Brahmanism

American  

[brah-muh-niz-uhm] / ˈbrɑ məˌnɪz əm /

Or Brahminism

noun

1. the religious and social system of the Brahmans and orthodox Hindus, characterized by the caste system and diversified pantheism.

2. the Hinduism of the Vedas, Brahmanas, and Upanishads.

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Brahmanism British  

/ ˈbrɑːməˌnɪzəm /

noun

1. the religious and social system of orthodox Hinduism, characterized by diversified pantheism, the caste system, and the sacrifices and family ceremonies of Hindu tradition

2. the form of Hinduism prescribed in the Vedas, Brahmanas, and Upanishads

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Other Word Forms

• Brahmanist noun

Etymology

Origin of Brahmanism

First recorded in 1810–20; Brahman ¹ + -ism

Example Sentences

Thus the arrival of Aryans and the gradual emergence of Brahmanism created a new social blueprint for India.

From Textbooks • Apr. 19, 2023

Following the development of Buddhism, how did changes in Brahmanism reduce the influence and prestige of the Brahman class as it evolved into Hinduism?

From Textbooks • Apr. 19, 2023

Buddhism never supplanted Brahmanism as the dominant religion in India.

From Textbooks • Apr. 19, 2023

In later centuries, Buddhist thought and institutions were influenced by Brahmanism, incorporating deities such as Shiva and concepts such as karma.

From Textbooks • Apr. 19, 2023

This process, which may be observed wherever ritualism exists, was carried in the period of Brahmanism to its utmost length.

From History of Religion A Sketch of Primitive Religious Beliefs and Practices, and of the Origin and Character of the Great Systems by Menzies, Allan