Hinduism differs from most Western stereotypical views of religion, in that it has no founder and no central text. Further, it has no essential ritual, systematized dogma, or active proselytizing. The Vedas are the oldest Hindu scriptures, but they are not very important to contemporary practices. Hinduism is an immensely diverse religion, with numerous gods and major variations by caste, region and class. What unifies all these different forms of Hinduism are common beliefs in karma, moksha, samsara and dharma, though interpretations of these key terms will vary.
Briefly describe the major philosophical themes of Hinduism: such as, Brahman, Atman, Karma, Samsara, Moksha, Dharma, Life-stages and the Caste system. How can Hinduism embrace such a wide continuum of contradictory social beliefs and practices — universalism and simultaneously its divisive caste system, treatment of women, and exclusivist nationalism?
