Origin
Hinduism is the oldest religion founded by the "Rishis" (Renowned thinkers) since ancient times. Unlike other religions Hinduism did not originate from any single prophet or at a particular period of human history. Its uniqueness lies in that it is based on the superconscious experiences and spiritual realizations of a gamut of saints, sages and seers who also modified the practices to suit the changing needs of the people over the years. It is more a way of life than a religion and is based on Vedas, the world's most ancient scriptures.

Hinduism is flexible and never attempts to convert anyone.

GOD
Hinduism believes in only one "God" but allows freedom of worship.

The Trinity, made up of Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver and Shiva the absorber, has gained prominence in the Hindu pantheon. They are not three independent and separate Gods, but three different aspects of the same Supreme God personifying the creation, sustenance and liberation respectively of each soul.

It is similar to the role played by the same person as the father at home, as the boss in the office and as a customer in the shop. The various deities the Hindus worship should also be considered in the same light, as different aspects of the Supreme God, manifesting in different forms for specific purposes.

Image Worship
The concept behind image worship is a noble one. Images are means by which we conceive a form, remember God and offer our prayers. Temple is a structure we put up with devotion for installing God. Prayer or worship is a loving offering to God. Worship performed with faith and devotion generates peace and joy in our minds. Festivals are the means by which the community as a whole worships God. Ceremonies, rituals and festivals are the integrating and united forces in the Hindu tradition.

Status of Women in Hinduism
All moral and spiritual qualities like purity of mind, self-control, devotion to God and austerity that are prescribed for men, apply to women also. Thus women always enjoy equal freedom with men.

Hinduism in Singapore
Hinduism is practiced by more than a billion people in the world. There are approximately 180,000 Hindus living in Singapore whose religious needs are met by 24 well-established temples. Two of the temples namely, Sri Mariamman Temple, 244 South Bridge Road and Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, 397 Serangoon Road are National Monuments. Sri Mariamman Temple, established in 1827 is the oldest temple in Singapore. Rituals and recitation from the Vedas, almost always conducted by specially trained priests, are still an important part of worship at all Hindu temples.

Ethical and Moral Principles of Hinduism

• Do not hurt or harm any one whether in thought or action.
• Follow truth in thought, deed and word.
• Observe purity and cleanliness of body and mind.
• Be contented, do not be greedy and be cheerful.
• Be austere in the form of service to others, control of speech and mind.
• Do not accept anything from others more than what is absolutely necessary.
• Regard all life as sacred, to be loved and revered.
• Study the scriptures and say your prayers.
• Surrender the fruits of action to God and the self to God.
• Do not claim Hinduism is superior to other religions.
• Respect all religions which believe in God.
• One who criticises the religion of others, harms his own

Non-Hindus Visiting Temples
There is no restriction on non-Hindus visiting Hindu temples in Singapore. Visitors are required to observe normal decorum such as proper attire, not wearing footwear, not smoking, not consuming liquor or meat and not to be a nuisance to other worshippers. Hindu temples are open daily generally from 7.00am to 12noon and 6.00pm to 8.30pm.

Further Information
For more information on Hinduism or about Hindu temples in Singapore, please contact the Chief Executive Officer of Hindu Endowments Board at telephone 62963469 ext 23 during office hours.