Hinduism

The Hinduism Core
Hinduism is recorded to be the third largest and oldest organized religion in the world. It has about 837 million followers and approximately 1.1 million live in the United States. Hinduism is based on a set of complex beliefs, customs, traditions, and values. The religion originates from nature and civilization while not founded by a specific prophet, whereas Christianity and Islam are. The Hindu religious follower's worship one or many gods, believe in reincarnation, practice yoga, and hold high standards in personal moral values. The creator Brahma, destroyer Shiva, and preserver Vishnu are three prime examples of Hindu gods worshiped.

Members strongly believe in life after death through reincarnation. A soul leaves the dead body and enters another living organism, whether it's mammal or human. The study and practice of yoga is categorized under karma, raja, bhakti, and jnana yoga. The purpose of yoga is to clear and balance one's mind, purify one's soul, further personal wisdom, and find peacefulness within. The sacred texts of Hinduism, known as the "Vegas" are the oldest in existence today. Inside the texts are incantations, hymns, and rituals from ancient India.

The followers of Hinduism formulate their lives around certain activities. They are called the "four aims of Hinduism." The first one is "dharma" which is righteousness in their religious life, the second is "artha" which is to have economic success in life, the third is "kama" which is experiencing the pleasure of the senses, and the fourth is "moksa" which is finding spiritual liberation. (2006, Hinduism) Of the four preceding goals, the first one known as "dharma" is believed to be the most important and "moksa" is considered to be the goal that every Hindu should strive for.