What Are The Main Teachings Of Hinduism?
Hinduism is a complex and ancient faith, with many different deities and customs spanning millennia. Most fundamentally, Hinduism is the belief in a divine, eternal truth or reality, which continues through the ages despite the cycle of life and death. Hindus embrace many different paths to enlightenment and spiritual growth, which are represented by its main teachings. These core teachings are based on Vedic scriptures, which are believed to be the most ancient revelation from the divine, and serve as a guide for the ways of life.
The three core teachings of Hinduism are the doctrines of karma, dharma and moksha. Karma is the idea that our actions and decisions in this life will affect us in the next, and be reflected in our environment and relationships. Dharma is based on the idea that living according to our moral and ethical principles will bring harmony and order. Finally, moksha is the concept of liberation from material life, transcending earthly desires and suffering into a higher state of being.
According to Professor Ishwar Chandra Sharma, a religious scholar at the Indian Institute of Technology, karma is central to understanding the law of cause and effect in the universe.”Every action brings consequences, both positive and negative. This law applies to everyone, regardless of their faith. How we choose to act on a daily basis, and our thought process, shape our inner character and mould our destiny.”
When it comes to dharma, many Hindus believe that it is best expressed through the practice of yoga, meditation and other spiritual practices. Asana, the physical practice of postures, is thought to bring the body and mind into a peaceful balance, whilst meditation allows for a deeper exploration of our inner self. Professor Sharma suggests that observing and respecting the dharma one’s ancestors has a real value. “Many generations of life experiences can be found in our dharma, which encourages us to act in a way that benefits everyone. This wisdom from our ancestors can be used to bring great benefit to current society.”
Lastly, moksha is seen as a form of personal enlightenment and liberation. Professor Sharma explains that this is only attainable by something known as ‘the path of knowledge’: “This path believes that the only way to find inner peace and contentment is through knowledge of the true nature of things. It requires the practitioner to climb to the highest level of spiritual understanding and physical consciousness, transcending the material world.”
Ideas Of Reincarnation and God
Another fundamental teaching of Hinduism is the idea of reincarnation or transmigration of souls. Hindus believe that the soul is immortal, and that it passes from one body to another throughout the cycle of life and death. This concept is represented in the symbol of the wheel, which represents the continuous cycle of existence. According to Professor Sharma, the idea of reincarnation is a way of looking at death and suffering in the world: “It is a way of understanding and accepting death as a natural part of life, rather than viewing it as an end. By looking at rebirth, we are also able to embrace the idea of growth and potential for change as part of existence.”
Similarly, the concept of ‘God’ can be hard to define in Hinduism, as it is a faith that values individual practice over external worship. Professor Sharma explains: “The idea of God is arguably more powerful in Hinduism than in any other faith. The omnipresence of God is found in different forms and aspect, in the wind, in the sun, in the rocks and in the rivers. Rather than praying to a single God-character, Hindus are able to strengthen their connection to the divine through nature and the environment around them.”
The Hindu Value System
In Hinduism, there is an emphasis on upholding certain moral values that support the core teachings. One of the most important values is ahimsa, meaning ‘non-violence’. This includes refraining from physical harm, but also encompasses any general lack of respect for life and mortality. Professor Sharma explains: “Hindus believe that the life force found in all living things should be respected and preserved, regardless of their species or origin. This sense of unity with nature is preserved by ahimsa, which helps Hindu practitioners to live harmoniously and peacefully.”
Satyam, meaning ‘truth’, is another important moral value in Hinduism. This includes having an honest and truthful relationship with oneself, as well as with others. Hindus believe that by being true to oneself, one is able to express the innermost nature of the Universe. Professor Sharma explains: “By living with truth and honesty, one can come to a greater understanding of the divine force and be liberated from the cycle of suffering.”
Finally, santosha is the concept of contentment and harmony. Hindus believe that by striving for inner tranquillity and balance, one can find a path to true happiness and joy. Professor Sharma argues that this is the key to unlocking real peace and soulful satisfaction: “Santosha is about accepting the challenges and struggles of life, but still finding a way to feel inner contentment and joy. This is the idea of striving for something higher than the mundane, and finding true satisfaction in the journey of life.”
Role Of Rituals And Festivals
In Hinduism, rituals and festivals make an important contribution to maintaining a strong connection with the Divine. Every day Hindu practitioners make offerings and meditate, and the weekly prayer ceremonies help to create a rhythm and connection to God. Professor Sharma explains: “Rituals are seen as a way of maintaining a spiritual relationship with the divine force. By performing these acts of devotion, Hindus are reminded of the important relationship between humans and the divine.”
The festivals celebrated in Hinduism provide an opportunity for joy and celebration. These festivals are celebrated in honour of different Gods and Goddesses, with each religious holiday having its own unique meaning and associated rituals. Professor Sharma explains: “The festivals are a way for Hindus to symbolically reunite with the spiritual world, reminding us of the importance of our culture and customs. Celebrations such as Diwali and Holi are also important in bringing families and communities together.”
Concept Of The Guru
The concept of the guru is central to Hinduism, and is seen as the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance. The term itself translates as ‘teacher’, and the guru is seen as being a reflection of the Divine. According to Professor Sharma, the guru offers spiritual awakening and is a source of real guidance: “The guru is believed to be a direct source of enlightenment, and by seeking their guidance one can be led onto a path that transcends the material world. Through contemplation and meditation, they can help one to achieve moksha, or liberation from suffering and material existence.”
When looking for a guru, Hindus are encouraged to seek someone who embodies kindness, compassion and good ethical behaviour. Professor Sharma explains: “A true guru should be open-minded, non-judgmental and know how to identify the spiritual potential in people. A guru who is able to connect with you on a personal level and share their knowledge will be more beneficial in helping you to reach self-enlightenment.”
Practice Of Dharma
Following the path of Dharma is an important part of living as a Hindu. Dharma is the moral and ethical framework, or set of standards, that adherents should live by in order to be in harmony with oneself and others. According to Professor Sharma, Dharma is the foundation of Hinduism: “It is a way of right-living, with the ultimate purpose of spiritual liberation. By following the path of Dharma, the individual is able to connect with the cosmic forces of the Universe, leading to enlightenment and ultimate truth.”
Hindus are encouraged to practice Dharma through their daily actions and decisions. This includes following a code of ethical behaviour, such as kindness and respect for others, as well as striving for personal and spiritual growth. Professor Sharma explains: “By living with Dharma in mind, Hindus can create and sustain inner peace, leading to greater understanding and appreciation for all forms of life.”
Philosophy Behind Vedic Teachings
The Vedas are the oldest and most sacred scriptures of Hinduism, dating back to around 1500 BC. The Vedas contain the oldest teachings of spiritual and philosophical principles, written by ancient sages and passed down through hundreds of generations. These teachings include reflections on the nature of reality, the source of spiritual beings, and the idea of liberation. Professor Sharma explains that the Vedas have provided Hindus with invaluable spiritual advice and teachings: “The Vedas offer deep insights into the nature of the soul and the universe, as well as providing tools for inner exploration and spiritual growth. They serve as a guidepost for Hindus, helping them to identify and connect with their higher self.”
The Vedas contain four main texts: the Rig Veda, the Yajur Veda, the Sama Veda and the Atharva Veda. These texts are written in Sanskrit, a classical language believed to be divinely inspired. Each text contains its own unique set of insights and teachings, including advice on how to control the body and the mind. Professor Sharma suggests that these teachings are still as relevant today as when they were first recorded: “The Vedas are timeless texts that have provided guidance to Hindus for millennia. We are still learning from them today, and they can be a source of tremendous insight and personal growth.”
Conclusion
The various teachings and values of Hinduism have been passed down for generations. These core principles are based on Vedic scriptures, and include the doctrines of Karma, Dharma and Moksha. An emphasis is also placed on the moral values of Ahimsa, Satyam, and Santosha, alongside the core belief in reincarnation. Hindu practitioners are encouraged to observe Dharma by living according to their inner truth, and by following a code of ethical behaviour. The role of the guru is considered essential, offering spiritual guidance and insight. Finally, the Vedas provide invaluable spiritual advice and teachings, which are still relevant in the modern world.
