Hinduism is diverse, old, and complex, with spiritual, cultural, and philosophical elements. It originated in the Indian subcontinent. It lacks a single founder or centralized authority, making it diverse and decentralized.
Hinduism advocates virtuous and ethical living in harmony with duty, guided by dharma. The moral code stresses interconnectedness and fulfilling obligations to family, society, and cosmos.
Hinduism’s pantheon includes Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, representing various aspects of the divine. Deities are revered in different forms, and individuals may choose a personal connection.
Karma plays a central role, determining future existence through samsara’s cycle. Accumulating good karma leads to a better future or liberation from reincarnation (moksha).
Integral practices like yoga and meditation aim for self-realization and unity with the divine. Hindu rituals and festivals express devotion, celebrating nature, epics, and good triumphing over evil.
With over a billion adherents, Hinduism evolves while preserving core principles. Its inclusivity allows harmonious coexistence with other religions, shaping India’s cultural landscape and influencing the world.
Hinduism, with its rich tapestry of traditions, uses a unique lunar calendar to mark festivals, fasts, and rituals. Two primary systems are used to divide the lunar months: Amanta and Purnimanta. Both systems have their distinct methods of calculating the months, leading to differences in dates for festivals and rituals. Understanding these differences is crucial…
Imagine entering a Hindu temple, the air rich with the scent of incense and the soft murmur of prayers. One of the profound practices you’ll witness here is the act of circumambulating the sanctum, or “pradakshina.” This ritual, where devotees walk clockwise around the sacred center, is deeply imbued with spiritual meaning and significance. Understanding…
Lord Krishna stands as one of the most revered figures in Hindu mythology, embodying wisdom, valor, and divine love. His teachings, particularly those found in the Bhagavad Gita, offer profound insights into the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, a non-dualistic school of thought that emphasizes the oneness of the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality…
Amidst the tapestry of Hindu philosophy lies a profound path known as Sannyasa, a journey of renunciation and spiritual liberation. Rooted in ancient wisdom yet relevant in today’s world, Sannyasa offers seekers a transformative path towards inner fulfilment and enlightenment. Understanding Sannyasa Sannyasa, derived from the Sanskrit words “sam” (complete) and “nyasa” (renunciation), embodies the…
Fire has long held a profound significance in the tapestry of Hindu spirituality, its flames flickering as symbols of both destruction and creation, purity and transformation. In Hinduism, fire is not merely a physical element. It is a divine entity, revered as Agni, the god of fire, and central to the ritual of Yajna. Let’s…
When we think of wealth, our minds often drift to material possessions—money, property, or luxury goods. Yet, the ancient wisdom of the Lakshmi Tantra teaches us that true wealth transcends the tangible. It delves into the depths of our being, unraveling the secrets of inner abundance and prosperity. In this journey, we embark on a…
Embark on a journey through the vibrant tapestry of Hindu iconography, where every symbol holds profound significance and meaning. In this exploration, we’ll delve into the rich symbolism that adorns Hindu deities, uncovering the stories, metaphors, and spiritual insights they convey. Deciphering Divine Symbols At the heart of Hinduism lies a diverse pantheon of gods…
Meditation in Hinduism has evolved over millennia, with different schools of thought offering unique perspectives and techniques. From the rigorous discipline of Raja Yoga to the devotional fervor of Bhakti Yoga, each path offers a distinct approach to connecting with the divine. By exploring the rich tapestry of Hindu meditation practices, seekers can find the…
In the vast expanse of Hindu mythology, a captivating narrative echoes through the epochs—the churning of the Ocean. This celestial episode, nestled within the ancient scriptures of the Puranas, intricately weaves a mesmerizing tale that transcends both time and space, inviting us to explore the depths of cosmic wisdom and unravel the threads of our…
Within the intricate fabric of Hinduism, music serves not merely as a source of entertainment but as a deep manifestation of spiritual expression. Two distinct musical traditions, Bhajan and Kirtan, play pivotal roles in connecting devotees with the divine. Bhajan: A Melodious Devotion Bhajan, originating from the Sanskrit word ‘bhaj,’ meaning to worship, is a…