What is the origin of Hinduism?
Hinduism has its roots in the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished in what are now India and Pakistan between 3300 and 1300 BCE. The civilisation featured an advanced system of trade and governance, a complex social structure, and urban planning. Despite the lack of a distinct religious text or texts from the Indus Valley Civilization, archaeological findings point to the existence of rites and practises that may have served as the inspiration for subsequent Hindu beliefs and practises. Over thousands of years, many cultural, social, and theological traditions were incorporated to form Hinduism as a distinct religious and philosophical system. Vedic ceremonies and customs were combined with indigenous beliefs from the region and outside influences to form it.
The Vedic era, which started approximately 1500 BCE, is regarded as a significant turning point in the evolution of Hinduism. One of Hinduism's oldest sacred scriptures, the Rigveda, is made up of hymns and prayers that served as the foundation for early Hindu rites and beliefs. The Vedic scriptures codified ideas like ceremonies, sacrifices, and the veneration of gods like Indra, Agni, and Varuna.
With the development of diverse philosophical schools and the advent of well-known teachers and gurus, the Hindu religious landscape grew over time. The philosophical works and meditations on the nature of reality and the self known as the Upanishads further influenced Hindu thinking. These books dissected ideas like karma, rebirth, and the quest for freedom (moksha).
Between 400 BCE and 400 CE, the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata were written, and they had a significant impact on Hindu mythology, ethics, and ideals. They debuted enduring figures like Rama, Krishna, and Arjuna, whose narratives and teachings continue to uplift and instruct Hindus.
There is no single founder or central authority in the large and diverse religion known as Hinduism. It has embraced a diverse spectrum of ideologies, beliefs, practises, and customs. Its roots can be found in ancient civilizations, and throughout many millennia, it has been modified by the contributions of innumerable people, intellectuals, and groups.
