Friday, 24 February 2012

Indian Religions




The biggest religion in India in terms of population is Hinduism. Majority of the population accounting to 80%, is Hindu. Next biggest is Islam with 13% of the total population following. Other religions are Sikhism, Christianity, Jainism, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism and Judaism. So many religions residing in harmony inside one country truly personifies the phrase 'Unity In Diversity'. Many of these religions have their origin place in India itself which makes India all the more important in context of entire religion.

Hinduism
Hinduism is the oldest and third largest religion in the world after Christianity and Islam. It is believed that Modern day Hinduism is originated out of Rigveda, which is believed to be written around 1700-1100 BC. This also makes it the oldest religious scriptures in the world. This ever changing religion, based on a firm foundation of Karma (deeds) makes it one of the most sagacious and vibrant of religions. Several spiritual teachers have put down in words their thoughts about the concepts and their perception of spiritual life based on these concepts. These serve as guiding lights for several generations of the future.



Islam 
Islam is another vibrant and highly sacred religion that is followed by most number of People after Christianity. This second largest religion is more prevalent in Middle East Asia and North Africa. Prophet Muhammad is considered to be the final prophet of God to whom God sent Quran through Angel Gabriel. The followers of Islam religion are called Muslims. Muslims belong to either of the two groups, Shias or Sunnis.






Sikhism
Sikhism is the fifth largest religion in the world which was founded by First Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak. This religion further developed under the successive nine 
Gurus on whose teachings Sikhism is based. The teachings of Guru Nanak were incorporated in the 'Guru Granth Sahib', the Holy Book of the Sikhs which became a symbol of God for Sikhs. The fifth Guru, Guru Arjun built the Golden Temple at Amritsar which became the holiest of Sikh shrines. The tenth Guru, Govind Singh imparted military training to the Sikhs to help them defend themselves.

Christianity
It is said that Christianity is the most modern of all the religions and most western influences are ascribed to this unique religion. Christianity came to India with Saint Thomas who was one of the apostles sent by Lord Jesus Christ. It is believed that he spend most of his time in South India and died there itself. However there are other versions too prevalent. There are many schools and hospitals in different parts of the country that are run by Christian Missionaries.






Buddhism
Buddhism finds its origin in India in the serene town of Bodhgaya. It is said that it was here under the Bodhi Tree, Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment and became Lord Buddha. He gave birth to a new religion called Buddhism which are his teachings and principles. Different rulers took up this religion and spread it to all regions of the world. Today it is followed by millions from around the world. One will find many similarities in Hinduism and Buddhism concepts like Karma and reincarnations.