Hinduism is one of the world’s oldest religions, with no single founder. It is a complex faith that encompasses a variety of beliefs, practices, and traditions centered around concepts like dharma (duty), karma (action), and moksha (liberation).

Key Beliefs

  • Polytheism and Monotheism: Belief in many gods and goddesses, but all are seen as different aspects of the ultimate reality, Brahman.
  • Karma: The belief that actions in this life affect one’s fate in future lives.
  • Dharma: A set of duties and ethics that one must follow according to their position in life.
  • Reincarnation (Samsara): The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, where the soul is reborn until it reaches enlightenment.
  • Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of reincarnation, achieved through self-realization and unity with Brahman.

Sacred Texts

  • Vedas: The oldest and most authoritative scriptures of Hinduism, consisting of hymns, rituals, and spiritual knowledge.
  • Upanishads: Philosophical texts that explore the nature of the soul (Atman) and its relationship to Brahman.
  • Bhagavad Gita: A part of the epic Mahabharata, it contains teachings on dharma and the path to spiritual liberation.
  • Ramayana and Mahabharata: Ancient epic stories that convey moral and spiritual lessons.

Major Deities

  • Brahman: The supreme, universal spirit that is the source of everything.
  • Brahma: The creator god, part of the Hindu trinity.
  • Vishnu: The preserver god, who maintains cosmic order and has many incarnations (avatars) like Rama and Krishna.
  • Shiva: The destroyer and transformer god, responsible for the cycle of birth and death.
  • Goddesses: Female deities, such as Lakshmi (goddess of wealth), Saraswati (goddess of wisdom), and Durga (goddess of power).

Core Practices

  • Yoga: A spiritual and physical practice aiming to achieve self-discipline, inner peace, and spiritual growth.
  • Puja: A ritualistic offering and worship of deities, often done at home or in temples.
  • Meditation: A practice to achieve mental clarity and spiritual enlightenment.
  • Pilgrimages: Traveling to holy sites, such as Varanasi, Rishikesh, and the Ganges River, for spiritual merit.
  • Festivals: Celebrating various deities and seasons with vibrant festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Navaratri.

Major Holidays

  • Diwali: The festival of lights, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
  • Holi: A colorful spring festival celebrating love, joy, and the triumph of good over evil.
  • Navaratri: A nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga.
  • Raksha Bandhan: A festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters.

Symbols

  • Om: The sacred sound and symbol representing the essence of the universe.
  • Lotus Flower: A symbol of purity and spiritual awakening.
  • Swastika: An ancient symbol of good fortune and well-being, often misunderstood due to its misuse in modern history.
  • Tilak/Bindi: A symbolic mark worn on the forehead, often representing devotion to a deity.

Places of Worship

  • Temples: Hindu temples (Mandir) are places of worship and community gathering.
  • Varanasi: A holy city on the banks of the Ganges, considered one of the most sacred places in Hinduism.
  • Rivers: Rivers like the Ganges are considered sacred and are important sites for rituals and cleansing.

Key Figures

  • Rama: An avatar of Vishnu and the hero of the Ramayana, embodying righteousness and virtue.
  • Krishna: Another avatar of Vishnu, known for his teachings in the Bhagavad Gita.
  • Sages and Gurus: Spiritual teachers who guide individuals on the path to enlightenment.

Paths to Spirituality

  • Karma Yoga: The path of selfless action and duty.
  • Bhakti Yoga: The path of devotion and love for a personal deity.
  • Jnana Yoga: The path of knowledge and wisdom.
  • Raja Yoga: The path of meditation and mental discipline.

Varna (Caste) System

  • Brahmins: Priests and scholars.
  • Kshatriyas: Warriors and rulers.
  • Vaishyas: Merchants and landowners.
  • Shudras: Servants and laborers.

While controversial and evolving, the caste system historically shaped Hindu society.

History of Hinduism

  • Ancient Roots: Hinduism developed over thousands of years, with its earliest roots in the Indus Valley civilization (c. 2500 BCE).
  • Diversity: Hinduism has no single founder and encompasses a wide range of philosophies, beliefs, and practices.