Hinduism

Introduction
The Hindu tradition has no founder and is best understood as a group of closely connected religious traditions rather than a single religion. It represents a complete way of life. Hindus believe in one God and worship that one God under many manifestations or images. They believe that all prayers addressed to any form or manifestation will ultimately reach the one God. Hinduism does not prescribe any particular dogmas; rather it asks individuals to worship God according to their own belief. It therefore allows a great deal of freedom in matters of faith and worship.

Basic Beliefs
Hindus consider that religion is a sanctified and disciplined path one should follow to reach a higher level of consciousness or goal, i.e. to become a better person. This can only be done by following the path of Dharma. Dharma is at the heart of Hinduism which is often called the Sanatana Dharma. Dharma means the ancient law which underlies the order of the universe and is reflected in a moral and ethical life. Hindus believe in the law of karma - a simple law of cause and effect. “As you sow, so shall you reap”. They also believe in the divine nature of the soul, which is indestructible and immortal. It transmigrates from body to body depending on the merits and sins of one’s actions (karma) accumulated in a lifetime. In the end, one’s karma (action) determines one’s future rebirth.

Hindus further believe in the descent (avatar) of Divinity to protect the righteous and destroy the unrighteous. There have been several examples of this in Hinduism including Rama, Krishna and Buddha. They serve as an example and inspiration for pious Hindus. In one sense Hindus accept the prophets of all religions as manifestations or avatars of God and recognise the presence of God in all living beings

Contact Details

Gujarati Association of Scotland, 189 Harvie Avenue, Newton Mearns, Glasgow G77 6LT. Tel: 00141 639 6946

Hindu Mandir, 1 la Belle Place, Glasgow G3 7LH Tel: 0141 3320482

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