Hinduism — Reading Comprehension

Hinduism is one of the oldest and most complex religions in the world, originating more than 3,500 years ago in ancient India. Unlike some religions that began with a single founder, Hinduism developed over centuries through a blend of local traditions and beliefs brought by the Indo-Aryans around 1500 BCE. Archaeological evidence from the Indus Valley Civilization (about 2500–1500 BCE), such as temple ruins and statues, suggests early forms of worship that influenced later Hindu practices.

At the heart of Hinduism is the idea of Brahman, the ultimate spiritual reality or world soul. Hindus believe that all gods and goddesses, such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi, are different forms or expressions of Brahman. This belief is described in the ancient sacred texts called the Vedas, composed in Sanskrit between 1500 and 500 BCE. The Vedas include hymns, rituals, and philosophical ideas that guide Hindu life. The Rig Veda, the oldest of these texts, contains hymns that praise many gods but also suggest the unity of all existence.

Hindu society was organized around a system of dharma, or duty, which meant following rules and responsibilities based on one's place in society. Dharma was closely connected to karma—the idea that every action has consequences, either in this life or a future one. Hindus believed in reincarnation, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. If a person followed their dharma and acted with good karma, they might be reborn into a higher social class, while bad actions could result in a lower rebirth. This system influenced daily life and social organization, shaping the caste system and people's roles in ancient India.

Over time, Hindu beliefs and practices evolved. By 500 BCE, new religious ideas, including the importance of meditation and devotion, appeared in texts like the Upanishads. Temples and elaborate rituals became more common, and festivals celebrated the many gods and goddesses. Hinduism spread across South Asia and became deeply tied to art, music, and literature. Today, its influence can still be seen in Indian culture and beyond, showing both continuity and change over thousands of years.

Hinduism's flexible approach, allowing for many gods and different ways of worship, helped it survive and adapt over time. This diversity made it possible for people from different regions and backgrounds to find meaning in its teachings, uniting them under the concept of Brahman.

The study of Hinduism helps historians understand not only the religious beliefs of ancient India but also how religion shaped social hierarchies, daily routines, and the development of civilization in South Asia and the wider ancient world.

Interesting Fact: The ancient city of Mohenjo-daro, part of the Indus Valley Civilization, had a Great Bath that some historians believe was used for early religious rituals, possibly linked to later Hindu ideas of purification.

Where did Hinduism begin?

What is Brahman in Hinduism?

Which ancient texts outline Hindu beliefs?

How did karma affect reincarnation?

Why did Hinduism survive for so long?

What was a major effect of the caste system?

Hindus believe in many gods. True or false?

What does 'dharma' mean?