Which is the world's oldest religion? What is the evidence of it?

 


The world's oldest religions are the subject of debate among historians and scholars because it is difficult to pinpoint the exact origins and dates of religious practices. 


However, most scholars agree that Hinduism is one of the world's oldest living religions, and its roots can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization, which began around 2600 BC. It flourished until 1900 BC.

 




Evidence of the Hindu period comes from archaeological finds such as seals in the Indus Valley and artifacts depicting deities and religious symbols still worshiped by Hindus today. The Hindu scriptures, the Vedas, are also thought to have originated around 1500 BC. to 1200 BC, making them the oldest known religious texts in the world.



In addition, Hinduism has a rich oral tradition and mythology dating back thousands of years. It is important to note that the term "religion" as we understand it today did not exist in ancient times, and the beliefs and practices of ancient cultures were often intertwined with social, cultural and political structures. 

 


As such, it is difficult to easily compare ancient religious practices with modern religions. However, Hinduism is widely considered to be one of the world's oldest and most complex religious traditions. 


Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 25

"Avyaktādīni bhūtāni vyakta-madhyāni bhārata
Avyakta-nidhanānyeva tatra kā paridevanā"

Translation in English:

"It is said that the soul is invisible, inconceivable, immutable, and unchangeable. Therefore, considering the soul to be eternal, you should not grieve for the temporary body."

Meaning in Hindi:

"कहा जाता है कि आत्मा अदृश्य है, अविचार्य है, अबद्ध है और अविकारी है। इसलिए, अस्थायी शरीर के लिए आपको दुःख नहीं करना चाहिए, क्योंकि आपके अनुसार आत्मा अनन्त है।"

Jain Morality and Religion Guide for Moral Behavior and Soul Growth

Jainism, one of the worlds oldest religions, offers deep insights on reality, human life and moral existence. Jain philosophy is founded on three fundamental ideas; Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (non-absolutism) and Aparigraha (non- possession). This book provides an in-depth examination of these basic aspects of Jainism such as their meaning, practical implications and transformative value in guiding people towards moral behavior and spiritual development.

The Principle of Non-Violence:The principle of non-violence is described as being not merely the backbone but also the corner stone of Jain philosophy. It goes further than just refraining from physical injury; it encompasses all forms of harm that are inflicted upon sentient beings including psychological, emotional or environmental harm. Ahimsa demands that individuals should acquire compassion, empathy for others and respect for each form of life since all forms are interconnected with a common nature. Jains embrace Ahimsa to avoid causing any suffering if they can help it, to create peaceful relationships with others and maintain harmony in their interaction with the world around them.

Exploring Hinduism: A Journey into the Heart of an Ancient Faith

Dharma in Hinduism: Dharma is like a guidebook for living the right way in Hinduism. It's a set of rules that tell us how to be good to everyone and everything. There are rules for how to act in society, how to treat ourselves, and how to respect the world around us. Dharma helps us live in a way that keeps everything in balance, just like the order of the universe.

Looking at Bodh: Described Dharamgyaan's The soul Wisdom

Learning to Dharamgyaan and Bodh: The word "bodh," which has its roots in Sanskrit, means "knowledge" or "wisdom." It represents spiritual wisdom that rises above the chaos of the material world in the context of Dharamgyaan. A haven for the soul in this fast-paced world is found in pausing to delve into the depths of moral teachings.