Overview of Hinduism

A brief overview of Hinduism

Hinduism is one of the world's oldest religious traditions. It is often described as Sanatana Dharma by Hindus themselves, meaning ‘the eternal religion’. The word ‘Hinduism’ as it is used in common parlance usually refers to a myriad of religious sects and belief systems that came into existence in the Indian subcontinent since approximately 5000BC; therefore it is often difficult to make definitive statements about Hinduism in general.

Further information is available at:

• BBC information on Hinduism
• The Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies
• Faith Guides for Higher Education: A Guide to Hinduism