Origins and Beliefs
Hinduism is more than 4,000 years old, making it one of the world’s oldest religions. It originated near the Indus River in India, and the name ‘Hindu’ is derived from the word ‘Indus’. Hinduism is a way of life shaped by many ancient religious traditions of India, and within Hinduism, there are diverse beliefs and practices.
Hindus have complex understandings of God, and many worship God in various forms. Brahma is the creator, although his image is not commonly worshipped. Statues and pictures of Vishnu, the preserver, and Shiva, the destroyer, are often seen in Hindu temples and homes. Hindus believe in reincarnation, where the life a person leads now determines their next life. The ultimate aim is to be released from this cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, and to be united with God.