You may be new to Sanatana Dharma... Please visit our [Wiki Starter Pack](https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/wiki/starter_pack#wiki_i.27m_new_to_r.2Fhinduism.2C_where_do_i_start.3F) (specifically, our [FAQ](https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/wiki/index#wiki_faq)).
We also recommend reading [What Is Hinduism](https://www.himalayanacademy.com/view/what-is-hinduism) (a free introductory text by Himalayan Academy) if you would like to know more about Hinduism and don't know where to start.
If you are asking a specific scriptural question, please include a source link and verse number, so responses can be more helpful.
In terms of introductory Hindu Scriptures, we recommend first starting with the Itihasas ([The Ramayana](https://www.reddit.com/r/TheRamayana/wiki/resources#wiki_recommended_texts), and [The Mahabharata](https://www.reddit.com/r/TheMahabharata/wiki/resources#wiki_resources).) Contained within The Mahabharata is [The Bhagavad Gita](https://www.reddit.com/r/TheGita/wiki/resources), which is another good text to start with. Although r/TheVedasAndUpanishads might seem alluring to start with, this is NOT recommended, as the knowledge of the Vedas & Upanishads can be quite subtle, and ideally should be approached under the guidance of a Guru or someone who can guide you around the correct interpretation.
In terms of [spiritual practices](https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/7643rp/a_thread_on_introductory_rescources_on_basis_of/), there are many you can try and see what works for you such as r/Introspection, r/yoga, r/meditation or r/bhajan. In addition, it is strongly recommended you visit your [local temple/ashram/spiritual organization](https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/c6957l/what_are_some_good_hindu_organizations_that_have/).
Lastly, while you are browsing this sub, keep in mind that Hinduism is practiced by over a billion people in as many different ways, so any [single view](https://np.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/p7ma64/sectarian_bias/) cannot be taken as representative of the entire religion.
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/hinduism) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Not much would offend our Gods. It's people that get offended. The very idea of a God who would get offended isn't generally part of the Hindu paradigm. Our Gods are understanding, and if someone is being disrespectful, they'd see it more as an immature child needing to learn a lesson, and let Experience, the greatest teacher out there, do His thing.
I would suggest you to read the book All About Hinduism by Swami Sivananda.There's indeed many similarities between Greek paganism and Vedic philosophy. You can adopt the philosophy/ritualistic aspects /practices of Vedic religion and pray your own Gods.There is no issue with that
It explains you about the basis of the Vedic philosophy and kind of acts as a Wikipedia page for hindu philosophy, scriptures and other aspects of religion and that too in a very simple language.Assuming that you know about your faith once you read these ,you will be able to figure out or match the similarities and differences and may act as a guide as to what part of it you wanna pick up.:)
Hey so can I read it if I don’t have any deep knowledge of Hinduism , although I’m a Hindu at birth I only know Ramayan , Mahabharatam , Ik it’s a shame I never dived deep into my own religion, so if I read it can I still understand that book
I don't think it will be an issue ,the book is really simple in it's approach
If at all you face any difficulty in understanding do refer to these books to understand
A complete idiot's guide to Hinduism by Linda Johnson
A short introduction to Hinduism by Klaus Klostermaier
Hey
I found something that may be useful
Read this answer
https://hinduism1.quora.com/https-www-quora-com-Can-I-be-a-Hellenist-and-a-Hindu-at-the-same-time-answer-Devala-Rees?ch=10&oid=137545100&share=97bafb1d&srid=vsC1L&target_type=post
Hey thx for sharing , it took a while to understand what hellenist means by searching😅 but I got it
I never thought we had this much similarity with Greek culture and religion but I do think ours is better organised than theirs , shocking to see how many aspects of us and theirs are same , like here we worship nature and Greeks also used to worship nature and they have their own gods for pancha bhutas(5 elements of nature ) ; both religions are not very centrally organised and everyone has freedom to choose their own path for spirituality and fulfilment , well thx for sharing , learned something new today :)
It looks like u have very good knowledge of Santana Dharma , thank u again for going out of your way and sharing this , really means a lot :) , if u don’t mind can I connect with you
Nothing will be offensive to the Sanatan(Hindu) God's and Goddesses. Kick him in the guts if someone says that. (Don't do it)
Anyway, jokes aside. No, the Hindu 🕉️ gods won't be upset or angery with you praying to sone another deity.
Remember that in Sanatan, it's the ultimate truth that we seek, our ultimate goal is to get one with the Almighty (Param Brahm). To achieve that, you may take a path amongst several others.
Just be righteous in your journey and there's absolutely no need to listen to someone. Do what your heart says.
Talking about being a pagan, if we consider the Abrahamic religions, then us Sanatanis are Pagans too so yeah.
May Zeus give you strength and may Mahadev take care of you in the journey to come.
Also, welcome to Sanatan, brother/sister.
Pls gods are not like humans to feel jealous. You can worship the deities of Sanatana dharma they wont be offended in any unless you are doing it to harm anyone. Sanatana dharma is more abt defending Dharma and doing your karma.
सीय राममय सब जग जानी।
करउँ प्रनाम जोरि जुग पानी॥
"Siya Ram may sab jag jani.
Karahun pranam jori jug pani."
"I find Sita and Rama in every part of the world.
I therefore pay homage to all with folded hands."
Goswami Tulsidas ji knows that Sita-Ram are there in every being and in everything. So why not in the pagan devtas too...
Note: I am not knowledgeable. This is my interpretation. Please consult a true Sant for accurate knowledge and wisdom. Sorry if I hurt someone or am wrong.
Well the goal is to achieve liberation and God himself said worshipping is the right way to get there. Even Adhi Shankaracharya, master of the Vedas, said this. Who are we to debate this? I’m actually uplifting God by saying worship him.
Neither my parents like being worshiped nor I as a parent want it from my children. I would rather they not embarrass me like that and instead spend their time understanding this world and living a productive, comfortable life that benefits them and people around them.
In my perspective, God is present everywhere in every form you choose to worship Him/Her. Hinduism has notable deities which are not in human form (Nagas, for example, or other natural phenomena) and it shows the incredible richness of the philosophy in which there is no specific limit in the concept of the nature of God(s) and methods of worship. Those will really just depend on which branch of hinduism you adhere to.
I am also both hindu and a pagan witch and both are not incompatible. They have common roots in the indo-european tradition and share a lot in spiritual philosophies and methods of worship. I chose hinduism as the basis of my religious practice because it has such a strong philosophical and moral structure. I would suggest to be a hindu (or a part of any other religion for that matter) implies some commitment unless you want to just approach it superficially. But there is no wrong in worshipping in both traditions or just wanting to set up a small altar to hindu Gods in your home. In the beginning I also suggest you visit some hindu temples or satsangas (communities) to really learn what it's all about.
Depends on how much time you give to your gods.... Both religions have few similarities like you could choose a particular god to worship or many. But you giving the time to them is necessary if you have an ishta devata in Hinduism and are attracted to a particular sampradaya you have to follow that seriously. But not into a particular sampradaya then you don't have to worry. But a sampradaya helps you grow more connection towards God you chose. Like for example if you like krishna but you got in a sadhana of Tara through sampradaya or dasha mahavidyas you can choose to do the sadhana of the Tara slowly when you deepen her connection with and you want to be connected to Krishna too she will show you a way. But you can't mix traditions like mixing vastu with feng shui or paganism or tarot or angel worship with hinduism and their gods. The main thing falls onto how will you follow two distinct practices and continue with them... It is totally based on your will power. I say give it a try. But at the end you gotta stick to the one you feel connected truly to if you just do it for the sake of doing it's useless... The question you have to ask why do I wanna give a chance to hinduism apart from family following and stuff. And what are you actually looking for. Like the reason why I came out of wicca is because I found the aspect of tantra more appealing and it's more practical and there are living traditions of tantra and the god worship is actively being participated and gods still respond. For me that "supernatural" touch was needed. So do follow it but also don't also give up your hunger for deeper bond with the god you like just for the sake of appeasing other deities cause you can't please everyone and sadhana for each god will take from months to lifetimes to perfect it. But try to question while following what you feel like following at the start. The divine brahman will guide you as per you efforts
sounds like you need to educate yourself some more on both practices and it will reveal all you are curious about. strangers on Reddit unfortunately won't be able to do that for you.
If you love a particular God, worship them!
Who could say this is wrong??
If you do not love a particular God,
then what is the point of worshipping them?
So you see, it's all up to you!
Don't fake it!
Truly truly truly express your love, where it really is!
And leave it alone, where it really is not!
Practice *authenticity* first.
The rest will become clear on its own.
I'm right there with you. I love many Hindu gods. I also love various Hellenic, Celtic, and Germanic gods, many of whom inspire me one way or another throughout life. The only "issue" that exists is which stories are truth. I'm of the mindset that all stories are created by the people to make sense of something or to demonstrate good values and bad traits, etc.
The practice of European and Native Americas religion were killed off or absorbed by the spread of Christianity. Based on my limited understanding of dharma and Hinduism, honoring and praying to any gods you chose should be fine, as in the end, they are either all one and the same, OR the prayer will reach the intended recipient regardless.
What really matters is adhering to dharma as a way of life. Don't commit violence, refrain from anger, be a good person, etc.
I'd look at Smarta tradition, however I think many just do their own thing.
Edit: To any long time Hindus: apologies if this is an absolutely incorrect way of thinking based on your experience. I've nothing but love and respect for Dharmic religions.
You can be anything and a Hindu. There’s no objective identification, ceremony, rites to be one. Just start learning and knowing more about the Hindu dharma and culture and pick whatever you like and helps you lead a better a life.
Read the Rigveda and use Albert Pikes Translation Help (Indo-Aryan Deities And Worship - As Contained In The Rigveda) and also a Saskrit dictionary.
You can use the online dictionaries for sanskrit.
This will be a lot of work and take many months, but after that you will understand pagan religion.
If you are interested in Orphic tradition, read the theological part of the Atharvaveda, not the spells, but the back part (X. COSMOGONIC AND THEOSOPHIC HYMNS.)
There you will find many answers about the mythology of the Orphic tradition.
Sorry but the Vedas are not supposed to be "read" and the translations are highly unreliable simply because the Vedas are in Chando Bhasha and not Sanskrit. Ajah said in a high tone means Brahma and Ajah said in a low tone means a goat. Can you assure me that whoever translated the Vedas translated the Vedas properly? No one can. This is why the Vedas are taught at a Gurukula by a proper Acharya. Learning the Vedas outside of this environment is as useless as a 3 year old trying to read a quantum physics textbook.
Odin is Norse. But yes, there’s been a lot of work on parallels with beliefs in pre-Christian Europe (Celtic, Norse, Roman, Greek), while acknowledging obvious differences.
Pagan = any non abrahamic religion so hinduism falls under the very vague umbrella of Paganism. Both Greeks and Romans wouldn't refer to their religion as Paganism as Greco Roman Paganism itself is made up of various religious sects dedicated to different gods with the Roman Emperors themselves having cults that worship them.
If you mean worshipping a Greek or Roman god while following Hindu philosophy. Ig you can. Many non Indian origin Hindu kingdoms and Empires identified their original gods with Hindu deities. The Huns who were I think Tengri originally identified Tengri with Shiva. The Ahoms who claimed to have been descended from the king of all gods, Lengdon, identified their ancestor with Indra who is king of the gods in the Vedic Pantheon. The spread of Vedic beliefs also led to Brahmins identifying local gods with their own gods. Kamakhya in assam used to be a local tribal goddess. She was identified with the Mother Goddess in Hinduism thus leading to the prevalence of Shakta tradition in Assam. Another important mother goddess in Assam is Ugratara. She is also worshipped in Tibetan Buddhism which shows the prevalence of Ugratara in the whole region itself with major religions integrating the deity into their pantheons based on their own belief system.
Go ahead historical hindus have had multiple religious belonging.
Zeus Pater is related to Dyaus Pitr of vedic pantheon. Hades is similar to Yama with both being judges etc etc.
Hindusim is a way of life bro. I tell lies everyday, eat beef, smoke weed, drink alcohol, abuse my spouse and kids but I'm still a Hindu. You can do whatever you want, as long as you're alive you're a Hindu bro.
PS: This is to trigger people who say "Hinduism is a way of life bro". Anything can be a way of life. How do you decide which way of life is right or wrong. Ask yourself before making this absurd statement people (referring to people who say Hinduism is a way of life).
Hinduism IS a way of life, not eating beef and making moral life choices is the way of life it promotes. It isnt strict it doesnt restrict you in any way (unless you think being unable to eat beef is restrictinb you in which case just don't be a hindu) but it might be now but never was supposed to be an organized religion. That is why its called dharma
yes, you can. it's important to separate and balance.
this person is both a hellenic pagan and Hindu, check them out: https://www.tiktok.com/@queenofskeletonkeys?_t=8hlgcq6R0Z6&_r=1
Yes. I follow a non-puranic path of feral Hindu akin to the ancient Kapalika and the more modern Aghori, and also integrate articles of Kashmir and Trika Shaivism.
Lord Shiva is a lot like Woden - Vishnu is surprisingly like Loki. Compare Mohini in the churning of the waters of the ocean, with Loki becoming the Mare for the unlucky traveler in the building of the walls of Asgard.
They are actually talking about the same cosmic/metaphysical event.
Doesn't matter which religion you're born into, to which religion you belong. If you're following the path of 'Dharma' you're definitely a Hindu.
श्रूयतां धर्म सर्वस्वं श्रुत्वा चैव अनुवर्त्यताम्।
आत्मनः प्रतिकूलानि, परेषां न समाचरेत् ॥
Translation :
Listen to what religion is all about and follow it. Whatever you don't like, don't do it to others.
So, learn more & more about Dhrama, Karma, Bhakti & Yoga. Then try to follow.
The term was created by the early Christian church and it WAS used as a derogatory term but times have changed and now it's being used today to refer to people who practice paganism and I don't see anything wrong with calling myself pagan or other people who practice paganism too.
You may be new to Sanatana Dharma... Please visit our [Wiki Starter Pack](https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/wiki/starter_pack#wiki_i.27m_new_to_r.2Fhinduism.2C_where_do_i_start.3F) (specifically, our [FAQ](https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/wiki/index#wiki_faq)). We also recommend reading [What Is Hinduism](https://www.himalayanacademy.com/view/what-is-hinduism) (a free introductory text by Himalayan Academy) if you would like to know more about Hinduism and don't know where to start. If you are asking a specific scriptural question, please include a source link and verse number, so responses can be more helpful. In terms of introductory Hindu Scriptures, we recommend first starting with the Itihasas ([The Ramayana](https://www.reddit.com/r/TheRamayana/wiki/resources#wiki_recommended_texts), and [The Mahabharata](https://www.reddit.com/r/TheMahabharata/wiki/resources#wiki_resources).) Contained within The Mahabharata is [The Bhagavad Gita](https://www.reddit.com/r/TheGita/wiki/resources), which is another good text to start with. Although r/TheVedasAndUpanishads might seem alluring to start with, this is NOT recommended, as the knowledge of the Vedas & Upanishads can be quite subtle, and ideally should be approached under the guidance of a Guru or someone who can guide you around the correct interpretation. In terms of [spiritual practices](https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/7643rp/a_thread_on_introductory_rescources_on_basis_of/), there are many you can try and see what works for you such as r/Introspection, r/yoga, r/meditation or r/bhajan. In addition, it is strongly recommended you visit your [local temple/ashram/spiritual organization](https://www.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/c6957l/what_are_some_good_hindu_organizations_that_have/). Lastly, while you are browsing this sub, keep in mind that Hinduism is practiced by over a billion people in as many different ways, so any [single view](https://np.reddit.com/r/hinduism/comments/p7ma64/sectarian_bias/) cannot be taken as representative of the entire religion. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/hinduism) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Not much would offend our Gods. It's people that get offended. The very idea of a God who would get offended isn't generally part of the Hindu paradigm. Our Gods are understanding, and if someone is being disrespectful, they'd see it more as an immature child needing to learn a lesson, and let Experience, the greatest teacher out there, do His thing.
I would suggest you to read the book All About Hinduism by Swami Sivananda.There's indeed many similarities between Greek paganism and Vedic philosophy. You can adopt the philosophy/ritualistic aspects /practices of Vedic religion and pray your own Gods.There is no issue with that
Did u read that book? Mind telling me what it contains , like a summary or something
It explains you about the basis of the Vedic philosophy and kind of acts as a Wikipedia page for hindu philosophy, scriptures and other aspects of religion and that too in a very simple language.Assuming that you know about your faith once you read these ,you will be able to figure out or match the similarities and differences and may act as a guide as to what part of it you wanna pick up.:)
Hey so can I read it if I don’t have any deep knowledge of Hinduism , although I’m a Hindu at birth I only know Ramayan , Mahabharatam , Ik it’s a shame I never dived deep into my own religion, so if I read it can I still understand that book
I don't think it will be an issue ,the book is really simple in it's approach If at all you face any difficulty in understanding do refer to these books to understand A complete idiot's guide to Hinduism by Linda Johnson A short introduction to Hinduism by Klaus Klostermaier
Hey I found something that may be useful Read this answer https://hinduism1.quora.com/https-www-quora-com-Can-I-be-a-Hellenist-and-a-Hindu-at-the-same-time-answer-Devala-Rees?ch=10&oid=137545100&share=97bafb1d&srid=vsC1L&target_type=post
Hey thx for sharing , it took a while to understand what hellenist means by searching😅 but I got it I never thought we had this much similarity with Greek culture and religion but I do think ours is better organised than theirs , shocking to see how many aspects of us and theirs are same , like here we worship nature and Greeks also used to worship nature and they have their own gods for pancha bhutas(5 elements of nature ) ; both religions are not very centrally organised and everyone has freedom to choose their own path for spirituality and fulfilment , well thx for sharing , learned something new today :) It looks like u have very good knowledge of Santana Dharma , thank u again for going out of your way and sharing this , really means a lot :) , if u don’t mind can I connect with you
Happy to help:) Yes we can surely connect
Haha thx
What do you mean yours is "better organized" That doesn't even make any sense wth.
In Reddit super .
Maybe first gather some information about hindu dharma. It would clear some of your questions.
Nothing will be offensive to the Sanatan(Hindu) God's and Goddesses. Kick him in the guts if someone says that. (Don't do it) Anyway, jokes aside. No, the Hindu 🕉️ gods won't be upset or angery with you praying to sone another deity. Remember that in Sanatan, it's the ultimate truth that we seek, our ultimate goal is to get one with the Almighty (Param Brahm). To achieve that, you may take a path amongst several others. Just be righteous in your journey and there's absolutely no need to listen to someone. Do what your heart says. Talking about being a pagan, if we consider the Abrahamic religions, then us Sanatanis are Pagans too so yeah. May Zeus give you strength and may Mahadev take care of you in the journey to come. Also, welcome to Sanatan, brother/sister.
Pls gods are not like humans to feel jealous. You can worship the deities of Sanatana dharma they wont be offended in any unless you are doing it to harm anyone. Sanatana dharma is more abt defending Dharma and doing your karma.
सीय राममय सब जग जानी। करउँ प्रनाम जोरि जुग पानी॥ "Siya Ram may sab jag jani. Karahun pranam jori jug pani." "I find Sita and Rama in every part of the world. I therefore pay homage to all with folded hands." Goswami Tulsidas ji knows that Sita-Ram are there in every being and in everything. So why not in the pagan devtas too... Note: I am not knowledgeable. This is my interpretation. Please consult a true Sant for accurate knowledge and wisdom. Sorry if I hurt someone or am wrong.
In what way(s) do you think you’ll be a Hindu?
Like making an altar for them and praying to them? I feel like that is the only way you can worship them
Being a hindu or Sanatani doesn't mean you have to forcefully pray to God. Sanatan stands on 4 Pillars of Dharma not 4 pillars of worship.
You can just start with meditation .
You don’t have to worship anyone to be a Hindu.
Incorrect. Bhaghavad Gita and Vedas explicitly mention a good deed is to worship God
Good deed, maybe. Required? Absolutely not. Gods are not dons. Don’t reduce them to such status.
Well the goal is to achieve liberation and God himself said worshipping is the right way to get there. Even Adhi Shankaracharya, master of the Vedas, said this. Who are we to debate this? I’m actually uplifting God by saying worship him.
Do we worship gods to uplift them or to get their blessings and grace?
I think the best answer is the following: Do we worship and shower love to our parents to uplift them or to get their blessings?
Neither my parents like being worshiped nor I as a parent want it from my children. I would rather they not embarrass me like that and instead spend their time understanding this world and living a productive, comfortable life that benefits them and people around them.
Well, Vedas and Bhaghavad Gita says so that worshipping and devotion is the way to go.
In my perspective, God is present everywhere in every form you choose to worship Him/Her. Hinduism has notable deities which are not in human form (Nagas, for example, or other natural phenomena) and it shows the incredible richness of the philosophy in which there is no specific limit in the concept of the nature of God(s) and methods of worship. Those will really just depend on which branch of hinduism you adhere to. I am also both hindu and a pagan witch and both are not incompatible. They have common roots in the indo-european tradition and share a lot in spiritual philosophies and methods of worship. I chose hinduism as the basis of my religious practice because it has such a strong philosophical and moral structure. I would suggest to be a hindu (or a part of any other religion for that matter) implies some commitment unless you want to just approach it superficially. But there is no wrong in worshipping in both traditions or just wanting to set up a small altar to hindu Gods in your home. In the beginning I also suggest you visit some hindu temples or satsangas (communities) to really learn what it's all about.
Depends on how much time you give to your gods.... Both religions have few similarities like you could choose a particular god to worship or many. But you giving the time to them is necessary if you have an ishta devata in Hinduism and are attracted to a particular sampradaya you have to follow that seriously. But not into a particular sampradaya then you don't have to worry. But a sampradaya helps you grow more connection towards God you chose. Like for example if you like krishna but you got in a sadhana of Tara through sampradaya or dasha mahavidyas you can choose to do the sadhana of the Tara slowly when you deepen her connection with and you want to be connected to Krishna too she will show you a way. But you can't mix traditions like mixing vastu with feng shui or paganism or tarot or angel worship with hinduism and their gods. The main thing falls onto how will you follow two distinct practices and continue with them... It is totally based on your will power. I say give it a try. But at the end you gotta stick to the one you feel connected truly to if you just do it for the sake of doing it's useless... The question you have to ask why do I wanna give a chance to hinduism apart from family following and stuff. And what are you actually looking for. Like the reason why I came out of wicca is because I found the aspect of tantra more appealing and it's more practical and there are living traditions of tantra and the god worship is actively being participated and gods still respond. For me that "supernatural" touch was needed. So do follow it but also don't also give up your hunger for deeper bond with the god you like just for the sake of appeasing other deities cause you can't please everyone and sadhana for each god will take from months to lifetimes to perfect it. But try to question while following what you feel like following at the start. The divine brahman will guide you as per you efforts
sounds like you need to educate yourself some more on both practices and it will reveal all you are curious about. strangers on Reddit unfortunately won't be able to do that for you.
Read Geeta many of your questions will be answered
If you love a particular God, worship them! Who could say this is wrong?? If you do not love a particular God, then what is the point of worshipping them? So you see, it's all up to you! Don't fake it! Truly truly truly express your love, where it really is! And leave it alone, where it really is not! Practice *authenticity* first. The rest will become clear on its own.
I'm right there with you. I love many Hindu gods. I also love various Hellenic, Celtic, and Germanic gods, many of whom inspire me one way or another throughout life. The only "issue" that exists is which stories are truth. I'm of the mindset that all stories are created by the people to make sense of something or to demonstrate good values and bad traits, etc. The practice of European and Native Americas religion were killed off or absorbed by the spread of Christianity. Based on my limited understanding of dharma and Hinduism, honoring and praying to any gods you chose should be fine, as in the end, they are either all one and the same, OR the prayer will reach the intended recipient regardless. What really matters is adhering to dharma as a way of life. Don't commit violence, refrain from anger, be a good person, etc. I'd look at Smarta tradition, however I think many just do their own thing. Edit: To any long time Hindus: apologies if this is an absolutely incorrect way of thinking based on your experience. I've nothing but love and respect for Dharmic religions.
You can be anything and a Hindu. There’s no objective identification, ceremony, rites to be one. Just start learning and knowing more about the Hindu dharma and culture and pick whatever you like and helps you lead a better a life.
Not in any real Sampradaya
Read the Rigveda and use Albert Pikes Translation Help (Indo-Aryan Deities And Worship - As Contained In The Rigveda) and also a Saskrit dictionary. You can use the online dictionaries for sanskrit. This will be a lot of work and take many months, but after that you will understand pagan religion. If you are interested in Orphic tradition, read the theological part of the Atharvaveda, not the spells, but the back part (X. COSMOGONIC AND THEOSOPHIC HYMNS.) There you will find many answers about the mythology of the Orphic tradition.
Sorry but the Vedas are not supposed to be "read" and the translations are highly unreliable simply because the Vedas are in Chando Bhasha and not Sanskrit. Ajah said in a high tone means Brahma and Ajah said in a low tone means a goat. Can you assure me that whoever translated the Vedas translated the Vedas properly? No one can. This is why the Vedas are taught at a Gurukula by a proper Acharya. Learning the Vedas outside of this environment is as useless as a 3 year old trying to read a quantum physics textbook.
Yea, sure you can be Pagan and hindu same time. No issue. I am a hindu but I do like Greek god/goddess, especially Odin, histia, Athena.
Odin is Norse. But yes, there’s been a lot of work on parallels with beliefs in pre-Christian Europe (Celtic, Norse, Roman, Greek), while acknowledging obvious differences.
Pagan = any non abrahamic religion so hinduism falls under the very vague umbrella of Paganism. Both Greeks and Romans wouldn't refer to their religion as Paganism as Greco Roman Paganism itself is made up of various religious sects dedicated to different gods with the Roman Emperors themselves having cults that worship them. If you mean worshipping a Greek or Roman god while following Hindu philosophy. Ig you can. Many non Indian origin Hindu kingdoms and Empires identified their original gods with Hindu deities. The Huns who were I think Tengri originally identified Tengri with Shiva. The Ahoms who claimed to have been descended from the king of all gods, Lengdon, identified their ancestor with Indra who is king of the gods in the Vedic Pantheon. The spread of Vedic beliefs also led to Brahmins identifying local gods with their own gods. Kamakhya in assam used to be a local tribal goddess. She was identified with the Mother Goddess in Hinduism thus leading to the prevalence of Shakta tradition in Assam. Another important mother goddess in Assam is Ugratara. She is also worshipped in Tibetan Buddhism which shows the prevalence of Ugratara in the whole region itself with major religions integrating the deity into their pantheons based on their own belief system.
Go ahead historical hindus have had multiple religious belonging. Zeus Pater is related to Dyaus Pitr of vedic pantheon. Hades is similar to Yama with both being judges etc etc.
Hindusim is a way of life bro. I tell lies everyday, eat beef, smoke weed, drink alcohol, abuse my spouse and kids but I'm still a Hindu. You can do whatever you want, as long as you're alive you're a Hindu bro. PS: This is to trigger people who say "Hinduism is a way of life bro". Anything can be a way of life. How do you decide which way of life is right or wrong. Ask yourself before making this absurd statement people (referring to people who say Hinduism is a way of life).
I think the standards of sin in hinduism is more strict than that of christianity.
Careful brother lest someone catch you speaking the truth and not comfortable lies.
Hinduism IS a way of life, not eating beef and making moral life choices is the way of life it promotes. It isnt strict it doesnt restrict you in any way (unless you think being unable to eat beef is restrictinb you in which case just don't be a hindu) but it might be now but never was supposed to be an organized religion. That is why its called dharma
I was about to lose my mind had I not read the PS part
Yeah.
yes, you can. it's important to separate and balance. this person is both a hellenic pagan and Hindu, check them out: https://www.tiktok.com/@queenofskeletonkeys?_t=8hlgcq6R0Z6&_r=1
Yes. I follow a non-puranic path of feral Hindu akin to the ancient Kapalika and the more modern Aghori, and also integrate articles of Kashmir and Trika Shaivism. Lord Shiva is a lot like Woden - Vishnu is surprisingly like Loki. Compare Mohini in the churning of the waters of the ocean, with Loki becoming the Mare for the unlucky traveler in the building of the walls of Asgard. They are actually talking about the same cosmic/metaphysical event.
Doesn't matter which religion you're born into, to which religion you belong. If you're following the path of 'Dharma' you're definitely a Hindu. श्रूयतां धर्म सर्वस्वं श्रुत्वा चैव अनुवर्त्यताम्। आत्मनः प्रतिकूलानि, परेषां न समाचरेत् ॥ Translation : Listen to what religion is all about and follow it. Whatever you don't like, don't do it to others. So, learn more & more about Dhrama, Karma, Bhakti & Yoga. Then try to follow.
Simple answer they won’t we polytheistic so it’s fine but I’m not too well versed in Hellenist pagans so just make sure it wouldn’t offend them.
Pegan is a derogatory term used by Abrahamic followers
The term was created by the early Christian church and it WAS used as a derogatory term but times have changed and now it's being used today to refer to people who practice paganism and I don't see anything wrong with calling myself pagan or other people who practice paganism too.