Henotheism (Hinduism)

Introduction

The etymological study suggests that the lexicon henotheism has been derived from two Greek roots henos and theos, meaning “one god.” In Hinduism, there is one supreme spirit or god, namely, Brahman who has many forms. So basically Hindus worship one single God like Islam while accepting the existence of other deities unlike Islam [1]. Friedrich Schelling first coined the term “henotheism,” and Friedrich Welcker employed it to show primitive monotheism in old Greek cultures. Further, Max Muller, an orientalist and scholar of Hinduism, criticizes religious exceptionalism with reference to Western theological stance which held monotheism superior than henotheism [2]. Muller used the term “henotheism” extensively while describing the Indian religions and praising the concept of many deities as if they represent one ultimate divine essence. In Hinduism, the supreme spirit is symbolized by Aum or Om, the sacred syllable [1]. Hindus believe that Brahman is pervasive and eternal...