The Unity of Muslims — Page 25
25 prominent Hindu leaders such as Gokhale, Malaviyah, and Tamluk. A common theme emerges from these essays: the absence of an overarching doctrine that defines Hinduism. Though some argue that being a Hindu necessitates a belief in the Vedas, this perspective raises questions about those who identify as Hindus while rejecting the Vedas, as seen in the case of the Madrasis. Similarly, the contention that a belief in the Puranas is crucial to being considered a Hindu is contradicted by the Aryas who do not subscribe to these texts. Some purport that idol worship is the hallmark of Hinduism, yet followers of Vivekananda actively eschew such practices. The belief that refraining from eating beef is a key tenet is contrary to the Hindus in Mumbai who do not adhere to this prohibition. Defining a Hindu as anyone born in India is also problematic: it implies that all Indian-born Muslims are Hindus. Despite the antiquity of their religion, Hindus remain divided over their fundamental creed. Whereas Muslims were told thirteen hundred and seventy years ago by the Holy Prophet s as that our Kalima is ُ اللّٰہ َ إِلَّا ہ ٰ إِل لَا , encapsulating the message of Islam, others struggle to find a central belief to this day. What an extraordinary expression of unity enjoyed