The Hindu Tradition

"Thanks and praise for our Hindu brothers and sisters, for their age old recognition of the One in the many and their kindly disposition towards those of other faiths."

One of the ancient religions of the world, Hindu followers are all over the world, but a vast majority live in India. The most important scriptures of Hindu faith are Vedas (dating back to the third millennium BCE), Upanishads, Puranas, and Shrimad Bhagwas Geeta.The fundamental beliefs of Hinduism are reincarnation, Vedic philosophy, trust in the theory of Karma, emphasis on character and code of conduct, and absolute devotion and surrender to the supreme Lord of the universe.Hinduism believes in one formless God known as Brahman. Brahman is omnipresent and omnipotent, and manifests Himself in different forms based on the devotion, concepts, and beliefs of followers. God also visits in human form to teach the art of leading an ideal life to the human beings. He protects the devotees, reinstates (Dharma) the path of right action and punishes sinners. The yoga of devotion (Bhakti), Knowledge (Gyan), and right actions (Karmas) are the most important paths to become one with Brahman. Liberation from the bondage of life and death (Moksha) and to become one with the supreme Godhead (Ishwar Prapti) is the ultimate aim of human life. Nonviolence, respect of life, and immortality of the soul are the important attributes of Hinduism. Hinduism holds deep respect for other religious traditions and believes that different paths lead to the same supreme reality: "Truth is one, but the sages know it by many names."