The study of Hinduism is the perfect way to expand the mind, especially those who were raised in the bonds of conventional Western schools of thought-- especially religion. I am not saying that one should become a Hindu, but the studies of books on the subject, Vedic texts, and even enrichment through art, music, and spiritual practices (i.e. yoga and meditation) are wonderful ways to open one's mind and get in touch with oneself. Western thought says that salvation comes through faith in God. Faith in God is a wonderful thing, but the Eastern way of thinking puts one's destiny into one's own hands, without having to rely on faith. The Western religions say "have faith in God", and they give a list of rules to follow (that vary according to denomination), and if they are broken, then the person sinning "goes to hell". One lifetime, followed by consequences, either positive or negative. Hinduism does not recognize hell, as God is in everything and nothing is intrinsically evil. However, hell can be experienced in one's present lifetime, depending upon that person's state of mind and lifestyle. Hinduism says that the soul goes through many lifetimes, and that the Karma built up by that person helps to shape what will become of him in the next life. When all karmas are resolved, that person achieves moksha , or liberation. Liberation is attained through performing dharmas well, which to put it simply, means living a clean, virtuous life, containing elements such as Self-realization through yoga and meditation, ahimsa (non-injury, non-violence) and worship. There are many deities that Hindus worship, but there are four main types of Hinduism that focus mostly on four key Hindu deities. They are the worship of Siva (a.k.a. Shiva) (Saivism ), of the goddess Sakti (a.k.a. Shakti)(Saktism) , of Vishnu (a.k.a. Vishnu-Narayana)(Vaishnism) , and the liberal sect of Smartism, in which the devotee chooses his own deity (mainly the choice is made from Ganapati, Surya, Vishnu, Siva, Sakti, and Kumara). Although I am not formally Hindu and don't worship as one as of yet, I find the study of the Hindu deities fascinating, and I do have a chosen one that I favor. I find Siva to be absolutely beautiful, with qualities that make him an exceptional deity, and the stories/myths/philosophies that are told about him are absolutely captivating. If you find what I have to say about Hinduism and Siva interesting, I suggest you check out my source, a book called Dancing with Siva, Hinduism's Contemporary Catechism, by Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami. If anyone reads this page and find anything to be in error, or just wants to make a comment, feel free to email me at [email protected]. Meanwhile, feel free to browse my online picture gallery of Siva.