Definition

Hinduism is an umbrella term for a range of Indian religious and spiritual traditions (sampradayas) that are unified by adherence to the concept of dharma, a cosmic order maintained by its followers through rituals and righteous living, as expounded in the Vedas. The word Hindu is an exonym, derived from Sanskrit's Sindhu (Indus River), which was initially used geographically. Over time, particularly during the medieval and colonial periods, it came to refer to the religious and cultural practices of the Indian subcontinent.

Core Beliefs

  • Dharma: Duty, righteousness, and the moral law governing individual conduct
  • Karma: The principle that actions have consequences that extend across lifetimes
  • Samsara: The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth
  • Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of rebirth and union with the Divine

Key Characteristics

Hinduism is characterized by:

  • Polytheism with Monotheism: Belief in multiple deities representing aspects of one ultimate reality (Brahman)
  • Diversity: Multiple schools of thought, sects, and philosophical interpretations coexist peacefully
  • Sacred Texts: The Vedas, Upanishads, Mahabharata, and Ramayana form the foundation of spiritual teachings
  • Rituals and Worship: Puja (worship), meditation, yoga, and pilgrimages are integral practices

The Trinity (Trimurti)

Hinduism conceptualizes the Trinity as three primary manifestations of Brahman:

  • Brahma: The creator of the universe
  • Vishnu: The preserver and sustainer of the universe
  • Shiva: The destroyer and transformer, enabling renewal and cosmic dissolution

Number of Followers

With approximately 1 billion followers worldwide, Hinduism is the third-largest religion globally, with the majority of practitioners in India, Nepal, and among diaspora communities worldwide.

Philosophy and Practice

Hinduism emphasizes spiritual growth through various paths:

  • Bhakti Yoga: The path of devotion and love
  • Karma Yoga: The path of righteous action and duty
  • Jnana Yoga: The path of knowledge and wisdom
  • Raja Yoga: The path of meditation and mental discipline
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