Hinduism is the world’s oldest religion, according to many scholars, with roots and customs dating back more than 4,000 years. Today, with about 900 million followers, Hinduism is the third-largest religion behind Christianity and Islam. Roughly 95 percent of the world’s Hindus live in India.
Why is Hinduism called a religion?
Hinduism is more than a religion. It is a culture, a way of life, and a code of behavior. This is reflected in a term Indians use to describe the Hindu religion: Sanatana Dharma, which means eternal faith, or the eternal way things are (truth).
What is the oldest religion?
The word Hindu is an exonym, and while Hinduism has been called the oldest religion in the world, many practitioners refer to their religion as Sanātana Dharma (Sanskrit: सनातन धर्म, lit.
What are the 5 Hindu beliefs?
Here are some of the key beliefs shared among Hindus:
- Truth is eternal. …
- Brahman is Truth and Reality. …
- The Vedas are the ultimate authority. …
- Everyone should strive to achieve dharma. …
- Individual souls are immortal. …
- The goal of the individual soul is moksha.
Which religion is best in the world?
Adherents in 2020
| Religion | Adherents | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Christianity | 2.382 billion | 31.11% |
| Islam | 1.907 billion | 24.9% |
| Nonreligious | 1.193 billion | 15.58% |
| Hinduism | 1.161 billion | 15.16% |
What are the 4 main beliefs of Hinduism?
The purpose of life for Hindus is to achieve four aims, called Purusharthas . These are dharma, kama, artha and moksha. These provide Hindus with opportunities to act morally and ethically and lead a good life.
What is the main religion in the world?
Of the world’s major religions, Christianity is the largest, with more than two billion followers. Christianity is based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and is approximately 2,000 years old.