Of the native traditions Hinduism, which integrates the indigenous religions of Southeast Asia, is the largest, the most organized and the best preserved. Therefore Hinduism provides the key to these organic religions and can show us their relevance as part of a universal tradition and global spirituality. Today, with a new interest in mythology and shamanism, we are rediscovering the validity of native religions and their spiritual practices. We are discovering in the native religions of Africa and America much psychological sophistication and a greater connection with Nature that we all need in this ecological age.

Unfortunately most of these native cultures have been overrun if not destroyed, particularly by the conversion efforts of belief-oriented religions, and those few which are left are fighting for their lives. Christianity and Islam spread mainly by converting people from their indigenous beliefs, teaching them that their indigenous religions, and the culture on which they are based, were wrong, inferior or evil. Hinduism, on the contrary, teaches people to preserve their indigenous beliefs, to cherish their native heritages.

Hindus are seeking to help such indigenous cultures and spiritual traditions revive themselves and flourish in the modern world. Those following such native traditions should examine Hinduism and form a common alliance with it. Those seeking to preserve the religious and spiritual heritage of humanity contained in these native beliefs will find a common cause with the Hindus.

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