Introduction
Hinduism is the oldest religion in the world and it has been around for more than 5,000 years. It is the predominant religious belief of India, where it is thought to have originated, and is followed by more than 80 percent of India’s 1.3 billion citizens. Hinduism has spread across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, and it is now one of the largest religions in the world. In this article, we take a look at where Hinduism is mainly practiced, its core beliefs, and how it has already had an impact on the world.
Where Is Hinduism Practiced?
Hinduism is mainly practiced in India where more than 80 percent of the population identifies as Hindu. It is also practiced in Nepal, where it is the official religion and more than 80 percent of the population identifies as Hindu. In Bangladesh, Hindus make up more than 10 percent of the population, and small Hindu communities are scattered across other South and Southeast Asian countries, such as Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Hinduism has been part of the Caribbean experience since the 17th century, when Indian indentured servants were brought over from India to work on plantations. The Indian diaspora has also streamed into Fiji, Mauritius, South Africa, and other countries.
Core Beliefs of Hinduism
At its core, Hinduism is a monotheistic religion, meaning the belief in one God, Brahman. Brahman is seen as the all-pervading and all-knowing spirit of the universe. Hindus also believe in Hinduism’s trinity, which consists of Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the protector), and Shiva (the destroyer). Hindus also believe in reincarnation, with each incarnation coming closer to Moksha, the ultimate goal of life in Hinduism, in which a person is released from their earthly cycles and reunited with Brahman.
Impact of Hinduism on the World
Hinduism has had a profound impact on many aspects of modern life, from art, music and literature to science and technology. In Hinduism, the cycles of life, death and rebirth have inspired philosophers for centuries, and this has been reflected in the works of such scholars as Emerson and Thoreau. Hinduism has also influenced the development of modern science, as its traditional beliefs of age-old systems and balance have been applied to our understanding of the natural world. Hinduism’s view of the divine within all things has even inspired modern movements in ecology and environmentalism.
Hinduism and Politics
Hinduism has also played an important role in the political life of many countries. In India, Hinduism is seen as the cornerstone of Indian identity and has been elevated to a political religion. Politicians in India have argued for a national identity rooted in Hinduism, and Hindus are often called upon to defend their faith against perceived attacks or perceived insults. In this, Hinduism has become deeply intertwined with Indian politics and nation-building, as Hindu leaders and political parties advocate for policies and laws that protect and promote Hindu religious beliefs.
Hinduism and Social Movements
Hinduism has also been a major source of inspiration for many social movements. Gandhi famously adopted Hinduism’s teachings of ahimsa (non-violence) as he fought for India’s independence from Britain. Other Hindu-inspired movements such as the civil rights movement in the United States have been heavily influenced by Hinduism’s emphasis on love for all living things. Additionally, the Sathya Sai Baba movement and the Hare Krishna movement have adopted Hindu teachings, and these have influenced modern society in many parts of the world.
Hinduism and Human Rights
Hinduism has also had an impact on human rights. The Ramayana, an ancient Hindu epic, is frequently cited as a source of inspiration for human rights advocates. It places emphasis on respect for all human beings and the principle of “do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. More recently, Hindu spiritual leaders have spoken out against violence and injustice, calling for respect and tolerance towards all of humanity.
Hinduism and Culture
Hinduism has had a major impact on Indian culture. The Hindu epics, such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, are a source of inspiration for Indian literature and art. Indian sculptures, paintings, and dances are often drawn from Hindu stories and symbols, and they have been adopted around the world. Hinduism has also heavily influenced the food, art, music, and architecture of India.
Hinduism and Art
The art of Hinduism is closely intertwined with its religion and philosophy, as Hindu objects and symbols are often used to convey its spiritual essence. Hindu temples feature intricate carvings, murals, and sculptures that depict its gods and goddesses, as well as its stories and beliefs. From painting to sculpture to dance and music, Hindu art forms are diverse and widely appreciated around the world.
Hinduism and Education
Hinduism has had an impact on education, as many Hindu texts are widely studied in universities and Hindu philosophy is taught in its own specialized departments. Hinduism is often seen as a respected source of knowledge and wisdom, as its ancient texts have been studied for centuries by scholars around the world.
Hinduism and Literature
Hinduism has also had an influence on literature, particularly Indian literature. Hindu prayers and hymns have been used as the starting point for epic poems, songs and plays, and Hindu mythological figures have been explored in many famous works of fiction. Additionally, Hindu philosophy has been used as a source of insight in many works of nonfiction, with great thinkers such as Emerson, Thoreau, and Tagore all drawing on Hinduism in their writing.
Hinduism and Science
Finally, Hinduism has also had an impact on the development of modern science. Hindu scholars have studied the natural world for centuries, and their ancient systems of measurement and balance have been reflected in modern science. Additionally, Hindu beliefs in the divine nature of all living things have been adapted and applied to the study of ecology and conservation, inspiring modern movements in environmentalism.
