Hinduism is the oldest of the world religions, with roots that extend far back into prehistory. What makes this incredibly complex religion, which has remained vibrant to this day, special is its multifaceted nature, tolerance, and creativity, from which not only Buddhism and Jainism have emerged, but also the Sikh religion in its engagement with Islam. Through encounters with modern Europe, Indian intellectual history has also been made accessible to Western people. Hinduism offers a generally understandable approach to the colorful and fascinating world of this oldest living world religion.