While the two terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle yet significant distinctions. Sanatan Dharma refers to the eternal, universal way of life — a spiritual philosophy that transcends time and space. Hinduism, on the other hand, is a subset of Sanatan Dharma, encompassing various traditions, rituals, and schools of thought found predominantly in the Indian subcontinent.
What is Sanatan Dharma?
The term Sanatan means “eternal” or “everlasting.” Sanatan Dharma is considered the original and universal path of righteousness that includes multiple spiritual traditions — not just Hinduism, but also elements of Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and other Indian religions.
Who Is a Hindu?
Defining a “Hindu” is not simple. There’s no single universally accepted doctrine that applies to all Hindus. The diversity within Hinduism is so vast that:
- A person who worships the Vedas is a Hindu.
- A person who rejects the Vedas is also a Hindu.
- One who believes in a formless God is a Hindu.
- One who worships many deities in form is also a Hindu.
- Both vegetarians and meat-eaters exist within the fold of Hinduism.
- Even someone who sacrifices an animal to Goddess Kali is considered a Hindu.
This wide spectrum of beliefs makes it difficult to offer a rigid definition.
Veer Savarkar’s Definition:
Hindu is one who regards the land between the Sindhu River and the Indian Ocean as both their holy land (Punya Bhumi) and fatherland (Pitru Bhumi).
Legal and Cultural Views:
In courts, Hinduism has been described as a way of life rather than a strict religion, though even this falls short because Hindu lifestyles are not uniform.
Hinduism Is Rooted in Universalism
The soul of Hindu Dharma lies in the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “The world is one family.” Its ultimate aim is:
- Victory of righteousness (Dharma)
- Destruction of evil (Adharma)
- Universal peace and welfare
- Goodwill among all beings
What Is Dharma?
Dharma refers to any moral or spiritual principle that guides human life. It teaches individuals to differentiate between right and wrong and inspires them to lead a purposeful, ethical life.
Core Elements of Dharma:
- Belief – Faith in a higher power or cosmic force shapes moral values.
- Conduct – One’s behavior reflects their Dharma; it guides choices and actions.
- Morality – Includes values like truth, non-violence, justice, compassion, and empathy.
- Traditions – Includes rituals, worship, meditation, prayer, and cultural practices.
Forms of Dharma Across the World
Sanatan Dharma acknowledges all global religious paths. However, within India, we find traditions like:
- Hinduism
- Islam
- Christianity
- Judaism
- Baháʼí Faith, and more
Let’s focus now on Hinduism and its unique traditions.
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Unique Features of Hinduism
Hinduism is one of the oldest living religions in the world, with deep philosophical, cultural, and ritualistic roots. As per India’s Constitution, those who follow Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, or Sikh traditions are legally considered part of the Hindu fold.
Key Beliefs of Hinduism:
- Brahman – The ultimate, omnipotent reality
- Multiple Deities – Coexistence of various gods and goddesses
- Rebirth and Karma – Belief in reincarnation and cause-effect
- Moksha – Liberation from the cycle of birth and death
- Atma – The soul is immortal and divine
Hinduism as a Way of Life
1. Lifestyle and Values
Hindu Dharma emphasizes compassion, forgiveness, and duties. It’s not just a belief system, but a comprehensive way of living.
2. Sacred Texts
Includes the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Bhagavad Gita — considered holy scriptures.
3. Philosophical Schools (Darshanas)
Six major schools of thought or Shad Darshanas include:
- Sankhya
- Yoga
- Nyaya
- Vaisheshika
- Mimamsa
- Vedanta
4. Faith and Intuition
Hindu faith is deeply connected to the heart and inner experiences, not just rituals.
5. Diversity in Practice
Hinduism includes a wide range of rituals, sects, deities, and spiritual disciplines like fasting, mantra chanting, and pilgrimage.
Importance of Vrat (Fasting) in Hinduism
Fasting holds a sacred place in almost all religions, but in Hinduism, it’s both spiritual and purifying.
Benefits of Fasting:
- Enhances concentration, wisdom, and spiritual purity
- Strengthens faith, willpower, and emotional control
Difference Between Vrat and Upvaas:
- Vrat – May include light eating or specific foods
- Upvaas – Total abstinence from food
Types of Vrat in Hinduism
Vrats are categorized based on physical, verbal, and mental practices:
1. Physical Vrat (Kāyik)
Avoiding harm to any living being, physical discipline.
2. Verbal Vrat (Vāchik)
Practicing truth, non-harming speech, and kindness.
3. Mental Vrat (Mānasik)
Maintaining peace, mental focus, and detachment.
Final Thoughts
Only a tradition as broad and profound as Hindu Dharma can encompass such diversity in beliefs, lifestyles, and worship styles. Despite the challenges of defining what it means to be Hindu, the essence of Sanatan Dharma continues to inspire a worldview rooted in peace, compassion, and universal unity.
