Hindu Students Association
Hinduism
Hinduism is considered to be one of the oldest living major religions. Unlike other religions where they stem from the ideologies of one leader, Hinduism is a fusion of various cultures and traditions of people who migrated to the Indian subcontinent. It is distinct in that it has no particular origin nor a founder.
Modern day Hinduism has greatly evolved from the ancient civilizations. Hindu customs vary from region to region due to different influences of the area. Today, Hinduism is the third largest religion, with are about 900 million practicers, 95% of whom reside in India. There are many practicers of Hinduism around the world.
Major Themes
Dharma
Religious duties and moral rights and duties of each individual
Samsāra
The continuing cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth
Karma
Action, intent, and consequences
Moksha
Liberation from samsāra or liberation in this life
Hinduism can best be described as henotheistic, where there is devotion to a single god while accepting the existence of others.
Trimurti is the personification of the concept of the cosmos. It stands for Brahma, the creator; Vishnu, the preserver; and Shiva, the destroyer.