Who is a Hindu?

Insights from Saints and Scholars on What Makes One a Hindu

Definitions of Hinduisms shared central beliefs were garnered from prominent Hindu organizations and individuals of the 20th century–evidence that the imperative to formalize conviction is a recent phenomenon. Overall, the lists and descriptions are surprisingly similar, echoing certain key concepts–generally, that it is conduct, based upon belief in dharma, karma and reincarnation, which makes one a Hindu. Some of the beliefs listed are not shared by all Hindus–most prominently the concept of avatar, divine incarnation, which is a distinctive Vaishnava belief. We shall now cite what has been collected from distinguished scholars and saints.