I have heard a lot about Hinduism. Hinduism is considered a way of life; religion and life both are interlinked in such a manner that they can not be separated. This is the oldest living religion of the world. Hinduism is popular name of Sanatan dharma, practiced by more than a billion people across the world and mostly in India. This religion has faced several major challenges, received terrific shocks but this was the inner strength of this religion that kept it thriving in pre historic ages and still growing in modern era. The Sanatan Dharma or Hinduism is endless, it has neither beginning nor end and it is perpetual. In this paper we would discuss Hinduism and the related aspects of this great religion.
After studying Hinduism, I feel that Hinduism describes Atman as the real self, eternal and a part of god. The human body may corrode but atman or the spirit can not be destroyed by any means. Atman reincarnates and keeps changing the body unless the goal of karma, pacification of all the desires and cycle of reincarnation is completed. This whole process is the process of evolution. The atman is a part of god and a person is busy in the physical amenities only because he does not recognize the god, once he starts recognizing himself or the god he becomes immortal and irremovable part of god.
My own observation about Hinduism is that in this religion or way of life the role of Dharma is very huge, dharma is something that upholds this world; it is related to duty, morality and religion. Hinduism considers that the dharma is behind every good and positive activity of this world. The dharma suggests duty for every individual according to their age, profession and gender. There are different kinds of dharma in Hinduism; universal dharma (Rita), social dharma (Varna Dharma), human law (Ashram Dharma) and self dharma (Sva Dharma). In all these dharma, duties of individuals towards nature, family and self has been elaborately suggested. In Hinduism it is suggested to follow the path of self and not others and to search of self instead of others.
In my opinion, The Varna is another unique feature of Hinduism. In Hinduism works and means of livelihood were allocated according to the ability of individuals centuries ago. This system was very effective in the operation of society and without any deficiencies. Later on some impurities were intruded in this system but this occurred basically from some external factors. There was a set of clear instructions for everybody living in the society and it was for every stage of life. This helped in removing illusions regarding the work and everybody concentrated on their work and contributed in the development of the society.
One more concept of Hinduism, karma talks about the action; it indicates that there is a reaction for every action. This reaction may be prompt or may occur at later stage but this reaction in lieu of action will occur. This notion was to suggest the people to not commit anything wrong and always work towards the welfare of people, humanity and religion. The reaction of Karma may occur in the next life also so people should not look for the material, physical gains of this earth but he should think of next life also. If a person commits any wrong there are several provisions of punishment in this life or next life.
A very important concept of Hinduism is the Ishvara or Bhagvan or god in the Hinduism is the superpower and resides everywhere on the earth as well as beyond this universe simultaneously. An individual is also considered the part of god in Hinduism and this is why several creatures other than human beings are also considered sacrosanct in Hinduism. The concept of god is very easy yet very difficult in Hinduism. Hinduism believes in the existence of several gods and goddesses but ultimately says that there is only one almighty superpower that rules this universe. There are several methods but all ways leads to god and it depends upon an individual which way he or she likes to go. Bhagvan as interpreted by the Hinduism have power over wealth, beauty, power, knowledge, fame and controls each and every minor and major activities of this world.
After having a close observation over several aspects of Hinduism, I am of the opinion that Hinduism is a unique and living religion. There are several features in this religion that make it different from other religions and these unique features have strengthened the Hinduism to face and assimilate all the criticism and moving forward. Hinduism is basically a way of life rather than a religion and its adaptability, kindness and touch of humanity has made its status very high. Hinduism never promotes violence and suggests everybody to live with peace, to love and contribute for humanity and make new examples by following the path of truth, compassion, sacrifice and kindness.
Bibliography
Flood, Gavin D. An introduction to Hinduism. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1996.
