Religion is an integral part of life in India, where nine major religions, along with several other beliefs, co-exist with the highest and most complex philosophies. The nine religions are: Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, Bahai, Judaism, Zoroastrianism.
Each religion is equally vast, but in this book the nine religions and other miscellaneous beliefs have been dealt with approximately proportionate to the number of their followers, and their significance and antiquity within India. For worldwide religions such as Christianity, Islam and Judaism, apart from some basic principles, the emphasis is on the specific nature of the religion within India. For Buddhism, which originated in India but then spread to other parts of the world, the focus is on its origin, growth and decline within India, and its re-introduction in the last two centuries.
The book is organised in alphabetical order and lists are provided of the entries pertaining to each religion. .Hinduism is the most widely prevalent religion, practised in most parts of India. It has a wide variety of beliefs and practices, with some common underlying concepts. In India, even adherents of other religions, accept some of its basic principles such as Karma and reincarnation. Included within the broad framework of Hinduism, are the six ancient philosophies of Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Mimamsa, Yoga, Samkhya and Vedanta.
Jainism has ancient origins, but in its present form emerged in the sixth century BCE. With its emphasis on non-violence and asceticism, and its unique method of philosophical analysis, it has an important role in India.
Buddhism originated in India, and after a period of decline, has begun to revive. It spread to different parts of the world, and the Buddhism of Tibet has returned to India over the last fifty years. Buddhist concepts of compassion and social equality are important in the India of today, while the visual imagery and esoteric philosophy of Tibetan Buddhism are slowly becoming known.
Islam was known in India from the seventh century, but gained prominence with the advent of Islamic kings and dynasties. Sufis and other saints of Islamic origin are revered by all communities, and the influence of Islam can be seen in some of the sects of medieval days. There were once a number of syncretic cults, particularly in rural areas, where the differences between Islam and Hinduism were blurred, and even today some of these continue to exist.
Sikhism originally arose in the fifteenth century with aspects of both Hinduism and Islam, though it gradually grew closer to Hinduism. The concept of a formless God, and of an active life in the world, rather than an ascetic life of retreat, are among its many contributions.
Christianity is said to have existed in India from the first century CE, but became more widespread after the sixteenth century. Its emphasis on helping and serving disadvantaged groups, has had an impact on India, with other religious groups incorporating these principles.
Judaism is thought to have been in India from ancient days. After 1948, most of the Jews migrated to Israel. However, new groups are emerging, claiming Jewish ancestry.
Bahai became prominent in the twentieth century. Though official figures do not reflect this, the largest number of Bahais in any country in the world, are said to be in India.
Zoroastrianism, despite the small number of followers, is important for two reasons. Firstly, there are similarities between the Gathas, the earliest Zoroastrian text, and the Rig Veda. Secondly, after the migration of Zoroastrians to India in the eighth century and later, India is the country where Zoroastrian beliefs and practices are best preserved.
Tribal religions are many and varied, and only a small sample could be included in this book. They are not so different from the major religions, each believing in a creator god or a creator couple, and incorporating myths and stories on the creation of the world.
Other: There are other systems of belief and philosophies, materialistic schools of thought, ancient sects that no longer exist, and modern philosophers who cannot be placed in any category.
The book looks at several different aspects of these religions and beliefs, including sacred geography, animals, birds and other creatures, places, religious monuments, ideas concepts and terms, deities, religious texts, legends and myths, festivals, saints and gurus.
To sum up, this book provides information on all the main religions in India, some aspects of tribal belief and worship, and new and old philosophies. It reflects the underlying unity of all religions.
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