Oldest Religion In The World

Most religions claim their teachings have existed since the beginning of the world or the dawn of human civilization. Several major religions of the world like Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism are linked to a prominent spiritual leader or prophet who laid the framework of the faith. The origin of these religions is usually recognized to the lifetime of these prophets. Others appear to have risen out of an amalgamation of spiritual beliefs and ritualistic practices of a section of people which have been promoted by one or more spiritual leaders. Most traditional religions have such an origin.

The World's Oldest Religion
Hinduism, The World’s Oldest Religion, it is considered as the world’s oldest religion, according to many scholars, with roots and customs dating back more than 4,000 years. Now, with about 900 million followers, Hinduism is the third-largest religion behind the religions like Christianity and Islam. Also 95 percent of the world’s Hindus live in India. as the religion has no specific founder, it’s difficult to trace its origins and history.
A broad range of philosophies guide the practitioners of this religion. There are numerous divisions and schools within Hinduism. Shared concepts, common pilgrimage sites, similar rituals, and shared textual resources bind all of them under the umbrella of Hinduism.
Although it is difficult to ascertain the exact origin of this religion, it is roughly estimated to have formally started between 2300 B.C. and 1500 B.C. in the Indus Valley. During this time, the Indo-Aryans migrated to the Indus Valley. The cultures of these people and indigenous inhabitants then blended to give rise to a new faith. The initial years of Hinduism were defined as the “Vedic Period” when the Vedas guided the way of life of the people. It lasted from about 1500 B.C. to 500 B.C. The Epic, Puranic, and Classic Period following and lasted from 500 B.C. to 500 A.D. Deity worship became more common during this time.
Hinduism flourished during the Medieval Period that stretched from 500 to 1500 A.D. Hinduism was adopted by a vast majority of people in the Indian subcontinent and beyond. Hinduism faced a setback during the Muslim Period about 1200 to 1757 ago. The Muslim rulers restricted the practice of Hinduism, destroyed temples, and force-converted many to Islam.
From 1757 to 1848, Hindus were allowed to practice their religion with minimum interference. However, in the later years of British Period, Christian missionaries attempted to convert Hindus and westernize the Indian society.

By: Saksham Gupta
Content: https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/oldest-religions-in-the-world.html