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3000 BCE
Origin of Hinduism
Hinduism, one of the oldest religions on earth, originated in India over 5,000 years ago between 2300 B.C. and 1500 B.C. Many believe that Hinduism has no founder and is a fusion of various beliefs based on the Sanskrit and Scriptures found today. -
3000 BCE
Sacred Language
The sacred language of Hinduism is Sanskrit which has been used as a philosophical language in Hinduism pre-Vedic to Vedic periods (3000-1500 BCE). Vedic Sanskrit began to formalize as early as 1700 - 1200 BCE and is the oldest scripture of Hinduism known today. -
2983 BCE
Scripture - Bhagavad Gita
Atma, Parkrti, Karma, Kala, Isvara
Who am I? -> Soul (Atma)
Whhere am I? -> Material World (Parkrti)
What am I doing here? -> Activities (Karma)
How long am I here? -> Time (Kala)
Is there someone beyond? -> God (Isvara) These topics are found in the scripture during the Bhagavad Gita when Krishna shared his knowledge on the battlefield of Kurukshetra over 5000 years ago. These 5 topics known in the Gita teach us yoga which is the connection of the soul to reality in Hinduism. -
2982 BCE
Practices and Beliefs
As part of Hinduism, Hindus believe in and worship many gods for example, Lakshmi, Shiva, Durga and so on. Many forms of worship take place in the Hindu culture such as prayers, rituals, festivals and so on. Hinduism also believes in Philosophical traditions which is the focus of the mind. Hinduism also refers to Sanatana Dharma which means the Immemorial way of the right living. -
1500 BCE
The Core Concepts of Hinduism
A few of the core concepts of Hinduism are to follow Dharma (Duty), understand Karma(Action and Consequences), Brahman (Ultimate reality), seek Moksha (Liberation) from Samara (Cycle of rebirth), Atman (the soul), Spiritual growth, ultimate truth and so on. These core concepts were created in Hinduism to allow us to follow and understand the universe and life. This began to form during the Vedic period around 1500 BCE. -
Hinduism Today
Hinduism in today's society is continued by its own diversity and beliefs. Hinduism is the third largest religion known today and as the culture grows, the diversity of beliefs and practices still continues to expand. In conclusion, Hinduism remains a significant and influential religion that is still being found and practiced by millions worldwide.