Hinduism, also known as Sanatan Dharma, is an ancient and diverse religious tradition originating in the Indian subcontinent. It's characterized by a wide array of philosophies, beliefs, rituals, and practices, making it less a single religion and more a family of related traditions. Here are some key aspects:
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Origins and History: Hinduism's roots can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300-1700 BCE) and the subsequent Vedic period (c. 1500-500 BCE). It evolved through various influences, incorporating elements from indigenous traditions and philosophies.
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Core Beliefs: While diverse, some common threads run through most Hindu traditions. These include belief in:
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Dharma">Dharma</a>: One's duty or righteous conduct.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Karma">Karma</a>: The principle of cause and effect, where actions influence future experiences.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Samsara">Samsara</a>: The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Moksha">Moksha</a>: Liberation from Samsara, achieving union with the ultimate reality.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Atman">Atman</a> & <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Brahman">Brahman</a>: The concept of the individual soul (Atman) being a part of the universal soul (Brahman).
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Deities: Hinduism has a vast pantheon of gods and goddesses, often seen as manifestations of the one ultimate reality, Brahman. Prominent deities include:
- The Trinity (Trimurti):
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Brahma">Brahma</a>: The creator.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Vishnu">Vishnu</a>: The preserver.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Shiva">Shiva</a>: The destroyer or transformer.
- Other important deities:
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Lakshmi">Lakshmi</a>: Goddess of wealth and prosperity.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Saraswati">Saraswati</a>: Goddess of knowledge and arts.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Durga">Durga</a> & <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Kali">Kali</a>: Goddesses representing power and protection.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Ganesha">Ganesha</a>: The elephant-headed god of wisdom and remover of obstacles.
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Sacred Texts: Hinduism boasts a rich literary tradition, including:
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Vedas">Vedas</a>: The oldest scriptures, containing hymns, rituals, and philosophical insights.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Upanishads">Upanishads</a>: Philosophical texts exploring the nature of reality and the self.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Bhagavad%20Gita">Bhagavad Gita</a>: A sacred text within the Mahabharata epic, discussing dharma, karma, and devotion.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Ramayana">Ramayana</a> & <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Mahabharata">Mahabharata</a>: Epic narratives that explore moral dilemmas, duty, and the nature of good and evil.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Puranas">Puranas</a>: Mythological and encyclopedic texts.
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Practices: Hindu practices vary widely, encompassing:
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Puja">Puja</a>: Worship, often involving offerings and prayers.
- <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Yoga">Yoga</a>: Physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines.
- Meditation
- Pilgrimage to holy sites.
- Observance of festivals.
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Social Structure (Caste System): Historically, Hindu society was structured by a caste system (Varna), a hierarchical social division. While outlawed in modern India, its influence persists in some areas.
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Influence: Hinduism has significantly influenced various aspects of Indian culture, including art, music, dance, literature, and philosophy. It has also spread globally, influencing other religions and spiritual traditions.