________________
Hinduism (The religion of the Hindus)
13
The Specialities of Hinduism (1) The Hindu Religion or Philosophy is extremely broad-based
and vast. This faith or religion has not any founder; and the followers of this 'Dharma' are innumerable. The most outstanding speciality of Hinduism is its spirit of nonviolence. Chiefly because of love and kindness to animals, advocated by this religion, it is regarded as unique in the world. The Hindu Dharma teaches friendship and kindness to animals, nay, each and every living being. It is believed that the expected divine portions are seen in a cow. The feeling of sympathy and compassion are to be kept even towards birds and beasts as also towards living creatures of water-reservoirs. That is why the vegetarian diet or fruits
are the chief foods of the Hindus, and if not, it must be. (2) Polytheism (worship of many gods) : The worship or
propitiation of many gods and goddesses, prayers to them, observing of fasts, penance etc. are the chief attractions of this Dharma. Beginning from honouring the elements of nature like Indra, Varuna etc. gigantic beliefs in 33 crores of gods are a gorgeous imagination of Hindu Dharma. About the propitiation, pleasing or worshipping of a godgoddess, this religion gives complete liberty to an individual the worship of Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Rama, Hanuman, powerful Goddesses, even worshipping of the Snake-God
and propitiation of forefathers – these are main Poojas. (3) Tolerance of other Faiths : This virtue gives an
unparalleled place of glory to Hindu Dharma. We should develop the spirit of tolerance. To a person inhabiting this earth or land is free to observe a religion of his or her choice. Tolerance of other ‘faiths' to the extent that an individual can live happily and peacefully on this land by
