Vedanta and Hinduism

Q: Swamiji, would you distinguish VedAnta and Hinduism?

Swamiji: Hinduism is the tradition based on the ancient Vedic Scriptures. And like other religions, Hinduism has its own theological concepts about God and heaven. But what makes it special is that is says, "You are the whole." That is Vedanta. And everything that helps you discover the truth of yourself-attitudes, values, emotional growth, spiritual practices-is part of VedAnta.

VedAnta is the essence of the Vedic tradition and the foundation of Hinduism. If a religion is committed only to the goals of reaching heaven, there can be a religious pursuit without a spiritual pursuit. But the Vedic religious pursuit culminates in VedAnta, in the discovery that you are the whole. Everything else in the Vedas is preparation for that discovery. Your entire life is part of that preparation. That is the Vedic vision. That is something unique.

There is a need for religion, and that need can be met by any religion. To pray to Jesus is fine, butt to discover Jesus, Father, Holy Spirit, world, and myself, as one undivided whole is the goal of this spiritual pursuit. Our scriptures convey the vision that you are the whole. This is a fact to be discovered. You have to gain that vision.