FOUNDATIONS OF HINDUISM IN 16 STATEMENTS

Note: This post is a highly compressed snapshot of Hinduism in sixteen statements.  The first four statements form a condensed but unique definition of Hinduism.  They are expanded in the three posts in the series called "Introduction to Hinduism" that follow.

DEFINING PRINCIPLES

1. One spiritual ineffable ultimate being underlies the universe
2. There are many ways of speaking about it, the leading one being Existence, Consciousness and Bliss
3. There are many ways to realize it in experience, with those of love, service, knowledge and meditation leading
4. Humans are accountable for their actions, for there are fair consequences of all actions that affect others

UNIVERSAL VIRTUES OF HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS

5. We should respect everyone and control our behavior accordingly
6. We should strive to promote everyone's well-being by being truthful in thought, speech and action
7. We should love everyone and should refrain from harming them
8. We should keep our body clean, mind open and heart pure

BASIC STANDPOINTS

9. Universal virtues are enriched by relative morality of different cultures and their needs
10. Ethical is anchored in the spiritual and is a prerequisite for spiritual progress
11. Spiritual is both immanent and transcendent
12. Both monistic and dualistic languages are valid in approaching the ineffable ultimate

VALUES

13. Individual: Immediate needs and desires that do not hurt anyone
14. Socioeconomic: Social values which ensure paying for all receipts
15. Interpersonal: Meaningful and mutually fulfilling relationships
16. Spiritual: Following a path leading to the experience of the ultimate

(SOURCES: SHRUTI, SMRITI, ITIHASA, PURANA AND DARSHANA)