Hinduism is one of the world's oldest and most diverse religions, with no single founder or central creed. It is primarily practiced in India and Nepal but has followers across the globe.

Rooted in ancient traditions, Hinduism encompasses a variety of beliefs, practices, and philosophies that evolve over time.

At its core, Hinduism revolves around understanding the nature of the self, the universe, and the divine, and how they interact within the cycles of life, death, and rebirth.

Hinduism teaches that life is a journey toward self-realization and ultimate liberation (moksha). Several key concepts form the foundation of Hindu belief:

• Brahman: The ultimate, formless, and all-encompassing divine source of everything in the universe. Brahman is beyond human comprehension, but it can be understood through its manifestations, such as the gods and goddesses.

• Atman: The individual soul or self, which is believed to be eternal and connected to Brahman. The journey of life involves realizing that one’s true nature (atman) is inseparable from the universal soul (Brahman).

• Karma: The law of cause and effect, where every action—whether good or bad—has consequences. Positive actions lead to good karma and better circumstances, while negative actions lead to bad karma and suffering.

• Dharma: Refers to moral law, duty, and righteousness. Dharma varies according to one’s role in society, age, and personal circumstances, and living in accordance with dharma is essential for spiritual progress.

• Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). Moksha is attained through self-realization and the dissolution of individual ego, merging with Brahman.

Hinduism's key scriptures include the Vedas, the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Ramayana, among others. The Vedas are the oldest and most authoritative scriptures, containing hymns, rituals, and philosophical teachings. The Upanishads explore the mystical aspects of life and the nature of Brahman. The Bhagavad Gita, a part of the epic Mahabharata, is a dialogue between prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, offering teachings on duty, righteousness, and devotion.

Other important texts include the Puranas, which are collections of mythological stories and teachings, and the Ramayana and Mahabharata, which are epic tales central to Hindu culture.

Hinduism's roots can be traced back over 4,000 years, making it one of the oldest religions still practiced today. Its development is closely tied to the Indus Valley Civilization (around 3300–1300 BCE) and the religious practices that followed. The early texts, the Vedas, were composed in Sanskrit and began the process of spiritual inquiry that continues in Hinduism today.

Over time, the religious practices and philosophies of the Vedic period evolved into what we now recognize as Hinduism. The rise of devotional movements, like Bhakti (devotion to a personal god), and the influence of new ideas such as Yoga and Meditation, added depth to Hinduism's spiritual framework.

Throughout the centuries, Hinduism continued to adapt and grow, with various schools of thought such as Advaita Vedanta (non-dualism), Dvaita (dualism), and Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism) offering different ways of understanding the relationship between the individual soul and the divine.

Hinduism is not a monolithic religion, but a collection of diverse traditions, sects, and schools of thought. Some of the major subsects include:

• Vaishnavism: Devotion to Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, and his incarnations (avatars), including Rama and Krishna. Vaishnavism is one of the largest sects in Hinduism, emphasizing bhakti (devotional love) towards Vishnu.

• Shaivism: Devotion to Shiva, another principal deity, who represents destruction and transformation. Shaivism has a rich tradition of philosophy, rituals, and meditation, and is a major sect in Hinduism.

• Shaktism: Focused on the worship of the Goddess (Shakti), the divine feminine energy that manifests in various forms like Durga, Kali, and Lakshmi. Shaktism places great importance on female empowerment and the goddess's role in creation and destruction.

• Smartism: A sect that emphasizes the worship of a group of deities, including Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi (the goddess). Smartism focuses on a more philosophical approach to spirituality, combining elements of the major schools of thought in Hinduism.

Hinduism's practices are varied and depend on one's personal beliefs, community traditions, and regional influences. Some of the common practices include:

• Puja: The ritual worship of deities, often performed at temples or at home. Puja involves offerings of food, flowers, incense, and prayers to honor and connect with the divine.

• Yoga: While yoga is widely practiced as a physical exercise today, it is also a spiritual discipline with deep roots in Hindu philosophy. Various types of yoga—such as Hatha Yoga (physical postures), Bhakti Yoga (devotion), Karma Yoga (selfless action), and Jnana Yoga (knowledge)—are means of attaining spiritual growth and liberation.

• Meditation: Meditation is central to many Hindu practices, especially in the schools of Vedanta and Yoga. Meditation is seen as a way to quiet the mind, cultivate inner peace, and realize the oneness of the self (atman) with the universe (Brahman).

• Festivals: Hindu festivals are an integral part of religious life. Major festivals include Diwali (celebration of light), Holi (festival of colors), and Navaratri (nine nights dedicated to the worship of the goddess). These festivals are rich in rituals, prayers, and community gatherings.

• Pilgrimages: Pilgrimages to sacred sites, such as Varanasi, Kashi, and the Ganges River, are common in Hinduism. Pilgrims believe that visiting these holy places can purify the soul and bring spiritual benefits.

Hinduism is an incredibly diverse and dynamic religion, and its practices can vary significantly depending on geographic location, personal beliefs, and regional traditions. The philosophy and practices of Hinduism continue to influence millions of people worldwide in their quest for spiritual fulfillment.

Hinduism is a profound spiritual tradition that offers timeless wisdom on how to live a meaningful and purposeful life. With its focus on the interconnectedness of all beings, the pursuit of inner peace, and the realization of one's divine nature, Hinduism provides a spiritual path that resonates with many people in the modern world. The religion's inclusive and adaptable nature allows for a broad spectrum of beliefs and practices, making it a vital and dynamic tradition that continues to shape the lives of its followers.

1. The Bhagavad Gita, translated by Eknath Easwaran

2. The Upanishads, translated by Eknath Easwaran

3. Hinduism: A Very Short Introduction by Kim Knott

4. The Vedas

5. BBC - Hinduism

6. Hinduism Today

7. The Hindu Website