Colourful festivals and mouth-watering desserts are only at the surface of Hinduism. There is a unique diversity and individualism that hovers over this faith. But can we really define Hinduism as a religion?
Hinduism is not categorised as an organised religion - it has no systemic approach nor a simplified set of rules that its followers abide by. Thus, the multiple interpretations of Hinduism make it almost impossible to arrive at a sweeping definition of the religion. With a myriad of ideas on spirituality and beliefs, Hinduism has no all-encompassing governing body, prophet, or single holy book.
To understand Hinduism completely, one needs to understand its core values and beliefs. Exploring the Hindu banyan and its many sects is a deeper dive into its diversity. The history and evolution of Hinduism over time have solidified its role in society, making it the third-largest religion in the world - after Christianity and Islam.
DENOMINATIONS
There are four major traditions that are practised by Hindus - Vaishnavism, Shaivism, Shaktism, and Smartism. While there are many denominations, they are all linked and overlap in areas such as shared rituals, pilgrimage, and cosmology.
Vaishnavism is a stream of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu, one of the supreme deities. In this tradition, Vishnu creates, protects, and transforms the universe. In Shaivism, Shiva (also known as Rudra) is worshipped as the supreme being. Most followers of Shaivism, called Shaivites and Saivas, accept an ascetic life and the belief that Shiva lives within the human soul.
Shaktism believes that the metaphysical reality is a woman, and Shakti (better known as Mahadevi) is the supreme god. The denomination worships several other goddesses such as Durga and Kali. The last tradition, Smartism, equally worships five deities Shiva, Vishnu, Surya, Ganesh, and Shakti.
Denne historien er fra AG 153-utgaven av ASIAN Geographic.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra AG 153-utgaven av ASIAN Geographic.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Revealed Silver
Known in Latin as argentum, originating from the Sanskrit word argunas meaning \"shining\", silver is often an overlooked metal in comparison to gold, though it has properties that make it a unique and special element.
Celebrating the 2023 Rolex Awards for Enterprise Laureate: Liu Shaochuang
As a part of the Perpetual Planet Initiative, the Rolex Awards for Enterprise continues to expand the initiative’s growing portfolio, supporting exceptional individuals with innovative projects in areas such as the environment, science and health, applied technology, cultural heritage, and exploration.
The Treasures of Tahiti and the Journey of Giants
For decades, French Polynesia's beguiling islands have adorned travel brochures, alluring honeymooners with turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows, and lush volcanic peaks. Some 7,000 kilometres from its closest neighbours, and spread over five main island groups, the French territory's real treasures are not just what you see in the splashy brochures. Get ready for untamed, wild, ocean encounters.
Asian Blades
Historically, swords served as crucial tools for warfare and symbols of social status, shaping military strategies and cultural identities across the region. Fascinating objects found in museums, these ancient items of silverware are just as likely to be found in private collections around the world
Bear Witness REVISITED
Through soulful eyes we see ourselves These creatures sad and splendid For though they be confined to bars Flesh bodies crushed, tormented Their spirits burn with freedom's fight Mad, somewhat demented... Like the rusting strands of metal twine That hold their fate suspended Cruelty is an irony A stage for man To play his hand In wickedness or wonder
A Spectrum Of Scarlet: The Symbolic Red Of Asian Flags
A common thread that unites many Asian flags is the prominent use of red, a colour rich with symbolism
Curry: A World of Flavour, Tradition, and Culture
From its humble beginnings in India, the concept of "curry" has evolved into a culinary language understood around the world
The Power Of Asian Red Fruits - Discover 10 Nutrient-Rich Gems Of The East
In the vast tapestry of Nature, Asia has gifted the world an array of unique and vibrant fruits, particularly those in shades of red. These scarlet-hued gems, packed with flavour and nutrients, not only add a burst of colour to your plate but also carry valuable health benefits. From antioxidant-rich goji berries to the exotic dragon fruit, let's explore some of the most popular red fruits from Asia and discover why they should be part of your diet.
Bhutan: A World Of Its Own
With its majestic monasteries, red-robed monks, charming rural villages, and vibrant festivals, the Kingdom of Bhutan is a Himalayan paradise that promises an enriching travel experience like no other
Take The Red Pill
From the vermilion torii gates of Japan to the famed rust-hued walls of India's Agra Fort, the burgundy robes of Burmese monks to scarlet chillies drying in the Bangladeshi sun, red is the quintessential colour of Asia.
