Riddles in Hinduism

RIDDLES IN HINDUISM
host of more or less heterodox sectaries, many of whom deny the supremacy of the Brahmans, or at least
have non-Brahmanical religious leaders.
If he says that he is a Hindu because he observes the same customs as other Hindus do his answer
cannot be true. For all Hindus do not observe the same customs.
In the north near relatives are forbidden to marry; but in the south cousin marriage is prescribed, and even
closer alliances are sometimes permitted. As a rule female chastity is highly valued, but some communities
set little store by it, at any rate prior to marriage, and others make it a rule to dedicate one daughter to a life of
religious prostitution. In some parts the women move about freely; in others they are kept secluded. In some
parts they wear skirts; in others trousers.
Again if he said that he is a Hindu because he believes in the caste system his answer cannot be
accepted as satisfactory. It is quite true that no Hindu is interested in what his neighbour believes, but he is
very much interested in knowing whether he can eat with him or take water from his hands. In other words it
means that the caste system is an essential feature of Hinduism and a man who does not belong to a
recognized Hindu Caste cannot be a Hindu. While all this is true it must not be forgotten that observance of
caste is not enough. Many Musalmans and many Christians observe caste if not in the matter of inter-dining
certainly in the matter of inter-marriage. But they cannot be called Hindus on that account. Both elements
must be present. He must be a Hindu and he must also observe caste. This brings us back to the old question
who is a Hindu? It leaves us where we are.
Is it not a question for every Hindu to consider why in the matter of his own religion his position is so
embarrassing and so puzzling? Why is he not able to answer so simple a question which every Parsi, every
Christian, and every Muslim can answer? Is it not time that he should ask himself what are the causes that
has brought about this Religious chaos?
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