What is Sanatan Dharma and what are its core beliefs ?

Sanatan Dharma, also known as Hinduism, is a religion that originated in ancient India and is still widely practiced today. It is a complex and diverse religion with many different beliefs, practices, and traditions, but there are some core beliefs that are shared by many Hindus.

One of the most important beliefs in Sanatan Dharma is the recognition of one ultimate reality, known as Brahman. This ultimate reality is believed to be infinite, eternal, and the source of all existence. Hindus believe that everything in the universe is interconnected and that all things are ultimately a manifestation of Brahman.

In addition to recognizing one ultimate reality, Sanatan Dharma also recognizes the existence of many gods and goddesses. These deities are known as devas and devatas and are believed to represent different aspects of the ultimate reality. For example, the god Shiva represents destruction and transformation, while the goddess Lakshmi represents wealth and prosperity.

Hindus worship these deities in various ways, including through the use of images, prayers, and rituals. These practices can be highly personal and individualized, and Hindus often choose the deities that they feel most drawn to.

Another important belief in Sanatan Dharma is the concept of karma, which is the law of cause and effect. Hindus believe that every action has a consequence, and that these consequences can affect both this life and future lives. Good actions lead to positive consequences, while bad actions lead to negative consequences. By performing good deeds and following dharma (righteousness), Hindus believe that they can accumulate good karma and have a better future life or attain liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.

Sanatan Dharma also places a strong emphasis on the concept of dharma, which is the righteous and moral way of living. Dharma includes values such as honesty, compassion, and self-control. Hindus believe that by following dharma, they can lead a fulfilling life and progress spiritually.

Another important aspect of Sanatan Dharma is the recognition of many paths to understanding and realizing the ultimate reality. These paths can include devotion to a particular deity, the practice of yoga and meditation, or the study of scripture. Hindus believe that there is no one "right" path, and that different paths may be appropriate for different individuals.

Overall, Sanatan Dharma is a rich and complex religion with many different beliefs and practices. At its core, it emphasizes the recognition of one ultimate reality, the existence of many gods and goddesses, the importance of karma and dharma, and the recognition of many paths to spiritual progress.