History of Hinduism

"India has two million gods, and worships them all." - Mark Twain

Every religion has its own set of beliefs and principles, which are followed by the practitioners of that particular religion. Hinduism or the Hindu religion refers to the set of beliefs that are included in the concept of Hinduism. Although, Hinduism has its origins in India, there are a large number of Hindus in several countries across the world.

History of Hinduism

It was the Greek and the Persian travelers to the Indus Valley in the 16th century who coined the term "Hinduism". It is a fact that nobody knows anything about the central authority or founder of Hinduism. Historians believe, over the centuries, Hinduism had adopted many spiritual traditions and practices, which are seen even today in the homes of many Hindus. It is not easy to generalize the beliefs of Hinduism because the practices vary widely among the believers of this religion.

Historians believe Hinduism was the religion followed by the people of the Indus Valley Civilization. This civilization existed between 3200 BC and 1600 BC, on the banks of the River Indus. However, many of the events and the incidents that had taken place between 1500 BC and 1400 BC have not been documented. Hence there is an ongoing debate about the exact date of the beginning of the Hinduism.

However, the historians believe Vedic scriptures were introduced sometime in 1000 BC. The Vedic scriptures are known as the "Vedas"; and Rig Veda was the first Hindu scripture. The Vedas are the basic foundation of Hindu philosophy. There are four Vedas - Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Yajur Veda and Atharva Veda. Each of these Vedas were written in the form of hymns in Sanskrit language and served four different purposes. You would also find a scripture on medicines known as Ayurveda.

Upanishads are religious texts within the Vedas and they deal with the metaphysical nature of the universe and human soul. The essence of Hinduism as a religion unfolds through the great epics "Ramayana" and "Mahabharata", and also other religious scriptures such as "Manu Smriti", "Vedanta" and "Srutis".

Primary Hindu Deities

The people who follow the traditions and rituals of Hinduism are known as Hindus. The Hindu religion has many gods and goddesses and many Hindus all over the world worship them.

Devi - Devi is known as the "Mother" or as the "Goddess". There are many temples and lores about the deeds of Devi. She is known by different names such as "Kali", "Vaishanavi", "Mata Durga" and so on. Many believe that she is the creative and protective energy of this universe. She is considered as equal in powers to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.

Shiva - Lord Shiva is known as the "Creator" and the "Destroyer". Hindus believe Lord Shiva has the power to destroy, when he creates something new. He gives life and also, takes it away. He is known by the names such as "Omkar", "Eshwar", "Rudra" and many more.

Vishnu - Lord Vishnu is known as the "Preserver". He preserves life on this Universe. His incarnations are "Lord Krishna" and "Lord Ram".

Hinduism is considered to be one of the most tolerant religions in the world. The ultimate aim of any Hindu is to attain moksha from the cycle of rebirth.