The history of the name "Hindu" is quite intricate and has evolved over time. Here’s an expanded exploration of its origins and historical context: Etymological Origins Persian Influence: The term "Hindu" originates from the Persian word "Hindu," which was derived from the Sanskrit name for the Indus River, "Sindhu." In ancient times, Persians, who spoke an Old Iranian language, used "H" for the "S" sound in Sanskrit. Thus, "Sindhu" became "Hindu." Greek Influence: The Greeks, following the Persians, referred to the people living beyond the Indus River as "Indoi," which is where the term "India" eventually came from. Historical Context Ancient Persian Texts: The use of the term "Hindu" can be traced back to the Achaemenid Empire of Persia (circa 550–330 BCE). In the inscriptions of Darius I, territories along the Indus were called "Hindush." Medieval Islamic Period: D

In a month, we get numerous requests from the readers of the Hindu blog to stop using the term ‘Mythology’ in matters related to Hinduism. They are of the opinion that when we use the term Hindu Mythology, it essentially means that we are referring to all our culture and stories of Gods as "MYTHS" and not real incidents. Some have also provided a solution instead of Myth and Mythology use Hindu Civilization or Hindu Religious History. Interestingly, The Oxford Dictionary describes the term Myth as a traditional story concerning the early history of a people or explaining a natural or social phenomenon, typically involving the supernatural. Merriam Webster describes Myth as a usually traditional story of ostensibly historical events that serves to unfold part of the world view of a people or explain a practice, belief, or natural phenomenon. These two definitions clearly suggest that Myths contains History. But, the word Mythology and Myth has undergone a c

Nisargadatta Maharaj and Sri Ramana Maharshi are two of the most influential modern Advaita Vedanta teachers. Despite their different personalities and teaching styles, their teachings share significant similarities as well as notable differences. Similarities Core Teaching of Non-Duality (Advaita Vedanta): Both emphasized the essential non-dual nature of reality, teaching that the individual self (jiva) is not separate from the universal self (Brahman). They taught that the true self (Atman) is identical to Brahman, and realization of this truth is the goal of spiritual practice. Self-Inquiry: Ramana Maharshi's primary teaching method was the practice of self-inquiry ("Who am I?"). He taught that by persistently asking this question and turning inward, one could realize the true self. Nisargadatta Maharaj also emphasized self-inquiry, though his approach was more focused on understanding the sense of "I am" or the feeling of existence as a doorway to the ultima

In all the four Vedas there are the three sections of karma, upasana, and jnana. The jnana section is comprised of many Upanishads. Even though there are more that 108 Upanishads in the Vedas, the knowledge taught in them is the same – the knowledge of the self. For all of us living here in this world, questions such as, “Who am I, what is this world, and where did it come from?” eventually arise. The first question is related to myself and my own true nature, while the second question relates to the nature of the world that I see around me. Our desire for the knowledge that will answer these questions is fulfilled in the Upanishads. They tell us that Brahman is the origin of this creation and is also our own true nature. The next question we would want to ask is what is Brahman? Brahman is that from which we all beings are born, that by which they are sustained and that unto which they return. Swami Tejomayananda Source: Hindu Culture – An introduction – Page 42 -

Carl Jung, the Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst who founded analytical psychology, was significantly influenced by various spiritual and philosophical traditions, including Hinduism. His engagement with Hinduism enriched his theories and offered a broader context for understanding the human psyche. Influence of Hinduism on Carl Jung Concept of the Self : Jung's idea of the Self has parallels with the Hindu concept of Atman. In Hinduism, Atman refers to the inner self or soul, which is a central element in achieving spiritual enlightenment. Jung saw the Self as the totality of the psyche, encompassing both conscious and unconscious elements. Individuation Process : The process of individuation in Jungian psychology is similar to the spiritual journey described in Hinduism. Individuation involves integrating various parts of the psyche to achieve wholeness. This process can be likened to the spiritual path in Hinduism, where the individual seeks to realize their true self (Atman)

In the teachings of Hindu saints, the virtues of humility and truthfulness are profoundly emphasized. These values are considered fundamental to leading a righteous and fulfilling life. Here are some key teachings from Hindu saints that highlight these virtues: Humility (Vinaya) Swami Vivekananda : He often spoke about the importance of humility in personal growth and spiritual progress. He said, "The greatest religion is to be true to your own nature. Have faith in yourselves!" This emphasizes that true strength comes from a humble recognition of one's own nature and potential. Ramana Maharshi : Ramana Maharshi emphasized self-inquiry and the dissolution of the ego, which is intrinsically linked to humility. He taught that realizing the self involves transcending the ego, which requires humility. Sant Kabir : Kabir, a 15th-century saint, poet, and mystic, often spoke about the insignificance of human pride. One of his famous couplets is: "When the drop of water fell

The relationship between Satyavati and Shantanu in the Mahabharata offers several lessons and insights, reflecting the complexities of love, duty, sacrifice, and ambition. Here are some key lessons: Power of Love and Sacrifice : Satyavati's Determination : Satyavati's father set a condition for her marriage to Shantanu, demanding that her future son become the king. This shows her determination and ambition to secure a strong future for her lineage. Shantanu's Sacrifice : Shantanu's son, Bhishma, took a vow of lifelong celibacy and renounced his claim to the throne to fulfill his father's love for Satyavati. This act of sacrifice emphasizes the extent of love and duty within a family. Ambition and Consequences : Satyavati's Ambition : Satyavati’s insistence on her sons ascending the throne shows the importance of ambition in shaping one's destiny. However, it also highlights the consequences of such ambitions, as it eventually led to significant turmoil in t

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Rabindranath Tagore, two towering figures in Indian spiritual and cultural history, had distinct yet overlapping philosophies and teachings. Their similarities stem from their shared commitment to spirituality, universalism, and the upliftment of humanity. Here are some key areas where their teachings converge: 1. Universalism and Acceptance of All Religions Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa emphasized the unity of all religions, demonstrating through his own life that various religious paths lead to the same divine goal. He practiced and realized the truths of different religions, including Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam. Rabindranath Tagore embraced a broad, inclusive spirituality that transcended sectarian boundaries. His works reflect a deep respect for diverse religious traditions and a belief in the universal presence of the divine. 2. Inner Spiritual Experience Over Rituals Sri Ramakrishna advocated for direct, personal experience of the divine, o

In Hindu philosophy, there is a profound teaching that asserts: "It is impossible to satisfy an arrogant person." This idea is echoed by various Hindu saints and spiritual leaders throughout history. Let’s delve into this concept to understand its deeper implications and wisdom. Understanding Arrogance in Hindu Philosophy In Hindu thought, arrogance (known as pride or ahamkara ) is considered one of the significant obstacles to spiritual growth and inner peace. It is a sense of superiority or entitlement that distorts one's view of oneself and others. Arrogance can manifest as an inflated sense of one's own importance, dismissiveness toward others, or a lack of humility. Arrogance is seen as a hindrance to spiritual progress because it creates a barrier to self-awareness and genuine connection with the divine. Saints and sages often emphasize humility as a crucial virtue for spiritual advancement. Teachings from Hindu Saints Swami Sivananda : Swami Sivananda, a reve

Lord Ganesh, Goddess Durga, Lord Surya, Goddess Ganga, Mahabharata, Ramayana, Buddha, Gandhiji, Shah Jahan, British Empire, Portuguese Rule in Goa etc are part of a carnival float that will be presented by the Escola de Samba Perola Negra of Sao Paulo at Carnival 2009 held in Sao Paulo in Brazil. The theme of the float is titled “Guided by Surya journeying through India in quest of the sacred pearl” and the quest takes the viewers through Hindu culture and Indian history. The float will be paraded on Saturday, February 21, 2009. The theme is about a person who in his dream arrives in a lotus garden in India . He meets Lord Ganesha in the lotus garden and Ganesh sends him to find out a sacred pearl. He takes help of Lord Surya and other Hindu Gods in locating the sacred pearl passes through various phases of Indian history and visits numerous places including Goa , Taj Mahal etc. You can find more images that are part of the float at the website of Escola de Samba Perola Negra o

What did Swami Vivekananda Say about Adi Shankara? The greatest teacher of the Vedanta philosophy was Sankaracharya. By solid reasoning he extracted from the Vedas the truths of Vedanta, and on them built up the wonderful system of Gyana that is taught in his commentaries. He unified all the conflicting descriptions of Brahman and showed that there is only one infinite Reality. He showed that as man can only travel slowly on the upward road, all the varied presentations are needed to suit his varying capacity. Shankara taught that three things were the great gifts of God : [1] human body [2] thirst after God and [3] a teacher who can show up the light. When these three great gifts are ours, we may know that our redemption is at hand. Only knowledge can free and save us but with knowledge must go virtue. Books cannot teach God, but they can destroy ignorance; their action is negative. To hold to the books and at the same time open the way to freedom is Shank

Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma) and Sri Sri Ravi Shankar are two prominent spiritual leaders from India, each with a significant following worldwide. Despite their common goal of promoting peace, compassion, and spiritual growth, their teachings and approaches have some distinct differences. Here's a comparative overview: Core Teachings Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma) Love and Compassion : Amma emphasizes unconditional love and compassion as the essence of spirituality. Her message often focuses on selfless service to others. Service (Seva) : Amma encourages her followers to engage in humanitarian activities. Her organization, the Mata Amritanandamayi Math, runs numerous charitable projects worldwide, including hospitals, schools, and disaster relief efforts. Devotion (Bhakti) : Amma's teachings are deeply rooted in bhakti (devotion). She often speaks about surrendering to the Divine and cultivating a personal relationship with God. Meditation and Spiritual Practices : Amma p

Emily, a reader of Hindu Blog, wanted to know about Hinduism's views on Socialism. Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary defines Socialism as the set of beliefs which states that all people are equal and should share equally in the wealth of the country, or the political systems based on these beliefs. Thousands of years before modern man thought about Socialism, the great sages of Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism) taught the lessons of equality of not only of humans but animals and all that is in Nature. The opening stanza of Isa Upanishad (Ishavasya Upanishad) reads like this: Ishavasyam Idam Sarvam Yat Kim Cha Jagatyam Jagat Tena Tyaktena bhunjitha, ma gradha kasyasvid dhanam Know that all this whatever moves in this moving world is enveloped by God. Therefore find your enjoyment in renunciation, do not covet what belongs to others. The same idea is echoed in numerous other ancient Hindu scriptures. Gandhiji found in this mantra not just universal brotherhood

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Sri Narayana Guru of Kerala were both influential spiritual leaders in India, but their teachings and approaches reflected their distinct cultural and social contexts. Here are some key differences between their teachings: 1. Philosophical Foundations Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa: Advaita Vedanta: Ramakrishna's teachings were deeply rooted in Advaita Vedanta, which emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality. He believed in the ultimate unity of all religions, advocating that different paths lead to the same divine truth. Mystical Experiences: He stressed the importance of direct mystical experiences and personal communion with the Divine. His life was marked by numerous spiritual experiences across different religious traditions, including Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity. Sri Narayana Guru: Practical Vedanta: Narayana Guru also drew from Advaita Vedanta but emphasized its practical application in daily life. He focused on social reform and the upl

Sri Aurobindo and Swami Vivekananda are two prominent figures in Indian philosophy and spirituality. Both have contributed significantly to the understanding and practice of Vedanta, yet their teachings exhibit distinct differences due to their unique approaches, contexts, and goals. Below is an exploration of these differences across several dimensions: 1. Philosophical Foundations Swami Vivekananda : Advaita Vedanta : Swami Vivekananda was a proponent of Advaita Vedanta, the non-dualistic school of Hindu philosophy. He emphasized the oneness of the individual soul (Atman) and the universal soul (Brahman). Practical Vedanta : He stressed the application of Vedantic principles in daily life, advocating for the realization of divinity through service to humanity (Karma Yoga). Sri Aurobindo : Integral Yoga : Sri Aurobindo developed a comprehensive spiritual path known as Integral Yoga, which integrates various aspects of existence—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual—into a harmoni

Christianity.com is owned by Christians and contains contents related to Christian teaching. Islam.com has contents related to Islamic teachings. But Hinduism.com is a parked domain and contains advertisements of everything that is not related to Sanatana Dharma and Hindu culture. The Registrar of Record for Hinduism.com domain does not provide the information on who owns the domain. Hinduism.com was created on 31-oct-1997 and was updated on 01-oct-2008 and the current expiration date is 30-oct-2009. Luckily, if you search for Hinduism on Google or other popular search engines, Hinduism.com never shows up. Simply because it is a parked domain. It is sure that the person who owns the domain name might be ready to sell it for a very high price and might have already had failed negotiations with some Hindu organizations. I agree, a domain name is never a great issue for Sanatana Dharma as it has withstood murderous onslaughts in the past and which continues to thrive despite t

Advaita Vedanta, a school of Hindu philosophy, emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality, asserting that the true self (atman) is identical to the ultimate reality (Brahman). Here are some quotes that capture the essence and greatness of Advaita Vedanta: The ultimate identity of the individual and the supreme soul is the great tenet of the Vedanta. 'That art thou' (Tat Twam Asi) is the first lesson of the beginner, and the last vision of the perfected mystic. The one supreme soul alone exists; all the separate consciousnesses of individuals are but the reflection of the one soul on the multitudinous 'internal organs' which are the creation of 'ignorance' or illusion. To reach reality we must strip off the successive veils – the waking world first (where the soul is disguised by the gross effects) and the world of dreams next (where it is disguised by the subtle effects), till we reach that of sound sleep. Here for the time the individual soul does at

 In Hinduism, the concept of God transcends ordinary dimensions and existence. Hindu philosophy often describes God as being beyond the confines of space and time, embodying an omnipresent, omnipotent, and omniscient reality. This idea is articulated in several ways, reflecting the diverse theological perspectives within Hinduism. Brahman - The Ultimate Reality: Beyond Space and Time: Brahman, in Advaita Vedanta, is considered the ultimate, unchanging reality amidst and beyond the world of change. It is described as Nirguna (without attributes) and Saguna (with attributes). As Nirguna, Brahman is formless, beyond human comprehension, and not bound by space and time. It is the infinite, unmanifested essence that underlies the entire universe. Simultaneously Immanent and Transcendent: Brahman is also seen as Saguna, taking on various forms and attributes to become accessible to human devotion. This duality means Brahman is simultaneously immanent (present within the universe) and trans

Saturday, or Shaniwar, is dedicated to Shani Bhagavan. As it is believed that those who have the blessing of Mahavir Bajrang Bali Hanuman are protected from the effects of Shani Graha, Hanuman is also worshipped on the day by many Hindus. In some regions, the Narasimha incarnation of Bhagavan Vishnu is also worshipped. The main mantras and prayers that are chanted are dedicated to Shani Bhagavan and Hanuman. Here are some Hindu prayers and mantras that are commonly recited on Saturdays: Shani Gayatri Mantra: "Om Shanaye Namah" This mantra is dedicated to Lord Shani and is believed to alleviate the adverse effects of Saturn. Reciting this mantra regularly on Saturdays can bring peace and harmony. Shani Beej Mantra: "Om Praam Preem Praum Sah Shanaischaraya Namah" Chanting this powerful mantra is said to reduce the obstacles and challenges caused by Saturn in one's life. It is believed to bring strength and resilience to face difficulties. Hanuman Chalisa: T

Swami Ramananda and Sri Ramanujacharya are two prominent figures in the Bhakti movement and the Vaishnavism tradition, and while they share some core beliefs, their teachings have notable differences. Sri Ramanujacharya (1017–1137 CE) Sri Ramanujacharya was a theologian and philosopher who played a crucial role in the development of the Vishishtadvaita (Qualified Non-dualism) school of Vedanta. His teachings include: Qualified Non-Dualism (Vishishtadvaita): Ramanuja’s philosophy posits that while the individual soul (Jiva) and the universe are distinct, they are inseparable from Brahman (the Supreme Being). Brahman is the inner self of all, but the soul and the universe are real and distinct entities within Brahman. Bhakti (Devotion): Ramanuja emphasized devotion to Vishnu (specifically as Narayana) as the primary means to attain liberation (Moksha). He stressed surrender (Prapatti) and loving devotion (Bhakti) as ways to realize God. Social Inclusivity: Ramanuja challenged caste di

After chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer, Clare McVerry was told she would never get pregnant but had a baby after visiting Lord Shiva in India . Clare who is from Sutton Coldfield in United Kingdom says, ‘After I saw Shiva I was filled with a powerful feeling.’ Emma Morton writes in The Sun Clare McVerry saw the statue of Shiva — also the god of love — on a holiday to India with partner Tony Clarke. A week later she was pregnant. Clare, 41, had breast cancer in her 30s and needed chemotherapy which docs said had left her infertile. And she has a weak spine after a car crash in her 20s, so medics said it was impossible for her to carry a child. Doctors say it is a miracle she is a now mum to son Mitchell. Mitchell was born in December 2007, a healthy 7lb 10oz. Clare said: “It was the most amazing moment to hold him in my arms. “When Mitchell grows up I will tell him how special the statue of Lord Shiva turned out to be.” Clare’s consulta

Friday, or Shukrawar, is mainly dedicated to Hindu Goddesses . The different manifestations of Goddess Shakti are worshipped on the day. Prayers and mantras dedicated to Santhoshi Matha, Durga, Lalitha and Kali are chanted on the day. Apart from simple prayers and meditating on the Goddesses. People recite various bhajans and prayers dedicated to the Hindu Goddesses. The most important bhajans that are chanted on Friday are Lalita Sahasranamam and Durga Ashtotaram You can download Lalita Sahasranamam and Durga Ashtotaram in PDF format from below Link to download Lalita Sahasranamam in PDF format Link to download Durga Ashtotaram in PDF format You may also like to read Each Day of a Week Dedicated to a Particular Hindu God

Swami Ramananda was a prominent Indian spiritual leader and saint, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the Bhakti movement. Born around 1400 CE in Prayag (modern-day Allahabad), Ramananda is known for his progressive approach to spirituality and devotion, emphasizing the universality of the divine and advocating for a more inclusive form of worship. Here are some key aspects of his life and teachings: Early Life and Spiritual Journey Birth and Early Life: Ramananda was born into a Brahmin family in Prayag. From a young age, he exhibited a deep interest in spirituality and religious practices. Discipleship: He became a disciple of Raghavananda, a renowned sage of the time. Under his guru's guidance, Ramananda studied the Vedas and other sacred texts. Teachings and Philosophy Universalism: Ramananda's teachings were marked by a universal approach to God, transcending caste, creed, and gender. He believed that true devotion (bhakti) was accessible to all,

Major Hindu Temple festival season in Kerala begins by January mid-week and ends in April. And this is the cruelest and toughest period for the living representatives of Lord Ganesha, one of the most popular deities in Hindu pantheon. More than 400 captured elephants in Kerala that are trained to perform duties during temple festivities are paraded in the numerous temples in the scorching sun during this period. Interestingly, it is not written in Hindu scriptures that elephants should be part of temple festivals. In fact Ganesha symbolizes that man and animals (all animate and inanimate) are nothing but Brahman – the Supreme Being. Caparisoned elephants are paraded to satisfy the egos of the temple committee members and to gain superiority over the temple in the next village or town. Thanks to the tourist promotion campaign ran by the Government of Kerala, caparisoned elephants are one of the biggest attractions in the state. Elephants killing people during templ

Thursday, or Brihaspativar, is dedicated to Bhagavan Vishnu, Shirdi Sai Baba, Brihaspati Deva (Guru), Dattatreya and Raghavendra. It must be noted here that incarnations of Bhagavan Vishnu is also worshipped on Wednesday. Simple prayers dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, Bhagavan Vishnu, Sai Baba, Dattatreya and Raghavendra are chanted on the day. Most popular prayers that are chanted are the Shatanamavali – the 108 names of  Goddess Lakshmi, Bhagavan Vishnu, Sai Baba, Dattatreya and Raghavendra. Kanakadhara Stotram of Goddess Lakshmi can also be chanted on the day. Some of other prayers that can be chanted on the day are: Guru Mantra (Guru Gayatri Mantra): "Om Vrishabhadhwajaaya Vidmahae Kruni Hastaaya Dheemahi Tanno Guru Prachodayaat" Guru Stotram: " देवानां च ऋषीणां च गुरुः काचन संशयः। तस्मात गुरवे प्रोक्ते शिष्ये सत्यं प्रियं गुरुः॥ " Brihaspati Beej Mantra: " ॐ ग्रां ग्रीं ग्रौं सः गुरवे नमः॥ " Brihaspati Gayatri Mantra: " ॐ