ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Sanātanī

Sanātanī refers to a term or label used to describe the Hindu religion. It basically means that the Hindu religion is based on ancient and eternal values that have been passed down from generation to generation. This term is used to signify that the Hindu religion is not something that was invented recently or by a single person. Instead, it has evolved over thousands of years and is based on the teachings of various spiritual and religious leaders.

Imagine you have a toy that has been passed down from your great-grandparents to your grandparents, and now to you. You take care of it and cherish it because it reminds you of your family's history and traditions. In the same way, Hindus believe that their religion is like a precious heirloom that has been passed down from generation to generation. They take care of it and follow its teachings because it represents their culture and tradition.

The term sanātanī also represents the idea that Hinduism is an inclusive and diverse religion that accepts and respects different beliefs and practices. For example, Hindus may worship different deities or follow different rituals, but they are all considered part of the same religion.

So, to sum it up, sanātanī is a term that represents the ancient and eternal values of the Hindu religion, which have been passed down through generations and are inclusive of different beliefs and practices.