Hindu & Hinduism at a Glance

What is Hinduism?

It is important to recognize four important fundamental doctrines to fully understand Hinduism. These are derived from the philosophical Vedic texts of Upanishads.

1. The phenomenal world of matter, animals, humans and even gods is a
manifestation of a Supreme Being called Brahman, without whom nothing
would exist.

2. The human beings are capable of not only merely knowing about the existence
of Brahman; they can also realize its existence by direct intuition and
discursive reasoning.

3. The human being possesses a dual nature: one isJiva-atman or the phenomenal
ego and the other is an eternal Self (antar-atman), which is an inner spirit
designed in the same mold as Brahman. If he so desires, it is possible to
identify himself with the inner spirit and therefore with Brahman.

4. The only purpose of man's life on earth is to identify himself with the
eternal Self called Brahman and unite with it through knowledge (jnana),
service (karma) and/or devotion (bhakti).

Who is a Hindu?

Chinmayananda once said, (and I paraphrase), 'I am not interested in converting anyone into Hinduism. I am interested in converting Hindus into Hindu religion.' It rings true today as we have neglected the study of the religion of our ancestors that has survived thousands of years and has had the unique capacity to adapt and change with the times. The Hindu religion is aptly called 'Sanatana Dharma' which is synonymous with 'a religion with no beginning or ending, that will survive forever.'

The fundamental question like what is Hinduism is difficult to answer in simple words and to justly convey the essence of the religion of Hinduism. A more detailed and organized study of the evolution and history of the religion is necessary to fully understand the tenets of the religion. But it need not be complicated or esoteric for a commoner to comprehend. The philosophy, so well explained in the Upanishads can be followed by anyone once the basic concept of the religion is understood.

Who is a Hindu? In simple terms, 'He who accepts the Scriptures (such as the Vedas, Smritis, Puranas and Tantras), as the basis of his religion and of the rule of conduct (or Dharma), and he who believes in one Supreme God (Brahman), in the Law of retributive justice (or Karma), and in reincarnation (punarjanma), is a Hindu.' To really understand this simple statement one has to know what the scriptures are and what are the laws that govern the life of a Hindu.