globally. It ranks just below Christianity and Islam, and is considered to be one of

the world’s oldest active religions. So, where did it all start? What’s the history

of Hinduism?

Well, first and foremost, Hinduism doesn’t have one specific set of teachings, nor a

specific holy doctrine or founder. Though, it may have originated as far back as 3000

BCE, with the Indus Valley Civilization, near the current border of Pakistan and India.

Although Hinduism is commonly classified as a religion, it is also considered a philosophy

and a culture. Because the belief system has no standard method of practice, it’s considered

to be one of the most tolerant religions in the world.

Hinduism is closely associated with other Eastern religions. In fact, Hinduism incorporated

concepts like karma and reincarnation, around the same time that similar concepts emerged

in Buddhism and Jainism. These ideas deal with the cycle of life and rebirth, as well

as the consequences of a person’s actions.

Another major distinguishing feature of Hinduism, compared to most other active religions, is

its belief in multiple deities. The primary three are Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma, but there

are many others. However, some Hindus consider these deities to be manifestations of a single

cosmic spirit, called brahman, who is genderless and omnipotent.

Many Hindus also consider the ancient Vedic texts to be sacred. The scripture was written

in Sanskrit around 1000 BCE, as a hymn to the gods. Within the Veda, multiple major

and minor deities are described, including Indra, the king of the gods, and Vishnu, a

protector god. Today, Hindus still recite verses from this text ritualistically, during

weddings and funerals.

Currently, about 15% of the world’s population subscribes to Hinduism, with roughly 99% of

Hindus residing in India and Nepal. In nations like Mauritius, Fiji and Guyana, Hindus also

constitute a large minority. In America, there are also about 2 million Hindus, and make

up about a half of a percent of the population.

Hinduism started in South Asia, and continues to thrive there. India’s relationship with

Hinduism is deep, with the Hindu-nationalist “Indian People’s Party” currently wielding

power. India’s Prime Minister is also the latest in a long line of predominantly Hindu

leaders.

By 2050, Hinduism is expected to grow by 34%, with about 1.4 billion adherents globally.

However, as its influence is limited outside Asia, the religion will most likely stay in

the number-three-spot, behind Christianity and Islam, for a long time to come.

For a look at one extreme, ancient Hindu practice, checking out this video from This Happened

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