What is Hinduism?

Hinduism is regarded as one of the oldest living religions in the world [*]. The term Hinduism itself is a word coined by the western world when they had to differentiate this from other religions. To elaborate, the root word Hindu refers to the river Indus (Sindu originally). There is actually no name for this religion, and also no founder unlike any other religion in the world. The closest name associated with this religion is Sanatana Dharma, which means the eternal way of life. The term dharma includes duties, rights, laws, conduct, virtues and the right way of living [*]. For simplicity and popularity, let us refer to the religion as Hinduism, and those who follow it as Hindus.

References of Hindu deities and its divine symbols have been found as early as in the Indus valley civilization (3300 BCE), proving its antiquity and continuity.

Image Left: Lord Shiva as Pasupati (Lord of all beings) in a yogic posture surrounded by men and other creatures. Image Right: Swastika - a symbol of prosperity which is used in Hindu households, temples, shops, and clothing. Image Source: Wikipedia

Hinduism is a very vast religion. For the most part, Hinduism explores the philosophy of life, and how to effectively lead it. It does specify Gods and Higher Worlds, and their associated rituals to please or attain them, respectively. All these are considered for material benefits. However, the ultimate purpose of this religion is to help people seek the unexplainable Truth of Existence.

To put it all together, Hinduism is a religion without an original name, with no known origin or any founder(s), but has enabled innumerable seekers to know the Unknowable.