Hinduism vs. Sanatan Dharma

Attribute	Hinduism	Sanatan Dharma
Meaning	Religious and cultural practices of people in India	Eternal way of life based on Vedic teachings
Origin	Term coined by British colonial rulers	Original name for the religion
Beliefs	Varies among sects and regions	Belief in karma, dharma, reincarnation, and moksha
Scriptures	Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, etc.	Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, etc.
Deities	Worship of various gods and goddesses	Worship of various gods and goddesses

Origins

Hinduism is a term that was coined by British colonial rulers to describe the various religious beliefs and practices of the people living in the Indian subcontinent. It encompasses a wide range of beliefs, rituals, and philosophies that have evolved over thousands of years. Sanatan Dharma, on the other hand, is the original name for what is now commonly referred to as Hinduism. It translates to "eternal religion" or "eternal way" and is believed to be the oldest religion in the world.

Beliefs

Both Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma share a belief in the concept of karma, which is the idea that our actions have consequences that affect our future lives. They also believe in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as samsara. However, Hinduism has a more diverse set of beliefs and practices, including the worship of multiple deities, while Sanatan Dharma emphasizes the worship of one supreme being, Brahman.

Practices

Both Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma have a rich tradition of rituals and ceremonies that are performed to honor the gods and seek their blessings. These rituals can include prayers, offerings, and meditation. However, Hinduism has a more structured system of worship, with temples dedicated to specific deities and priests who perform elaborate ceremonies. Sanatan Dharma, on the other hand, places more emphasis on personal spiritual practices, such as meditation and self-realization.

Scriptures

Both Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma have a vast collection of sacred texts that are considered to be divinely inspired. These texts include the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Puranas. However, Hinduism has a more diverse range of scriptures, with different sects and traditions placing emphasis on different texts. Sanatan Dharma, on the other hand, considers the Vedas to be the ultimate authority and source of knowledge.

Philosophy

Both Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma have a rich philosophical tradition that explores the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate purpose of life. They both believe in the concept of dharma, which is the moral and ethical duty that each individual must fulfill. However, Hinduism has a more diverse range of philosophical schools, such as Advaita Vedanta, Yoga, and Samkhya. Sanatan Dharma, on the other hand, emphasizes the teachings of the Vedas and the importance of self-realization.

Unity

While Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma share many similarities, there are also differences that have led to divisions within the religion. Hinduism is a diverse and complex religion with many sects, traditions, and practices. Sanatan Dharma, on the other hand, is seen as the original and pure form of the religion, free from the influences of later developments. Despite these differences, both Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma share a common goal of seeking spiritual enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.