Introduction
Sanatana Dharma, commonly known as Hinduism, is one of the world’s oldest and most diverse religious traditions. The establishment of this ancient tradition is deeply rooted in history and influenced by a myriad of factors, including the fusion of diverse cultures, the evolution of spiritual practices, and the contributions of great sages and scholars. In this article, we will explore the origins and the question of who exactly established Sanatana Dharma, uncovering the historical context and the gradual development of this profound and timeless spiritual path.
1. The Vedic Period: Foundation of Sanatana Dharma
The establishment of Sanatana Dharma can be attributed to the Vedic period, which dates back to approximately 1500 BCE. During this time, a group of nomadic tribes known as the Aryans migrated to the Indian subcontinent from Central Asia. They brought their language, Sanskrit, and a collection of sacred hymns, chants, and rituals known as the Vedas.
The Vedas, which are considered the earliest scriptures of Sanatana Dharma, were initially transmitted orally from generation to generation. They laid the foundation for religious practices and rituals that would shape the spiritual landscape of ancient India and form the core of what would later become Hinduism.
2. The Evolution of Beliefs and Practices
As the Vedic period progressed, the religious practices and beliefs of the early Aryans began to assimilate with those of the indigenous people of the Indian subcontinent. This amalgamation of cultures contributed to the gradual development of Sanatana Dharma.
The early Vedic religion revolved around rituals, sacrifices, and the worship of natural forces and deities such as Indra (the god of thunder and rain) and Agni (the god of fire). Over time, these rituals evolved, and philosophical inquiries arose, leading to the emergence of new spiritual ideas.
3. The Upanishads: Philosophical Foundations
Around 800 BCE, a new set of texts called the Upanishads emerged, marking a crucial shift in the evolution of Sanatana Dharma. The Upanishads were a response to the spiritual inquiries of the time and aimed to explore the nature of reality, the self (Atman), and the ultimate reality (Brahman) in a more profound and philosophical manner.
The Upanishads introduced the concept of the eternal soul (Atman), which is considered identical to the ultimate reality (Brahman). This philosophical development laid the groundwork for the idea of oneness and interconnectedness that would become central to the essence of Sanatana Dharma.
4. The Bhagavad Gita: A Guiding Spiritual Text
One of the most revered and influential texts in Sanatana Dharma is the Bhagavad Gita, believed to have been composed between 300 BCE and 200 CE. The Gita is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata and is a conversation between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, his charioteer and divine guide.
The Bhagavad Gita addresses profound moral and existential dilemmas faced by Arjuna on the battlefield. It delves into various paths to spiritual realisation, such as the paths of devotion, knowledge, and selfless action. The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita have played a pivotal role in shaping the religious and spiritual practices of followers of Sanatana Dharma.
5. Contributions of Great Sages and Philosophers
Throughout history, India has been home to numerous sages, philosophers, and scholars who have made significant contributions to the establishment and preservation of Sanatana Dharma. These great minds helped shape and refine spiritual teachings, forming various schools of thought within the tradition.
One such influential figure was Adi Shankaracharya (8th century CE), who played a crucial role in reinvigorating and unifying the diverse sects within Sanatana Dharma. Shankaracharya’s Advaita Vedanta philosophy emphasised the non-dual nature of reality, stressing that Brahman and the individual soul (Atman) are ultimately one.
6. The Role of Temples and Sects
Over the centuries, temples and religious institutions played a significant role in propagating and establishing Sanatana Dharma. They served as centres of religious and cultural activities, facilitating the spread of spiritual knowledge and practices. Different sects within Sanatana Dharma, such as Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, and Smartism, developed, each with its own set of beliefs, practices, and deities.
7. The Continuity of Tradition
One of the remarkable aspects of Sanatana Dharma is its continuity through millennia. While there might not be a single individual or a specific moment in history that can be attributed to this tradition’s establishment, the collective contributions of various cultures, sages, and thinkers over thousands of years have nurtured and shaped the essence of Sanatana Dharma.
Conclusion
Sanatana Dharma, or Hinduism, stands as a testament to the vastness and complexity of human spirituality. Its establishment cannot be attributed to a single person or a specific event. Still, rather, it is the result of a continuous process of cultural assimilation, philosophical inquiry, and spiritual exploration.
The Vedic period laid the foundations, the Upanishads introduced philosophical depth, and the Bhagavad Gita provided guidance on the path of righteousness. The contributions of great sages and philosophers further enriched the tradition, and the establishment of various sects and temples ensured its continuity through the ages.
Today, Sanatana Dharma continues to inspire millions of people worldwide, offering a profound understanding of the self, the cosmos, and the pursuit of spiritual realisation. It remains a dynamic and evolving tradition that transcends time, guiding individuals towards ethical living, spiritual growth, and a deeper connection with the eternal principles that govern the universe.