What is Hinduism?

Hinduism, though both monotheistic and polytheistic (depending on belief origin) has some basic beliefs which cross all sect lines – and some which vary, depending on the specific Hinduistic practices of the sects.  The basic beliefs include dharma (responsible/religious living), reincarnation (entering this life again after death), and karma (a moral cause and effect – you get what you put out).

Dharma is important to Hindus because they believe that we need to live our lives with responsibility and goodness.  We need to give back to the universe what it has given to us.  This is tied into karma, to a certain extent.  Through karma, each person receives what he has given – so someone who is good and kind will also receive goodness and kindness from the universe. 

Taking it one step further, karma then leads to reincarnation, indicating that those who have given positive energy to the universe will leave behind their old body and take up a new one, a better one, in order to receive back that positive energy.  This is greatly simplified, of course, and Hinduism has many complexities that followers will spend years seeking to understand.  Hinduism began in India, and a large percentage of Indians are Hindus.