all about logic and how we gain true knowledge. It teaches us how to think clearly and argue well. It looks at how we can prove things and avoid mistakes in our thinking. This school is like a guide for understanding what is true and what is not.

Purva Mimamsa

The Purva Mimamsa school focuses on the ancient texts called the Vedas. It explains the importance of rituals and duties mentioned in these texts. This school helps people understand how to perform religious ceremonies correctly. It also teaches about the results of our actions.

Vedanta

The Vedanta school is one of the most popular branches of Hindu philosophy. It means "the end of the Vedas." This school focuses on the spiritual wisdom found in the Upanishads. The Upanishads are ancient texts that explore deep questions about the soul, God, and the universe. Vedanta teaches that everything is connected and that we are all part of a larger truth. It offers different ways to understand this ultimate reality.