Hinduism is considered to be the oldest faith to have ever existed on this Earth, and it draws the curiosity of people worldwide because of its rich culture, customs, and intellectual fulfillment that this religion has to offer. It cannot be termed as a religion, but can be best defined as a way of life.
Hinduism is analogized to a tree- where the roots are symbolic of the Vedas and Upanishads, where the trunk has thickened with ‘tapasya’ or meditations of sages and gurus, its branches are the traditions of Hinduism and the fruits are the sects of the faith. This tree is unique in itself but bears very sweet fruit.
Hinduism has so much to teach – both to Hindus and Non-Hindus. Hinduism is practiced widely in countries like Fiji, United Kingdom, Canada, Nepal, the United States, etc. It has given the world spiritual assets like Yoga and ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness).
Hinduism, or Sanatan Dharma as it is called, also invites the acceptance of people from all walks of life. It teaches one about Moksha and Mukti, Hindu terms for liberating or transcending the soul from worldly material possessions.
As a result, many Sanskrit words like dharma, moksha, and nirvana have been added to English dictionaries. Hinduism has served the purpose of reformation and liberation of the Western mind and shall continue to do so.
