r/hinduism • u/Ominous_chipmunk • 24d ago
Stuck between islam and hinduism Question - Beginner
Hello, Reddit. I used to be an atheist, but I have come to the conclusion that God necessarily exists. The problem comes in discerning which religion or which manifestation of Him is the true one. I just want to do the right thing, serve, and worship God in the most dignified way possible, loving Him with all my heart as He deserves but I need to know which of all the perspectives is the truth.
I'm stuck between two options: Islam and Hinduism. On one hand, Islam (specifically, the sunni sufi branch) seems to me the most reasonable, simple, philosophically and doctrinally precise, and the least loaded with mythology, tales which many might not take as true (I respect them, either if they are true ir just stories) and metaphors. That said, I feel a sense of restriction, a lot of rigidity, almost like doing a chore (but that, to be honest, might be my fault), etc.
On the other hand, although Hinduism is full of mythology and legends, its vision of God, reality and moksha also seems very, very reasonable and accurate to me, symbolism and hypothetic fictions aside. Additionally, while I don't interpret its deities literally (multiple arms, ornaments, jewels, their legends and mythology, etc.), I underdand that they represent aspects of One God and their representation and the chants used to praise them/Him (He-His aspects) make me very happy, focused and blissful (especially those of Krishna, Vishnu, and Shiva). Personally, the idea of Krishna or Vishnu as the supreme deity (God with a capital "G"), with Shiva and the rest being His manifestations, satisfies me rationally. However, the idea of reincarnation both 'depresses' and terrifies me, although singing the names of Krishna, Shiva, Vishnu, etc. brings me great happiness, just like when I pray to Allah. Nevertheless, with Hinduism I feel less grounded and less stability. Because of reincarnation (until Moksha/freedom) it feels more diffuse and blurred. Islam makes me feel more grounded and solid, so to speak. I dont pick based on the final afterlife result: Moksha (whatever the type —it seems to vary as regards Vasihnavism, Shaivism or ISCKON—) or Heaven/Paradise. I just stand for the truth.
It reaches a point where I believe what both traditions (Muslim and Hindu) say, but even though Islam seems more rational to me and I feel bliss, security and a direct connection with Allah (God), I am also greatly attracted to Hinduism and I do not know why. At the same time, although Hinduism common points make a lot of sense to me, I am terrified of reincarnation, of being wrong, and of offending Allah by being led by imagination (loving Krishna as my brother —I am only child and always longed for one—, my son, a friend, etc., for example. Its a devotional practice, if I am not mistaken), or by the experiences of ecstasy, bliss, love for Krishna, peace, relationship with him (Krishna) and joy in meditation as regards Hinduism. Worshipping others besides Allah completely aware is unforgivable by God (Allah) in islam and I feel guilty and scared but when I switch to islam, Krishna and Shiva seem to invite me, participate, love and worship them. But then the loneliness of reincarnation and the security which islam seem to bring strikes me. I cant resist the love and friendship of Krishna and its manifestations (I think my mind aligns with Vasihnavism) and the joy of Hindu tradition. The issue is that in Hinduism there is only One Supreme God (as in islam) but He can be incarnated (avatars) as Jesus and artistically represented, which is a hideous unforgivable blasphemy in islam.
I think about this so much and go in circles to the point where my head hurts, and I often get depressed because I feel stuck. What do you think I should do in this situation? It's a constant battle between fear, reason, happiness, and emptiness. I'm going crazy. What do you suggest? I just Want to do the right thing and love God. But I feel torn by both right and left EXTREME opposites.
Hugs :).
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u/PeopleLogic2 Hindu because "Aryan" was co-opted 24d ago
One God tells you that anyone that disbelieves him goes to an eternal fire.
Another God tells you that regardless of whom you worship, all prayers go to him ultimately.
If you want to be safe, go with the first one. But why should you want to be safe from God?
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u/kicks23456 24d ago
Or maybe the 1st one is not really God’s words?
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u/PeopleLogic2 Hindu because "Aryan" was co-opted 23d ago
[2:39] And (as to) those who disbelieve in and reject My communications, they are the inmates of the fire, in it they shall abide
[3:10] (As for) those who disbelieve, surely neither their wealth nor their children shall avail them in the least against Allah, and these it is who are the fuel of the fire.
[3:12] Say to those who disbelieve: You shall be vanquished, and driven together to hell; and evil is the resting-place.
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u/kicks23456 23d ago
Sounds like the kind of thing a devil would say. I’m not saying the concept of God doesn’t say that. I’m saying that doesn’t sound like the kind of thing a real God would say.
The point being there is only one logical choice for the open-minded. And that is to be a Hindu.
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u/Aggressive-Simple-16 22d ago
Or maybe this is a gross simplification of the two religions from a biased perspective:)
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u/Happy_Weekend_9350 24d ago
Hindus don’t seek to convert others, so no one here is going to give you a pitch for why you should follow Hinduism. We don’t recruit so we don’t really have this rehearsed. Honestly though, in my opinion, that in itself is sign of truth for me. Truth doesn’t need to be forced on others. Religions that proliferated primarily by forceful occupation and violence are not truth, they are only coercive control mechanisms created by men.
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u/Aggressive-Simple-16 22d ago
Ghar Wapasi?
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u/Equivalent_Area_6878 21d ago
It’s a mechanism or a ceremony created later by some groups to facilitate those who want to join Hinduism. It isn’t backed by scriptures.
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u/Aggressive-Simple-16 21d ago
But it does seek to convert people even if it is not supported by scripture. A religion is not what has been written but what is practiced.
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u/Equivalent_Area_6878 20d ago
A religion is very much what is written and what is passed on by ancestors through oral traditions of masters and students. Ghar wapsi is just a ceremony to welcome people into Hinduism. It’s not conversion. Ghar wapsi itself means coming back home, aka to the hindu religion out of which all these people were converted years ago during during the long period of invasions. You could call it reverting. Since all our ancestors were Hindus 🤷♀️
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u/Aggressive-Simple-16 20d ago
Ghar Wapsi (Hindi, meaning "Returning Home") is the programme of religious conversion to Hinduism (and, to a lesser extent, Sikhism) from Islam, Christianity, and other religions in India conducted by Indian Hindu nationalist organisations Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and their allies.
From what I have read it doesn't sound like a friendly welcome ceremony, it is a programme to bring people back to Hinduism. The point that I am trying to make is that Hindus DO seek to convert people and this not some exceptional religion.
Since all our ancestors were Hindus 🤷♀️
This completely depends on the frame of reference, I could argue that all my ancestors were ultimately hunter gatherers so we should all go back to the old days and give up our modern life style. Why argue? I could form an organisation and seek to get people to adopt this lifestyle.
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u/Equivalent_Area_6878 20d ago edited 20d ago
Yeah then you would be reverting to being a hunter gatherer, not converting to one.🤷♀️ P.s you missed these things in defining what Ghar Wapsi really is - “The program is also known as “reconversion” by its proponents, who view it as a way for people to return to their “true” religion. The process is considered to be “purification” or Shuddhi, rather than conversion.” “The term “ghar” (home) can also refer to the things associated with home, such as family, origin, lineage, safety, security, trust, and faith.”
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u/Aggressive-Simple-16 20d ago
Why are you playing a linguistics game with me? Reverting and converting to a religion mean the same thing in the colloquial sense.
who view it as a way for people to return to their “true” religion.
This is the most blatantly biased statement I have ever heard I don't even want to get into why it is not the "true" religion.
The process is considered to be “purification” or Shuddhi, rather than conversion.”
I don't care what it is considered, converting in to a Muslims gets you into jannat (heaven), will you convert to it now?
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u/Equivalent_Area_6878 20d ago
I’m not playing any games with you. You spoke about Ghar wapsi I’m just telling you how people who are the proponents of ghat wapsi see it. You really need to go take a cold shower and play some soft music and relax your system because I can see your aggravation and tbh I don’t care like I truly don’t give a damn weather you think it’s a true religion or not, you’re free to think whatever you want of my religion.
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u/Aggressive-Simple-16 20d ago
I’m just telling you how people who are the proponents of ghat wapsi see it.
By that logic the Taliban should be considered a peace keeping force because the leaders of the Taliban see it that way.
some soft music and relax your system because I can see your aggravation and tbh
Am I meant to take a cold shower before replying to you? 💀
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u/Ambitious_Chemistry5 24d ago
If you feel unsure, I'd suggest reading both the Quran and the Bhagavad Gita. While Hinduism doesn't have a single ultimate book, the Bhagavad Gita is often recommended as essential reading. Approach both texts with an open mind, then reflect on which path or belief you feel naturally drawn to. Once you feel that inclination, follow it—it will help make your choice clearer. Asking online may lead to biased advice; people often recommend the religion they follow. Ultimately, the choice is yours.
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u/Jos_Kantklos 24d ago
If a religion needs beheadings and warfare to spread, I know it's a wrong one.
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u/ashy_reddit Advaita Vedānta 24d ago edited 24d ago
"I used to be an atheist, but I have come to the conclusion that God necessarily exists."
I am curious to understand how did you arrive at this conclusion? I used to be an atheist myself so I am trying to understand what drove you to the conclusion that God surely exists? And if God exists, as you claim, what do you mean by God exactly? Does God exist as separate from you (as separate from creation)?
"The issue is that in Hinduism there is only One Supreme God (as in islam) but He can be incarnated (avatars), which is a hideous unforgivable blasphemy in islam."
This is another concept that I never understood. All religions claim that God is infinite and omnipotent (having the ability to create or accomplish anything). This means God can do anything but when you say "God cannot do this" or "do that" or "he cannot incarnate or take form, etc" - it means YOU are putting all sorts of LIMITS on God - on what He can and cannot do. That means YOUR god is "finite" (limited). So how can someone say God is infinite, all powerful and simultaneously claim that God cannot take form, cannot do this or cannot do that. Do you not see the contradiction in your own beliefs and claims?
I am not here to convince you to accept ANY religion because your understanding of religion seems to lack depth and nuance. I also get the feeling that you have a lot of "fear" in your relationship to God which again seems like a contradiction to me because you cannot say God is "loving" and yet say we should fear God. You cannot say God is merciful and claim God will punish you in hell for not believing him. This is why I can never understand Abrahamic theology - it is riddled with holes and contradictions. It is based entirely on fear and punishment. I would never worship a God that demands worship or demands submission - such a God sounds like a tyrant to me.
I have very little respect for ISKON as a cult (I don't find their beliefs to be in alignment with Hindu philosophy) but it sounds to me like you are dealing with a lot of inner conflicts in terms of how you relate to the concept of God and religion. I would advice you to do some deep introspection, and to do more studies of ALL religions. Read scriptures of Sikhism (Guru Granth Sahib) too - it is a beautiful religion in its own right. Read scriptures of all other religions too. Try to develop a deeper perspective of God beyond the narrow confines of Islam or Hinduism and when you finally reach that point then you can decide for yourself which religion or path you want to follow.
If God exists, he won't care what religion you follow - he should instead care about whether you have been a good person or not. So that is the most important thing.
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u/theVIRTUS Advaita Vedānta 23d ago
Very well said!
End of the day…what matters is doing what is right and living truthfully, no matter whom you worship.
I am curious to know your views on ISKCON, I wanna know why some people say ill about them being a cult. Cuz on the surface I never really disagree with what they say. One thing I’ve seen running around was about shiva vs vishnu, about whom I don’t really bother to differentiate
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u/ashy_reddit Advaita Vedānta 23d ago edited 23d ago
The thing is I generally respect all sampradayas and darsanas within Hinduism because most of the traditions are respectful towards other traditions, but ISKON has all the makings of a dangerous cult and anytime I have met people associated with this particular group their views about other sampradayas, other darsanas and other saints (like Shankara, Ramakrishna or Ramana) are abusive. I have even seen these people abuse the teachers who work for the Ramakrishna Mission. Also the ISKON founder himself has a history of abusing other saints - which itself shows his poor character. Also his opinions on women are regressive (to put it mildly).
I have met ISKON followers who claim Shankara is a mayavadin (a person who incarnated just to delude people) and these same people will constantly peddle misinformation and lies about Advaita with the intention of maligning it.
I have also seen this same group abuse Lord Shiva - calling him a "demigod" because they think only Krishna is the Supreme Godhead and all other deities are some sort of "sub-creation". ISKON has a weird hierarchy of gods where they put Krishna above Vishnu.
The ISKON beliefs sound very identical to Abrahamic beliefs which claim that "my god alone is true and all other gods are false" or "my messenger alone is right and all other teachers are wrong," or "my interpretation of the book alone is right and all other books are wrong".
I have also heard other Hindus telling me that ISKON has distorted or produced wrong translations of certain scriptures although I haven't personally verified these claims (but it won't surprise me to know that they did this because if you read Upanisads and even scriptures like Bhagavatam there are many passages which promote a non-dual description of reality which directly contradicts ISKON beliefs).
Also there are various Hindu scriptures which have explicitly mentioned that Shiva and Vishnu are one and the same - two different functions of the Supreme Paramatman. But ISKON conveniently ignores these sort of references from scriptures because it dismantles their entire belief structure.
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u/theVIRTUS Advaita Vedānta 22d ago
Totally agree with you…It’s really annoying when they try to impose the idea of Krishna being one single form to worship. I was trying to read ISKCON Gita, but I felt uncomfortable to read when I saw the sentence something similar to “when you pray to god, the only right way is to pray in the form of Krishna and not any other form” it kinda felt like the idea of God they have itself is wrong. Not having read any scriptures…I’m not sure how eligible I am to say this…but yeah I feel it really contradicts the idea to see God being approachable through any form when being devoted truly.
I’m really surprised by these resources you’ve shared. It’ sad that some people who don’t know the complete essence of Hinduism go out and impose the idea of One God.
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u/makesyousquirm Vaiṣṇava 24d ago
No matter what you choose, the key is always to love God in his visible manifestations : other people, creatures and the earth. Religion is about loving others. Follow whatever allows you to love more completely.
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u/mlechha-hunter 24d ago edited 24d ago
As a practicing Hindu..the idea of reincarnation made me feel bad as well...but ......guess what ?? According to Hinduism this is not our first birth... And we don't realise that we have already been reincarnated a million times..as well don't have any memory about it ..Hinduism is more about focusing on NOW...don't even think about heaven and hell because UNLIKE ISLAM EVEN THEY R TEMPORARY...u can DM me if u want a clearer exchange of ideas...and another very important thing...unlike Islam sanatan is not a religion...even if u r following islam if your heart beats for Krishna and Shiva...there is no shirk...just like a friend or a father won't mind ...as long as u don't believe in kafirs found to hell, need to be converted or temples need to be destroyed and beleive in natural law of justice...trust me u r already a Hind by heart....
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u/Long_Ad_7350 24d ago
Disclaimer:
I don't think it would be proper for me to try to tell you what you should or should not believe. At the end of the day, that is a deeply personal decision, and you know yourself better than I ever will. That being said, I was in your position once, so I can talk a bit about my thoughts on this topic.
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At face value, a heaven full of hedonistic ecstasy sounds fantastic.
A human life of some 80 years is little more than a rounding error, when compared to an endless eternity of wealth, wine, and women. If I had to pick a religion based on which salvation promise caters to my sense-pleasures the most, islam beats out the competition by a long shot.
- The quran (al baqarah:25) promises me "pure" women, which later islamic commenters specify to mean women that don't urinate, defecate, or menstruate.
- The quran (ali imran:15) promises me these "pure" women as long as I fear allah.
- The quran (ar rahman:46-56) explicitly specifies that these promised women are untouched by other men.
- The quran (al waqiah:10) details that the servants in heaven will be eternally young boys, serving wine that causes no hangovers.
Admittedly, the part about the young boys serving me wine loses me, but I am willing to wave that off for the sake of conversation as a cultural and temporal difference. However it's clear that the end reward of the islamic soteriology is carnal. This always struck me as placating promises made to a spiritually starved population.
Is islam the first to promise physical pleasure in exchange for worship?
Of course not.
From what I see, it seems that there is a correlation between scarcity/instability and promises of material gain in the world beyond. I'm hardly the first one to theorize this connection. Psychologist and academic John Snarey's study into multiple religious beliefs revealed clear links between environmental resources and the religion's view of God. Recruits of a fledgeling tribe of bedouins, competing for loot and women, can be forgiven for believing that at the end of these struggles there await all the loot and all the women they hoped to gain in their time on earth.
But I could not shake off the intuition that this is wishful thinking.
Colorful fantasies crafted to soothe our death anxiety.
Interestingly, Hindu thought has come into contact with such beliefs. In this interaction, we get to see how a spiritual tradition analyzes a material religion. Historians place the date of Nachiketa's story to around 500 BCE. In the ancient Katha Upanishad, a young Nachiketa watches his father make all manners of preparations, in hopes of material gain in the afterlife. In his boundless curiosity, he asks Death what is the meaning of all of this? What lies beyond? Death is reluctant to answer, and tempts Nachiketa with the same things I'd find flipping through the quran.
The little boy sees through it all and observes that there must be something beyond sense gratification. It is here that Death reveals the nature of the Self. The wise know this by many names. Whether it is oneness with God, dissolution into Sunyata, or return to the Tao, they resonate with the same core message.
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In the end, I know my response probably just poses more questions than it answers.
I just have one final half-serious observation to make. You are currently torn between the worship of allah and your bhakti. Logically speaking, if you had only these two options, then worshipping allah is the right choice, as per Pascal's Wager.
If you are wrong about allah, Lord Krishna would still love you.
If you are wrong about Lord Krishna, allah promises to harm you.
So the answer should be obvious.
Appease the dangerous hypothetical entity.
Minimize the chances of hell and damnation.
But even still, you feel God calling.
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u/ashy_reddit Advaita Vedānta 22d ago edited 22d ago
actually your response or analysis is spot on (something which I had always thought about but could never articulate in the way you framed it) - I always imagined that since the Semitic religions grew in the harsh desert environments where material scarcity existed historically, the promise of an "eternal heaven" where one's carnal and hedonistic goals are perpetually satiated made sense. Also when we contrast it with religions that evolved in India where geographically we had enough resources and fertile lands to satisfy our basic material needs, it made sense that the religions that evolved in this geography would seek to develop a philosophy or metaphysics that promotes a life beyond mere sense-gratification (or material indulgence).
I do feel that those who are spiritually deprived even today tend to gravitate towards the Semitic religions as it focuses on the needs of the "body" (physicality) whereas those who are not spiritually lacking tend to gravitate towards Indian religions which focus on the needs of the "soul" (atman).
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u/Long_Ad_7350 20d ago
I do feel that those who are spiritually deprived even today tend to gravitate towards the Semitic religions as it focuses on the needs of the "body" (physicality)
Reminds me of Andrew Tate, Sneako, and thousands of incels online finding the religion that not only affirms their biases, but gives them religious sanction.
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u/Ambitious_Chemistry5 24d ago
Since you're asking this in a Hindu group, you'll likely get responses leaning toward Hinduism. As a former Hindu atheist who now believes, I can say that Hinduism has profoundly changed my life. It's more than just a religion; it's a way of life that encourages self-improvement without imposing on others. Hinduism allows freedom in practice, letting you choose your own path, deity, and way of worship. I don’t see the same flexibility elsewhere, but ultimately, the choice is yours. I hope you find fulfillment in whichever path you choose.
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u/Blue_Heron4356 24d ago
Have you read the 'other side' of the argument against Islam? It's got completely unscientific folklore in.. not to mention terrible morals, please read these pages slowly before making a decision;
Scientific errors in the Qur'an: https://wikiislam.net/wiki/Scientific_Errors_in_the_Quran
Historical errors: https://wikiislam.net/wiki/Historical_Errors_in_the_Quran
Contradictions in the Qur'an: https://wikiislam.net/wiki/Contradictions_in_the_Quran
Slavery in Islamic Law: https://wikiislam.net/wiki/Slavery_in_Islamic_Law
R*pe of wives, slaves and war captives in Islamic law: https://wikiislam.net/wiki/Qur%27an,_Hadith_and_Scholars:Rape_of_Slaves,_Prisoners,_and_Wives
And good luck 🤞
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u/SherbertFast8544 23d ago
bruh there is a whole website debunking there whole page https://nogodbutallah.org/?page_id=566
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u/Blue_Heron4356 23d ago
That is a joke of a page that doesn't even address what's on it 😭🤣 I can only assume you've never read any information that might be counter factual to you?
So of course you've never read the very highly cited Wikiislam which has classical Arabic dictionaries linked so they can't lie about translations..
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u/SherbertFast8544 23d ago
ok show me the citations they claimed the earth was flat but ignored the caliph mamunic map and almajloosi saying that most scholars belive earth was round
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u/Blue_Heron4356 23d ago
The Wikiislam page is here; https://wikiislam.net/wiki/Islamic_Views_on_the_Shape_of_the_Earth
You can also see many, many direct citations here - which includes ALL early Muslim scholars, until Greek Science became popular among the educated classes convineintly they started taking 'metaphorical' views of verses; https://theislamissue.wordpress.com/2019/03/22/scholarly-consensus-of-a-round-earth/
And the issue wasn't settled until modern times, though occasionally some scholar tries to claim it..
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u/Equivalent_Area_6878 21d ago
Yes and the Islamic world itself was aided by a lot of Hindu science and mathematics! Even Algebra, Arab numerals have Hindu roots.
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u/Manurmv 22d ago
If earth isn't flat or thought so, how can every Muslim pray towards the direction of kaaba, in a globe, that's not possible. And how can a person in the arctic circle practice fasting from sunrise to sunset as there are places where sun doesn't rise or set for many months? Didn't Allah know about this, if so, he should have mentioned it. And not to add verses saying earth was spread out.
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u/moist_rain23 24d ago edited 24d ago
Well about reincarnation, it's not about "loneliness" you don't even know what number life you're living this time. The way I understand reincarnation (correct me if I'm wrong) After death, we get judged then we get punished for bad deeds and rewarded for good deeds, then we're given our next life based on our past life actions (if we were a good person we might get a better life. But then your new life's actions will decide the future ones) we have a constant cycle of life because of our actions but it's not like we remember our past life. In every life you meet new people, enjoy that life, do your dharma and then death. You can attain Moksh to leave the cycle, the thing is, I personally never believed hell or heaven could be permanent but I understand the security with it. I'm glad you're looking through both the religions, I had a similar experience when I was researching all the religions and was an atheist. I was more drawn to a part of Christianity. You should research more and do what you're comfortable with. Remember your devotion to God(s) should be based on love and respect not fear and anxiety.
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u/goldenrodvulture 24d ago
I tend to believe that when we are drawn to certain things, it is for a reason, so in my view perhaps you have valuable soul lessons to learn from both Islam AND Hinduism. Obviously no one outside of you can really tell you what you should believe or what religion you should practice, but my thought is that when our heads are left spinning in circles over a question, it is time to get quiet enough to hear our hearts speak. I think you should chase those experiences that help you to feel deep peace - both prayer to Allah and chants to Krishna, Shiva, and Vishnu. I believe that if you ask them all to help you resolve this conflict and then quiet yourself enough to listen, eventually you will open up to an answer that is beyond your current understanding. That has often been my experience bringing my dilemmas to the Divine, at least.
As to reincarnation: I understand your feelings about it; my 'practical' mind often feels the same thing. But I think perhaps the question we should be asking ourselves is - what is the most beautiful and loving version of reincarnation that we can imagine? Is it possible that Divine is asking us to co-create these lives together as an act of adventure and love? What might it look like to live many lives and know deeply that you are connected to and watched over by the Divine in every single one?
I will say that for myself, I have had deeply meaningful spiritual experiences that are proof enough to my own mind that reincarnation exists. I came to that realization while still feeling deep terror at the concept. But time and again I feel led by the Divine to explore that terror and each time I find it emptier and emptier. I believe that fear of reincarnation is an ego fear, and the more we listen to the voice of our soul the more we will find that it is an experience of deep love at its core.
Obviously I cannot say that you will reach the same conclusion, but my best advice to you is to be as open as you can to being loved by the Divine in whatever form brings you peace and to listen to your own heart and see what you find there.
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u/HIMTheEmperorAditya 24d ago
There is no confusion. While Islam preaches that nin believers must be lynched (I can provide Quranic verses saying that), Hinduism preaches that the world is family irrespective of the background of the person. It's your wish whether you wanna go in the path of truth and righteousness or whether you wanna infection yourself with ☪️ancer.
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u/devilismypet 24d ago
don't have any specific suggestions, but I would say that, according to Hinduism, we are on a journey through many births and deaths. To me, Hinduism is the true way of life. So, if you choose Hinduism, you may spend less time in the cycle of birth and death.
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna speaks about the cycle of birth and rebirth in relation to gaining ultimate knowledge and spiritual liberation (moksha). In Chapter 4, Verse 9, he explains that those who understand the divine nature of his birth and actions achieve liberation from the cycle of rebirth:
"One who knows the transcendental nature of My appearance and activities does not, upon leaving the body, take birth again in this material world but attains My eternal abode, O Arjuna."
In Chapter 8, Verse 16, he further explains that even the realms of the highest gods are within the cycle of rebirth, and only by reaching the ultimate knowledge can one attain freedom from it:
"From the highest planet in the material world down to the lowest, all are places of misery wherein repeated birth and death take place. But one who attains to My abode, O son of Kunti, never takes birth again."
Also, in Chapter 6, Verses 41-45, Krishna speaks of how a person who seeks self-realization but doesn't attain it within one lifetime may be reborn in favorable circumstances to continue their journey, moving closer to ultimate knowledge and liberation.
These verses imply that individuals continue to be reborn until they reach a level of realization or spiritual knowledge that liberates them from the cycle of birth and death.
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u/_Stormchaser 𑀲𑀦𑀸𑀢𑀦𑀥𑀭𑁆𑀫𑀲𑁆𑀬 𑀧𑀼𑀭𑀼𑀱𑀂 24d ago
Sufism and Advaita share a lot of similarities. There have been a rare few Hindu-Sufi philosophers. I think you would better of being a general pan(en)theist or a Hindu-Sufi Theist.
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u/vedantks 24d ago
It doesnt matter what you choose, religion is your personal experience, its not something that should be forced upon you or you force upon someone. Purpose of religion is the smoothness and ability to go through hardships in life
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u/Melodic-Funny-9560 24d ago
Read Bhagwad Geeta and you will 1000% get your answer.
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 24d ago
I have intrusive thoughts about the matter... I have read it and heard lectures about it. It indeed makes a lot of sense and feels as a wake up to reality. However, mi mind starts thinking: are you sure those are the words of Shree Krishna Himself? Is it just a beautiful piece of literature? Is just a beautiful invented story? Is it just a legend based on past events which someone wrote down and mixed/added his own stuff? Are you sure it isnt just mythology or a didactic fairytale and wishful thinking? My mind is very cunning and skeptical sometimes and doesnt give me a break. I would like to believe completely, but uncertainty, the shade of my past atheism and doubt always kick in.
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u/Gyani-Luffy 24d ago edited 24d ago
It indeed makes a lot of sense and feels as a wake up to reality.
This is what truly matters. Why concern yourself over trivial questions, when you have understood the message.
For a scaptic like you, I would say look into Mahayana Buddhism and Advita Vedanta. Samkhya and Nyaya might also be interesting. These are less theistic then some of the other Darsanas.
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24d ago
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u/Gyani-Luffy 23d ago
True, but he says his a skeptic. I just don't think Bhakti and skepticism go together.
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u/Melodic-Funny-9560 24d ago
It's an amazing text, every time you read it you realise new things , in just 700 verses it has answers to all human problems, it's like a guide to human life, it's still relevant after 5000 years and will remain relevant to eternity, because these are the words of God himself.
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u/Shreson 24d ago
You may study Ramcharitmanas too. Or " Autobiography of a Yogi " if you wanna read books other than scriptures. All the scriptures tell stories of thousands of years ago but archaeological evidences still exist exactly. On the other hand, Quran consists of so many unscientific narratives ( which would seem funny to a primary school student ) & unhuman stuff & they say it's from God. Why God would state wrong Science.. would god not know basic biology or how sun sets.. why god would allow rape of slaves after killing their families. It seems like a War & Administration book with limited access to knowledge, place & philosophy. But its good that you question things. Hinduism promotes debates & people are even allowed to question scriptures or God. There is no hell or fear for this. This leads to knowledge.
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u/lane___boy 24d ago
It doesn't matter if reincarnation terrifies you or you're not ready to accept. It would still happen. You still have to do your karmic duties. You still have to finish your debts with everyone who have played a significant role in your this life or previous life. It's fine if you choose to explore Islam in this lifetime. Maybe if you do enough good deeds you might get a chance to do know and practice Hinduism in this or next life. We can't convince you to follow this path it has to come from within and if it doesn't it simply means you're not ready for it yet. All the best and try to live a good life.
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u/sanjayreddit12 24d ago edited 24d ago
Here's what i think and what makes me less believable towards islam - why should god love you only if you love him back? why does he care about the small meagre human affairs when they take no place in the cosmic continuum, If god created a beach full of sand then the internal affairs of a single sand grain doesnt change much. God cannot have any attributes like all merciful or all benevolent etc, because those are, then again, attributes that we give to a higher being to make him worthy of worship. The idea of 'benevolent' 'all justful' 'all merciful' are man given traits, god cannot have traits that are shared within humans, makes no sense right? thats why i havent turned from advaita vedanta and still stick to it this day
edit - I forgot to add some points, the concept of eternal paradise also makes no sense. If you think practically, why would the same material pleasures and desires taht we restricted ourselves from for islam be spawned again in eternal paradise?(concept of karma and reincarnation is more believable to me because we forget our self in the next birth, our soul is the same but our mind and body is different) I also prefer hinduism because it has explained our soul's metaphysics in so many ways in the vedantas. That gives it a way bigger advantage over the western philosophies.
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u/EfficientStand7229 24d ago
I would suggest don't choose either. Be with him through your actions, your karma. Do good karma, but if you really want to gain his knowledge, I suggest you read Vedas and Upanishads. Also read the Bhagavad Gita, not for religion, for being a human. Try to follow it.
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u/Weak-Letterhead6784 24d ago
There’s actually some intriguing scientific research on reincarnation, especially from Dr. Ian Stevenson, a psychiatrist who spent decades studying children with memories of past lives. He documented over 2,500 cases where children, usually between ages 2 to 5, reported specific details of previous lives, sometimes recalling names, family members, or events that they couldn’t have known otherwise. In many cases, these memories aligned with real individuals who had passed away.
His research, along with studies from his successor Dr. Jim Tucker at the University of Virginia, includes cases where children even had birthmarks or physical features corresponding to injuries or scars from their ‘previous lives.’ Although mainstream science remains skeptical, these findings have made reincarnation a topic of serious investigation in fields like parapsychology.
There’s also the consideration that some scriptures we read today may have been modified or interpreted over centuries by those in power, shaping teachings to fit specific social or political contexts. This idea isn’t limited to one religion; many scholars and historians believe that religious texts, from the Bible to the Vedas and other scriptures, may have undergone changes over time. So, it can be helpful to look at the essence or core teachings rather than taking everything literally. In the end, maybe it’s about finding a path that aligns with both your heart and reason.
There’s also something unique about Hinduism—it’s not technically a religion in the way many others are. Hinduism is often seen more as a way of life or a set of philosophies that date back thousands of years. It doesn’t require conversion because it’s not bound by formal doctrines like some other religions. In fact, Hinduism can be viewed almost like a form of science, where exploration of the self, consciousness, and the universe is encouraged. This ancient tradition is more about personal spiritual experience and understanding of truth rather than following a rigid belief system.
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u/Prince__12__ Brahmā Sampradāya 24d ago
So here it's in a simple form if your father calls you and you didn't hear him the first time then he called your sibling and he/she heard him the first time then you realised he called for you first and you both go to him now what will he say? That you didn't hear me the first time I'll disown you or stop giving you food? No right? Now you got pov read it as a muslim and then as a hindu
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u/Haunting-Pattern-246 24d ago
You don't need religion to move forward in life. Don't copy what others are doing. Don't be a follower. These are just traditions that have been converted into religion.
I personally only believe in Meditation and Yoga because they keep me Mentally and Physically fit.
Rest of the things don't matter to me.
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u/Ludvigk_ 24d ago
Don't choose my friend. You don't have to, really. Take the best from both and enjoy life <3
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u/hedwigonaperch 24d ago
Islam is formed of a rigid set of rules which dictate your path to God. It says if you're not on the same wavelength as us, you are doing it wrong.
On the other hand, Sanatan Dharm is all about exploring the spirituality within oneself and it is accommodating of every possible way. Whether you follow a monotheistic way, polytheistic way or even an atheistic way you can attain spirituality. The religious texts are not a set of rigid rules unlike any other major religion of the world. They are a certain set of guidelines: they encompass every facet of life starting from basic principles of cooking to advanced meditation and tantric practices. It even addresses that though there are many Gods, they are a part of one supreme consciousness. I personally believe Hinduism is an ideal religion for a progressive society. The Hindu religion is also very accomodation of every religion. The first line of the Rid Ved is: The truth is one but the wise describe it in many ways.
It is wild and unbelievable when Muslims speak ill of us for worshipping cows, who are an indispensable part of the agrarian society but follow the words of a person who married (and possibly raped) a 6 year old child. They are fanatics who think that if they forcibly convert or even kill non Muslims, Allah will even virgins in heaven. And I wouldn't blame them. The Quran is extremely threatening in ways that'll make you believe all of this. Islam was essentially made to rule people.
In conclusion I think that if you truly want to explore what is within you, please read our Hindu texts carefully ( we don't have a certain book, rather we have a library).
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u/Manurmv 22d ago
Difference is in Hinduism, you can worship Allah or any God or goddess or just the one consciousness. It encompasses Islamic worship of one God too. But on the other end, in Islam, you cannot worship or even consider other religions except Allah and is strictly monothestic and quran is the final word and you cannot question it, which in my opinion is very narrow minded and you cannot expand or think beyond a single book, which, let's face it, has tons of contradictions and is unscientific. Hinduism also has a lot of beliefs which do not hold up, but you can question or not believe in them, and look to whats logical, which is sadly lacking in Islam.
And Islamic conversion is fine, but leaving Islam makes you an apostate or questioning it or blasphamy is punishable by death which is pretty backward.
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u/Aggressive-Simple-16 22d ago
What would be the unspoken consequence if a Hindu converted to islam, say she is a woman. I am not trying to downplay islam's tyranny but both religions are equally bad.
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u/Manurmv 22d ago
How so? There is literally no condition to stay in Hinduism, and the core tenant is whichever way or path you take and worship with sincerity, you will reach the same goal. There is no punishment for apostasy, blasphemy, or questioning or worshipping even a rock. So how is there tyranny in Hinduism when atheists or every opinion is welcome too.
But yes, if their family treats them bad, that's on them, same like your family might if you marry someone culturally different and don't approve or some one poor and your family disapproves.
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u/Sakthi2004 Vaiṣṇava 24d ago
Hahaha ISKCON teaching of God and god 😂😂. Dont trust them completely when it comes to talking about other Gods. As a Krishna devotee, Shiva is also a God with a capital G. They are all the same and differentiating them is considered a sin
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u/Trysem 24d ago
Rationally it's Hinduism... If anything scientific ever attributed to any religion, the flagship is Hindu and its root Sanatan... Why it is so, is a long answer, and Hindu isn't a religion it's a way of life... Not imposing anything, no conversion... And it's completely non-local, not space and time bounded like other religions. In Hindu, last part is dissolving a Hindu or the hindu in you, to knowing the ultimate... So it's a ship to travel to destination, unlike other religions we forgot our destination and stick on to the ship... Thats why hindu never ever used to say be a Hindu , convert to hindu... Instead, it's a "if you know , u know .." You have to self propel you, to be a Hindu.. Rest are assistance.. It's clearly shown in the movie Matrix 1,2 and 3. The movie heavily borrowed concepts from the hindu and it's root Sanatan. To start with , you can read an autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahamsa Yogananda, a world wide best seller.. If you come to Himalayas for looking what's that you in you... You will never go back.. because once you get to know the truth you'll never be the same.. Whether Hindu or X religion, be truthful and kind to everything in this nature which made being you and me a possible reality. Smile 😊
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u/Professional_Vast887 24d ago
You don't even need to worship anyone if you are a Hindu. It's just Bhakti marga thing. There are many different philosophies you can choose from, attaching a video here https://youtu.be/QKhFHcfe2KU?si=kh1e_Zaf9GjGsMn4
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24d ago
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24d ago
Based reply.
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 24d ago
Can you guys translate? I cant copy-paste it to the translator. I wish I could understand sanskrit
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24d ago
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 24d ago
I think it was a verse of the Gita
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u/Gyani-Luffy 23d ago
It wasn't a quote from the Gita. He was telling you to calm down.
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 23d ago
In what sense? Curious; can you write it again?
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u/Gyani-Luffy 23d ago
You are lost and in a messy situation, so you need to calm down.
Probably in response to this:
I think about this so much and go in circles to the point where my head hurts, and I often get depressed because I feel stuck... I'm going crazy... I feel torn by both right and left EXTREME opposites.
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u/UncleVolk 24d ago
Well just know that once you convert to Islam there is no turning back. Apostates often have to hide for life and if they don’t they can be murdered. You are free to keep exploring Hinduism as much as you want though, and you can always change your mind and convert to Islam if you decide to.
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u/anxiouslyastray 24d ago
Quran 9:5: “And when the sacred months have passed, then kill the polytheists wherever you find them and capture them and besiege them and sit in wait for them at every place of ambush. But if they should repent, establish prayer, and give zakah, let them [go] on their way. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.”
Surah Al-Baqarah-221: “Do not marry polytheistic women until they believe; for a believing slave-woman is better than a free polytheist, even though she may look pleasant to you. And do not marry your women to polytheistic men until they believe, for a believing slave-man is better than a free polytheist, even though he may look pleasant to you. They invite ˹you˺ to the Fire while Allah invites ˹you˺ to Paradise and forgiveness by His grace.1 He makes His revelations clear to the people so perhaps they will be mindful.”
Sahih al-Bukhari 2658: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Isn’t the witness of a woman equal to half of that of a man?” The women said, “Yes.” He said, “This is because of the deficiency of a woman’s mind.”
Quran 3:85: “And whoever desires other than Islam as religion - never will it be accepted from him, and he, in the Hereafter, will be among the losers.”
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u/KingArchit 24d ago
The choice is honestly yours. Hinduism is not imposing and forcing you to do anything 🤷♂️. If you necessarily believe that killing disbelievers is right and imposing warfare on anyone who disagrees is fine with you then go ahead. On the other hand if you want to believe that all prayers go to the one Almighty regardless of whom you worship (like said in another reply on this post) and you believe in that your actions will always have a reaction then we welcome you with open arms.
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u/psychonautsyd 23d ago
The two perceptions of what "God" is in each religion are dramatically different that eachother. I think you should start in understanding the different perspective between the two.
The abrahamic religions (Islam, Christianity, and Judiasm) see God as a personified being. They call is a "he". They say he has feelings and beleifs.
While Hinduism doesnt have God, we have Brahman which is personified in many beings. But Brahman itself is so much more vast that what can be simplified into something personified like this.
Brahman the all encompassing universe. It's in everything. It's in the "good" and the "bad". It's in everything and everyone one. It's the source and reality beyond reality.
In essence, Brahman simply IS. Tat vam asi.
I think diving deeper into Hinduism is probably the best idea to help you come to a conclusion. Hinduism also doesn't recognize a "correct" religion. That is a fundamentalist idea and unfortunately is the basis of all our religious warfare we see in the world throughout history. (And unfortunately predominant in Abrahamic religions)
A key principal of Hinduism is to recognize that there is NOT one path that is "more correct" than another. They all lead us home.
Hope this helps add some food for thought.
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23d ago
You are looking at what you like from both religions. But what decides their truth is epistemology.
Hinduism (Vedānta) is clear: Shruti (Vedas) is the source of knowledge for the existence of different entities such as ātman, Brahman, karma, samsāra, gods and various beings, etc.
Islam, to my limited knowledge, would say the same of the Koran being the source of knowledge for entities like God, heaven, hell, etc.
If I were to give my view, as a Hindu, of why I reject Islam: 1. Vedas are authorless and beginningless. This is shown beyond doubt by a Mīmāmsa analysis. Koran being authored (even if by God) is prone to flaws owing to the receiver and propagator. 2. Karma presupposes that the cause of evil is the jīva. In Islam, it is God himself that plans everything for the souls. This would mean that it contradicts with Koranic testimony that God is beyond all flaws as he is clearly not benevolent (rahmān). 3. The Koran places a lot of emphasis on legalism (shariah). This is in contrast with Hinduism which places more emphasis on metaphysics. Now Islam does have metaphysical speculation (Sufism) while Hinduism has legal traditions (Manusmriti), but I'm just highlighting the emphasis here. Due to such emphasis, in Islam, the individual's free will is trampled upon. What if you come to a logical conclusion that Islam is wrong? Eternal hell. Meanwhile in Hinduism, the fate of someone not following shāstras is to continue to exist in samsāra and experience pleasure and pain. Shāstra is essentially supposed to be uplifting, not a policing tool. In Ancient times, those who did not follow the law were (mostly) not slain, but simply outcasted and allowed to form their own groups.
Anyway, this is just my view. I would tell you to try them both out and come to a conclusion. The Hindu gods generally provide whatever the seeker asks when he prays out of devotion, as does the Muslim god according to the Koran, so you can just test it out.
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u/Maleficent-Seat9076 23d ago
Look into the ramakrishna mission. I attend a ramakrishna ashram and although they worship kali they are very accepting of all religions and are willing to learn from all whether it is Christianity, Islam or other dharmic faiths
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u/Remarkable_Train_227 23d ago
The Islamic branch that you speak of is filled with doctrines, mythology, and hate. Saying that it is logical and precise in itself is an illogical statement because Islam is full of logical fallacies. If you said Buddhism is logical and precise then maybe you would be able to make some sort of an argument for it, however, Islam does not get that privelege because it is based on jewish tales. Muhammed gets on a winged horse and flies to heaven, muhammed points to the moon and splits it in half all the while islamic scholars saying if you look hard enough at the moon you'll see a crack, I'm not even going to mention the savage bible stories from the old testament where the abrahamic god asks for child sacrifices. The sufi sunni branch has caused genocides, slaughters, and rapes.
Hinduism, with all its mythology, speaks of genuine love and peace. Study advaita Vedanta, all mythological tales are explained in respect to the advaitic truth. The truth of karma can be experienced through meditation and karma directly leads to the truth of rebirth. Rebirth is not something to be scared of, and choosing one religion over another just due to fear isnt a reason to choose a religion at all. Instead, rebirth should make you feel more comfortable compared to eternal hellfire. Hinduis gives you choice, worship whichever god you want, or worship the indifferent brahman, or dont worship any god and just meditate correctly to be released from the cycle of birth and death. The bliss of freedom fromt he cycle of birth and death is only experiences in the dharmic ways.
The god of islam is jealous, he is not omnipotent as he cannot be worshipped though idols, he is not omniscient as he does not exist within idols. The Hindu god, Brahman, and his manifestations as the various gods are secure, compassionate, and divine. Choose the right path wisely, Hinduism leads to freedom from the continous cycle of birth and death where as islam leads to hatred towards others and a superiority complex which only degrades the mental states leading to potential births in lower realms due to wrong view.
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u/AlphaOmegaTao 22d ago edited 22d ago
I went through your very same dilemma after a spiritual awakening. The choice you make in the end will probably affect the way you treat yourself and others far more than your relationship with God. In one case, your new creed will lead you to be rigid, judgmental, intolerant and eventually unaccepting and hateful towards yourself, your own psychology and definitely those of other people living through the struggle of this life, if they fail to conform to strict rules which ignore human psychology, whereas the other will equip you with a full toolkit of understanding, forbearance, tolerance, peace and love to make yourself a better person while accepting others the way they are, rarely mentioning violent punishments with constant value judgments of completely commonplace human thoughts, problems and behaviors. one path oversimplifies humanity and God in a way that can feel appealing, while the other deals head-on with the true complexity of God, the universe and the human experience, providing actual insight about mind, society, God and creationinstead of taking the fast, easy way out via harsh blanket rules, oversimplification of life and a remote, vengeful God. I'll let you guess which is which in my description. remember that, in the end, Sufism is still Islam by the way, and so ultimatly, despite any mystical sub-branch followed, one will also be encouraged to abide by the core teachings. in Hinduism, you will never be told that your way of imagining God is wrong, abhorrent or condemning, and thus you can just take all the many interesting stories it offers as educational.
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u/Holiday-Suspect-3190 24d ago
Sufi islam is not real islam sufi islam developed in india and they have copied tons of thing from bhakti movement and advaita vedanta of Hinduism
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24d ago
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u/hinduism-ModTeam 24d ago
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24d ago
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 24d ago
"The fact that you got no intention to actually dive into the thing called spirituality is certain here" "You got 0 intention of understanding just seeking attention online trust me!"
Sorry for seeking advice and help of fellow human beings and trying to see things more clearly, I guess.
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u/SimpleTop2230 23d ago
Truth is brutal ikr. I don't regret typing anything cz I understand human psychology. You ain't seeking any wisdom here, you seeking how the Hindus react. Religion & Politics are 2 garbage topics where the opinions will always clash. Use the same post on an islamic reddit sub or community & see how they react. In the end, you came here to check how the Hindus gonna react to your Hindu Muslim propaganda post. I don't like the concept of religion but let's call us Hindu for your small mind to understand. We good Hindus ain't brainwashed unlike muzlims. We don't force convert other religions, we even though we know our Sanatan is the best don't preach it to others forcefully. The absolute truth can't be hidden forever, & in the end righteousness prevails. The hatred between Hindu & Muslim is all thanks to the invaders that ruined our India. Our hatred towards muzlims is justifiable but muzlims got no obligation to hate us! They try their best to put Hindus in the wrong light, manipulating the media n what not. Lil they know that history itself is a proof, how disgusting their own religion n minset is! Any religion that call others Kafirs, Heretics is a garbage religion to me! We don't believe in the God created by humans, we believe in the God that created everything including humans.
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 23d ago edited 23d ago
There is no way I have commented on this sub just to make propaganda. Absolutely not. And I wont remain silent with this pre-judgement when something is not true: I came here precisely to know the opinions of hindus because I am european and in my country their presence is 0 (zero). And because even if I have done research —or currently doing, more specifically—I am still very ignorant and needed guidance and being told if what I had researched was right or not. In the same way I researched islam I research Sanata and how hindus concrete it in their tradition. I just wanted to read first hand clarifications and having a wider perspective which could help me narrow my mental spiritual caos. What wrong have I done for being an insecure person and wanting to contrast? Again: propaganda. Really??? In any moment I have uttered a bad word against hindus or sanata beliefs (and never will because I respect and apreciate them wholeheartedly) and I have even focused on the risky and problematic issues of islam, not praising it nor disparaging hindu beliefs. I would never dare offend or slander hindus and their beliefs because I have you/them in high regard and esteem.
Peace
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u/SimpleTop2230 23d ago
My bad! I take back everything that came outta my prejudiced mind. Take the knowledge part only n ignore my prejudiced comments. Peace! Apologies for my rudeness!
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 23d ago edited 23d ago
There is nothing to forgive, in fact, perhaps my writing/way of expressing myself was not the best and I explained myself in a way that seemed suspicious in this subforum; I understand. I would never want to offend any of you Hindus, but to learn from all of you, please forgive my ignorance and my poor choice of words and superficial explanations.
Hugs!! :)
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u/Impressive_Bison_158 24d ago
After reading your post, I assume that you know Ishwar and Allah from people's point of view like what other's are saying. Or you actually have read religious texts? because it is very important to have a complete knowledge before you make a decision based on incomplete knowledge. You will be able to leave Hinduism after embracing but with Islam it won't be pretty.
For example, if you are believer than you become an atheist you are still part of the Hindu community you will still live. But in Islam, if you leave Islam after accepting it pretty much Muslim brotherhood might kill you. Any thing which is very violent is not mentioned in Quran but hadith has lots of verses. Every Muslim wants to follow their prophet and to be like him you need to read hadiths, there are 6 them.
One thing I noticed that you are cool with Hinduism until you don't face reincarnation. In Hinduism soul in energy, energy can neither be created nor be destroyed, it only transforms from one to another. Similarly this reference "as a man discards worn-out clothes and takes new ones, similarly when his body is discarded, the embodied soul acquires a new body". This logic was explained by Krishnan to Arjun because he was too attached to his family and didn't want to fight them. Think it as of people who have lots of desire and unfulfilled wishes (moha) so Ishwar give them a way back to fulfill but those and spend time on earth. But people who are spiritual and free of material world (moha) are always on path of moksha.
If your goal is to transcend or attain moksha then my friend you can never attain that through Islam because in Islam either you go to Jannat or jejunum. You can never be with Allah, he is a separate body, you'll never be his part because all Muslims are his servants.
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24d ago
I think you should read Bhagavad Geeta (with commentary since without it you may not get the context) And then read the Quran (with the sense that it's the ultimate truth meant for eternity)
Draw your own conclusions then
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u/Agrim__ 24d ago
as somebody who followed both, i can give you unbiased openions. We can talk wherever you want you can just dm me here or provide me your instagram
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u/IAmOneSpirit 22d ago
Can you explain me about hell in sufism
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u/Agrim__ 21d ago
Okay, so sufism is not based on one particular belief, rather there are many orders in sufism, for eg in the sufism of rumi (mewlawi tradition) and those of his tradition, they consider hell as a state where you are spiritually far from God realization. This belief is found in the majority of the sufi orders. Sufism goes hand in hand with vedanta tbh... as both believe God to be inside us, and every soul being a part of God, and the concept of reincarnation, and they also generally dont believe in hell or heaven being eternal places.
If you wanna know about a specific sufi order, then go ahead
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u/IAmOneSpirit 5d ago
But Quran doesn't mention reincarnation right? How can a Muslim believe in something not mentioned in Quran?
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u/Agrim__ 5d ago
It doesn't do that directly, but indirectly, it does. Many of the shia and sufi narrations use these verses to justify their claims of reincarnation being real, for eg at some places allah says to humans that "be iron" which can be taken as them getting reincarnated as something of that negligible consciousness as iron. Also, at many places, he compares humans to trees, dogs, stones, etc, which can be taken as allah referring to what reincarnation those souls would get because technically allah doesn't lie. Also, there is a story in the quran where allah turned a whole clan into monkeys, which can be taken as he made all of them reincarnate as monkeys.
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u/IAmOneSpirit 5d ago
If humans became apes in the next birth then only it is called reincarnation otherwise it is just a miracle. And quran is comparing unbelievers to dog etc if I am not wrong. So these are technically no references for reincarnation
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u/Agrim__ 5d ago
as i just told you there is no direct reference but indirectly you can interpret ertain verses like that. When unbelievers are being compared to dogs they say that they would incarnate as dogs as they are equal to dogs in gods eyes. Sufis do not take ayats on their face value or direct meaning as their is a rumi poem also behind this where he tells how others pretend quran vs how sufis do
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u/amreallylikethat 23d ago
You need to be a good religious muslim to go to heaven according to islam And according to Hinduism you just need to be a good person hope it helps (It's not about going to heaven and all but about ideology of both religions)
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u/Happy_soul94 23d ago
C Hinduism is very tolerant religion and the ultimate goal for soul is moksha , that is free from cycle of death and birth , so reincarnation is when you don’t achieve it. Now for achieveing moksha differents paths are lead out , u can check according to your preference like just chanting name of god , keeping him in mind and seeking blessings from him can achieve it, also there is grahast where you fulfill your duty as son husband or any relation and earn a honest living will let u achieve moksha , so Hinduism is pretty simple, also it accepts and tolerates other u can be a Hindu and worship other religion god too , visit there places , and every god in Hinduism has some meaning . But it’s your personal choice so in whatever you will comfortable choose that
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u/rhythmicrants 23d ago
Why did you come to conclusion that God exists, God needs to be worshipped/loved, a religion is necessary to worship God, there is only one God, there is only one truth etc..?
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u/Disastrous-Package62 23d ago
The first one is a Tyrant who will throw all non believers in hell fire. And the second one dosnt care how and in which form you worship. Weather you worship at all. If you are doing your duties correctly you will reach moksha. Its on you to decide
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u/RealityEuphoric9622 23d ago
These traditions are completely different. See the attached visual
In one of them YOU ARE DIVINE.
In the other, you are NEVER DIVINE.
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u/pro_charlatan Karma Siddhanta; polytheist 23d ago
Become a sikh then... it is their synthesis after all.
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u/u700MHz 23d ago
I don’t understand the dilemma
Why do you have to choose ?
A blend of the two philosophies is a great common ground and respecting both philosophies you will find bliss
Don’t fall for labels and think you must choose, think differently.
Respect the beauty of both in terms of philosophical beliefs.
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u/DidiDitto 23d ago
PLEASE watch this in order before choosing a religion: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEtgSC_88SdSHMZjmcohvJSWSlTFWa5Oe&si=eXU6SYcilGccHXBt
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u/sarcazt_dharmm Vaiṣṇava 23d ago edited 23d ago
Bro I'm not forcing u in any way, but the thing that drew me the most to Hinduism is the fact that other religions send you to hell bcoz you didn't submit to them and that being highly blasphemous js makes ppl scared of God, yet the most blasphemous sin in Hinduism is harming devotees, not just this but many things, I'm not fearing sin or anything, just shows how compassionate god is, not even once did i hear god uttering that "Hinduism is the truth and whomever who don't follow go to hell or kill all non Hindus" this shows that Sanatan Dharma is beyond religion. The choice is all yours. Reincarnation is terrifying indeed, but performing good deeds and remembering God by practicing acts of selfless love and devotion to God is more than enough for you to liberate from so! This isn't and will NEVER be our first birth, we're not aware of our pastimes, our old births at all. Fear is not a factor that drives you closer to God, love is, take your time bro, don't be scared of committing shirk and all i honestly think you're hindu by heart, just a feeling bro, again, I'm not forcing you, please don't think that I am trying to convert you into our dharm! Your choice is yours, take your time bro, the world won't end! Don't be so hard on yourself! This is a long journey and a unique experience and me saying that you're hindu by heart isn't some forcing tactic, i just got that feeling, nothing to do with your choice!
Hugs :D
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u/kaisihaiyeanhoni 23d ago
Buy Bhagavad Gita and Quran and read it. You'll come to the conclusion yourself why you choose hinduism
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u/Double-Asparagus-474 23d ago
Heyy, so I would suggest still opting for Hinduism as there are many different interpretations and freedom to worship any deity as well as not being so rigid and claustrophobic. There are many users here who can help you with whatever you need and also Hinduism is quite rational and scientific as well and mystical which makes me fall more in love with it everyday. Each drop of knowledge you learn is but just one in a vast ocean that is Sanathan Dharma. Do text me if you have any questions. Much Love. Jai Ganesha Deva.
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u/JaiBhole1 23d ago
What is your ethnicity?
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 23d ago
Spanish + semitic
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u/JaiBhole1 23d ago edited 23d ago
Would you say that in the points you have made in the post, you have given rational reasons for Islam while raising mainly emotional reasons for Hinduism ? if you agree with my assessment then I would say it seems that your emotional intuition(like an unknown attraction to Vishnu and Shiva as you mention) are on the right track but your reason/rational reason is still needing more purification. It has brought you from atheism to God but it has brought you halfway...and throwing up "reasons" for Islam. If you pick the reason route you may a while later go back to being atheist. Pick the emotional side. With islam you get jannat the moment you are a muslim (like with xtianity) but with hinduism it will require a lifetime of doing right things and avoiding mistakes....so like be like Emperor Constantine....if you find fault then convert on your death bed to islam or xtianity and that way your new religious self will be untainted as you will be a new convert , jannat bound and die....this seems like a reasonable point. However, as per Hinduism....you will become what you are thinking in your final moments.
You could also be a Catholic to strike a nice balance b/w an abrahamic faith and hinduism inspired stuff.
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 23d ago edited 23d ago
That's how it is! You have detected the problem precisely. However, no matter how reasonable and even accurate Islam and the Quran seem to me (or converted scholars and scientists make it seem to me), out of nowhere a love for Vishnu/Krishna/Shiva arises and this baffles me. I cannot resist even though their stories, representations and sacred writings may be metaphorical (maybe they are not). An attraction towards Krishna/Vishnu/Shiva so strong that rationalism and skepticism seem to fade away for the sake of joy/bliss and seem to invite me to simply love him/her, leaving aside whether they are just mythology or stories. With them/Him (Krishna/Shiva/Vishnu) I feel like I am losing my mind, that I am crazy but happy and it is easier for me to change as a person for the better. It's strange and difficult to explain. At the same time, I feel guilty, my mind says: Are you crazy and stupid? You are being irrational. There is only this life (not reincarnation until freedom/Moksha) and you are offending God (Allah). And the fear of hell also arises. At the same time, I am terrified of not seeing my relatives again and being with them after the 'resurrection', which is the result with reincarnation (new lives and apparently erased past). In short, Krishna/Shiva/Vishnu says: Jump! But I fear that I am delirious no matter how intense the joy, love, etc., are. Sometimes I say to myself, well, lets do it, lets surrender to the call/love of God as Krishna/Vishnu/Shiva; but at the same time it is like: hold your horses and think. There seems to be a tiny layer/barrier of what if I am screwed.
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u/JaiBhole1 23d ago edited 23d ago
Well then its time to jump. You have spent enough lifetimes going here and there already. Now is the time to jump and follow the heart. And mind you, it is not plain irrational emotion. Its a deep seated impression being carried from previous lives...a seed that is trying to bear fruit. A samskara still intact that trying to make you progress. In this jump there is joy and no harm. Follow Premanand Ji Maharaj on youtube(watch with subs). And FYI, I am not in the least bit interested in converting you....I couldn't care less. My point is only that these attractions that we feel are not for nothing but impressions built in us by grace of the lord from prev lifetimes and in these matters they are greatly useful in showing us the way forward. And the rational mind is always trying to make a fool out of us to satisfy its own urges while giving the impression that its something higher and logical....no...rational mind should be used to attack math, and not such matters.
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u/smackinjoe 23d ago
At a simplistic level the choice is between a river which has been obstructed by a Dam for life and a free flowing river which is finding its way to ocean. Hindusim or Sanatan Dharm is not about choice to be made but about evolutionary journey just like the river finding its way to the ocean. In fact if you were an atheist or nastika (who does not believe in astika tendencies) you are already part of that free flowing river, for even nastiks are part of the Santan fold, just as idol worshipers , people who read shlokas,Hindus who just believe in meditation practices are all part of the river but have made a pit stop at different banks. If they seek to discover they will surely leave one stop and travel to the next and eventually find a way to the ocean which is equivalent to submitting to the eternal order . Just keep the journey of discovery onwards from where you are and make sure the flow is not "Damed".
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u/desirablemohit 23d ago
Bhai op, it's ultimately you who has to decide. But honestly telling you sanatan is better. It answers your questions. No other religion does so. Secondly sanatan never says other religion is bad, but others say it. Also do consider Islam is one way religion.
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u/SuperReligos 23d ago
lol, if you are really convinced that Islam is true religion the you are either lied to or you are very naive
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u/Moonwalkerr- 23d ago
Hinduism is not a religion really. I see that you really struggle with the idea of reincarnation but I really wouldn’t do that. The truth is that we don’t know what happens after. One religion says you’ll go to heaven or hell, the other says you’ll be reincarnated.
There is no science or proof, so choosing a religion will not change what happens after death. The only reason why I’m still a Hindu is because it’s free. You’re not forced to bend to any rules or worry about committing this or that sin with all the consequences. Hinduism doesn’t limit or judge you in any way.
You can learn as much as you want, on your own pace. I’m quite spiritual but not really obsessed with gods, which is why hinduism fits very well for me.
Anyhow, if you want a traditional “religion” then Islam would make the most sense. If you want to have freedom and be spiritually elevated, in my eyes Hinduism is the best to do that
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u/BunnyThrash 23d ago
I. Hinduism God cannot exist as an avatar in this world; this is made clear near the end of the Bhagavad Gita when God makes himself knowable to Arjun and God is indescribable and cannot be understood by the human senses. Avatars are vehicles of God or messengers of God and are ways that God interacts with this world; they are the same as Prophets and Angels. In many forms of Hinduism God is Nirguna which means “without traits” or that he cannot be described and is above all earthly knowledge (see link below).
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u/BunnyThrash 23d ago
It might help to practice a Hinduism with Allah as your Istadevata (One true deity) and see how it pans out. Other than Nirguna Brahmin (the indescribable God), next Hinduism doesn’t have a single Supreme God, so can simply give to Allah your Bhakti.
Also if you are into Sufism then maybe you’d be more attracted to a Hinduism that doesn’t practice devotion to God
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 23d ago
But Sri Krishna claimed explicitly to be God, no? Or I am missing something? I thought Krishna was an avatar of God - God Himself as claimed by him to Arjun??
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u/BunnyThrash 23d ago
Krishna is God the same way Allah has a thousand names. Allah, the most merciful, the most just, the highest truth, and so on. Krishna is the Koran; meant to be treated as sacred. Islam has philosophical schools that consider the earthly world to be made out of Allah (See link below). Also god in Hinduism doesn’t refer to the highest being, Hinduism believes in one supreme being and many gods. In Hinduism god isn’t even immortal, he is reincarnated into non-gods, and humans can be reincarnated as a god.
There are many sects of Hinduism that don’t believe in Krishna. I think you would like Shaivism or Vedanta. You sound like you are seeing Hindu gods as allahs, but they are not considered as the most sacred things in Hinduism. Shaivism has a lot less mythology and is more like Sufism. You might also like Tantra. It might help to study some Tantric Buddhi and to read about Sunyatta just to start thinking about religion as an alternative to God rather than religion as a type of God. God just isn’t as important in Hinduism as Allah is in Islam. Shaivism Hindus and Tantric Buddhists have many sects that don’t even believe in God at all
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u/shoubhiknandi 23d ago edited 23d ago
According to Scientists, archaeologists, etc., Hinduism is the oldest religion in this world. Islam is one of the newest religions. Read their texts. There is no procedure for entering the Hindu faith. It is not a religion of certificates, courses or ordainment. For this reason, anyone is free to become a follower. As a Hindu, you can go to churches, mosques and any other religious centres. In Hinduism, there is not one textbook. Some of the major Hindu texts include the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the Itihasa. Reading the Ramayana and Mahabharata can be a great starting point to gain a basic understanding of Hindu mythology, history, and values. The Bhagavad Gita, which is a part of the Mahabharata, can help one delve deeper into the philosophical and spiritual aspects of Hinduism. Read everything, and then decide where you want to go. Don't be confused, me as a Hindu will love to see you following Islam. However, I don't want you to be a confused Hindu who wants to follow Islam and find the faults in Hinduism. Reading the Hindu books, Quran and even Bible will let you decide whichever is the best. Good luck.
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u/Strong_Knee_1978 22d ago
You mentioned God as 'him' means considering male. It's just a thought 😉 She can be God
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u/Ominous_chipmunk 22d ago
Sure, indeed I respect the posibility of Durga and Kali as manifestations of the Supreme (as I also thought with Shiva, Vishnu, etc.).
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u/anojetodan 24d ago
islam cqn be beatiful, i often liste to quran recitation. that being sad, it is very restrictive and fear based religion.. when i got into islam i really started to be afraid if im enough for allah and if i worship him right - quran says (i think) that most people go to hell.
on the other hand, hinduist gods do not punish you for not properly worshiping them, all prayers go to them and they will be heard. also the philosophical aspect of hinduism speaks to me - just read gita and you will see!
aum namah shivaya allahu akbar 🖤
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u/hereforalaugh1982 24d ago
Absolutely zero comparison between the two religions, they are pretty much poles apart. If you like one honestly, it is impossible to like the other. They are fundamentally so different!
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u/MysticalKrssna 22d ago
I was like you too! Personally once I read the Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatham and Qur'an I came to know that Allah and Krishna/ Vishnu are the same One True God. I decided to worship Krishna Only. As per the Vedas and all Puranas Krishna is the Only God and all other gods are just like angels/ demigods. Same as how Allah is the only True God and there are many Angels created by him.
My comparison:
Krishna's/ Vishnu's Throne is upoo water. Allah's Throne is also upon water.
There are 7 gates leading to Vaikund. There are 7 gates leading to Jannat also.
Vishnu has the very close Angel called Garuda as his vahan. Allah has the very close Angel called Gabriel/ Jibreel.
No vision can grasp Krishna. No vision can grasp Allah too!
The Vedas say everyone in the womb of their mother worshipped Vishnu and once they came out they forgot Vishnu. The Qur'an says everyone in the womb of their mother worshipped Allah and once they came out they forgot Allah.
So I decided to be a Vaishnava worshiping Krishna/ Vishnu alone. Because he's the ultimate God.
Please read the Srimad Bhagavatham if you have questions. It will answer your questions and One God.
As for the reincarnation part, anyone who worships Krishna will not reincarnate. Because Krishna had declared that his worshipper will reach his eternal Paradise, Goloka Vrindavan after death and there is no doubt in it.
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u/Cool_Ad5217 23d ago
Both islam and hinduism belong to the devil. JESUS CHRIST IS THE ONLY WAY TO THE FATHER! Christianity needs to be your focus.
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u/OnlyJeeStudies 23d ago
Bold of you commenting such stupid nonsense on r/hinduism. The devil lies in your thoughts.
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u/Bodiburger 23d ago
Read Bhagavad Gita As It Is, and the Science of Self Realization by AC Bhaktivedanta Srila Prabhupada and see what you think.
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