HINDUISM AND SANATANA DHARMA

There now exists a significant Hindu minority in the Western world, particularly the United States, Canada and Great Britain, but also such peripheral areas as Trinidad and Guyana. This Hindu minority consists both of immigrants from India, many from the past few decades, and Westerners who have adopted Hindu teachings (who may not all formally call themselves Hindus). There are nearly a million Indo-Americans and a larger amount in Great Britain.

What does a modern Hindu say, particularly when questioned by those who may know little about their religious tradition, to explain what Hinduism is? A Hindu in the West is often confronted with simplistic and derogatory ideas about Hinduism - that it is pagan, polytheistic, idolatrous, unscientific, socially backward or merely no more than a cult.

Though more educated people in the West may not accept these opinions they may still be influenced by them, and may not have consistent alternative views. Modern Hindus are often not educated in their own tradition. They may not have any real understanding of it or its global relevance as Sanatana Dharma, a universal teaching. They may not know how to present it to others under any circumstances.

As Hindus are generally tolerant and retiring, they may say nothing or even apologize for their religion rather than try to correct wrong ideas about it. The thoughtful among them have sought to communicate their tradition better, particularly seeing the popularity of Hindu practices in the West, like Yoga and meditation, once presented in a universal light.

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