HINDUISM AND OTHER RELIGIONS

Can One Be Converted to Hinduism?

As Sanatana Dharma or the universal tradition, Hinduism holds that we are all born in universal Truth. As immortal souls we can never be apart from it. We are always part of Sanatana Dharma. Even if we assume a specific religious identity we do not leave it. Can one ever be apart from the Divine whatever one's religious affiliation?

However, true Hindus do share their religion and welcome others to partake of it, not because they are seeking converts in order to dominate the world, but because they recognize that all beings are of one family. Such sharing is not trying to save others or give them a new identity but striving to connect all human beings to the universal family, which is the legacy of the sages.

One can formally become a Hindu by undergoing a short two hour ritual ceremony called Shuddhi (purification), which is a short ritual lasting about two hours. Various Hindu groups provide this service. Yet becoming a Hindu is not converting to a belief that limits our freedom of inquiry. It does not require accepting a specific prophet, son of God, scripture or church. It gives one full freedom to follow whatever leads to Truth. One can be a Hindu and still follow Truth wherever one finds it. Joining Hinduism in the true sense is an inclusive, not exclusive process. It is a recognition of Sanatana Dharma, which requires that we live a dharmic life and respect all dharmic traditions and principles whatever their source. It requires that we begin a life of spiritual practices. 

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