HINDOOISM Meaning and
Definition
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Hindooism is a term primarily used in older English writings, emerging during the colonial era, to refer to the religion now known as Hinduism. Hinduism is one of the oldest and most complex religious traditions, originating in the Indian subcontinent. It encompasses a diverse range of beliefs, practices, rituals, and philosophies, making it difficult to define it succinctly.
Hindooism recognizes the concepts of dharma (moral duty), karma (action and consequence), and moksha (liberation from the cycle of reincarnation) as central tenets. It encompasses various gods and goddesses, with the belief in a supreme cosmic power, Brahman, underlying all.
Rituals and ceremonies play a significant role in Hindooism, with worship conducted in temples and at home altars. Sacred texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Ramayana, and Mahabharata serve as foundational scriptures, guiding spiritual and moral conduct. Additionally, the caste system has traditionally been an integral part of Hindooism's social structure, although modern interpretations have sought to challenge its significance.
Over time, the use of the term Hindooism to describe the religion shifted as society became aware of the Eurocentric bias embedded within it. The spelling changed to Hinduism, aligning with the self-designation of adherents. This term has gained broader acceptance and recognition as the appropriate designation for the diverse religious traditions and practices that emerged from the Indian subcontinent, emphasizing their uniqueness and individuality.
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The doctrines and rites of the Hindoos.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HINDOOISM
- gindooism
- bindooism
- nindooism
- jindooism
- uindooism
- yindooism
- hundooism
- hjndooism
- hkndooism
- hondooism
- h9ndooism
- h8ndooism
- hibdooism
- himdooism
- hijdooism
- hihdooism
- hinsooism
- hinxooism
- hincooism
- hi ndooism
Etymology of HINDOOISM
The word "Hindooism", also spelled as "Hinduism", originates from the term "Hindu" which comes from the Persian word "Hindu", derived from the Sanskrit word "Sindhu". The Sanskrit term "Sindhu" originally referred to the Indus River, which is situated in present-day Pakistan. Over time, the term "Hindu" expanded in its usage and came to represent the people, cultures, and religions of the Indian subcontinent. The addition of the "-ism" suffix to "Hindoo" (an older spelling of Hindu) resulted in "Hindooism" or "Hinduism" signifying the religious and cultural practices related to the Hindu faith.
Similar spelling words for HINDOOISM
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