Hinduismen förklarad | RELIGIONSKUNSKAP | Gymnasienivå

Hinduism's roots date back to around 1400 BCE, making it one of the world's oldest religions. It is currently the world's third-largest religion with 1.1 billion followers, 94% of whom reside in India.

Hinduism is challenging to define with a single word due to its complexity. The central theme revolves around individuality, with diverse beliefs and myths that differ significantly from other major religions like Judaism, Islam, and Christianity.

Belief in samsara, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, is integral to Hinduism. The concept of karma, or actions, emphasizes the importance of deeds rather than blind faith. Every action has consequences that shape one's future lives.

Hinduism encompasses a vast array of deities, with gods and goddesses representing different aspects of life and revered for specific purposes. The divine is present everywhere, from natural elements to human forms, reflecting a belief in the sacredness of all existence.

Key deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and various goddesses play significant roles in Hindu mythology and belief systems. Their worship centers around maintaining balance in the universe and addressing human desires and challenges through their diverse characteristics.

Hinduism offers multiple pathways to spiritual liberation, including bhakti (devotion), jnana (knowledge), and karma (action). These paths cater to different inclinations and emphasize various approaches to achieving moksha or liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

The concepts of Atman (individual soul) and Brahman (universal consciousness) are fundamental in Hindu philosophy. Understanding the interplay between the self and the cosmic reality is central to attaining spiritual enlightenment and transcending worldly illusions.

Hinduism incorporates societal roles and duties based on the concept of dharma, which defines the cosmic order and individual responsibilities. The caste system, although controversial, historically influenced social hierarchy and occupational designations in Hindu society.

Gender roles and power dynamics are prevalent in Hinduism, with traditional norms often placing women subordinate to men. However, there have been instances of revolutionary movements within Hinduism challenging these norms and advocating for equality and social change.