Is Hinduism a missionary religion?

Popular and scholarly perception, both ancient and modern, puts Hinduism in the non-missionary category. Ultimately concluding that Hinduism is a missionary religion, but not a proselytizing one, Sharma’s work provides us with new insights both on Hinduism and the consideration of religion itself.

Do Hindu missionaries exist?

Hinduism has had and still has missionaries, but rather than trying to convert people from other religions, they seek to serve those of their own faith, but will gladly teach others about their religion and philosophy.

Why must Hinduism become a missionary once?

But the real reason why Hinduism must become a missionary religion again is that expansion and conversion strategies force you to think through your ideas, dogmas, institutions, resources and strategies afresh.

What is the evidence for Hinduism?

Hinduism developed from several sources: Prehistoric and Neolithic culture, which left material evidence including abundant rock and cave paintings of bulls and cows, indicating an early interest in the sacred nature of these animals.

Can non Hindus go to a Hindu temple?

Non-Hindus are not allowed into the temple, which had attracted controversy over its refusal to allow entry to Indira Gandhi at the height of her powers. Though Gandhi was a Hindu, the temple management did not allow her entry as she was married to a non-Hindu. Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs are, however, allowed.

Should we exhort non-Hindus to become Hindus?

If you are willing to give up this bad idea, you must necessarily adopt a corollary as your guiding principle: exhort non-Hindus to become Hindus. Hinduism must become a missionary religion once again to regain its vitality.

What would have happened if Hinduism had no missionaries?

If Hinduism had no missionaries, the ideas embedded in it would not have spread to south-east Asia at all, where even an Muslim-majority country like Indonesia celebrates its version of the Ramayana.

How many Hindus have converted to other religions in India?

They can also bombard the targeted audience with a lot of misinformation about other faiths to create doubts and aversion. It is estimated that after India’s independence at least 100 million Hindus have been converted into other faiths.

Do Hindus feel defensive about conversions?

Hindus do not have to feel defensive about conversions. Historically Hinduism has been a peaceful and spiritual religion.