Hinduism is both a religion and a philosophical system advocating a belief in Eternal Order and Ultimate Reality which an individual must recognize in order to live a meaningful life.

What does the term "Hinduism" mean?

"Hinduism" derives from the Persian term "Sindus" referencing those who lived across the Sindus River in India and practiced a certain form of religion. Adherents of Hinduism know it as Sanatan Dharma which means "Eternal Order."

Who is the one God in Hinduism?

The one God in Hinduism is Brahman, the Supreme Over-Soul and Creator; all other gods in Hinduism are manifestations/avatars of Brahman.

Is Hinduism a polytheistic religion?

No. Hinduism is monotheistic as there is only one Eternal Source of life (Brahman) but can be considered polytheistic because of the many avatars of Brahman, and is also henotheistic as one may elevate any one of these avatars to worship of a Supreme Being.

Hinduism Timeline

Definition

Hinduism is the oldest religion in the world, originating in Central Asia and the Indus Valley, still practiced in the present day. The term Hinduism is what is known as an exonym (a name given by others to a people, place, or concept) and derives from the Persian term Sindus designating those who lived across the Indus River.

More about: Hinduism

Timeline

c. 1500 BCE - c. 500 BCE
Indian scholars of the so-called Vedic Period commit the Vedas to written form; basic tenets of Hinduism are established.
c. 400 BCE - c. 200 CE
The Bhagavad Gita, part of the Mahabharata, is written at some point between 400 BCE and 200 CE.
c. 480 CE - c. 500 CE
The Gupta-era Hindu temple at Bhitargaon is built.
c. 770 CE
The Kailasa rock-cut temple at Ellora is completed and dedicated to Shiva.
1122 CE
Construction begins of the Hindu temple at Angkor Wat.

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