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Hinduism is a religious tradition[Hinduism is variously defined as a "religion", "set of religious beliefs and practices", "religious tradition" etc. For a discussion on the topic, see: "Establishing the boundaries" in Gavin Flood (2003), pp. 1-17.] that originated in the Indian subcontinent. Hinduism is often referred to as () by its practitioners, a Sanskrit phrase meaning "the eternal path" or "the eternal law".[The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions. Ed. John Bowker. Oxford University Press, 2000; The term can be traced to late 19th century Hindu reform movements (J. Zavos, Defending Hindu Tradition: Sanatana Dharma as a Symbol of Orthodoxy in Colonial India, Religion (Academic Press), Volume 31, Number 2, April 2001, pp. 109-123; see also R. D. Baird, "Swami Bhaktivedanta and the Encounter with Religions," Modern Indian Responses to Religious Pluralism, edited by Harold Coward, State University of New York Press, 1987).] [Site] Hinduism - ReligiousTolerance.org
Offers information about Hinduism, the world's third largest religion and one of the oldest still in practice.
www.religioustolerance.org/hinduism.htm
Hinduism is one of the world's oldest major religions that is still practiced. [News] Times & Star
PUPILS at St Michael’s Nursery and Infant School in Workington have been learning about Hinduism as part of a multi-cultural week. The children took part in a number of activities, such as making greeting cards and creating masks of a monkey god.
Hinduism contains a vast body of scriptures. Divided as Śruti (revealed) and Smriti (remembered) and developed over millennia, these scriptures expound on theology, philosophy and mythology, and provide spiritual insights and guidance on the practice of dharma (religious living). In the orthodox view, among such texts, the Vedas and the Upanishads are the foremost in authority, importance and antiquity. Other major scriptures include the Tantras, the sectarian Agamas, the and the epics and . The , a treatise excerpted from the , is sometimes called a summary of the spiritual teachings of the Vedas.[The Gita Dhyanam is a traditional short poem sometimes found as a prefatory to editions of the Bhagavad Gita. Verse 4 refers to all the Upanishads as the cows, and the Gita as the milk drawn from them. ()] [Image] 
Hinduism is also referred as Vaidika Dharma, meaning religion
Etymology
The Persian term Hindū is derived from Sindhu, Sanskrit for the Indus River.[ See Indo-European sound laws for a discussion of the transition from "Sindhu" to "Hindu"] Some argue that the term itself is an attempt to give one term to "that many-sided and all-enfolding culture which we in the West have chosen to call Hinduism" [Jan Gonda, Visnuism and Sivaism, Munshiram Manoharlal. 1996, ISBN 812150287X p. 1. cited by {{cite journal|author = Welbon, G.R.|year = Journal of the American Academy of Religion, Vol. 43, No. 1, 98+100. Mar., 1975.|title = Love of God According to Saiva Siddhanta: A Study in the Mysticism and Theology of Saivism|url = http://links.jstor.org/sici?sici=0002-7189(197503)43%3A1%3C98%2B100%3ALOGATS%3E2.0.CO%3B2-8|accessdate = 2008-05-04}}] However, the term "Hindu" has been used in subcontinental sources since at least 1323 CE, as attested by South Indian and Kashmiri tetxs, [ David Lorenzen, Who Invented Hinduism? New Delhi 2006, pp. 24-33; Rajatarangini of Yonaraja : "hinduka" ] and increasingly so during British rule. Since the end of the 18th century the word has been used as an umbrella term for most of the religious, spiritual, and philosophical traditions of the sub-continent, excluding the distinct religions of Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism.[Video] Watch Indian parliamentarians fight
Beliefs
representing the Trimurti: Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu.]]Hinduism is an extremely diverse religion. Although some tenets of the faith are accepted by most Hindus, scholars have found it difficult to identify any doctrines with universal acceptance among all denominations.[Auction] NEW An Introduction to Hinduism 9780521438780
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Concept of God
Hinduism is a diverse system of thought with beliefs spanning monotheism, polytheism,[ See and ][Post] Hinduism *gulp*
my survey class moved on to Hinduism. Needless to say, I'm learning a lot, reading the Blackwell's Introduction to Hinduism while preparing for class. Already the opening, dealing with the question of whether Hinduism as a category is a ... Most Hindus believe that the spirit or soul—the true "self" of every person, called the ātman—is eternal. [Book] The Essentials of Hinduism: A Comprehensive Overview of the World's Oldest Religion Viveka Press
Other dualistic schools (see Dvaita and Bhakti) understand Brahman as a Supreme Being who possesses personality and worship Him or Her thus, as Vishnu, Brahma, Shiva or Shakti depending on the sect. The ātman is dependent on God while Moksha depends on love towards God and on God's grace.[ However, interpretations of Ishvara vary—ranging from non-belief such as followers of Mimamsakas, in Ishvara to identifying Brahman and Ishvara as one as in Advaita.] [Site] Hinduism - About.com
Includes articles and links about Hinduism philosophy and practices. Find a calendar of Hindu festivals, information on gods and goddesses, scriptures, and other ...
hinduism.about.com
Devas and avatars
) of Vishnu or svayam bhagavan, with his consort Radha, worshiped as Radha Krishna across a number of traditions - traditional painting from the 1700s.]]The Hindu scriptures refer to celestial entities, called Devas (or in feminine form; used synonymously for Deva in Hindi), "the shining ones", which may be translated into English as "gods" or "heavenly beings".[For translation of deva in singular noun form as "a deity, god", and in plural form as "the gods" or "the heavenly or shining ones" see: . In ISKCON the word is translated as "demigods". See: . For translation of as "godhead, divinity", see: .] The devas are an integral part of Hindu culture and are depicted in art, architecture and through icons, and mythological stories about them are related in the scriptures, particularly in the Indian epic poetry and Puranas. They are however often distinguished from Ishvara, a supreme personal god, with many Hindus worshiping Ishvara in a particular form as their , or chosen ideal;[News] Malaysian Fatwa Council to clarify stance over yoga soon
George Town (Malaysia), Oct 30 : The National Fatwa Council in Malaysia is expected to make its stance clear about Muslims practicing yoga soon, after a leading Muslim professor at a Malaysian University preached to his community men to shun yoga, saying that its origins could be tracked to Hinduism.
Hindu epics and the Puranas relate several episodes of the descent of God to Earth in corporeal form, in order to restore dharma in society and guide humans to moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). Such an incarnation is called an avatar. The most prominent avatars are of Vishnu, and include Rama (protagonist in Ramayana) and Krishna (a central figure in the epic Mahabharata). [Image] 
Karma and samsara
Karma translates literally as action, work or deed[Video] #8 of 8 Swami Chinmayananda 1975 - Kaivalyopanishad
This cycle of action, reaction, birth, death, and rebirth is a continuum called samsara. The notion of reincarnation and karma is a strong premise in Hindu thought. The Bhagavad Gita states that: [Auction] YOGA AND HINDUISM. 103+ Unabridged Books on CD
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After the high voltage celebrations of Diwali, the festival of lights and fire-crackers, sisters all over India get ready for Bhai Dooj - when sisters ceremonize their love by putting... Samsara provides ephemeral pleasures, which lead people to desire rebirth to enjoy the pleasures of a perishable body. However, escaping the world of samsara through moksha (liberation) is believed to ensure lasting happiness and peace.[See Bhagavad Gita XVI.8-20][See Swami Vivekananda, Jnana Yoga 301-02 (8th Printing 1993)] It is thought that after several reincarnations, an atman eventually seeks unity with the cosmic spirit (Brahman/Paramatman). [Book] An Introduction to Hinduism (Introduction to Religion) Cambridge University Press
The ultimate goal of life, referred to as moksha, nirvana or samadhi, is understood in several different ways: as the realization of one's union with God; as realization of one's eternal relationship with God; realization of the unity of all existence; perfect unselfishness and knowledge of the Self; attainment of perfect mental peace; or as detachment from worldly desires. Such a realization liberates one from samsara and ends the cycle of rebirth.[The concepts of Heaven and Hell do not translate directly into Hinduism. Spiritual realms such as Vaikunta (the abode of Vishnu) or loka are the closest analogues to an eternal Kingdom of God. ] in the company of their chosen form of Ishvara. Thus, it is said, the followers of dvaita wish to "taste sugar," while the followers of Advaita wish to "become sugar." [Site] Hinduism: Definition from Answers.com
Hinduism n. A diverse body of religion, philosophy, and cultural practice native to and predominant in India, characterized by a belief in
www.answers.com/topic/hinduism
The goals of life
Classical Hindu thought accepts two main life-long dharmas: Grihastha Dharma and Sannyasin Dharma.[News] A Brief History of Veganism
The story behind people who don't eat meat (or egg or dairy or anything that that came from an animal)
The Grihastha Dharma recognize four goals known as the . They are: [Image] 
The Master shifted on his pillow, Every one of the seven religions represented by the seven candles have a special flame that illuminate a mystery. Hinduism burns brightly with the
- : Sensual pleasure and enjoyment
- Artha: Material prosperity and success
- Dharma: Correct action, in accordance with one's particular duty and scriptural laws
- Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of samsara
[ ]
[Video] Who is God according to the scriptures Part-2
Among these, dharma and moksha play a special role: [Auction] NEW Hinduism Hinduism - Gerner, Katy ...
Only $28.5 The Sannyasin Dharma recognizes, but renounces Kama, Artha and Dharma, focusing entirely on Moksha. As described below, the Grihastha Dharma eventually enters this stage. However, some enter this stage immediately from whichever stage they may be in. [Post] Maoists resent Hinduism among tribals
Tuesday, 10.28.2008, 11:29pm (GMT-7) In an interview given to a private television news channel in Orissa, the Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Maoist), Orissa State Committee, Sabyasachi Panda, claimed that it was the CPI ...
Yoga
, shown here practicing meditation, was a Hindu guru (teacher) recognized for his inspiring lectures on topics such as yoga.]]In whatever way a Hindu defines the goal of life, there are several methods (yogas) that sages have taught for reaching that goal. A practitioner of yoga is called a yogi. Texts dedicated to Yoga include the Bhagavad Gita, the Yoga Sutras, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and, as their philosophical and historical basis, the Upanishads. Paths one can follow to achieve the spiritual goal of life (moksha, samadhi, or nirvana) include:
- Bhakti Yoga (the path of love and devotion),
- Karma Yoga (the path of right action),
- Rāja Yoga (the path of meditation) and
- Jñāna Yoga (the path of wisdom).
[Book] Hinduism : A Very Short Introduction Oxford University Press, USA
An individual may prefer one or some yogas over others according to his or her inclination and understanding. For instance some devotional schools teach that bhakti is the only practical path to achieve spiritual perfection for most people, based on their belief that the world is currently in the age of Kali yuga (one of four epochs part of the Yuga cycle).[For example, see the following translation of B-Gita 11.54: "My dear Arjuna, only by undivided devotional service can I be understood as I am, standing before you, and can thus be seen directly. Only in this way can you enter into the mysteries of My understanding." ()] Practice of one yoga does not exclude others. Many schools believe that the different yogas naturally blend into and aid other yogas. For example, the practice of jnana yoga, is thought to inevitably lead to pure love (the goal of bhakti yoga), and vice versa.["One who knows that the position reached by means of analytical study can also be attained by devotional service, and who therefore sees analytical study and devotional service to be on the same level, sees things as they are." ()] Someone practicing deep meditation (such as in raja yoga) must embody the core principles of karma yoga, jnana yoga and bhakti yoga, whether directly or indirectly. [Site] Understanding Hinduism
Collection of articles that provide an introduction to Hindu practices, major festivals, and philosophy.
www.hinduism.co.za
History
in Tibet is regarded as the spiritual abode of Shiva.]]The earliest evidence for elements of Hinduism date back to the late Neolithic to the early Harappan period (5500–2600BCE).[T. Oberlies (Die Religion des Rgveda, Vienna 1998. p. 158) based on 'cumulative evidence' sets wide range of 1700–1100. ] The Vedas center on worship of deities such as Indra, Varuna and Agni, and on the Soma ritual. They performed fire-sacrifices, called and chanted Vedic mantras but did not build temples or icons. The oldest Vedic traditions exhibit strong similarities to Zoroastrianism and with other Indo-European religions.[The deity Dyaus, regarded as the father of the other deities, is linguistically cognate with Zeus—the king of the gods in Greek mythology, Iovis (gen. of Jupiter) —the king of the gods in Roman mythology, and Tiu/Ziu in Germanic mythology[1], cf. English 'Tues-day'. Other Vedic deities also have cognates with those found in other Indo-European speaking peoples' mythologies; see Proto-Indo-European religion.] During the Epic and Puranic periods, the earliest versions of the epic poems Ramayana and Mahabharata were written roughly from 500–100BCE,[.] although these were orally transmitted for centuries prior to this period.[.] The epics contain mythological stories about the rulers and wars of ancient India, and are interspersed with religious and philosophical treatises. The later Puranas recount tales about devas and devis, their interactions with humans and their battles against demons.[News] Suspect in Wallingford rape arrested
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Three major movements underpinned the naisance of a new epoch of Hindu thought: the advents and spread of Upanishadic, Jaina, and Buddhist philosophico-religious thought throughout the broader Indian landmass. [ Olivelle, Patrick, "The renouncer tradition", in ] The Upanishads, Mahavira (24th Tirthankar of Jains) and Buddha (founder of Buddhism) taught that to achieve moksha or nirvana, one did not have to accept the authority of the Vedas or the caste system. Buddha went a step further and claimed that the existence of a Self/soul or God was unnecessary.[.] Charvaka, the founder of an atheistic materialist school, came to the fore in North India in the sixth century BCE. [Image] 
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in New Delhi.]]Though Islam came to India in the early 7th century with the advent of Arab traders and the conquest of Sindh, it started to become a major religion during the later Muslim conquest in the Indian subcontinent.[J.T.F. Jordens, “Medieval Hindu Devotionalism” in ] [Video] Who is God according to the scriptures Part-1
Indology as an academic discipline of studying Indian culture from a European perspective was established in the 19th century, led by scholars such as Max Müller and John Woodroffe. They brought Vedic, Puranic and Tantric literature and philosophy to Europe and the United States. At the same time, societies such as the Brahmo Samaj and the Theosophical Society attempted to reconcile and fuse Abrahamic and Dharmic philosophies, endeavouring to institute societal reform. This period saw the emergence of movements which, while highly innovative, were rooted in indigenous tradition. They were based on the personalities and teachings of individuals, as with Shri Ramakrishna and Ramana Maharshi. Prominent Hindu philosophers, including Sri Aurobindo and Swami Prabhupada (founder of ISKCON), translated, reformulated and presented Hinduism's foundational texts for contemporary audiences in new iterations, attracting followers and attention in India and abroad. Others such as Swami Vivekananda, Paramahansa Yogananda, B.K.S. Iyengar and Swami Rama have also been instrumental in raising the profiles of Yoga and Vedanta in the West. [Auction] METAL Guitar Pick NECKLACE - AUM hinduism BUDDHISM om
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Scriptures and theology
is one of the oldest religious texts. This Rig Veda manuscript is in Devanagari]]Hinduism is based on "the accumulated treasury of spiritual laws discovered by different persons in different times."[ Vol I][ Vol III ]The scriptures were transmitted orally in verse form to aid memorization, for many centuries before they were written down.[ Most sacred texts are in Sanskrit. The texts are classified into two classes: ]Shruti and Smriti.[Post] Hinduism - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Hinduism guide site. Shruti (lit: that which is heard) refers to the Vedas which form the earliest record of the Hindu scriptures. While many Hindus revere the Vedas as eternal truths revealed to ancient sages (),[ ] some devotees do not associate the creation of the Vedas with a god or person. They are thought of as the laws of the spiritual world, which would still exist even if they were not revealed to the sages.[Note: Nyaya-Vaisheshika believe that the Vedas were created by God, not eternal.][ Vol II] [Book] World Religions: Beliefs Behind Today's Headlines: Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Shintoism, Taoism Alba House
There are four Vedas (called , Sāma- Yajus- and Atharva-). The Rigveda is the first and most important Veda.[Rigveda is not only the oldest among the vedas, but is one of the earliest Indo-European texts.] Each Veda is divided into four parts: the primary one, the Veda proper, being the , which contains sacred mantras. The other three parts form a three-tier ensemble of commentaries, usually in prose and are believed to be slightly later in age than the . These are: the , , and the Upanishads. The first two parts were subsequently called the (ritualistic portion), while the last two form the (knowledge portion).[ What is Veda?, Vedah.com] While the Vedas focus on rituals, the Upanishads focus on spiritual insight and philosophical teachings, and discuss Brahman and reincarnation. [Site] Hinduism
... beliefs and practices of Hinduism are discussed, as well as a Christian evaluation of Hinduism. ... Though Hinduism may seem far removed from our everyday ...
www.leaderu.com/orgs/probe/docs/hindu.html
describes the mechanics of the cosmos. Depicted here are Vishnu with his consort Lakshmi resting on Shesha Nag. Narada and Brahma are also pictured.]]Hindu texts other than the Shrutis are collectively called the Smritis (memory).[ "The Smritis" by Swami Sivananda] The most notable of the smritis are the epics, which consist of the and the . The is an integral part of the Mahabharata and one of the most popular sacred texts of Hinduism. It contains philosophical teachings from Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu, told to the prince Arjuna on the eve of a great war. The is described as the essence of the Vedas. [News] New Flushing rabbi brings a message of inclusion
Rabbi Michael Weisser, new leader at Free Synagogue of Flushing. (photo by Robin Frank) As the newest spiritual leader of the 91-year-old Free Synagogue of Flushing, Rabbi Michael Weisser is best known for two things: his lifelong involvement with interfaith activities and helping to transform the life of a Nebraska klan leader from that of a hateful racist to a tolerant, remorseful man who ...
Practices
murti from a Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai]][Image] 
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Hindu practices generally involve seeking awareness of God and sometimes also seeking blessings from Devas. Therefore, Hinduism has developed numerous practices meant to help one think of divinity in the midst of everyday life. Hindus can engage in (worship or veneration),[.] A few Hindu sects, such as the , do not believe in worshiping God through icons. [Video] Hinduism KILLS children!
Hinduism has a developed system of symbolism and iconography to represent the sacred in art, architecture, literature and worship. These symbols gain their meaning from the scriptures, mythology, or cultural traditions. The syllable Om (which represents the Parabrahman) and the Swastika sign (which symbolizes auspiciousness) have grown to represent Hinduism itself, while other markings such as tilaka identify a follower of the faith. Hinduism associates many symbols, which include the lotus, chakra and veena, with particular deities. [Auction] India, Religion, Hinduism, The Veda Sanskrit cm181
Only $11.99 Mantras are invocations, praise and prayers that through their meaning, sound, and chanting style help a devotee focus the mind on holy thoughts or express devotion to God/the deities. Many devotees perform morning ablutions at the bank of a sacred river while chanting the Gayatri Mantra or Mahamrityunjaya mantras. The epic Mahabharata extolls Japa (ritualistic chanting) as the greatest duty in the Kali Yuga (what Hindus believe to be the current age). Many adopt Japa as their primary spiritual practice. [Post] How do you define Hinduism?
It is not easy to define Hinduism, for it is more than a religion in the Western sense, as our Ancient History Guide sees it. Also known to practitioners as Sanatana Dharma, which means everlasting or eternal religion/truth/rule, ...
Rituals
, the festival of lights, is a prime festival of Hinduism. Shown here are traditional Diyas that are often lit during Diwali]]The vast majority of Hindus engage in religious rituals on a daily basis.[{{cite web|url = http://www.religionsofindia.org/loc/india_religious_life.html|title = Religious Life|accessdate = 2007-04-19|work = Religions of India|publisher = Global Peace Works}}] Most Hindus observe religious rituals at home.[{{cite web|url = http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+in0055)|title = Domestic Worship|accessdate = 2007-04-19|date=September 1995|work = Country Studies|publisher = The Library of Congress}}] However, observation of rituals greatly vary among regions, villages, and individuals. Devout Hindus perform daily chores such as worshiping at the dawn after bathing (usually at a family shrine, and typically includes lighting a lamp and offering foodstuffs before the images of deities), recitation from religious scripts, singing devotional hymns, meditation, chanting mantras, reciting scriptures etc.[ A notable feature in religious ritual is the division between purity and pollution. Religious acts presuppose some degree of impurity or defilement for the practitioner, which must be overcome or neutralised before or during ritual procedures. Purification, usually with water, is thus a typical feature of most religious action.][ Other characteristics include a belief in the efficacy of sacrifice and concept of merit, gained through the performance of charity or good works, that will accumulate over time and reduce sufferings in the next world.][ Vedic rites of fire-oblation (yajna) are now only occasional practices although they are highly revered in theory. In Hindu wedding and burial ceremonies, however, the yajña and chanting of Vedic mantras are still the norm.][Book] What is Hinduism? Bodhinatha Veylanswami
Occasions like birth, marriage, and death involve what are often elaborate sets of religious customs. In Hinduism, life-cycle rituals include Annaprashan (a baby's first intake of solid food), Upanayanam ("sacred thread ceremony" undergone by upper-caste children at their initiation into formal education.), Shraadh (ritual of treating people to feasts in the name of the deceased).[{{cite web|url = http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+in0056)|title = Life-Cycle Rituals|accessdate = 2007-04-19|date=September 1995|work = Country Studies: India|publisher = The Library of Congress}}][{{cite web|url = http://banglapedia.search.com.bd/HT/S_0516.htm | title = Shraddha|last=Banerjee |first=Suresh Chandra | accessdate = 2007-04-20 | work = Banglapedia|publisher = Asiatic Society of Bangladesh }}] For most people in India, the betrothal of the young couple and the exact date and time of the wedding are matters decided by the parents in consultation with astrologers.[ On death, cremation is considered obligatory for all except sanyasis, hijra, and children under five. Cremation is typically performed by wrapping the corpse in cloth and burning it on a pyre.] [Site] Hinduism - MSN Encarta
Hinduism, a religious tradition of Indian origin, comprising ... Hinduism - Wikipedia, the ... Introduction; What Is Hinduism?; Hindu Teachings: What Do Hindus ...
encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761555715/Hinduism.html
Pilgrimage and festivals
Pilgrimage is not mandatory in Hinduism though many adherents undertake them. Hindus recognise several Indian holy cities, including Allahabad, Haridwar, Varanasi, and Vrindavan. Notable temple cities include Puri, which hosts a major Vaishnava Jagannath temple and Rath Yatra celebration; Tirumala - Tirupati, home to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple; and Katra, home to the Vaishno Devi temple. The four holy sites Puri, Rameswaram, Dwarka, and Badrinath (or alternatively the Himalayan towns of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri) compose the Char Dham (four abodes) pilgrimage circuit. The Kumbh Mela (the "pitcher festival") is one of the holiest of Hindu pilgrimages that is held every four years; the location is rotated among Allahabad, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. Another important set of pilgrimages are the Shakti Peethas, where the Mother Goddess is worshipped, the two principal ones being Kalighat and Kamakhya.[News] Growing Communal Violence
Father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, was a great votary of secularism and preached strong bondage between Hindus and Muslims. His philosophy and action, based on non-violence and satyagraha attracted unprecedented Muslim (and other minority) support because he believed in universal religion.
Hinduism has many festivals throughout the year. The Hindu calendar usually prescribe their dates. The festivals typically celebrate events from Hindu mythology, often coinciding with seasonal changes. There are festivals which are primarily celebrated by specific sects or in certain regions of the Indian subcontinent. Some widely observed Hindu festivals are Maha Shivaratri, Holi, Ram Navami, Krishna Janmastami,Ganesh Chaturthi, Dussera or Durga Puja, Diwali (the festival of lights). [Image] 
Society
Denominations
, Washington D.C]][Video] EX-MUSLIMS talk about Jihad part 2
Hinduism has no central doctrinal authority and many practising Hindus do not claim to belong to any particular denomination. [Auction] The Complete Idiot's Guide to Hinduism by Linda John...
Only $19.02 Vaishnavas worship Vishnu as the supreme god; Shaivites worship Shiva as the supreme; Shaktas worship Shakti (power) personified through a female divinity or Mother Goddess, Devi; while Smartists believe in the essential oneness of five deities Shanmata as personifications of the Supreme. [Post] Stark Truths Of Hinduism
This article provides some helpful background analysis to the anti-Christian violence in India. Other denominations like Ganapatya (the cult of Ganesha) and Saura (Sun worship) are not so widespread. [Book] The Origins and Development of Classical Hinduism Oxford University Press, USA
There are movements that are not easily placed in any of the above categories, such as Swami Dayananda Saraswati's Arya Samaj, which rejects image worship and veneration of multiple deities. It focuses on the Vedas and the Vedic fire sacrifices (). The Tantric traditions have various sects, as Banerji observes: [Site] Hinduism - ReligionFacts
Hinduism: Comprehensive guide to the ancient religion of Hinduism, including fast facts, timeline, history, beliefs, gods, symbols, and more. ... Hinduism ...
www.religionfacts.com/hinduism/index.htm
}}[News] Fatwa on yoga to be made known
GEORGE TOWN: The National Fatwa Council will soon announce its stand on Muslims practising yoga, Department of Islamic Development Malaysia said.
As in every religion, some view their own denomination as superior to others. However, many Hindus consider other denominations to be legitimate alternatives to their own. Heresy is therefore generally not an issue for Hindus. [Image] 
Ashramas
Traditionally the life of a Hindu is divided into four s (phases or stages; unrelated meanings include monastery).[Video] COMMANDER SELVAM -FRAUD EXPOSED BY FOX I-TEAM-PART FIVE
The first part of one's life, Brahmacharya, the stage as a student, is spent in celibate, controlled, sober and pure contemplation under the guidance of a Guru, building up the mind for spiritual knowledge. Grihastha is the householder's stage, in which one marries and satisfies and artha in one's married and professional life respectively (see the goals of life). The moral obligations of a Hindu householder include supporting one's parents, children, guests and holy figures. , the retirement stage, is gradual detachment from the material world. This may involve giving over duties to one's children, spending more time in religious practices and embarking on holy pilgrimages. Finally, in , the stage of asceticism, one renounces all worldly attachments to secludedly find the Divine through detachment from worldly life and peacefully shed the body for Moksha.[S.S. Rama Rao Pappu, "Hindu Ethics", in ] [Auction] Hinduism by Anita Ganeri (2006)![]()
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Monasticism
Some Hindus choose to live a monastic life (Sannyāsa) in pursuit of liberation or another form of spiritual perfection. Monastics commit themselves to a life of simplicity, celibacy, detachment from worldly pursuits, and the contemplation of God.[Post] Hinduism : salvation—which the Arya Samaj refer to as mukti ...
Is Mukti A Myth? http://www.indiadivine.org/audarya/showthread.php?p=1116831#post1116831. Paarsurrey says:. Sorry, I cannot understand the discussion fully as the terminology used in the posts is in Sansikrit or Hindi and I don’t know ...
Varnas and the caste system
Hindu society has traditionally been categorized into four classes, called Varnas (Sanskrit: "colour, form, appearance");
- the Brahmins: teachers and priests;
- the Kshatriyas: warriors, nobles, and kings;
- the Vaishyas: farmers, merchants, and businessmen; and
- the Shudras: servants and labourers.
[Book] Teach Yourself Hinduism (Teach Yourself (McGraw-Hill)) McGraw-Hill Companies
Hindus and scholars debate whether the caste system is an integral part of Hinduism sanctioned by the scriptures or an outdated social custom. [Site] Hinduism for Beginners - What is Hinduism?
If you're new to this faith, here's where to begin. In this simple introduction to a complex religion, get your basic questions on Hinduism answered and explained in ...
hinduism.about.com/od/basics/p/hinduismbasics.htm
In the Vedic Era, there was no prohibition against the Shudras listening to the Vedas or participating in any religious rite, as was the case in the later times.[White Yajurveda 26.2] Some mobility and flexibility within the varnas challenge allegations of social discrimination in the caste system, as has been pointed out by several sociologists. [News] JUST IN: Sandusky prepares for McCain's arrival
SANDUSKY City worker Kim Jachym wraps lights around a tree near the gazebo Wednesday morning in Washington Park.
Many social reformers, including Mahatma Gandhi and B. R. Ambedkar, criticized caste discrimination.[Elenanor Zelliot, "Caste in Contemporary India," in ] The religious teacher Sri Ramakrishna (1836-1886) taught that }}[Image] 
Hinduism FOUNDED: Hinduism, the world's oldest religion, has no beginning -- it predates recorded history. FOUNDER: Hinduism has no human founder.
Ahimsa and vegetarianism
Hindus advocate the practice of (non-violence) and respect for all life because divinity is believed to permeate all beings, including plants and non-human animals.[Monier-Williams, Religious Thought and Life in India (New Delhi, 1974 edition)] The term appears in the Upanishads,[For as one of the "emerging ethical and religious issues" in the see: Brockington, John, "The Sanskrit Epics", in Flood (2003), p. 125.] and is the first of the five Yamas (vows of self-restraint) in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras.[For text of Y.S. 2.29 and translation of as "vow of self-restraint", see: Taimni, p. 206.][Video] Vaishnava jan to tene kahiye - Praful Dave
In accordance with , many Hindus embrace vegetarianism to respect higher forms of life. While vegetarianism is not a requirement, it is recommended for a satvic (purifying) lifestyle. Estimates of the number of lacto vegetarians in India (includes inhabitants of all religions) vary between 20% and 42%.[ Surveys studying food habits of Indians include: "Diary and poultry sector growth in India", "Indian consumer patterns" and "Agri reform in India". Results indicate that Indians who eat meat do so infrequently with less than 30% consuming non-vegetarian foods regularly, although the reasons may be economical. ] The food habits vary with the community and region, for example some castes having fewer vegetarians and coastal populations relying on seafood.[Deep Vegetarianism (1999) by: Michael Allen Fox.][ See, Basak, R., "The Hindu concept of the natural world" in ; and ] Some avoid meat on specific holy days. [Auction] NEW Modern Hinduism - An Account of the Religion and...
Only $33.83 Observant Hindus who do eat meat almost always abstain from beef. The largely pastoral Vedic people and subsequent generations relied heavily on the cow for protein-rich milk and dairy products, tilling of fields and as a provider of fuel and fertilizer. Thus, it was identified as a caretaker and a maternal figure. Hindu society honors the cow as a symbol of unselfish giving. Cow-slaughter is legally banned in almost all states of India. [Post] Hinduism specialists discuss doctrine of Bhakti
Zed stressed that world has come to appreciate universal and timeless values, and dynamism of Hinduism; and sophistication of Hindu philosophy. Shyamdas Schaffer is the author of over 20 books, including well known "Inner Goddess" and ...
Conversion
Concepts of conversion, evangelization, and proselyzation are absent from Hindu literature and in practice have never played a significant role, though acceptance of willing converts is becoming more common. Early in its history, in the absence of other competing religions, Hindus considered everyone they came across as Hindus (Sanathan Dharm) and expected everyone they met to be Hindus.[Book] Hinduism: Past and Present Princeton University Press
The modern view of conversions into Hinduism is influenced by the demise of caste system combined with the persistence of age old ideas of Sanathan Dharm. Hindus today continue to be influenced by historical ideas of acceptability of conversion. Hence, many Hindus continue to believe that Hinduism is an identity that can only be had from birth, while many others continue to believe that anyone who follows Hindu beliefs and practices is a Hindu, and many believe in some form of both theories. However, as a reaction to perceived and actual threat of evangelization, prozelyzation, and conversion activities of other major religions many modern Hindus are opposed to the idea of conversion from (any) one religion to (any) other per se. Hindus in Western countries generally accept and welcome willing converts, whereas in India acceptance of willing converts is becoming more common. With the rise of Hindu Revivalist movements, reconversions into Hinduism have also picked up pace. [News] Fly Me to the Deity
For the first time since man and his rockets began trespassing on outer space, a vessel has gone up from a country whose people actually regard the moon as a god.
There is no formal process for converting to Hinduism, although in many traditions a ritual called dīkshā ("initiation") marks the beginning of spiritual life after conversion and a ritual called suddhi ("purification") marks the return to spiritual life after reconversion. Most Hindu sects do not seek converts because they believe that the goals of spiritual life can be attained through any religion, as long as it is practiced sincerely.[See Swami Bhaskarananda, Essentials of Hinduism pp. 189-92 (Viveka Press 1994) ISBN 1-884852-02-5] However, some Hindu sects and affiliates such as Vedanta Society, Arya Samaj, International Society for Krishna Consciousness, and the Self-Realization Fellowship accept those who have a desire to follow Hinduism. [Image] 
Indian Religions : Hinduism Hinduism Hinduism is the oldest religion in the world. Hinduism is world's third largest religion after Christianity and Islam. Hinduism is the dominant religion in India, where
In general, Hindu view of religious freedom is not based on the freedom to proselytize, but the right to retain one’s religion and not be subject to proselyzation. Hindu leaders are advocating for changing the existing formulation of the freedom of religion clause in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights since it favors religions which proselytize. [Video] National Geographic film about the Aghoris
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Tantra is a form of yogic practice leading to divine ecstasy through certain rites that emphasize the erotic and the forbidden. Tantra is centred upon ‘shakti’, the divine female power worshipped by the sadhakas (male practitioners) ... [Book] This Is My Faith: Hinduism (This Is My Faith) Barron's Educational Series
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NEW YORK: An unmanned spacecraft from India, the most worldly and yet other-worldly of nations, is on its way to the moon. For the first time since man and his rockets began trespassing on outer space, a vessel has gone up from a country whose people actually regard the moon as a god.
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HANG-MAN HAZRAT, THE MEAN-MOHAMMAD: His Aggressive-Imperialism By SP Attri ( USA ) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1. The Holy-War ( Jehad ) against Kafirs ( Non-Moslem ... |
