Hinduism originated from the beliefs of the Aryans who invaded India around 1500 BCE. Hindus believe in Brahman, the universal spirit, and reincarnation, where one's soul is reborn based on their karma from previous lives. Society was divided into a caste system with priests, warriors, merchants, and servants, with untouchables below all castes. The goal was to achieve moksha by being reborn until joining with Brahman. Hinduism influenced other Indian religions like Jainism and Brahmanism.