Comments about ‘Hinduism for beginners’

I'm curious - could one be LDS and practise some elements of Hinduism?

That would depend on who you ask. If you ask someone within the Hindu religion, the answer would be yes - Hinduism is what is known as an "inclusive" religion - you should not be limited in your understanding of the greatness and that understanding can include whatever is needed - including aspects of other religions. However, most Christian religions - Including LDS - are what is known as "exclusive" religions - they are complete religions and it is an affront to assume other aspects of worship need to be included. Most Christian religions base membership on a rejection of membership in any other religious group and/or the practicing of any other religious practices.

However, all that being said, it would really depend on what elements you wanted to practice, how comfortable you are practicing them, why you are practicing them, and how much outside approval you are seeking.

No , one cannot be LDS and practice some elements of Hinduism. I say this as a Christian who grew up in Utah, know far too much about Mormonism, and now have had a Hindu friend for a year. The two views of the universe are incompatible.

Boy, are they ever.

I live in a 90% Indian neighborhood in Silicon Valley. I have found many Hindus to be unusually good "Christians"--in practice. They are generally exceptionally courteous, responsible, and family-focused.

As a Mormon, I would not pray to the statues in their nearby temple any more than I would pray to a statue of Mary or Jesus.

However, I think celebrating the current "Festival of Lights" and the Spring's "Festival of Colors" is not at all out-of-line with full Christian practice or belief, and in fact could well enhance them.

The Hindu culture's focus on continual progress, elevating oneself above worldly and temporal matters, and respecting all life are all most "praiseworthy" pursuits.

Christianity comes basically in two forms, Catholic (universal) in nature claiming apostolic authority back to Christ or, Protestant (protest against) who seek a reformation due to errors. Mormonism is unique because it claims divine restoration direct from God. One tenant is the belief in dispensations of time, each with God attempting to create a covenant people to bless the whole earth. Each attempt faltered with human pride and disbelief except two the first attempt Enoch and the last "the fullness of times" Joseph.
That's why I believe many who come from all faiths find answers in Mormonism because essentially all religion has elements of what was originally true but are now the apostate forms.
So yes, I think you can believe some elements of Hinduism and still be LDS.