Hinduism in the United States

The first understanding of India arrived in America through commercial and missionary activity. The finding of America itself was a mistake, as explorers were searching for a shorter route to India. At the time India was known for its great wealth, kingdoms and exotic mysteries (Charles Lippy & Peter Williams). Based on religious perspective India was thought to have an “ancient wisdom”, which rest upon a philosophy with the oldest religious scriptures. Prior to the twentieth century Americans knew little about Hinduism, therefore conceived it as inferior, pagan, and probably idolatrous (Charles Lippy & Peter Williams). Sadly this will not be the first of or last time America will have made quick and inaccurate decision on a diverse world religion. Even though Hinduism may have had difficulty establishing itself earlier in America, it has grown exponentially over the years.

Prior to 1917 several forms of Hinduism arrived in America. A small number of Asian Indians were allowed in the United States during 1820, however most Indians came in the 1890’s. Indian Immigrants were lured to North America by commercial transporters with the promise of work on the Canadian Railroad (Charles Lippy & Peter Williams 685). Other than the Asian Indians coming directly to America, Indians from both Mexico and Canada eventually crossed legally or illegally into America (Charles Lippy & Peter Williams). Hinduism even gained popularity with non-Asian converts. Hinduism appealed to young, middle class Americans that have not yet married. (Charles Lippy & Peter Williams 690) Yoga and meditation practices are what appealed to most Americans interest. Meditation is described as paying attention selectively, while yoga is a form of meditation ...

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...e. Today, there is estimated between one and two million members living in the United States. Hindus arrived in the United States between 1890’s-1924 and post 1965. Since 1965, however, U.S. Hinduism has emphasized building temples devoted to ritual worship. Lastly, current temples and communities with Hindus are located in and around larger US cities linking Hindus connection to social identity.

Works Cited

Upreti, Dr. Khimanand . Personal interview. 29 Oct. 2013.

Lakshmipathy, Manjunatha. Email interview. 17 Nov. 2013.

Lippy, Charles H., and Peter W. Williams. Encyclopedia of the American religious experience: studies of traditions and movements. New York: Scribner, 1988. Print.

Melton, J. Gordon, James A. Beverley, Constance M. Jones, and Pamela Susan Nadell. Melton's encyclopedia of American religions. 8th ed. Detroit: Gale Cengage Learning, 2009. Print.