Amongst all religions in the world, Hinduism is probably the least understood. Many people get a confused picture of it. Some even conclude that it is neither easy nor a practical religion in today’s fast-changing world. The purpose of this article is to take a closer look at it and make it easier to understand the basics of Hinduism and why it is considered unique.

There are so many religions in this world, each having a name of its own derived from the founders of the faith – like Buddha, Jesus Christ, Zoroaster, Mohammed and so on. Who founded Hinduism? The most outstanding feature of Hinduism is that it is founded upon the vision of no single individual and its truth does not stand upon the testimony of one person or of any particular sect. It was a nameless religion. The term Hinduism is really a name somebody has presented us with to distinguish it from other religions.

The very soul of Hinduism is its universality; Hinduism believes in that the Infinite or the Supreme being permeates the whole world – Sarvam Brahmamayam Jagat! It considers all activities of life as offerings to the Supreme. Hinduism has a strong conviction on this principle.

The Sanatana Dharma, or Hinduism, is rooted in the most ancient wisdom of Vedas as heard and revealed by great saints.Through a set of rigorous practices and a disciplined way of life, it offers an opportunity to realize the highest truth by self enlightenment. The prescribed Samskaras (rituals) serve as means to the purification of the mind and the body.

One of the most important Samskaras is the marriage that embodies a great ideal far above the aspect of physical enjoyment. The wife is called ‘Sahadharmini’ – a follower of the Dharma (the righteous way) along with her husband.

Hinduism has the unique ‘Varnashrama’ – a gradation of human beings each according to the ability, skills and aptitude. In the natural order of things, all human beings are not endowed with all types of skills. The Varnashrama system enabled society to be organized and each community was given the opportunity to contribute to its growth and prosperity in an allotted sphere of work.