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Hinduism Hinduism does not have a starting point in history, it is not mentioned in any of the old texts, it is thought to be derived from a name that was used to refer to the inhabitants of the region based along the Indus river. The term Hinduism was only introduced in the nineteenth century, as category for census taking. An alternative label is Santana dharma, 'Santana' means Everlasting and 'Dharma', by a crude translation, means Religion. The Everlasting Religion. Hinduism is both a religion and a way of life. India gave to the world the original, oldest and most profound philosophy of life. The brilliant ancestors of present-day Indians explored the Truth behind our existence and gave several philosophies and theories to define the Truth. At the same time, they created a set of rules for "good living" on this earth, these rules for good or "Dharmic" living that they laid down constitute the Hindu religion. For instance the worshiping of idols Hinduism urges it’s participants to slowly and steadily continue their pursuit of the Truth. For such steady progress, the religion suggests starting with physical aids such as temples and idols, and through practice and devotion, ultimately transcending all physical aids t