Understanding Hinduism

Hinduism has been described in western literature as mystical and otherworldly, and it does a good job of living up to its reputation.

Hinduism is the oldest known religion in the world and represents many different belief systems. The earliest evidence of Hinduism dates back as far as the late Neolithic period to the early Harappan period from 5500 to 2600 B.C.

The basis of Hinduism rests in the four Vedas which are ancient scriptures of revelation, the oldest of which dates from around 1700 B.C and is composed in an ancient form of Sanskrit. In the four Vedas you will find The Rig-Veda, The Yajur-Veda, The Sama-Veda and the Atharva-Veda. Many Hindus believe that all human knowledge is available in the Vedas and contained in symbolic form to the degree in which we are spiritually advanced.

Hindu philosophy views reality as a temporary illusion of sorts. This illusion is known as 'maya'. Mankind lives under the illusion of being in control when, in fact, everything is determined by maya. This power of delusion creates and destroys everything and all human beings are subject to the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth until they attain spiritual freedom and avoid rebirth. Some of the ways in which spiritual freedom can be attained are through meditation and asceticism.

There are three Hindu religious paths: Jnana, the path of knowledge, Karma, the path of work and religious performances, and Bhakti, the path of devotion. It may not be surprising to know that many choose the bath of Bhakti and that Bhakti Yoga is wildly popular in Hindu culture. The religious expression of this devotional school is in love and adoration. Those on the Bhakti path believe in the Supreme Person instead of the Supreme Abstraction. God is looked upon as a loving creator and religious exuberance is key to the worship of deities Vishnu and Siva.

Hindus have some very unique customs. One such custom is an auspicious drawing called a Kolam, which many believe will bring prosperity. Kolams are made of colored powder or rice four, and each day before sunrise the women of the house draw vividly colorful Kolams on the thresholds of their homes.