This article explores many Hinduism facts that is conveniently
overlooked by many popular websites and articles. They don’t tell you the real
facts – they are more interested in the number of Hindus (third largest
religion); they are interested in the countries where Hinduism is followed (India,
Nepal, Fiji, Guyana..) and the caste system.
Oldest Living Religion
Oldest Living Religion
Hinduism is the oldest living religion in the world. It has
no name – a name that comes closest to defining the religion is Sanatana
Dharma. Hindu religion is perhaps the only evolving religion in the world.
The name Hinduism was coined by the British during the 1800s.
The name Hinduism was coined by the British during the 1800s.
…who really knows? Who will here proclaim it? Whence was it produced? Whence is this creation? The gods came afterwards, with the creation of this universe.A Religion That was Attacked Mercilessly for Thousands of Years
Who then knows when it has arisen?
When this creation has arise – perhaps it formed itself, or perhaps it did not – the one who looks down on it, in the highest heaven, only he knows – or perhaps he does not know. (Rig Veda)
Hinduism is the religion that withstood the onslaught of
Islam and Christianity for more than thousand years. Islamic rulers and
government supported Christian missionaries failed to destroy Hinduism.
The number of Hindus wiped out by Muslim invaders (starting
from 1175 AD) is equivalent to the population of several countries in Europe.
It is the only religion that is constantly under attack from outside and inside. From other religions, governments and organizations.
It is the only religion that had to be defined by the highest court of a country - "Hinduism is not a religion with one God and one Holy Scripture. The practices vary from region to region, place to place. The Gods worshipped, the customs, traditions, practices, rituals etc. they all differ, yet all these people are Hindus." (Supreme Court of India)
Atheism is Part of a Religion - It can happen only in Hinduism
It is the only religion that is constantly under attack from outside and inside. From other religions, governments and organizations.
It is the only religion that had to be defined by the highest court of a country - "Hinduism is not a religion with one God and one Holy Scripture. The practices vary from region to region, place to place. The Gods worshipped, the customs, traditions, practices, rituals etc. they all differ, yet all these people are Hindus." (Supreme Court of India)
Atheism is Part of a Religion - It can happen only in Hinduism
Hinduism is perhaps the only religion that has accepted
atheism – a fully developed school of thought supporting atheism is part of
Hinduism – Carvaka philosophical school.
Respect for All Religions
Respect for All Religions
Hinduism is the only religion that has not attacked another
religion. It has imbibed the good teachings of all religions.
It is the only religion that has not broken or mutilated idols.
In fact, it protected, saved and imbibed idols of all religions and traditions.
To Find Enemies Do Not Look Outside
To Find Enemies Do Not Look Outside
The greatest enemies of Hindus are Hindus who are
misguided by fake Gurus, politicians and people with vested interests.
Superstition thrives in Hinduism – because individuals are
free to approach God in any way they want.
In a generation, hardly a few understand the true teachings
of Hinduism.
Science and Hinduism Go Hand in Hand
Science and Hinduism Go Hand in Hand
Hindus always encouraged scientific spirit.
Hinduism has stood up to the challenges of modern science
better than any other religion.
So What is then Hinduism?
So What is then Hinduism?
Essentially Hinduism is the sum total of all attempts made
by living beings (individual soul) to understand God.
Hinduism is not a religion in strict sense. It is not based
on a founder or single scripture. It is a relentless pursuit of truth.
The core teaching of Hinduism that all gods and goddess are one – the different forms are just manifestation of one single Supreme Being (Brahman).
The paths to reach God are innumerable. Hinduism respects all the paths.
A Hindu sees God in all animate and inanimate.
Hinduism Teaches Through Symbolism
Symbolism plays a great role in Hindu religion and this
symbolism is not limited by time or region.
The teachings and symbols in Hinduism are based on universal
truth and therefore it will be applicable in all ages.
Celebration of Individual Freedom to know His/Her Source
Celebration of Individual Freedom to know His/Her Source
Hinduism is based on self realization and not borrowed
realization. Each individual should realize That (Brahman) and not by becoming
blind follower of another.
One Birth is not Enough to Know
One Birth is not Enough to Know
Hindu art, architecture, beliefs, temples, festivals – we need
several births to know it all. By then Hindus might have added even more to the
religion. So we will need to take several births again.
It has the oldest scriptures (Vedas)...It has the longest epic (Mahabharata)...
Hinduism is an Eternal Tree
It has the oldest scriptures (Vedas)...It has the longest epic (Mahabharata)...
Hinduism is an Eternal Tree
Hinduism does not live in the past. It takes inspiration
from the ancient teachers. It keeps its doors open to new knowledge. Hinduism
is like a tree that is always growing. It cannot be uprooted. It can be
mutilated but new branches will grow from the same spot.
"Hinduism appears to be a very complex religion. It is like a centre of gravity doll which always regains its upright position however much it may be upset. Hinduism does not have a single founder, a single book, a single church or even a single way of life." Quote from Facets of Hinduism by Swami Harshananda
I can never end this article. But I have to stop writing. So this page will be constantly updated to spread the true Hinduism Facts.