What Is Hinduism?
Hinduism is an ancient faith that dates back to thousands of years ago and is a major religion practiced in present-day India. Hinduism is based on the idea of ‘Sanatana Dharma’, or eternal law and ethical principles, however, the faith is extensively diverse, and there is no single authoritative source of doctrines or beliefs.
How Is Hinduism Diffused?
Hinduism has diffused across countries and cultures, fostering its wide variety of practices and customs. This diffusion has occurred through various forms since it was founded. Some of the main forms of diffusion are missionary activities, voluntary migration, trade networks, exploration of unknown lands and globalization.
Missionary Diffusion
Missionary diffusion is when a person or a group of people spread a belief system throughout different cultures and peoples, usually with the intent of converting them. This type of diffusion was prominent in ancient history, and most of the conversion in India came about due to various missionary activities of various Hindu preachers, such as their preaching of the Vedic religion to the people.
Voluntary Migration
Voluntary migration through the years has also helped to spread Hinduism. People from different parts of India or even other countries have migrated to different areas in search for a better life and opportunities. Over the years, these migrants have also spread the faith to places where previously it didn’t exist, or was not as widespread as it is today.
Trade Networks
The Indian Ocean was a major trade route over the centuries, connecting India to the Middle East, Southeast Asia and East Africa and allowing merchants to spread the teachings of Hinduism. Cultural diffusion also took place through this trade, as ideas and customs were shared, leading to the gradual spread of Hinduism outside of India.
Exploration of Unknown Lands
The world is a big place and there is nothing new under the sun. Exploration of unknown lands brought conquerors, traders and travellers into foreign lands, where they interacted with the locals, introduced their own cultural practises and beliefs, and, in the process, introduced Hinduism too. For example, the 7th century Chinese monk Xuanzang introduced some aspects of Hinduism to China after his visit to India.
Globalization
Globalization has had a drastic effect on cultural diffusion and has been the major force behind the diffusion of Hinduism throughout the world. Immigration, migration, and the sharing of information have all contributed to the globalization of Hinduism and its spread to other countries such as the US, UK and Germany, where it is now seen as an integral part of the Indian culture.
Conclusion
Hinduism has diffused through a variety of forms throughout the world for thousands of years. Missionary activities, voluntary migration, trade networks, exploration of foreign lands and most recently, globalization, have all contributed to the spread of the religion. Each of these factors has had a unique effect on cultural diffusion, leading to the emergence of Hinduism as a major world religion.
