Misconceptions about Hinduism and lack of Dharma education

There are widespread misconceptions or misunderstandings about Hinduism all around the world, especially, in the West. Ironically, many followers of Hinduism also do not have complete understanding about the concepts of Hinduism. In this section, we will give a few such examples.

A. Hinduism is all about performing pujas, rituals

In the initial stages of sadhana, ritualistic worship helps in developing bhav (spiritual emotion) unto God. However, due to lack of understanding, most Hindus, especially the younger generation, defy ritualistic worship. They forget that in order to graduate from University, one has to start in Grade school. Hinduism has prescribed sadhana for every stage of a seeker so everyone can attain Moksha (Final liberation). and one of the beginning stages of sadhana is ritualistic worship. So Hinduism is not all about performing pujas and rituals. These are but a stage in the entirety of Dharma or Hinduism.

B. Ignorance about sadhana ( Spiritual Practice)

A majority of Hindus are not aware that the aim of our birth is to do sadhana and attain Moksha. They believe that visits to temples, holy places, performing puja, etc. are sufficient. Many Hindus are stuck at the stage of Karmakand sadhana, which is actually a primary stage of sadhana. Hindus, who are living outside Bharat, especially the younger generation, may not be even paying obeisance to Deities in the morning and evening. Working class Hindus may not even find time to do puja at home. Therefore, the opportunity to do the basic sadhana of doing puja, lighting incense sticks, etc. at home is being lost.

C. Lack of knowledge about the basics of Hinduism

Majority of Hindus have not read Bhagwadgita, Ramayan or other Scriptures of Hinduism. Thus they have very little knowledge about the basics of Hinduism. Concepts such as, Moksha (Final Liberation), karma, give-and-take accounts, destiny, Avatars, various Deities, etc. are either not understood well or Hindus are completely ignorant about them. Some Hindus read texts about Hinduism but get confused about what they need to practice. There are some Hindus who are well versed with Holy Scriptures; but they lack in practical implementation of the teachings.

D. All religions are equal or one

The concept of ‘all religions are equal or one’ is very popular amongst most Hindus. However, this concept is almost non-existent in the followers of other religions, as they believe their religion or God is the only God. Due to this belief, Hindus are adopting concepts that originated in other religions and cultures for example, Valentine’s Day, Father’s Day, etc. Such festivals have no spiritual meaning or benefits, on the contrary, they lead to adharma; accruing demerits. 

Unless the youth evince trust and concern in  their ancestors who envisaged truth,righteousness,moderate living that includes dana and dharma   the fate of this country can not see the bright side.