Can we call Hinduism the oldest religion in the world?

Hinduism: The Oldest Religion in the World and Not a True Polytheism

Hinduism is often considered to be the oldest religion in the world, with roots and customs dating back more than 4,000 years.  It is also the world's third largest religion, with more than a billion followers, mostly in India. ¹ But what is Hinduism exactly? Is it a polytheistic religion that worships many gods and goddesses? Or is it a monotheistic religion that believes in one supreme reality? The answer is not so simple, as Hinduism is a complex and diverse tradition that encompasses many different beliefs, practices, sects, and philosophies.

 The Origin of Hinduism

Hinduism is not a single religion, but a collection of various religious, philosophical, and cultural traditions that originated in the Indian subcontinent.  The term "Hinduism" itself is a modern invention, derived from the Persian word "Hindu", which means "the people of the Indus River".  The ancient Hindus did not have a specific name for their religion, but referred to it as "Sanatana Dharma", which means "the eternal law" or "the eternal way of life". 

Hinduism has no single founder or prophet, but is a synthesis of various indigenous and foreign influences over thousands of years.  One of the earliest sources of Hinduism is the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished between 2500 and 1500 BCE in present-day Pakistan and northwest India. This civilization produced sophisticated urban centers, advanced technology, and a mysterious script that has not been deciphered yet. It also left behind many artifacts depicting various animals, plants, and human figures, some of which may represent early forms of Hindu deities. 

Another major source of Hinduism is the Vedic culture, which emerged around 1500 BCE with the arrival of the Indo-Aryan people from Central Asia. These people brought with them a collection of sacred hymns, rituals, and myths, known as the Vedas, which are considered to be the oldest scriptures of Hinduism. The Vedas contain the earliest expressions of Hindu concepts such as karma, reincarnation, dharma, and the four social classes (varnas). The Vedas also describe a pantheon of gods and goddesses, such as Indra, Agni, Soma, Varuna, and Ushas, who are associated with various natural phenomena and cosmic forces. 

Over time, Hinduism evolved and diversified into many different schools of thought and sects, each with its own scriptures, doctrines, practices, and traditions.

 Some of the major developments in Hinduism include:

- The Upanishads (c. 800-200 BCE), which are philosophical texts that explore the nature of the self, the supreme reality (Brahman), and the relationship between them. The Upanishads introduce the concept of atman, which is the individual soul or essence that is identical to Brahman. The Upanishads also teach the doctrine of moksha, which is the liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) through the realization of one's true nature. 

- The Epics and Puranas (c. 200 BCE-500 CE), which are narrative texts that recount the stories of various gods, goddesses, heroes, demons, and sages. The most famous epics are the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, which contain the legends of Rama and Krishna, two incarnations (avatars) of Vishnu, one of the most important Hindu deities. The Puranas are encyclopedic texts that provide information on various aspects of Hindu mythology, cosmology, history, geography, and ritual. 

- The Bhakti movement (c. 500-1500 CE), which is a devotional movement that emphasizes the personal and emotional relationship between a devotee and a chosen deity. The Bhakti movement gave rise to many popular sects that worship different forms of Vishnu (such as Rama and Krishna), Shiva (such as Nataraja and Linga), or Shakti (such as Durga and Kali). The Bhakti movement also produced many saints, poets, and mystics who expressed their love for God through songs, poems, and stories. Some of the famous Bhakti saints are Mirabai, Kabir, Tulsidas, and Surdas. 

- The Six Schools of Hindu Philosophy (c. 500-1500 CE), which are six systems of thought that attempt to explain the nature of reality, knowledge, and ethics from a rational and logical perspective. The six schools are Samkhya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Mimamsa, and Vedanta. Each school has its own founder, texts, concepts, and arguments, but they all accept the authority of the Vedas as the ultimate source of truth. The most influential school is Vedanta, which has several sub-schools, such as Advaita (non-dualism), Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism), and Dvaita (dualism). 

The Diversity of Hinduism

Hinduism is a very diverse and pluralistic tradition that accommodates a wide range of beliefs and practices. There is no single creed or dogma that all Hindus must follow, but rather a variety of ways to approach the divine and the human condition. 

Some of the common features of Hinduism are:

- The belief in one supreme reality (Brahman) that manifests itself in various forms and names. Brahman is the source and essence of everything that exists, and can be personal or impersonal, transcendent or immanent, male or female, or beyond all categories. Hindus may worship Brahman as a single deity (such as Vishnu, Shiva, or Shakti), or as a multitude of deities (such as Ganesha, Lakshmi, or Hanuman). Hindus may also worship Brahman through abstract symbols (such as Om or Swastika), natural elements (such as fire or water), or sacred places (such as rivers or mountains). 

- The belief in the law of karma, which is the principle of cause and effect that governs the moral consequences of one's actions. According to karma, every action (whether physical, mental, or verbal) produces a corresponding reaction (whether positive or negative) that affects one's present or future life. Karma determines one's destiny and quality of life, as well as one's rebirth in the cycle of samsara. 

- The belief in reincarnation, which is the process of rebirth that occurs after death. Hindus believe that the soul (atman) does not die, but transmigrates from one body to another, depending on one's karma. The soul can be reborn in different realms of existence, such as human, animal, plant, or divine. The goal of reincarnation is to achieve moksha, which is the liberation from the cycle of samsara and the union with Brahman. Moksha can be attained through various paths, such as knowledge (jnana), action (karma), devotion (bhakti), or meditation (yoga). 

- The belief in dharma, which is the ethical and religious duty that one must follow according to one's nature, stage of life, and social position. Dharma is derived from the Vedas and other scriptures, as well as from the traditions and customs of one's community. Dharma provides guidance and order for one's personal and social life, as well as for the harmony and balance of the cosmos. Dharma also includes the concept of varna (social class) and ashrama (stage of life), which prescribe the roles and responsibilities of different members of society. 

Hinduism and Polytheism

Hinduism is often labeled as a polytheistic religion, because it has a vast array of gods and goddesses that are worshipped by its followers. However, this label is not entirely accurate, as Hinduism also has elements of monotheism, monism, henotheism, and pantheism. In fact, Hinduism does not fit neatly into any of these categories, but rather transcends them all. Hinduism is a religion that celebrates diversity and multiplicity, while also affirming unity and singularity.

Hindus believe that there is only one supreme reality (Brahman), but that it can be expressed and experienced in various ways. Brahman can be personal or impersonal, transcendent or immanent, male or female, or beyond all categories. Brahman can also manifest itself in various forms and names, such as Vishnu, Shiva, Shakti, Ganesha, Lakshmi, Hanuman, etc. These forms are not separate or independent entities, but aspects or modes of Brahman. They are not rivals or competitors, but complementary and cooperative. They are not idols or false gods, but symbols and expressions of the one true God.

Hindus worship different forms of Brahman according to their personal preference.

Hinduism and Other Religions

Hinduism has a long and complex history of interaction with other religions, both within and outside of India. Hinduism has influenced and been influenced by various religious traditions, such as Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Islam, Christianity, and others. Hinduism has also shown a remarkable tolerance and openness towards other faiths, recognizing the validity and value of different paths to the divine.

Hinduism and Buddhism

Buddhism emerged in northern India in the 6th century BCE, as a reform movement within Hinduism. Buddhism was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, who came to be known as the Buddha (the awakened one). Buddhism rejected some of the core doctrines of Hinduism, such as the authority of the Vedas, the caste system, the ritual sacrifices, and the concept of a permanent soul (atman). Buddhism taught that the root cause of suffering is ignorance (avidya) and attachment (trishna), and that the way to overcome them is through the four noble truths and the eightfold path. Buddhism also emphasized the concepts of impermanence (anicca), no-self (anatta), and dependent origination (pratitya-samutpada).

Hinduism and Buddhism have had a close and sometimes competitive relationship throughout history. Some Hindu kings patronized Buddhism and built Buddhist monuments, such as Ashoka and Harshavardhana. Some Buddhist sects adopted Hindu deities and practices, such as Tantric Buddhism and Vajrayana Buddhism. Some Hindu schools of thought incorporated Buddhist concepts and methods, such as Advaita Vedanta and Yoga. Some Hindu reformers and saints were influenced by Buddhist teachings, such as Shankara and Ramana Maharshi.

Hinduism and Buddhism share many common features, such as the belief in karma, reincarnation, dharma, moksha/nirvana, meditation, non-violence (ahimsa), compassion (karuna), and ethics (sila). Hinduism and Buddhism also respect each other as valid paths to liberation, and acknowledge the similarities and differences between them. Hinduism regards Buddhism as a heterodox (nastika) school of Hindu philosophy, while Buddhism regards Hinduism as a corrupted form of the original teachings of the Buddha.

Hinduism and Jainism

Jainism is another ancient religion that originated in India, around the same time as Buddhism. Jainism was founded by Mahavira, who is considered to be the last of the 24 Tirthankaras (ford-makers), who are the spiritual teachers and exemplars of Jainism. Jainism rejected some of the core doctrines of Hinduism, such as the authority of the Vedas, the caste system, the ritual sacrifices, and the concept of a supreme reality (Brahman). Jainism taught that the ultimate goal of life is to attain liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) by following the three jewels: right knowledge (samayak jnana), right conduct (samayak charitra), and right faith (samayak darshana). Jainism also emphasized the concepts of non-violence (ahimsa), non-absolutism (anekantavada), and non-possessiveness (aparigraha).

Hinduism and Jainism have had a peaceful and respectful relationship throughout history. Some Hindu kings patronized Jainism and built Jain temples, such as Chandragupta Maurya and Akbar. Some Jain sects adopted Hindu deities and practices, such as Shvetambara and Digambara. Some Hindu schools of thought incorporated Jain concepts and methods, such as Nyaya and Vaisheshika. Some Hindu reformers and saints were influenced by Jain teachings, such as Mahatma Gandhi and Vinoba Bhave.

Hinduism and Jainism share many common features, such as the belief in karma, reincarnation, dharma, moksha, meditation, non-violence (ahimsa), compassion (karuna), and ethics (sila). Hinduism and Jainism also respect each other as valid paths to liberation, and acknowledge the similarities and differences between them. Hinduism regards Jainism as a heterodox (nastika) school of Hindu philosophy, while Jainism regards Hinduism as a diluted form of the original teachings of the Tirthankaras.

Hinduism and Sikhism

Sikhism is a relatively young religion that originated in the Punjab region of India, in the 15th century CE. Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak, who is considered to be the first of the 10 Gurus, who are the spiritual teachers and leaders of Sikhism. Sikhism rejected some of the core doctrines of Hinduism, such as the authority of the Vedas, the caste system, the ritual sacrifices, and the concept of multiple gods and goddesses. Sikhism taught that there is only one God (Waheguru), who is formless, timeless, and omnipresent, and who can be realized through the grace of the Guru and the practice of the five Ks: Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kachera (cotton underwear), and Kirpan (sword). Sikhism also emphasized the concepts of service (seva), justice (nayaya), equality (samata), and devotion (bhakti).

Hinduism and Sikhism have had a mixed and sometimes turbulent relationship throughout history. Some Hindu kings patronized Sikhism and built Sikh gurdwaras, such as Ranjit Singh and Maharaja Pratap Singh. Some Sikh sects adopted Hindu deities and practices, such as Udasi and Nirmala. Some Hindu schools of thought incorporated Sikh concepts and methods, such as Nirguna Bhakti and Sant Mat. Some Hindu reformers and saints were influenced by Sikh teachings, such as Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Swami Vivekananda.

Hinduism and Sikhism share many common features, such as the belief in karma, reincarnation, dharma, moksha, meditation, non-violence (ahimsa), compassion (karuna), and ethics (sila). Hinduism and Sikhism also respect each other as valid paths to God, and acknowledge the similarities and differences between them. Hinduism regards Sikhism as an orthodox (astika) school of Hindu philosophy, while Sikhism regards Hinduism as a partial revelation of the truth of Waheguru.

Hinduism and Islam

Hinduism and Islam have had a long and complex relationship since the 7th century CE, when Islam emerged in the Arabian Peninsula and spread to the Indian subcontinent through trade and conquest. Hinduism and Islam have influenced and been influenced by each other in various ways, such as art, architecture, literature, music, mysticism, and theology. Hinduism and Islam have also faced periods of conflict and violence, such as the destruction of temples by Muslim invaders, the partition of India and Pakistan along religious lines, and the communal riots that have erupted from time to time.

Hinduism and Islam differ on many fundamental doctrines, such as the nature of God, the role of prophets, the status of scriptures, the meaning of salvation, the practice of rituals, and the value of idols. Hindus believe that there is one supreme reality (Brahman) that manifests itself in various forms and names, while Muslims believe that there is only one God (Allah) who is unique and incomparable. Hindus regard various sages and saints as sources of spiritual guidance and inspiration, while Muslims regard Muhammad as the final and seal of the prophets who brought the complete and final revelation of God. Hindus accept the Vedas and other texts as sacred scriptures, while Muslims accept only the Quran as the word of God. Hindus seek liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) through various paths, such as knowledge (jnana), action (karma), devotion (bhakti), or meditation (yoga), while Muslims seek paradise (jannah) in the afterlife by submitting to God’s will (islam) and following his commands (sharia). Hindus perform various rituals (samskaras) to mark different stages of life and worship different deities in temples or at home, while Muslims perform five pillars of faith: declaration of faith (shahada), prayer (salat), almsgiving (zakat), fasting (sawm), and pilgrimage (hajj). Hindus use images and symbols (murtis) to represent and invoke the presence of God, while Muslims avoid any representation of God or his prophets and consider idolatry (shirk) as the gravest sin.

Hinduism and Islam also share some common features, such as the belief in one God, the concept of revelation, the ethical values of justice and compassion, the importance of charity and service, and the respect for diversity and pluralism. Hinduism and Islam also have some common figures and stories, such as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Mary, who are mentioned in both the Vedas and the Quran. Hinduism and Islam also have some common practices, such as fasting and pilgrimage, which are observed by both communities. Hinduism and Islam also have some common spaces, such as dargahs (shrines of Muslim saints), which are visited by both Hindus and Muslims.

Hinduism and Christianity

Hinduism and Christianity have had a limited and sporadic relationship since the arrival of European traders and missionaries in India in the late 15th century CE. Hinduism and Christianity have influenced and been influenced by each other in various ways, such as art, literature, music, social reform, and theology. Hinduism and Christianity have also faced periods of conflict and violence, such as the destruction of churches by Hindu rulers, the persecution of Christians by colonial authorities, and the communal riots that have erupted from time to time.

Hinduism and Christianity differ on many fundamental doctrines, such as the nature of God, the role of Jesus Christ, the status of scriptures, the meaning of salvation, the practice of rituals, and the value of conversion. Hindus believe that there is one supreme reality (Brahman) that manifests itself in various forms and names, while Christians believe that there is one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Hindus regard Jesus Christ as one of the many incarnations (avatars) of God or a great teacher (guru), while Christians regard him as the only begotten Son of God and the savior of humanity. Hindus accept the Vedas and other texts as sacred scriptures, while Christians accept only the Bible as the word of God. Hindus seek liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) through various paths, such as knowledge (jnana), action (karma), devotion (bhakti), or meditation (yoga), while Christians seek salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Hindus perform various rituals (samskaras) to mark different stages of life and worship different deities in temples or at home, while Christians worship in a church and practice sacraments such as baptism and communion. Hindus respect all religions as valid paths to God, while Christians believe that there is no salvation outside of Christ.

Hinduism and Christianity also share some common features, such as the belief in one God, the concept of revelation, the ethical values of love and compassion, the importance of charity and service, and the respect for human dignity and rights. Hinduism and Christianity also have some common figures and stories, such as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Mary, who are mentioned in both the Vedas and the Bible. Hinduism and Christianity also have some common practices, such as prayer and fasting, which are observed by both communities. Hinduism and Christianity also have some common spaces, such as ashrams (spiritual retreats), which are visited by both Hindus and Christians.

Conclusion

Hinduism is a rich and diverse tradition that has a long and complex history of interaction with other religions. Hinduism has both influenced and been influenced by various religious traditions, such as Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Islam, and Christianity. Hinduism has also shown a remarkable tolerance and openness towards other faiths, recognizing the validity and value of different paths to the divine. Hinduism is not a monolithic or static religion, but a dynamic and evolving one that accommodates a wide range of beliefs and practices. Hinduism is a religion that celebrates diversity and multiplicity, while also affirming unity and singularity.

Source: 

(1) Introduction to Hinduism for Beginners - Learn Religions. https://www.learnreligions.com/hinduism-for-beginners-1770069.

(2) History of Hinduism - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Hinduism.

(3) The 7 Oldest Religions In The World - WorldAtlas. https://www.worldatlas.com/religion/the-7-oldest-religions-in-the-world.html.

(4) Hinduism - World Religions & Beliefs - Research Guides at Southern .... https://southern.libguides.com/worldreligions/hinduism.

(5) Hinduism - Origins, Facts & Beliefs | HISTORY. https://www.history.com/topics/religion/hinduism.