HINDUISM [DP]

PREFACE

The roots of Hinduism reach deep into prehistoric hoary past It has evolved over these millennials, and still this process continues Dynamism, tolerance, catholic, assimilation, inclusiveness, optimism and unity in diversity have always been its hallmarks Its multiplicity is more apparent than phenol. In the ultimate analysis, Hinduism proves to be a great synthesis of many diverse and even conflicting and contradictory trends and elements. Thus, its multiplicity and ambivalence are not only incompatible with the concept of essential unity of life and its creator, but also mark ts strength The Vedas and Vedanta form the earliest source of our knowledge of Hinduism The Vedanta literature reflects mainly the early ntual-side of the Hindu way of living So do the Puranas, as they throw gradient light on the vanous mundane aspects of later Hinduism. The two Epics and the Gita also delineate the basis tenets of Hinduism, and underland the desirability of dharma and righteous living, leading to ultimate triumph of the forces of good over evil

The realization of Reality or Self, leading to final liberation is one of the fundamentals of Hinduism In this sense, yoga is efflorescence and fruition of Hinduism Hinduism is not only religion, but also a way of living and thinking, As such, its contribution towards world heritage and culture has been quite tremendous and unparalleled Hinduism has exercised a great influence on world-rounds in respect of abstract speculation, religion, arts and science The well-known six systems of Hudu philosophy, are still a great force to be reckoned with Thus, it has bora kindly light on the path of Pilgrim's Progress of humanity One of the most characteristic qualities of Hinduism, is that it never believes in conversion, and there has never been a recognizable attempt at proselytization. There is no religious conquest on record It has been a great living force in the life of millions of people on the subcontinent and in foreign lands