Hinduism
Hinduism is one of the world’s oldest religions in existence (Srinivasan 66). ... In order to understand the followers of the religion, you must first realize that Hinduism is more of a way of life than a religion (Srinivasan 66). Hinduism holds together diversity and not only for its own spiritual tradition, but for the entire subcontinent of India (Berry 3). All traditions within India are somehow associated with Hinduism. “The diversity which marks Hinduism begins with the notion of deity” (Boraks 14). ... Hinduism was not founded by one individual, and it was not always the complex religion it is today (Wangu 14). ... Each of the shruti texts provides a foundation for Hinduism. “The four Vedas are the oldest of the texts and are primary scriptures of Hinduism” (9). ... In the texts of the Upanishads one finds more of the philosophical outlook of Hinduism, especially concerning the ,meaning of life and the value of suffering (Boraks 17). ... Two great smriti epics that have had a significant influence on Hinduism are the Mahabharata and the Ramayana (10). ... “It includes the Bhagavad Gita, an important sacred text in Hinduism which tells an important story about the god Krishna” (10). ... These pieces of sacred literature are just some of the many sacred works that has built Hinduism into the religion it is today. Hinduism alone is a complicated religion, but it becomes even more complex because of its social duties and beliefs. “Hinduism is divided into three different sects: Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Shaktism” (Wangu 11). ... Hinduism is made up of several practices and rites. Hindus have the ability to choose their path because of the diversity of Hinduism. Hinduism has many faces (Boraks 14). ... Hinduism may have originated in India, but its practices have spread throughout the world and it has had a profound influence on many other world religions.