Hinduism

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Hinduism, the third largest religion in the world, represents a collection of beliefs, practices, and ethos that arose in India around 1500 bce. It is rooted in the Vedas and the history of the people of India and connected by sanatana dharma, “eternal duty,” which suggests a common orientation toward liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth. The foundation of Hinduism can be traced back to ancient, anonymous Indian sages who claimed to discover the eternal truths. The history of religious development in Hinduism is complex due to various contributing factors such as the rise of Buddhism, Jainism, Islam, Christianity, and other socio-political developments. The practices of Hinduism are based on the beliefs and teachings of the Vedas. Health beliefs and practices among Hindus may be dated back to 5000 bce when sages searched for solutions to the problem of ill health and disease.
Original languageAmerican English
Title of host publicationWorld Religions for Healthcare Professionals
PublisherRoutledge Taylor & Francis Group
Chapter3
Pages32-47
Number of pages16
Edition1
ISBN (Electronic)9780203874912
ISBN (Print) 9781780342702
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 28 2009

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • General Medicine
  • General Nursing
  • General Arts and Humanities

Disciplines

  • History of Religions of Eastern Origins

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