Exploring the Religious Beliefs of Hinduism

References

Fisher, M.P. (2005). Living religions (6th ED). In Fisher, M. P. Chapter 3
Hinduism (pp. 69 - 115). Prentice Hall Publishers.
Presja. Gsarawt. Retrieved January 14, 2007, from
http://members.nbci.com/_XMCM/ekprem/hinduism.htm

Hinduism is the religious belief system that encompasses innumerous sects of Indian culture, lifestyles, philosophy, devotions, and rituals. Each village, perhaps even each family, have varying belief systems that all come under the heading of Hinduism. This is due, in part; because of how old the religion is; dating back thousands of years. Also, as different disciplines and beliefs developed over time, they were incorporated into Hindu beliefs. Here we ask and answer three central questions regarding Hinduism: Considering that Hinduism lacks a uniting belief system, what makes up the Hindu religion; What are the cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to the region in which it was originated; and, Explain the desire for liberation from earthly existence?

Considering that Hinduism lacks a uniting belief system, what makes up the Hindu religion? According to the text of Living Religions 6th, the Hindu religion encompasses all of the uncategorized religions in the area of the Indus River. The term Hinduism was used more as a catch all by census takers when the land was under British rule (Chapter 3, 2005). More specifically, Hindu or Sanatana Dharma (as is the preferred label) refers to a lifestyle and philosophy on how to live ones life. The religion also refers to beliefs in a deity and rituals that show a following and reverence to Him. Many scholars believe that Hinduism is an ancient religion and over time has developed varied doctrines of philosophy, cultural, and societal norms that have been further incorporated into the Hindu religion.

What are the cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to the region in which it was originated? The cultural and societal influences that have made Hinduism vital to the region in which it was originated are numerous. Karma, yoga, and spiritual truths are just a few. Teachings on being moral and living life with the knowledge that ones actions have consequences is described in Karma; practicing Yoga, which allows one to become in tune with oneself, leads to a state of peace and contemplation; teachings of spiritual truth affect change in ways such as using peaceful non-violent measures. For example; Mahatma Gandhi used these teachings to unite his people. Through peaceful hunger strikes he was successful in eliminating the western influence that was threatening to eradicate the Indian culture and its Hindu beliefs.

Explain the desire for liberation from earthly existence? The desire for liberation from earthly existence is the basis in all beliefs of Hinduism. It is believed that by transcending this earthly plain one can obtain true bliss and peace. This existence is not true reality and can cause nothing but pain and misery. One is subject to the duality of being human; there is a constant battle between pain and pleasure which leads to confusion and disillusionment. Through mediation and spiritual teachings a person can become one with the ultimate reality and know truth. The belief is that the soul belongs in ‘Heaven’ and that one should work to returning to their true existence.

Hinduism is rich and varied in history, culture and philosophies. Some consider it to be the one true religion that all beliefs spawned from. Certainly there is evidence to support that to some degree all religions have similar disciplines and ideas. The religion dates back thousands of years and its origins certainly lend to its claim to be the oldest religion in India. We have explored a small portion of what is Hinduism; however we can never fully understand every aspect of the religion because of the multitude of beliefs. Fisher, M.P. “Although there is no single founder, devotional tradition, or philosophy which can be said to define Sanatana Dharma, everyday life is so imbued with spiritually meaningful aspects that spirituality is never far from one’s mind” (pp. 95, 2005).