Despite being the oldest, Hinduism is most modern and calling it a religion will not justify it.

When the world is embroiled in conflicts under the guise of religion, we should strive to understand the concept of religion as mentioned in Hinduism. Perhaps in modern interpretations, the world labels Hinduism as a religion, yet few truly grasp its depth due to its vastness. While most other religions attribute their origins to specific founders, Hinduism lacks such a figure, as it is rooted in a multitude of philosophical developments over time by various sages. Interestingly, Hinduism stands apart in its lack of a concept of “conversion,” instead emphasizing “purification.”

Hinduism is not merely a religion but rather a system or philosophy intended to guide a fulfilling life on Earth. It operates as a dynamic system where innovations are embraced and integrated if they prove beneficial—an attribute not commonly observed in other religions. Before the 7th century AD, the Indian subcontinent was home to the coexistence of Sanatan Dharma (the true name of Hinduism), Jainism, and Buddhism without significant religious conflicts. In a notable instance, Nimi, a cousin of Lord Krishna, was revered as a Tirthankara in Jainism. The advent of Gautam Buddha’s revolutionary philosophy challenged the existing Brahmanical order, akin to the social reforms witnessed during British rule in India led by figures like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar. Though initially met with resistance, these reforms were eventually embraced by society for their positive impact, reflecting the adaptability inherent in Sanatan Dharma.

śreyān sva-dharmo viguṇaḥ
para-dharmāt sv-anuṣṭhitāt
sva-dharme nidhanaḿ śreyaḥ
para-dharmo bhayāvahaḥ
Bhagawat Gita Ch-3.35

The verse from the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 3, Verse 35) underscores a different interpretation of “Dharma” than what modern conceptions of religion may suggest. Here, “Dharma” refers to one’s assigned duties for societal progress and the advancement of human civilization in the right direction. When Lord Krishna delivered this verse around 5000 years ago (3100 BC), the concept of organized religions had yet to crystallize; instead, philosophical ideologies like Sanatan Dharma and Jainism were evolving. Unlike the divisive tendencies seen in contemporary religious discourse, Lord Krishna’s relationship with his Jain cousin, Nimi, exemplifies harmony despite philosophical differences.

Therefore, attempting to evaluate the philosophy of Sanatan Dharma (Hinduism) using modern religious parameters and comparing it to other religions is unjustified. Hinduism transcends mere religious categorization; it encompasses a holistic approach to life, offering a pathway to peaceful existence in human form.

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