NaveedIslam and Hinduism are two of the world’s largest religions – about 1.9 billion Muslims and 1.2 billion Hindus. They differ on almost every core question, from the nature of God to what happens after death.
| Islam | Hinduism | |
|---|---|---|
| God | One God (Allah), strictly one and indivisible; no images | One ultimate reality (Brahman) worshipped through many deities such as Vishnu, Shiva and Devi |
| Founder | Prophet Muhammad (7th century CE) | No single founder; developed over thousands of years |
| Scripture | The Qur’an, plus the Hadith | Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, epics |
| Worship | Five daily prayers facing Mecca; mosque; Friday congregational prayer | Puja (offerings) at home shrines and temples; festivals; pilgrimage |
| Afterlife | One life, then resurrection and judgement (heaven or hell) | Reincarnation governed by karma, until release (moksha) |
| Images of God | Forbidden | Central – murtis (sacred images) are widely used |
What they have in common
Both stress prayer, charity, pilgrimage, moral conduct and family. In South Asia the two communities have lived side by side for centuries, with periods of both exchange and conflict.
FAQ
Do Muslims and Hindus believe in the same God?
No. Islam is strictly monotheistic with no images; Hinduism sees one reality behind many deities and uses sacred images.
Do Hindus believe in reincarnation and Muslims don’t?
Correct – Hinduism teaches rebirth governed by karma; Islam teaches one life followed by judgement.
Which is older, Islam or Hinduism?
Hinduism is far older, with roots going back thousands of years; Islam began in the 7th century CE.
Related reading
- A prominent Hindu in US public life is Tulsi Gabbard.
- See our world religions comparison chart.
