Series- 8 Major World Religions: Hinduism

Hinduism: The Way of Devotion

My apologies for struggling trying to tie Hinduism up into a 30 minute package. As we learned, Hinduism is a very complex, evolving world religion (the third largest by most accounts). While there are some core beliefs for most Hindus, not following these core beliefs doesn't exclude one from being a Hindu either. Being born in India appears to be one sure way to adopt or inherit the belief system.

Hindus in the world

A recent survey of Americans conducted by Religious Tolerence found the number one association with Hinduism in this country was The Simpsons cartoon character Apu (overwhelmingly).

Second was the Hindu deva Ganesha.

Finally, the third most popular association was Mohandas Gandhi.

Well-known people who have 'converted' to Hinduism include George Harrison (Beatles), Julia Roberts and Ricky Williams (Miami Dolphins). 'Adopting' Hindu principles would be a better phrase for changing to a Hindu.

Hinduism snapshot

Because of the wide variety of Hindu traditions, freedom of belief and practices are notable features of Hinduism. The term Hinduism was first used in the 13th century by the medieval ruling Islamic kingdoms in present day India to denote traditions and practices ‘not Islam.’

Naturally, Hindus refer to their religion as being the oldest known religion. Although widely accepted as henotheistic, some elements of Hinduism can be defined as polytheism (many gods), pantheism (God is the whole) and even panentheism (the whole is in God).

It's important to realize that while moksha is the desired outcome of breaking from the revolving cycle of death and rebirth (samsara), moksha is not consider an equivalent to Christian heaven. There is no 'sin debt' in Hinduism or even an ultimate reward for the choice of good actions over evil actions. Karma rectifies these choices as a process of daily living and through samsara. Live a good life (dharma) and you may be rewarded by returning after death through reincarnation (samsara) into a better life. Of course, karma has two sides, and a not so ethical life might see your return as a bug or cow.

The Vedas were the precursors to modern Hinduism.

Christianity vs Hinduism

For a Christian, discussions of faith with a Hindu could be tedious and frustrating. Some (although not all) Hindus completely accept the principles of Christianity as a means to moksha. The concept of a single path to God is completely foreign to Hindus. Acceptance of other beliefs and faiths is a basic principle of the religion.

Next Week: Confusianism