Evil and suffering in Hinduism

The experience of suffering forces people to face the question of evil, its origin and the role evil and suffering play in the world. The answers which Hinduism gives to such questions are as complicated as life itself and are found in philosophical and theological texts, in folk traditions, and in religion as it is actually practiced. Few make blind fate responsible for suffering and evil. For most Hindus God stands behind the lot which falls on mankind and all creation. Evil and suffering are considered to be an integral part of creation itself. Nor do people carry all the blame for evil. The role of demons, of ghosts, of gods and deities, with all of whom are associated both good and evil, is also ambivalent in this regard.