In our increasingly interconnected world, labels often become convenient shortcuts, sometimes at the cost of nuance and accuracy. This is particularly true when discussing the rich tapestry of spiritual and philosophical traditions originating from the Indian subcontinent. The term "Hinduism," while widely used, can be both limiting and, at times, misrepresentative of the profound and timeless wisdom it seeks to encompass: Sanātana Dharma. This article is an invitation to both those outside and within this tradition to look beyond the conventional label and delve into its deeper essence, touching upon its origins, spread, and foundational philosophy as we've explored in our recent conversation.
For those who are not followers of Sanātana Dharma, the term "Hinduism" often conjures images of a monolithic religion with a specific founder, a single holy book, and a rigid set of dogmas. This perception, shaped by Abrahamic models of religion, falls short of capturing the reality. Sanātana Dharma is not a religion in the same way. Its very origins lie not in a singular event or founder, but in the ancient wisdom of the Vedic period, dating back millennia. The Vedas themselves are considered apauruṣeya (not of human origin), insights realized by ancient sages. This continuous stream of wisdom has evolved organically, embracing a vast array of beliefs, practices, and deities. It is a civilization's spiritual heritage, marked by its inclusivity, its emphasis on personal experience, and its acceptance of diverse paths to truth.
The term "Hindu" itself has geographical roots, derived from the Persian word "Hind," referring to the people living beyond the Sindhu (Indus) River. Over time, this geographical identifier evolved to encompass the diverse religious traditions of the Indian subcontinent. However, to equate Sanātana Dharma solely with this geographical label overlooks its profound philosophical underpinnings and its historical reach beyond the shores of India.
Historically, the influence of Sanātana Dharma, in its various forms, extended significantly into Southeast Asia. Through trade, cultural exchange, and the adoption of ideas by local rulers, Hindu deities, rituals, and epic narratives became deeply ingrained in the cultures of kingdoms like the Khmer Empire, Srivijaya, and Majapahit. Even today, Bali in Indonesia stands as a testament to a vibrant, localized form of Hinduism. While definitive proof of large-scale influence in the ancient Americas is lacking, intriguing cultural parallels and speculative theories about trans-Pacific contact continue to be explored.
The foundational philosophy of Sanātana Dharma centers around the concept of Dharma – that which sustains. It encompasses cosmic order (Ṛta in the Vedas), the inherent nature of things, righteous conduct, and the duties and responsibilities of individuals. The term Sanātana emphasizes the eternal and timeless nature of these principles. Unlike religions with a founder, Sanātana Dharma emphasizes these enduring truths and the natural order of the cosmos. Furthermore, the essence of being a Sanātana Dharmist transcends rigid religious boundaries. If one is righteous, upholds truth, and embraces non-violence, one can indeed be considered to be living in accordance with the principles of Sanātana Dharma, regardless of the specific religious tradition they formally follow. For many within the Hindu tradition, this expansive worldview leads to the understanding that, in essence, the whole world embodies aspects of the divine and its order.
For those who identify as "Hindu," a deeper understanding of Sanātana Dharma is crucial. The label "Hindu" has become a convenient but often imprecise umbrella term. It's time we moved beyond this simplistic categorization. Let us make a conscious shift: refrain from calling every individual who hails from India or follows Indian traditions merely a "Hindu." Instead, let us embrace the more profound and encompassing term: Sanātana Dharma. This shift acknowledges the timeless wisdom, the universal principles, and the diverse yet interconnected nature of this ancient way of life. It honors its true essence, moving beyond a geographical marker to recognize a spiritual and philosophical lineage that has sustained and enriched humanity for millennia. Let the term "Sanātana Dharma" become the standard, reflecting the eternal and sustaining nature of this profound tradition.
By Retnesh Raj.
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