In our modern, Westernized age, Hinduism seems to dilute further as each generation comes and goes. But why exactly does this occur? Is there no way in which we can act to prevent such dissolution of an entire history's worth of beliefs and values? What exactly is it that could pose such dangers to an entire faith?
To be completely honest, I fear the future of Hinduism. I have not learned nearly as much as my parents, who have not learned nearly as much as their parents, etc etc. Living in the United States, it has been difficult for us as students to receive information about our faith.
Diversity of Hinduism is both a strength and weakness. It creates a lot of confusion in the minds of people, as to which path to follow, whom to worship and what to practice. We have many scriptures and teachings of countless gurus and traditions and do not know what to study. A vast majority of Hindus therefore practice popular religion because it is easier to do. Most of us go to temples, follow a religious guru, his or her teachings, do some puja at home, believe in some kind of practices and superstitions, but are hardly well versed.
Another aspect, is the lack of a conversion process within Hinduism. Apart from the radicals, that are apparent in any religion, Hinduism is open to many different ideas. Some of the older texts themselves contradict each other. There is not formal process of converting people from outside religions into Hinduism. However, other religions who do have a conversion process have converted many Hindus to different practices.
Do you think the lack of a conversion process will hurt Hinduism in the future?
Do you think Hinduism is under any threat at all?
What are your thoughts on the future of Hinduism?
To be completely honest, I fear the future of Hinduism. I have not learned nearly as much as my parents, who have not learned nearly as much as their parents, etc etc. Living in the United States, it has been difficult for us as students to receive information about our faith.
Diversity of Hinduism is both a strength and weakness. It creates a lot of confusion in the minds of people, as to which path to follow, whom to worship and what to practice. We have many scriptures and teachings of countless gurus and traditions and do not know what to study. A vast majority of Hindus therefore practice popular religion because it is easier to do. Most of us go to temples, follow a religious guru, his or her teachings, do some puja at home, believe in some kind of practices and superstitions, but are hardly well versed.
Another aspect, is the lack of a conversion process within Hinduism. Apart from the radicals, that are apparent in any religion, Hinduism is open to many different ideas. Some of the older texts themselves contradict each other. There is not formal process of converting people from outside religions into Hinduism. However, other religions who do have a conversion process have converted many Hindus to different practices.
Do you think the lack of a conversion process will hurt Hinduism in the future?
Do you think Hinduism is under any threat at all?
What are your thoughts on the future of Hinduism?
